Parenzana Trail
Start your bike adventure in the pleasant coastal town of Trieste, a former Habsburg town which offers a lovely blend of sun, sea, and history. Trieste was formerly under the rule of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and had a thriving and wealthy port, which was the 4th largest in the empire. This history can still be seen today in the main square and the slender streets. Once you’ve had a taste of Trieste, it’s time to pedal southwards and leave Italy, heading to Croatia via Slovenia. Enjoy the bright Istria Peninsula and its quaint fishing villages, small towns perched on karst hills, glistening vineyards, and luscious valleys. Discover an area full of gems with varied scenery and colour.
Itinerary
Say hello to Trieste / Muggia! Get to know the town by walking along the promenade or visiting the incredible Mariamare Castle. Take a cappuccino break on the beautiful Piazza Unità d’Italia in the heart of the town. If you’re staying in Muggia, you can take a transport boat to the city centre.
If you weren’t staying there the night before, you can pay a quick visit to Muggia before hopping over the border so Slovenia. Once in Slovenia you will cycle on a bike path along the coast and pass another lovely port town, Koper, before heading onto the gorgeous Venetian villages of Izola and Piran. Wander through the tight alleyways and enjoy numerous churches. In Piran, you can take a coffee break in Tartini Square surrounded by beautiful Venetian buildings. Your stop for the night will be Portorôz, a wealthy spa town on the Slovenian Riviera.
On this day you will have incredible views as you cycle past the salt flats on Sečovlje, it’s best to arrive here bright and early to catch the gorgeous lights of dawn. Next, it’s time to hop into Croatia and into Istria, you’ll be heading for the village of Umag over some hills. This village was a Roman colony, you feel as if you are stepping back in time with its town walls and gated drawbridge. Embrace this history by strolling through the medieval centre and visiting the beautiful city tower.
On this day you will also cross over some more hilly terrain on the way to Novigrad (Cittanova), which is also a medieval walled town. Novigrad boats an interesting history as well as an amazing food scene, it is noted as one of the top gourmet locations in Istria. Up next you will stop in Poreč, here there is a UNESCO Euphrasian Basilicia not worth missing, as well as buildings with a mix of baroque, gothic, and Romanesque style.
Have one last breakfast and then either set off home or extend your trip.
Route overview
Start point: Trieste / Muggia
End point: Poreg
Distance: Approx. 110 km
Self-guided tour with medium difficulty. Mainly on cycle paths but some areas with low hills also.
What’s included
Accommodation in hotels ***/**** in two bedded room with WC and shower, on a bed & breakfast basis.
Luggage transfer – one piece, max 20 kgs / 45 lb.
Standard Bike Hire
Backup service (hotline) during the trip.
Information package including text road notes (in simple English) and corresponding maps. One per booking,
Additional Extras
Transfers
Check Availability
We have put a calendar of events together that will provide you with some inspiration of what you can expect on your holiday, and when the best time to jet off is. Now’s your chance to travel further than you can by foot and be part of a memorable and exciting two-wheel journey with us.
Search results are loading
