Porec holidays

Keen on the great outdoors? Poreč’s surrounds are as varied as they are stunning. The Parenzana cycling path, which winds through looming pines and strawberry trees, starts here and, just three hours away is Plitvice Lakes National Park. With 16 terraced lakes joined by rushing waterfalls, it’s one of Croatia’s most jaw-dropping, and popular, attractions.

For thrills closer to home, Poreč has watersports for all ages. Beginners can try their hand at kayaking on Lim Fjord while Borik Beach is a haven for jet-skiing, fly-boarding and banana boat rides. Alternatively, places such as Zelena Laguna (a lush coastal campsite) offer a more relaxing way to see the scenic Istrian coast with fun for all the family once you arrive.

The town’s after dark offerings are just as intoxicating as its daytime activities. Whether you’re looking for quieter, more traditional wine bars or loud and heady nightclubs, you will be spoilt for choice on your Poreč holiday. Comitivm Bar is a good place to kick off the evening or head to Byblos to mix with locals.

Seeking solace on a sunbed? Consider travelling to Poreč in July or August, when the mercury can skyrocket to 28C and above. If you prefer beach time without the sizzle, travel at the end of May or early October for a much more manageable 20C.

For the best bargains, schedule your annual leave for December, January or February. Just be prepared for showers and cool days.

Stalagmites, stalactites and a large lake await 60m under the surface in Baredine Cave. Take the 40-minute guided tour to see the 5 chambers, each filled with staggering ice sculptures and rock formations.

After more adventure? You can also become an apprentice speleologist for the day at the cave-climbing centre. For something more sedate, try the tractor museum (yes, really). The Baredine Cave is about a 15-minute drive from Poreč. Public buses run frequently from town too.

Agrotourism

The Istrian peninsula is an agricultural powerhouse in Croatia; lush vineyards and olive groves stretch across the landscape, contributing to much of the area’s wealth, and artisan cheeses are making waves internationally.

Tempted? You can sample the produces at various groves, mills and cellars across Poreč. Agrolaguna Winery and Olive Mill are highly recommended – tours need to be booked in advance, but they are well worth the forethought.

Take a gyrocopter ride

Combine sightseeing and thrill-seeking on a gyrocopter ride around Poreč. A trip in one of these nifty fliers, described as plane-helicopter hybrids, takes in panoramic views of Vrsar and Rovinj, as well as the tiny islands and secret bays you’d struggle to find yourself.

Choose from 20, 30 and 60-minute rides and, if you want a unique souvenir, opt to have the experience recorded.

Euphrasian Basilica

Poreč’s most recognisable landmark, the 6th-century Euphrasian Basilica, is one of Europe’s most complete examples of Byzantine art.

The highlight is of course the Basilica, complete with shining, storytelling mosaics framed by colourful geometric marble. But the rest of the complex, which has four more buildings, is well worth the wander. Check out the baptistery with its hexagonal pool and the bell tower, which enjoys a birds-eye view of the old town.

Get a boat to Venice

In the summer months, ferries run between Poreč and Venice, just as they did from 1267 to 1797 when Poreč was under Venetian rule. As you leave the port, look back and you’ll notice the architectural leftovers of that time – the white tower, archways and houses that stretch high rather than wide.

Venice’s highlights include the Doge’s Palace and Saint Mark’s Basilica. Remember to bring your passport if you decide to make the day trip from Poreč to Venice.