About Rovinj
Rovinj, a picturesque fishing port on Croatia’s Istrian peninsula, is renowned for its stunning coastal scenery and rich history. Nestled on a headland, the town features tightly packed houses extending down to the waterfront, reflecting its Venetian & Illyrian heritage, later shaped by Roman and Byzantine influences.
The natural beauty of Rovinj is often described as extraordinary, thanks to its rugged coastline, lush forests, and crystal-clear sea. The area boasts a diverse archipelago of 14 islands and 6 cliffs, offering breathtaking landscapes. Along its 67-kilometer shoreline, visitors can find a mix of rocky headlands, secluded coves, and beaches with sand and pebbles, characteristic of the northern Adriatic coast.
Accommodation
Grand Park Hotel, Rovinj (5-star)
The hotel is nestled in a fragrant pine forest while offering views of the old town and Adriatic Sea. It features a wellness center, outdoor swimming pool, exclusive boutiques and a collection of restaurants.
Rooms are elegantly decorated and come with a mini-bar, kettle and an espresso machine as well as with a seating area and a Smart TV. The private bathrooms include a bathtub and a walk-in shower. All units offer a balcony or a terrace.
Tennis Courts
All tennis courts are located by the sea, and 10 minutes walking distance to the Grand Park Hotel. You will have access to 12 outdoor red clay courts and 4 indoor tennis courts.
Sightseeing
Pula Amphitheatre is the most famous and important monument, which was once the site of gladiator fights. It was built in the 1st century AD during the reign of Emperor Vespasian, at the same time as the magnificent Colosseum in Rome. Today, it is the venue for many different events like the Pula Film Festival, concerts, opera, ballet and sports competitions. Groznjan is a small town in central Istria surrounded by terraced olive groves and vineyards with closely built houses and a castle as a clear testimonial to its Medieval past. Groznjan offers a view of twenty or so surrounding Istrian villages, the valley of the river Mirna and the sea from Novigrad to Umag. During summer, Groznjan lives and breathes music.
Highlights
Batana boat tour
Batana boat tour is a magical experience on a traditional wooden fishing boat similar to a Venetian gondola. The tour usually begins at sunset, with a "dream journey through Rovinj" from Mali mol (the small pier in front of the Ecomuseum Batana), around the peninsula of the old town. Your hosts are Rovinj Batana owners and members of the Ecomuseum, locally known as barkajoli, who will always be happy to make this Batana boat tour an authentic experience of Rovinj. Have an unforgettable evening thanks to their special Rovinj charm!
Dinner at Spacio Matika
Spacio Matika is a place where the people of Rovinj stored, tasted, and sold wine in their stone houses. It was also a place for socializing, dining, playing card games such as "briskula" and "treseta," singing, and having fun.
Here, the noblest fruits of the land and the sea come together: local Malvasia and Teran wine, homemade olive oil, fish, and seafood freshly caught by local fishermen. It's difficult to describe the experience of an evening in Spacio, but if we must try, it's like a well-prepared seafood stew.
The flavors and aromas of the Istrian cuisine are specially spiced with the smiles and hospitality of the waitress dressed in a typical Rovinj costume, serving you and making sure you feel comfortable and relaxed. When you add the performance of "bitinàda"" a traditional way of singing, interpreted by excellent singers from the cultural and artistic society "Marco Garbin," the visit to Spacio Matika is a unique experience!
Sunset Boat Tour
Set sail on an unforgettable boat trip through the stunning islands of the Istrian Archipelago and Lim Canal! Enjoy a panoramic cruise around the charming old town of Rovinj on our luxurious boats! Swim and unwind in hidden bays, and explore picturesque islands. As the day winds down, savor chilled sparkling wine from a local winery, accompanied by local olive oil and cheese, while watching dolphins play against a breathtaking sunset. Join us for a day of adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable memories!
Food
Breakfast & Lunch
Start your day with a delicious buffet breakfast at the Grand Park Hotel Laurel & Barry Restaurant, where you can savor a variety of flavors while enjoying breathtaking views of the Old Town. For lunch, indulge in a satisfying meal at a nearby hotel conveniently located just steps from the tennis courts!
Dinner
Every evening, we’ll take you on a new culinary adventure. From a traditional konoba—a family-style restaurant serving fresh seafood, Central Istria’s truffles, and locally crafted olive oil, to a Michelin-recommended restaurant paired with wine tasting at a remote vineyard, each dinner will offer a unique and unforgettable experience.
