Rovinj

“If a beauty contest were held among Croatia’s coastal resorts, then Rovinj would win every time.” ABTA magazine, July 2008

Rovinj, the “Blue Pearl of the Adriatic”, is one of the most picturesque towns in the Mediterranean. Part of the Venetian Empire for over 500 years, the old town is perched on a pear-shaped peninsula high up on a hill, crowded with Venetian terracotta-roofed houses and crowned by the 18th century Church of St Euphemia, whose bell tower dominates Rovinj's skyline.

Atmospheric cobbled alleys in the old town invite visitors to wander around and explore colourful galleries and shops, filled with local arts and crafts. In the open-air market visitors will find stalls with fresh produce, such as asparagus, olives, tomatoes, herbs, figs and cheese. The Italian influence is much stronger here than anywhere else in Croatia, and the central square is edged with lively cafes and restaurants spreading out on to a charming harbour crammed with sailing and fishing boats – perfect to watch the world go by.

Rovinj is in the heart of gastronomic Croatia, with heady white truffles, freshly caught seafood and fish and Istrian prosciutto, washed down with exquisite Teran, Merlot or Malvazija, the local blossomy white wine.

High summer days in Rovinj are spent on the pine-backed, pebbly beaches. But there is more to Rovinj than beachfront chic and those wanting to explore the delights of the region will find that Rovinj is an excellent base, all the year round.

Well worth an excursion is the nearby town of Pula which has an impressive Roman amphitheatre (the 6th largest in the world) and art deco market. Another highlight is a visit to Motovun, a dramatic hilltop-style town which stages an international film festival every August. A short boat ride away are the Brijuni Islands, a stunning archipelago of 12 islands, where a safari train will take visitors across the main island.

For the outdoor enthusiast, the region offers incredibly diverse landscapes – from the rocky coast to pine-clad mountains and hills draped in cypress trees and olive groves. A highlight is the 11km long nearby Lim Fjord, a protected nature area perfect for sea kajaking or Nordic Walking. Other recreational activities in the area include hiking, biking or free climbing in the unique forest preserve Zlatni Rt, a nature reserve with cedar and pine trees and shady paths leading to rocky coves, and of course water-based sports such as diving, snorkeling or sailing.

Rovinj is easily reached from the UK, by flying to Trieste, Ljubljana, Zagreb or Rijeika, but the closest airport is Pula (served by Ryanair), an easy half-hour transfer from Hotel Monte Mulini. Rovinj can also be reached by boat from Venice.

Monuments and notable landmarks in Rovinj: