The shape of the journey
One night around Rovinj, then one night around Motovun. For a simpler food-led stay, choose one inland base and make the coast an excursion.
Our editorial pick: October, with September and November offering their own version of the season.
Day 01
Begin where the land meets the sea
Arrive in Rovinj with time to settle into the old town. Walk without trying to see everything: a lane, a harbour view, a coffee and a first introduction to the region's food are enough for an opening afternoon.
If daylight and weather allow, add a section of Golden Cape's coastal paths. Keep dinner close to your base, and ask what is seasonal rather than treating the menu as a checklist.
Read the Rovinj guide ↗Day 02
Move into hilltop country
Turn inland towards Motovun. Give the town's streets and viewpoints a generous part of the day, then look back at the vineyard landscape you have travelled through. This is the change of pace the journey is built around.
Arrange a single cellar appointment for the afternoon. Leave room for the host's recommendations and a quiet evening nearby. The pleasure is in understanding one place a little better.
Read the Motovun guide ↗Day 03
A forest morning, a long lunch
Join a prearranged truffle experience around the Mirna Valley with a local provider. The interest is as much in the woodland, the trained dogs and the knowledge of the guide as in what may be found.
Bring the journey to a close over a seasonal lunch. Leave a margin for the road home, and keep another Istrian town for a return visit rather than rushing a final stop.
Read the Motovun guide ↗Before you set out
Reserve one winery visit and one guided truffle experience. Availability and the harvest dictate the details; a truffle find is never guaranteed. Use a driver for tasting days.