Out & About
Three bike trails have been established in the Motovun area: Vocni Put (the Fruit Trail), Stara Feral (the old railway track) and Veli Joze. The trails lead through vineyards, forest, up hills and along bridges with some amazing views along the way. The Stara Feral follows the famous Parenzana railway line which ran from Trieste to Porec. The disused track is now used for walks and bike rides and hosting the annual competitive mountain bike races for the World Cycling Federation.
The protected natural forest just outside Motovun is populated by European oaks and also white poplars, hornbeam and ash. Paths here mean hikers can enjoy the unique flora and fauna. The forests in this area are ideal for truffles and there are organised trips to go hunting for the delicacy.
Nearby
Porec is an interesting coastal town to visit. It has several historical sites and an interesting old town to explore. It was surrounded by walls for centuries and two towers still remain. Of its monuments the basilica complex with its baptistery and Bishop’s Palace is the most valuable, dating from the 6th century. Porec also has an aquarium and a variety of activities to offer including diving, sailing, water skiing as well as hiking and cycling. It’s an excellent place to shop for souvenirs too and to visit the cafés down by the harbour.
Umag is a resort on western Istria with some of the best quality sea water. Among the Blue Flag beaches are Katoro, Aurora, Kanegra and Laguna Stella Maris. The old town is on a peninsula which was once an island and has preserved some medieval architecture including the 10th century city walls and the West Tower which is now the museum. Umag is on the ATP tennis circuit with the Croatian Open being held in July each year. There is a marina, a pretty promenade and of course, some restaurants serving amazing food.
Food & Drink
Motovun delicacies include white truffles, olive oil, wild asparagus, liqueurs, and honey. The largest truffle in the world was found in the Motovun forests in 1999. Organic fruit and vegetables from this area make up 70% of the Istrian production.
There are several good restaurants in the town including Konoba Mondo, a lovely hidden eatery located just outside of the gate of Motovun. It serves simple dishes with local ingredients and traditional truffle inspired meals.
Motovun Film Festival
Since 1999 Motovun has been holding an annual film festival. Taking place in July over 5 days, local independent produces show case their films which are innovative and have powerful storylines. The festival is extremely popular with crowds growing every year to watch any of the 50+ films in both the indoor cinema during the day and outdoor screenings in the evenings.
