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Istria Guide
This
region of breath-taking scenery and superb Roman ruins is a paradise for
gourmets...
A gastronomic delight Istria enjoys a unique culinary repertoire. Bearing the accolade of being one of the most eco-friendly nations in the Mediterranean, only the freshest, organically-grown food reaches its markets and restaurants, and the region abounds with superb local delicacies.
The crystalline waters of the Adriatic teem with over 400 known species of fish, for which Croatians have devised a wide repertoire of recipes. In many restaurants you may not find a detailed menu as much will depend on the best and freshest catch of the morning – let your hosts make the choice for you! The region is also rich in delicious shellfish, from oysters glistening on their shells to salads of octopus and potato, scented with garlic and dressed with the rich local olive oil. You’ll also find langoustines, crab and the famous mussels of the Lim Channel. You should also sample the delicious typically Croatian risotti of tender squid, the rice black with iodine-rich ink.
The land is no less bountiful. Throughout April and May there is an abundance of wild asparagus and the region is renowned for the quality of its truffles. Harvested in Istria since ancient times, their outstanding flavour was prized by Roman emperors and Austro- Hungarian aristocrats.
The most popular meat throughout the country is janjetina (lamb): many roadside restaurants display a whole lamb roasting on a spit; but young, tender meat is served in countless ways, from simple grills to the savoury Peka – an elaborate dish which must be ordered at least 24 hours in advance, as the food is baked for hours beneath an iron bell buried in glowing embers.
Those with a sweet tooth will also find much to please them. Desserts include palacinke (pancakes) and various strudle filled with jabuka (apple), tresnja (cherry) or sir (cream cheese). Sladoled, Croatian ice cream, is almost as popular on the eastern Adriatic as it is in Italy.
The dishes mentioned here are no more than a tantalising glimpse of the richness and variety of Istria’s cuisine – there is so much more to experience. Wherever you dine, from five star restaurants to small family run cafés, the food cannot fail to delight.
Finally, the true gourmet is generally also a connoisseur of fine wine: you won’t be disappointed. Istria is renowned for its Vinska Cesta, or Wine Road – an area of taverns, restaurants and wine tasting houses.
Accommodation in Istria
Hidden Croatia would like you to experience Istria in superb accommodation. There are small boutique hotels, beautiful old stone houses refurbished to the highest standard, nestled in villages that time seems to have forgotten. If you would prefer an even more secluded hideaway, many of our selected villas are set in large and beautiful gardens. Far from the stresses of modern life, you’ll find rustic charm combined with every modern convenience. With many properties, we highly recommend taking car hire: indeed with some destinations we consider this to be an absolute necessity – it will be our pleasure to make all the necessary arrangements for you.
Please note: Villa accommodation in this region sells well in advance, to avoid disappointment, please book early.