The Medulin Riviera, Istria – Truly unchanged by mass tourism

Way down in the south of Istria there is a peninsula jutting out into the Mediterranean; it is a holidaymakers’ paradise and is known as the Medulin Riviera.

The Riviera comprises of approximately 80 kilometres of indented coastline, containing many coves and bays coupled with half a dozen picturesque towns, making it a highly desirable destination for the traveller.

You can see the sea from almost any point on this narrow coastal strip. There is an abundance of beautiful fauna and flora, which gives a thoroughly preserved and untouched natural feel to the peninsula.

Some of the most beautiful beaches in Istria can be found on the Medulin Riviera and with sandy, rocky and pebble beaches all being available, travellers are literally spoilt for choice when it comes to finding somewhere to lay their towel for the day.

It is safe to say that nowhere in the Mediterranean Sea can you experience such turquoise and crystal waters as at the southernmost tip of the Medulin peninsula, in an area known as Cape Kamenjak. No hotels or large buildings have ever been allowed to be built here in order to preserve the incredible natural beauty of the Cape. The local town, Premantura is equally as unspoilt and is surrounded by nature not many places can boost of.

Asides being renowned for its unrivalled natural beauty and a refusal to become laden with concrete, Premantura and Cape Kamenjak are also well-known for high winds, which make it a favourable place for sailing and windsurfing.

A legendary windsurfing meet takes place here every autumn, known as Hallowind. Also very popular at Cape Kamenjak is sea cliff jumping, whilst holding torches – the mind boggles!

There are several other popular towns on the Medulin coastal strip, including Pomer, an unspoilt fishing town with a small marina, Banjole, where you will find some of the best sea food restaurants in Istria and Pjescana Uvala, which has great beaches and a large marina and is also renowned for its speciality restaurants.

The Medulin Riviera is extremely green, interestingly proportioned and one never gets a feeling of parched landscapes or overwhelming tourism here. It is a joy to visit this uniquely positioned coastal area, where you can experience a holiday in a place where preservation is the key and that has truly been unchanged by tourism.

If you like the look of the Medulin Riviera, you will love Vintage Travel’s collection of luxury villas in Istria!