Motovun with neighbourhood

Motovun and its surroundings belong to Istria County, the westernmost county of Croatia, covering a large part of the Istrian Peninsula. This area represents one of the most recognizable and picturesque parts of central Istria, where medieval heritage, natural landscapes, rolling vineyard hills, and a rich gastronomic tradition intertwine.

Motovun is a well-preserved medieval settlement located on top of a steep hill above the Mirna River Valley. The old town is surrounded by historic defensive walls, which are still almost completely preserved and allow visitors to walk around the town while enjoying exceptional views of the valley, vineyards, and forests. The town is known for its narrow stone streets, characteristic Venetian architecture, and numerous historic buildings that bear witness to its rich past. Among the most important landmarks in Motovun are the 13th-century town gates, through which visitors enter the old town, and the central Andrea Antico Square, which represents the historical and social heart of the town. The square is home to the municipal palace, historic houses, and remnants of Venetian influence that shaped the town’s development. Particularly notable is the Parish Church of St. Stephen, which dominates the town skyline and represents one of the most important religious buildings in the area. Within the old town, there are also galleries and artistic spaces that reflect Motovun’s contemporary creative identity. Motovun is also an important cultural center, as it hosts the Motovun Film Festival every year, attracting visitors from across Europe and transforming the town into a lively film and cultural hub for several days. The surroundings of Motovun are among the most scenic landscapes in inland Istria, characterized by rolling hills, vineyards, olive groves, and dense forests. Particularly famous is the Motovun Forest in the Mirna River Valley, which is considered one of the richest truffle areas in the region, giving the area a strong gastronomic identity. Nearby Motovun, there are also several other touristically interesting places. Groznjan is a picturesque artistic town, widely known as the Town of Artists, featuring numerous galleries, studios, and summer music events. In the Mirna River Valley lies Oprtalj, a smaller medieval settlement renowned for its panoramic views, stone streets, and peaceful rural atmosphere. Among the highlights of the surrounding area are the Livade viewpoint, considered one of the main centers of Istria's truffle tradition, and the scenic Parenzana, a former railway line that has been transformed into a popular cycling and hiking trail connecting many towns and villages across inland Istria. The area is also home to small churches, scenic viewpoints, and traditional villages that preserve the authentic character of the Istrian countryside. In addition to its cultural and culinary attractions, the region offers a wide range of outdoor activities. Hiking and cycling are among the most popular, with trails leading through vineyards, forests, and rolling hills overlooking the Mirna River Valley. One of the most memorable experiences is truffle hunting in the Motovun Forest, where visitors join local guides and trained dogs to discover the tradition of searching for this prized delicacy. Wine and olive oil tastings are also highly popular, as the surrounding wineries and olive mills offer authentic Istrian gastronomic experiences. Motovun is also well known for paragliding, thanks to its hilltop location, which provides excellent flying conditions and spectacular panoramic views over the entire valley. During the summer months, the region is further enriched by cultural festivals, concerts, and traditional local events.

Overall, the Motovun area and its surroundings represent a unique combination of a medieval town, rich history, cultural life, diverse landscapes, and active tourism. Thanks to its location, exceptional preservation, and diverse cultural and gastronomic offer, it ranks among the most attractive inland destinations in Istria.