Rovinj is centrally located on the coast of the Istrian peninsula and when I threw my imaginary dart on where to stay for three nights it landed there! Thankfully! I think it is one of the most lovely towns I”ve ever been to!
Our first day there was the token rain day of the entire trip and we spent the day in our cute little apartment venturing out early evening for a stroll and delicious dinner.
We walked the length of the harbor which gives a nice view of the old town with its tight streets and alleys. Lots of beautiful waterfront restaurants and cafes. A gorgeous park. Though a tourist destination, it is still a fishing port.
We took a day trip to the interior hills of Istria which is known for truffles and wild boar. Motovun is a particularly lovely hilltop fortified town. Both Celts and Illyrians built their fortresses at the location of present-day Motovun. The name of the village is also of Celtic origin, derived from Montona, meaning “a town in the hills”.
The drive and scenery was green and lush with vineyards and olive farms which is a big industry here. Their wine is delicious and I particularly love the fresh, dry, fruity Kadum wine that I discovered at the restaurant in Rovinj.
