Known as the blue Adriatic pearl, Rovinj is one of the most picturesque cities in this part of the world. While the small town of Rovinj, in Croatia has a population of barely 15,000 people, it’s one of the most developed tourist destinations on the Adriatic, comparable to better-known places on the Italian coast.
It boasts exquisite natural surroundings, historic landmarks, and a cultural heritage that dates back to the Bronze Age. Up till now, though it’s mostly just attracted locals. That’s about to change, as the outside world begins to learn more about this unique destination.
Visitors are slowly discovering Rovinj for its appealing climate, picturesque history, great hospitality, postcard scenery, and adjoining islands. In time, it will become as popular as some of more popular destinations of the Mediterranean. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler, or new to world touring, there are a host of reasons you might want to visit this rare find now.
Archaeological sites
The hill settlement of Monkodonjo is situated about 5 km east of Rovinj. This archaeological site dates back to the early and middle Bronze Ages.
Monkodonjo is one of 350 hill settlements uncovered in the region to date. Nearby, you can also explore the prehistoric necropolis of Musego, where bodies have been excavated. The stone buildings there were used to entomb residents who passed away in Monkodonjo.
Only 23 kilometers from Rovinj lies the medieval Castle Dvigrad, among numerous chapels and churches — all of which were abandoned during the 17th Century.
Scuba diving
If you’re adventuresome, you might want to consider scuba diving the shipwreck of the Baron Gautsch. What makes this dive special is the level of this ship’s preservation.
One of the best-known wrecks of the northern Adriatic, the passenger ferry ship Baron Gautsch sank in 1914, and divers who have visited have reported they could actually see architectural details that were prevalent during Europe’s Belle Epoque.
Sport fishing
With its numerous bays, islets, and cliffs, the coastline of Rovinj provides great sport fishing for bluefin tuna, shark, Atlantic bonito, and if you’re lucky you might catch a rare swordfish.
Spend a full day aboard an upscale fishing boat with professional equipment. Packages include fishing experts, food and beverages, fishing permits, bait, and passenger insurance.
Fine cuisine
Rovinj is a foodie’s paradise. Its restaurants and cuisine will impress you with their array of creative dishes that include fresh fish, crabs and shellfish, Istrian’s cured ham, truffles, and wild asparagus. As in Italy, pizza is prepared on wood-burning brick ovens.
There are also countless bistros, wine cellars, and taverns where you can enjoy delicacies and old-world hospitality. Try the unique Rovinjski Pelinkovac wormwood wine. It’s a liqueur aromatized with a natural wormwood aroma and prepared according to an original homemade recipe.
The gourmet five-star restaurant at the Monte Mulini boutique hotel combines French cuisine with a wine menu of more than 550 different wine selections found only in this part of the world.
Accommodations
If you’re planning to visit this area in the near future, there are some great hotels, resorts, and apartments at all price ranges. They can be booked at the Maistra.com online travel agency.
Headquartered in Rovinj, Maistra Inc. has more than 50 years of experience in the tourism industry and is a valuable resource for learning more about this intriguing destination.
