Tuscany by the Sea – Why you should make Istria part of your family travel agenda in 2014

With Christmas becoming a distant memory, the cold, dark and wet weather staying firmly put for the foreseeable future and the spring feeling like its light years away, January is a time when many of start to plan our summer holiday – if nothing else, it gives us some escapism and something to look forward to. But where shall we head to in 2014?

The Telegraph once renamed Istria as Tuscany-by-the-Sea. With fertile valleys sweeping across the landscape, historic hilltop towns built out of stone and vineyards as far as the eye can see, it is difficult to disagree with the Telegraph’s description of this particularly picturesque corner of Croatia. If the prospect of being surrounded with natural beauty that is en-par with Tuscany yet with all the pleasures of being by the sea, then you’d be wise to consider Istria as a 2014 holiday destination.

But is Istria a family destination?

Rolling hills carpeted in vineyards, sporadically interrupted by historical and crumbling down villages might sound like an adult’s idea of the perfect holiday but would Istria be as favourable for younger travellers? In short, is this northern corner of Croatia a family destination?

In a word, yes. Being a coastal province Istria has all those family-orientated delights any seaside holiday offers with the additional advantage of having the option of spending the day at what only can be described as some of the most stunning beaches in Europe.

Asides its beautiful coastline blessed with family-friendly coves and beaches, Istria is awash with some great family attractions. The Mramornica Cave is one such attraction, enriched by coloured dripstones, stalagmites and stalacites that tower 13 metres into the air, this fascinating cave enthrals all its visitors, regardless of their age. The Mramornica cave is one of the largest caves in Istria and is located close to Brtonigla-Verteneglio.

For another fun-packed family day out, Istrias Dino Park Funtana offers just the job. Dino Park was the first entertainment and theme park to be opened in Croatia. Life-size dinosaurs take centre stage in this fantastic park, representative of the many dinosaur remains that have been found in Istria, thus becoming part of the peninsula’s rich and diverse history.

Yes it’s safe to surmise that Tuscany-by-the-Sea, with its glorious landscape of sea, emerald valleys, crumbling villages and thoroughly unique days out, is just waiting to be explored and experienced by all the family.