Croatia Gastro Experience: Private Heart of Istria - from Porec and Rovinj

A scenic drive through the heart of Istria brings us to Svetvinčenat, Savičenta, San Vincenti, the three names of the same place, which have the starting point in the name of the patron, a Hispanic martyr St. Vincent and the eponymous abbey the town developed around. The area has been inhabited since prehistoric and Roman times. The stone castle Grimani, the best preserved castle on the peninsula of Istria and the largest Svetvinčenat building, stretches over almost the entire northern side of the town square. The castle used to be a destination for tradesmen, soldiers, aristocracy guests and travel writers, and today it attracts curious passers-by and tourists. The first fortress was built early in the 13th century, but the stormy war years resulted in destruction quite often, which implied the reconstruction and the change in the castle’s appearance. Its present appearance dates from 1589 when Marino Grimani renovated the burnt castle according to the design made by Venetian architects Scamozzi and Campagne. Today, the castle is one of the most beautiful Venetian buildings of that time in Istria.

In the surroundings of Svetvincenat, in the village of Pekići, lies spectacular lavender fields. More than 36,000 different lavender seedlings are planted here by the family Pekica, whose local family household located in the middle of the property is a perfect example of a traditional home in Istria, surrounded by local flowers and plants and animated by local animals and the sound of children play and family talks. Lavender here is used to flavor foods and beverages and as a fragrance ingredient in soaps and cosmetics. After lunch of local specialties accompanied by lavender scented snacks prepared by the family we will drive towards Rovinj, one of the most picturesque and romantic little towns in the world.

A late Medieval town with a strong Venetian influence particularly in architecture and everyday life: a place with a long fishing tradition, a place which artists, particularly painters, have chosen for life and artistic impressions… The old town is a treasury of historic monuments - all tucked among cobbled streets inviting for exploration. Known as the "Montmartre of Istria", Rovinj is an artists' colony with many galleries. The Church of St. Euphemia stands proudly at top of the hill. This tour also includes a walk through famous Grisia, the street of artists, a visit to the town’s square, a farmer’s market and the Balbi’s arch.