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OVERVIEW

Croatia's Istrian Peninsula has a variety of historical influences that perfectly meld into the beautiful present, but it's the Italian heritage that's still reflected in the regional's culture in particular with respect to the food and wine. Istria has been touted as the new Tuscany among  wine connoisseurs.  Wander through steep cobbled streets toward the ramparts that lined the edges of Motovun, a fortified medieval hill town and via Hum, the self-declared smallest town in Croatia.

Istria is a feast for the senses: idyllic streams flow to the sea through deep valleys and gullies, with vantage points overlooking wheat fields, vineyards, olive groves and delightful medieval towns perched above the valleys.  This walk is broad and varied – you'll find yourself walking through vineyards, via tunnels and over old railway bridges, through lush forest, into valleys, and up to the summit of Ucka mountain. 

Highlights

  • The best 6 walks over the Istrian Peninsula
  • Walk via Motovun, Hum, Buje and Lovran
  • Enjoy Croatian cuisine with its Italian influence
  • Opportunities for wine-tasting and truffle sampling
  • Escape from the crowds into the Croatian countryside
  • Stay in authentic boutique Croatian accommodations or upgrade to very special 4-star plus hotels

WALK OVERVIEW

TYPE OF WALK
SELF GUIDED
TRIP LENGTH
8 DAYS
WALK GRADE
Moderate

Grade 3 – Moderate

Short, steep hill sections. Walks that are longer than 12km with varied terrain. A moderate active lifestyle and some walking experience is recommended.
PRICE FROM
$ 2295

per person twin/double share

SINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 645

Accommodations charge the same price per room regardless of whether there are one or two people occupying it. To cover the cost of a room when occupied by one person we need to charge the single occupancy fee.

per person

DOWNLOAD PDF
Departure Dates
Book now

ITINERARY

  • Day 1
  • Day 2
  • Day 3
  • Day 4
  • Day 5
  • Day 6
  • Day 7
  • Day 8

DAY 1
BUJE OR BRTONIGLA

Arrive in Buje or Brtonigla (this depends on whether you choose to take the standard or premium walk). Be met by one of the representatives on the ground to go through the next 6 days with you. See General Info for details of how to get there. We can arrange a private transfer at a small added cost from Pula airport.

Walking: Easy 1 – 2 km
Accommodation: Buje or Brtonigla in an ensuite room

DAY 2
HIKE FROM BRTONIGLA TO BUJE

In the morning there’s a short transfer to the start of the walk. The walk today showcases the diversity of the Istrian Peninsula today, as it makes its way through vineyards and olive groves once again and out into open fields and then forest. There are stacks of family-run wineries and opportunities to taste wine as you walk. The views from the historic town of Buje are outstanding.  You walk into your accommodation so there’s plenty of time to meander and soak up the ambience of the Istrian vineyards and countryside.

Walking: Moderate / 16 – 18km / 4 – 5 hrs
Elevation: +268 / -278m
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Buje or Brtonigla in an ensuite room

DAY 3
GROZNJAN TO MOTOVUN

The day begins with a 10-minute transfer to Groznjan. There’s time to explore the excellent art galleries before setting off. The walk follows an old Austrian railway line that has been repurposed for hiking. This is truly an off-the-grid walk via tunnels and over old railway bridges. Of course, there are also more of the distinctive Istrian rolling hills dotted with vineyards. Toward the end of the day, you will arrive at Lovade, the truffle centre of the world, where you can partake in the local delicacy.  From here it’s a short walk to your hotel in the famous hilltop town of Motovun.

Walking: Moderate to challenging / 25km shorter 20km option available / 5-8 hrs
Elevation: +511 / -573m
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Motovun in an ensuite room

DAY 4
WALK VIA BRKAC ON PERENZANA TRAIL, MOTOVUN

Today’s walk starts from your hotel and descends from the old fort town on a windy trail through vineyards. You will walk via the small village Brkac where you can have an Istrian lunch in a local tavern. Continuing on the Parenzana trail all the way back to Motovun.

Walking: Moderate / 15km / 4.5 to 6 hrs
Elevation: +451 / -452m
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Motovun in an ensuite room

DAY 5
OPRTALJ TO BUZET

After breakfast, there’s a short transfer this time to the picturesque town of Oprtalj, deep into the Istrian peninsula. Today’s walk begins on the Istrian Mountain Trail through the forest. Pass by the small village of St Ivan (St.John) and then St Lucija with its very beautiful church. There are outstanding views over the river and the Mirna valley as you hike. The trail passes straight by Pietrapelosa Castle (worth exploring) and then heads down into the valley, passing an old aqueduct trail. It is then onto the village of Mali Mlun and various other small villages culminating with magnificent views over the town of Buzet. Make your way through a forest down to Buzet and your accommodation.

Walking: Moderate / 18 km shorter 8km option available / 5 to 6 hrs
Elevation: +496 / -700m
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Motovun in an ensuite room

DAY 6
BUZET TO HUM AND OPTIONAL RETURN

The walk from Buzet to Hum and return is a loop trail or one way if you start from Hum. From the river, the track winds its way through forest and over a dry river bed before passing waterfalls and lakes. The gently sloping trail leads to Kotli, and its natural springs and an old watermill.

From here the trail follows the riverbed, via Bencici, an abandoned village with very old traditional Istrian stone houses. From Bencici you’ll see Hum and its recognizable church tower in the distance. When you get to Hum, take a walk around the town and you’ll quickly understand why it’s the smallest town in the world. In Hum, you can eat in a local “konoba” (meaning restaurant) with only traditional Istrian dishes.  The return hike returns via the “Way of Mistletoe”, a further 3 hours of hiking back to Buzet.

Walking: Moderate / 12km  or 24.5km/ 3 to 7.5 hrs
Elevation: +343 / -333m
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Buzet in an ensuite room

DAY 7
MOUNT UCKA TO LOVRAN

With a short transfer to Poklon, we start the walk at a saddle between two hills before trekking to the summit of Ucka mountain, the tallest mountain in Istria (1401 m).  The panorama includes views over Kvarner Bay and other coastal towns, as well as Mount Obruc, Snjeznik and Risnjak to the rear.  When visibility is good you can see all the way to Venice and the Alps to the north. The path down is cloaked in oak and chestnut forest, a pleasant canopy in the hot summers. From the top, the track makes its way all the way down to sea level to Lovran and your accommodation.

Walking: Moderate / 15km shorter 6km option available / 5 to 6hrs
Elevation: +783 / -1692m
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Lovran in an ensuite room

DAY 8
LOVRAN AND AWAY

Lovran has all the trappings you’d expect from a Croatian seaside town. Excellent restaurants and eateries, plenty of beaches, a marina and the old town to explore. Opatija is just 5 km away with its lovely promenade and amazing architecture. There is a lot more to do so why not add an extra day or two? The trip officially ends after breakfast.

Meals: Breakfast

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • Pack-free walking

  • 25+ years experience

  • Customised

  • Eco Travel

  • 7 nights’ accommodation in handpicked 3-star authentic Croatian accommodations rooms with ensuites
  • Upgrade available to 4 star plus accommodations
  • 7 breakfasts
  • All transport on and off the track and luggage transfers
  • Comprehensive set of notes with detailed walking itineraries, maps and Insider tips (where to get the freshest bread, where to taste olive oil or wine)

ACCOMMODATION & DINING

OVERVIEW

All the accommodations have been handpicked to reflect the character and history of the region. From elegant hotels and guesthouses, small charming hotels, or 4.5 star hotels on the upgraded walk. You can be assured that wherever you stay you will be warmly welcomed.  On the walk prepare to be completely spoilt as the region’s Croatina heritage in concert with the Italian influence makes for a very special stay (Istria was part of Italy before World War 2). Breakfasts are continental or buffets with all the standard accompaniments.

It is often better for you to choose what and where you eat when you are in villages where there are many restaurant choices. In the walk notes, we will include a dossier with handpicked real local recommendations for evening meals in restaurants where even the locals like to eat.  Alcohol or drinks with meals are not included (except tea/coffee and juice with breakfast).

THE PREMIUM ACCOMMODATION IS DISPLAYED:

  • Night 1 and 2

  • Night 3 & 4

  • Night 5 & 6

  • Night 7

FITNESS GUIDE

It’s well worth investing some time and effort preparing for your walking holiday. The graph shows the average daily distance, elevation and terrain difficulty for your hike. The dotted line indicates the average across all our walks, which will give you a feel for how challenging your walk is compared to all – and the recommended type, and amount, of preparation needed.  Of course, you can adapt this according to your existing fitness levels and lifestyle.

The graph and the information below can be used in conjunction with the fitness guide to help you prepare for your walking adventure. Across all walks, average daily distance is 16.8km, average daily elevation is 448m, average terrain difficulty is 5/10.

ngraph

DISTANCE - ABOVE AVERAGE

Distance training is a major consideration in your overall training program. As you progress, incorporate longer walks into your training plan.

Schedule one or two long walks each week, gradually increasing the distance until you can comfortably cover 17-25 km in a single day. Also include walks on consecutive days to help your body adapt to the demands of walking for multiple days in a row. Take every opportunity you can to walk. If you have a fitness watch or phone, you should try to reach >15,000 steps every day.

Ensure you can comfortably walk the average distance per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.

ELEVATION - ABOVE AVERAGE

Elevation training is a major consideration in your overall training program. You must include walks with serious hill climbs.

If you do not have access to hills, it is essential to replicate the elevation level you will be undertaking in any way possible such as on a treadmill or stair climber. Walking up and down stairs at work, at a local oval with a grandstand, or up and down small hills is incredibly useful. Also, prioritising resistance weight training will help you develop overall muscle strength.  Elevation is often where walkers encounter problems, opposed to distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles to everyday flat walking.

If high altitude is a factor, incorporate sessions at a higher altitude to acclimatise your body to reduced oxygen levels if you are able to. Ensure you can comfortably walk the average elevation per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.

MOUNTAINOUS / UNDULATING TERRAIN

As terrain associated with mountain climbs is often somewhat uneven and rocky, balancing and core exercises are vital.

Try to also include some form of elevation in more than 50% of your walking and prioritise resistance training, whilst incorporating stairs anytime you can. Walking up mountains or hills, up and down stairs at work, or up and down at a local oval with a grandstand is incredibly useful. Elevation is often where walkers encounter problems not distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles to everyday flat walking. Concentrate on doing lots of squats and lunges to build your glute muscles.

GENERAL INFO

WALKING

The walk is moderate with only some small ascents. Full-day walks average about 14 km with 5 to 6 hours of walking each day. There is plenty of opportunities to add more or even reduce the walking if you wish. The walking is over well maintained sometimes ancient paths via the most scenic route possible.

This is a beautiful area with many fabulous historic attractions in addition to fabulous wineries.

For what to bring please refer to our Gear Advice section on our FAQ section.

AVAILABILITY

All year

ACCESS

Travelling to the Start of the walk

Getting to Buje
NOTE: accommodation on the first 2 nights in Buje area are not in the centre of Buje. Accommodations are 3.5 km from the centre of Buje (village Volpija) and 5.3 km from the centre of Buje (village Kaldanija).

By Air- Pula is the regional airport and flights from the UK are available via Zagreb. Trieste Airport is the closest airport serviced by direct flights from the UK with Ryan Air and Alitalia offering services.

Home


https://triesteairport.it/en/

From Pula Airport to Buje – There is a shuttle bus from the airport to Pula bus station. Buses are available from Pula to Buje with local bus companies such as Brioni and FILS, but we recommend an earlier check of the bus lines to Buje before arriving to make sure the times align
https://www.brioni.hr/en-gb/
https://www.arriva.com.hr/en-us/home
http://www.fils.hr/en

From the bus station in Buje you can take a local taxi driver to the first hotel.

Alternatively, we can arrange airport transfers (supplement applicable) and take you directly to your accommodation in Buje.
From Trieste to Buje – We recommend you pre-book airport transfers as public transport is very limited.

Travelling at the end of the walk

Getting back to the airport
From Lovran to Pula (End of Trip) – There are local buses from Lovran to Rijeka and then a different bus to Pula.

Or we can arrange airport transfers from Lovran to Trieste – We recommend you pre-book airport transfers as public transport is very limited.
https://www.brioni.hr/en-gb/
https://www.arriva.com.hr/en-us/home
http://www.fils.hr/en

WEATHER

From March the temperature begins to rise so be prepared for warmer days if you walk in summer. Shoulder season, spring and autumn are by far the best time as the weather is perfect for walking and the added advantage of having fewer people around in the villages and on the coast (we walk away from the populated areas on the walk so crowds are not an issue.)

See the weather average temperatures at different times of the year.

INSURANCE

We require that you have adequate travel insurance against potential losses, damage or injury, including cancellation costs and loss of luggage.

For all trips that require international travel, you must have purchased travel insurance that also includes medical evacuation coverage.

We also charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it to cover costs incurred from our suppliers and in the office.  See the FAQ section for more information.

INFORMATION PACK

For nearly 30 years we have taken pride in providing seamlessly organised walking holidays, but we know, even with that in mind, that you’ll have many more questions. You will receive a very detailed information pack and itinerary approximately 6 weeks out from departure outlining all the fine detail and much more.

CONTACT

If you have any questions, feel free to ask one of our destination consultants. You can get in touch with us via our contact form, email us at info@auswalk.com.au, or call us on +61 3 9597 9767.

MAP

DEPARTURE DATES

  • DATES
    AVAILABILITY
    PRICE
    PER PERSON
    Single Occupancy
    DETAILS
  • 15 Mar 2024 - 19 Jun 2024
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $2295

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $645

    Low Season

    BOOK NOW
  • 15 Mar 2024 - 19 Jun 2024
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $3095

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $1195

    Premium Accommodations Low Season

    BOOK NOW
  • 20 Jun 2024 - 19 Sep 2024
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $2395

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $695

    High Season

    BOOK NOW
  • 20 Jun 2024 - 19 Sep 2024
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $3395

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $1295

    Premium Accommodations High Season

    BOOK NOW
  • 20 Sep 2024 - 15 Nov 2024
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $2295

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $645

    Low Season

    BOOK NOW
  • 20 Sep 2024 - 15 Nov 2024
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $3095

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $1195

    Premium Accommodations Low Season

    BOOK NOW

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Overview

OVERVIEW

Croatia's Istrian Peninsula has a variety of historical influences that perfectly meld into the beautiful present, but it's the Italian heritage that's still reflected in the regional's culture in particular with respect to the food and wine. Istria has been touted as the new Tuscany among  wine connoisseurs.  Wander through steep cobbled streets toward the ramparts that lined the edges of Motovun, a fortified medieval hill town and via Hum, the self-declared smallest town in Croatia.

Istria is a feast for the senses: idyllic streams flow to the sea through deep valleys and gullies, with vantage points overlooking wheat fields, vineyards, olive groves and delightful medieval towns perched above the valleys.  This walk is broad and varied – you'll find yourself walking through vineyards, via tunnels and over old railway bridges, through lush forest, into valleys, and up to the summit of Ucka mountain. 

Highlights

  • The best 6 walks over the Istrian Peninsula
  • Walk via Motovun, Hum, Buje and Lovran
  • Enjoy Croatian cuisine with its Italian influence
  • Opportunities for wine-tasting and truffle sampling
  • Escape from the crowds into the Croatian countryside
  • Stay in authentic boutique Croatian accommodations or upgrade to very special 4-star plus hotels

WALK OVERVIEW

TYPE OF WALK
SELF GUIDED
TRIP LENGTH
8 DAYS
WALK GRADE
Moderate

Grade 3 – Moderate

Short, steep hill sections. Walks that are longer than 12km with varied terrain. A moderate active lifestyle and some walking experience is recommended.
PRICE FROM
$ 2295

per person twin/double share

SINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 645

Accommodations charge the same price per room regardless of whether there are one or two people occupying it. To cover the cost of the accommodation when occupied by one person we need to charge the single occupancy fee.

per person

DOWNLOAD PDF
Departure Dates
Book now
Itinerary

ITINERARY

  • Day 1
  • Day 2
  • Day 3
  • Day 4
  • Day 5
  • Day 6
  • Day 7
  • Day 8

DAY 1
BUJE OR BRTONIGLA

Arrive in Buje or Brtonigla (this depends on whether you choose to take the standard or premium walk). Be met by one of the representatives on the ground to go through the next 6 days with you. See General Info for details of how to get there. We can arrange a private transfer at a small added cost from Pula airport.

Walking: Easy 1 – 2 km
Accommodation: Buje or Brtonigla in an ensuite room

DAY 2
HIKE FROM BRTONIGLA TO BUJE

In the morning there’s a short transfer to the start of the walk. The walk today showcases the diversity of the Istrian Peninsula today, as it makes its way through vineyards and olive groves once again and out into open fields and then forest. There are stacks of family-run wineries and opportunities to taste wine as you walk. The views from the historic town of Buje are outstanding.  You walk into your accommodation so there’s plenty of time to meander and soak up the ambience of the Istrian vineyards and countryside.

Walking: Moderate / 16 – 18km / 4 – 5 hrs
Elevation: +268 / -278m
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Buje or Brtonigla in an ensuite room

DAY 3
GROZNJAN TO MOTOVUN

The day begins with a 10-minute transfer to Groznjan. There’s time to explore the excellent art galleries before setting off. The walk follows an old Austrian railway line that has been repurposed for hiking. This is truly an off-the-grid walk via tunnels and over old railway bridges. Of course, there are also more of the distinctive Istrian rolling hills dotted with vineyards. Toward the end of the day, you will arrive at Lovade, the truffle centre of the world, where you can partake in the local delicacy.  From here it’s a short walk to your hotel in the famous hilltop town of Motovun.

Walking: Moderate to challenging / 25km shorter 20km option available / 5-8 hrs
Elevation: +511 / -573m
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Motovun in an ensuite room

DAY 4
WALK VIA BRKAC ON PERENZANA TRAIL, MOTOVUN

Today’s walk starts from your hotel and descends from the old fort town on a windy trail through vineyards. You will walk via the small village Brkac where you can have an Istrian lunch in a local tavern. Continuing on the Parenzana trail all the way back to Motovun.

Walking: Moderate / 15km / 4.5 to 6 hrs
Elevation: +451 / -452m
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Motovun in an ensuite room

DAY 5
OPRTALJ TO BUZET

After breakfast, there’s a short transfer this time to the picturesque town of Oprtalj, deep into the Istrian peninsula. Today’s walk begins on the Istrian Mountain Trail through the forest. Pass by the small village of St Ivan (St.John) and then St Lucija with its very beautiful church. There are outstanding views over the river and the Mirna valley as you hike. The trail passes straight by Pietrapelosa Castle (worth exploring) and then heads down into the valley, passing an old aqueduct trail. It is then onto the village of Mali Mlun and various other small villages culminating with magnificent views over the town of Buzet. Make your way through a forest down to Buzet and your accommodation.

Walking: Moderate / 18 km shorter 8km option available / 5 to 6 hrs
Elevation: +496 / -700m
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Motovun in an ensuite room

DAY 6
BUZET TO HUM AND OPTIONAL RETURN

The walk from Buzet to Hum and return is a loop trail or one way if you start from Hum. From the river, the track winds its way through forest and over a dry river bed before passing waterfalls and lakes. The gently sloping trail leads to Kotli, and its natural springs and an old watermill.

From here the trail follows the riverbed, via Bencici, an abandoned village with very old traditional Istrian stone houses. From Bencici you’ll see Hum and its recognizable church tower in the distance. When you get to Hum, take a walk around the town and you’ll quickly understand why it’s the smallest town in the world. In Hum, you can eat in a local “konoba” (meaning restaurant) with only traditional Istrian dishes.  The return hike returns via the “Way of Mistletoe”, a further 3 hours of hiking back to Buzet.

Walking: Moderate / 12km  or 24.5km/ 3 to 7.5 hrs
Elevation: +343 / -333m
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Buzet in an ensuite room

DAY 7
MOUNT UCKA TO LOVRAN

With a short transfer to Poklon, we start the walk at a saddle between two hills before trekking to the summit of Ucka mountain, the tallest mountain in Istria (1401 m).  The panorama includes views over Kvarner Bay and other coastal towns, as well as Mount Obruc, Snjeznik and Risnjak to the rear.  When visibility is good you can see all the way to Venice and the Alps to the north. The path down is cloaked in oak and chestnut forest, a pleasant canopy in the hot summers. From the top, the track makes its way all the way down to sea level to Lovran and your accommodation.

Walking: Moderate / 15km shorter 6km option available / 5 to 6hrs
Elevation: +783 / -1692m
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Lovran in an ensuite room

DAY 8
LOVRAN AND AWAY

Lovran has all the trappings you’d expect from a Croatian seaside town. Excellent restaurants and eateries, plenty of beaches, a marina and the old town to explore. Opatija is just 5 km away with its lovely promenade and amazing architecture. There is a lot more to do so why not add an extra day or two? The trip officially ends after breakfast.

Meals: Breakfast

What’s Included

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • Pack-free walking

  • 25+ years experience

  • Customised

  • Eco Travel

  • 7 nights’ accommodation in handpicked 3-star authentic Croatian accommodations rooms with ensuites
  • Upgrade available to 4 star plus accommodations
  • 7 breakfasts
  • All transport on and off the track and luggage transfers
  • Comprehensive set of notes with detailed walking itineraries, maps and Insider tips (where to get the freshest bread, where to taste olive oil or wine)
Accommodation & Dining

ACCOMMODATION & DINING

OVERVIEW

All the accommodations have been handpicked to reflect the character and history of the region. From elegant hotels and guesthouses, small charming hotels, or 4.5 star hotels on the upgraded walk. You can be assured that wherever you stay you will be warmly welcomed.  On the walk prepare to be completely spoilt as the region’s Croatina heritage in concert with the Italian influence makes for a very special stay (Istria was part of Italy before World War 2). Breakfasts are continental or buffets with all the standard accompaniments.

It is often better for you to choose what and where you eat when you are in villages where there are many restaurant choices. In the walk notes, we will include a dossier with handpicked real local recommendations for evening meals in restaurants where even the locals like to eat.  Alcohol or drinks with meals are not included (except tea/coffee and juice with breakfast).

THE PREMIUM ACCOMMODATION IS DISPLAYED:

  • Night 1 and 2

  • Night 3 & 4

  • Night 5 & 6

  • Night 7

Fitness Guide

FITNESS GUIDE

It’s well worth investing some time and effort preparing for your walking holiday. The graph shows the average daily distance, elevation and terrain difficulty for your hike. The dotted line indicates the average across all our walks, which will give you a feel for how challenging your walk is compared to all – and the recommended type, and amount, of preparation needed.  Of course, you can adapt this according to your existing fitness levels and lifestyle.

The graph and the information below can be used in conjunction with the fitness guide to help you prepare for your walking adventure. Across all walks, average daily distance is 16.8km, average daily elevation is 448m, average terrain difficulty is 5/10.

ngraph

DISTANCE - ABOVE AVERAGE

Distance training is a major consideration in your overall training program. As you progress, incorporate longer walks into your training plan.

Schedule one or two long walks each week, gradually increasing the distance until you can comfortably cover 17-25 km in a single day. Also include walks on consecutive days to help your body adapt to the demands of walking for multiple days in a row. Take every opportunity you can to walk. If you have a fitness watch or phone, you should try to reach >15,000 steps every day.

Ensure you can comfortably walk the average distance per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.

ELEVATION - ABOVE AVERAGE

Elevation training is a major consideration in your overall training program. You must include walks with serious hill climbs.

If you do not have access to hills, it is essential to replicate the elevation level you will be undertaking in any way possible such as on a treadmill or stair climber. Walking up and down stairs at work, at a local oval with a grandstand, or up and down small hills is incredibly useful. Also, prioritising resistance weight training will help you develop overall muscle strength.  Elevation is often where walkers encounter problems, opposed to distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles to everyday flat walking.

If high altitude is a factor, incorporate sessions at a higher altitude to acclimatise your body to reduced oxygen levels if you are able to. Ensure you can comfortably walk the average elevation per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.

MOUNTAINOUS / UNDULATING TERRAIN

As terrain associated with mountain climbs is often somewhat uneven and rocky, balancing and core exercises are vital.

Try to also include some form of elevation in more than 50% of your walking and prioritise resistance training, whilst incorporating stairs anytime you can. Walking up mountains or hills, up and down stairs at work, or up and down at a local oval with a grandstand is incredibly useful. Elevation is often where walkers encounter problems not distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles to everyday flat walking. Concentrate on doing lots of squats and lunges to build your glute muscles.

General Info

GENERAL INFO

WALKING

The walk is moderate with only some small ascents. Full-day walks average about 14 km with 5 to 6 hours of walking each day. There is plenty of opportunities to add more or even reduce the walking if you wish. The walking is over well maintained sometimes ancient paths via the most scenic route possible.

This is a beautiful area with many fabulous historic attractions in addition to fabulous wineries.

For what to bring please refer to our Gear Advice section on our FAQ section.

AVAILABILITY

All year

ACCESS

Travelling to the Start of the walk

Getting to Buje
NOTE: accommodation on the first 2 nights in Buje area are not in the centre of Buje. Accommodations are 3.5 km from the centre of Buje (village Volpija) and 5.3 km from the centre of Buje (village Kaldanija).

By Air- Pula is the regional airport and flights from the UK are available via Zagreb. Trieste Airport is the closest airport serviced by direct flights from the UK with Ryan Air and Alitalia offering services.

Home


https://triesteairport.it/en/

From Pula Airport to Buje – There is a shuttle bus from the airport to Pula bus station. Buses are available from Pula to Buje with local bus companies such as Brioni and FILS, but we recommend an earlier check of the bus lines to Buje before arriving to make sure the times align
https://www.brioni.hr/en-gb/
https://www.arriva.com.hr/en-us/home
http://www.fils.hr/en

From the bus station in Buje you can take a local taxi driver to the first hotel.

Alternatively, we can arrange airport transfers (supplement applicable) and take you directly to your accommodation in Buje.
From Trieste to Buje – We recommend you pre-book airport transfers as public transport is very limited.

Travelling at the end of the walk

Getting back to the airport
From Lovran to Pula (End of Trip) – There are local buses from Lovran to Rijeka and then a different bus to Pula.

Or we can arrange airport transfers from Lovran to Trieste – We recommend you pre-book airport transfers as public transport is very limited.
https://www.brioni.hr/en-gb/
https://www.arriva.com.hr/en-us/home
http://www.fils.hr/en

WEATHER

From March the temperature begins to rise so be prepared for warmer days if you walk in summer. Shoulder season, spring and autumn are by far the best time as the weather is perfect for walking and the added advantage of having fewer people around in the villages and on the coast (we walk away from the populated areas on the walk so crowds are not an issue.)

See the weather average temperatures at different times of the year.

INSURANCE

We require that you have adequate travel insurance against potential losses, damage or injury, including cancellation costs and loss of luggage.

For all trips that require international travel, you must have purchased travel insurance that also includes medical evacuation coverage.

We also charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it to cover costs incurred from our suppliers and in the office.  See the FAQ section for more information.

INFORMATION PACK

For nearly 30 years we have taken pride in providing seamlessly organised walking holidays, but we know, even with that in mind, that you’ll have many more questions. You will receive a very detailed information pack and itinerary approximately 6 weeks out from departure outlining all the fine detail and much more.

CONTACT

If you have any questions, feel free to ask one of our destination consultants. You can get in touch with us via our contact form, email us at info@auswalk.com.au, or call us on +61 3 9597 9767.

Map

MAP

Departure Dates

DEPARTURE DATES

  • DATES
    AVAILABILITY
    PRICE
    PER PERSON
    Single Occupancy
    DETAILS
  • 15 Mar 2024 - 19 Jun 2024
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $2295

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $645
    BOOK NOW
  • 15 Mar 2024 - 19 Jun 2024
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $3095

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $1195
    BOOK NOW
  • 20 Jun 2024 - 19 Sep 2024
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $2395

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $695
    BOOK NOW
  • 20 Jun 2024 - 19 Sep 2024
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $3395

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $1295
    BOOK NOW
  • 20 Sep 2024 - 15 Nov 2024
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $2295

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $645
    BOOK NOW
  • 20 Sep 2024 - 15 Nov 2024
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $3095

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $1195
    BOOK NOW
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