Autumn is a season full of events, and in this article, we will focus on those combining gastronomy and sports. And hopefully inspire you to take a one-day or week-long trip and experience the magic of autumn in one of Croatia’s most enchanting regions. And where might that be? Well, in Istria, of course!
To make your visit to Istria complete, why not rent one of our villas in Istria? Our cozy villas will provide you with an ideal place to rest after days spent at events.
Events
Weekend Bike and Gourmet Tour
Place and date: Rovinj and Kanfanar, October 04 – 05
This 2-day bike tour is ideal for nature and recreation lovers, as well as food enthusiasts. In addition to getting some exercise, depending on the route you choose, you will have the opportunity to taste specialties characteristic of the Istrian coast and interior. There are 2 trails: Mare and Monti. The tour stops in Rovinj, Bale, Svetvinčenat, and Kanfanar. The 59-km Mare trail will be held on October 4th and it will feature seafood specialties. The following day, October 5, there will be a 54-km Monti trail, where you can taste specialties from the Istrian interior.
Anyone over 14 years of age can participate in the cycling event and must own an MTB, gravel, or electric bike. You can find all additional information in this leaflet or by emailing outdoor@maistra.hr (Maistra Rovinj Tourist Board).
Zigante Truffle Days
Place and date: Livade, October 04 – November 09
The Zigante family from Livade became famous in 1999 when they harvested the largest white truffle ever found in the Motovun Forest. The truffle was included in the Guinness Book of World Records, and Livade became the world center of truffles. The family further popularized the truffle by starting the “Zigante Truffle Days,” a marathon event that brings together numerous domestic and international gourmets over 5 weekends in October and November.
The event features a variety of activities, including a truffle fair, an exhibition of local wines, and a showcase of Istrian culinary specialties. There is also a demonstration of truffle hunting and a presentation of dishes whose main ingredient is, as you might have guessed, truffles.
Teran Wine and Truffle Festival
Place and date: Motovun, October 18 – 19
In addition to the aforementioned weekends in Livade, Motovun hosts a 2-day truffle and Teran wine exhibition every autumn. Is there a better combination? If you want to experience a pairing of these 2 top Istrian delicacies, don’t miss the Teran and Truffle Festival.
Year after year, Motovun brings together the best producers of truffles and Teran wine, as well as companies that buy truffles. At this magical location above the Motovun Forest, you can taste and buy truffles and Teran wine, participate in workshops, and most importantly, have a good time. For more information, follow the Motovun Tourist Board’s official Facebook page.
GinIstra Festival
Place and date: Rovinj, October 17 – 18
This year, Rovinj will host the 4th International Gin Festival. It is the largest festival in the region. During the 2-day program, you can taste over 50 different gins (don’t feel obligated to try them all 😄), attend various workshops, and listen to expert lectures. Learn all about your favorite drink, then enjoy a rich musical program in the evening with performances by Dalmatino and Marko Tolja.
You can find more information about the festival on the official Facebook page and purchase tickets for the concerts here.
International Prosciutto Fair
Place and date: Tinjan, October 17 – 19
In addition to truffles and high-quality wine, the Istrian region is known for its excellent prosciutto. Every October, the small town of Tinjan, located in the heart of Istria, comes alive with activity thanks to the ISAP (International Prosciutto Fair). Since 2006, this fair has gathered exhibitors from 6 countries: Croatia, Slovenia, Italy, Austria, Hungary, and Spain. The fair provides an ideal opportunity for food lovers to sample not only prosciutto but also other culinary specialties and fine wines.
In addition to tastings and a competition for the best prosciutto, the program includes educational, recreational, cultural, and entertainment components. So, without further ado, visit Tinjan, enjoy the beautiful landscapes, and take in the even more beautiful – prosciutto. You can find all the details on the official Facebook page.
Chestnut Festival
Place and date: Oprtalj, October 19
Besides grapes, another popular food in the fall are chestnuts. There is a festival held in its honor, and it is the only event of its kind in Istria. Held in Oprtalj, the Chestnut Festival (Kestenijada) features various chestnut products, including honey, brandy, cakes, bread, and pasta. You can also enjoy classic boiled and roasted chestnuts, and wash everything down with a glass of young wine.
In addition to the rich gastronomic selection, there are creative workshops, performances, and entertainment for children, as well as live music for adults and educational exhibitions for the curious. Come to Oprtalj in October and spend an unforgettable autumn day enjoying chestnuts, wine, and Istrian charm!
In addition to the rich food and wine scene, Istria offers so many other experiences and attractions. That said, it’s a shame to stay there for only a few days. In the fall, the temperatures are more pleasant, the days are shorter, the crowds are fewer and the prices are lower. All this can be a recipe for an ideal vacation.
Some have already taken their annual vacation, and some have wisely waited for this time of year. While you are visiting the fall events, take the opportunity and book your dream week in Istria right now. Our villas in Buje, Motovun, Novigrad and Tinjan are waiting for you!
