Longer days and warm weather are ideal for recreational activities by
the sea.
The
outskirts of Istria offer numerous options for cycling and hiking. One of the
most popular cycling and hiking trails in our area is definitely the Parenzana also known as the Path of Health and Friendship. You can rent a bicycle at
the Tourist Information Centre (TIC) located in the Praetorian Palace at Tito trg Square in Koper and with it you can start exploring the Istrian villages
all the way to Hrastovlje, Sočerga and Socerb. Your journey can also take you
in the opposite direction along the former coastal road that will take you to
Izola and even further to Strunjan and Piran.
Izola
offers numerous option for activities in nature. There you will be able to go
on a trip on one of the hiking or cycling trails crossing the Izola
countryside, which will lead you to picturesque Istrian villages along the
meadows and vineyards. You can choose, for example, the longer uphill path that will lead you all the way to
Baredi or to Šared and on it you will be able to learn about interesting
archaeological sites and the once important water sources.
The
countryside surrounding Koper is also criss-crossed by numerous bike and hiking
trails. On the Waterfall Path you will be able to discover smaller,
breath-taking waterfalls in the outskirts of Koper and you will also be
astounded by the natural sight of the Dragonja River Valley and the Rižana River Valley. When exploring the Istrian countryside, we recommend you stop in
the idyllic village Padna on the outskirts of Piran, where you will be greeted
by a peaceful atmosphere and incredible views of the neighbouring hills and
Piran Bay. The friendly locals give Padna a very special charm. The Pucer
family will gladly greet you at their homestead Padnjec, where you can
have a pleasant conversation under the dense mulberry tree with a gorgeous view
of their olive groves and the Dragonja Valley and you will also be able to
taste their culinary treats alongside their incredible olive oil that has a
more than hundred year old tradition.
Discovering Landscape Parks
If you
wish to enjoy the beauty of nature, you can also visit the landscape parks –
Sečovlje Salt Pans, Strunjan and Debeli rtič. In the latter, you will be
able to discover the beauty of nature on three activity routes that are
suitable for professional athletes as well as for active individuals. You can
find the routes on www.visitankaran.si and there you will also find
exercises for power and stamina that will help you in choosing the route that
is best suited for you. You can also calculate how many calories you will burn
during the activity. During your activity, you can stop at viewpoints and
information boards that contain detailed information on the flora and fauna of
the landscape park.
