Category: Croatia

Why Choose a Villa in Istria for Your Next Holiday?

Why Choose a Villa in Istria for Your Next Holiday?

If you’re looking for the perfect mix of sun, sea, history, and incredible food, let us introduce you to Istria, Croatia’s hidden gem. Tucked away in the northwestern corner of the country, this heart-shaped peninsula is a dreamy blend of Italian charm and Croatian beauty. Think rolling vineyards, medieval hilltop towns, and some of the clearest waters you’ve ever seen. And what better way to experience it all than staying in a villa? Let’s dive into why Istria should be top of your travel wishlist.

The Best of Both Worlds – Coastal & Countryside Bliss

One of Istria’s biggest draws is its versatility. You can spend the morning exploring ancient Roman ruins in Pula, the afternoon lounging on a beach in Rovinj, and the evening sipping local wine in a rustic countryside tavern. Whether you’re a beach bum, a history buff, or a foodie, Istria has something for you.

On the coast, you’ll find stunning seaside towns like Poreč, known for its UNESCO-listed Euphrasian Basilica, and Rovinj, a picture-perfect fishing port with colourful buildings tumbling down to the Adriatic. But venture inland, and you’ll discover another side of Istria. One that’s all about rolling hills, olive groves, and truffle-laden forest

Why Choose a Villa in Istria?

So, why go for a villa rather than a hotel or resort? Simple. You get privacy, space, and that home-away-from-home feeling that makes your holiday extra special. Here’s why Istria is perfect for a villa stay:

1. Privacy & Comfort

There’s nothing quite like waking up in your own space, sipping a morning coffee by your private pool, and not having to scramble for sunbeds at 7 am. A villa stay means no crowded hotel buffets or noisy neighbours, it’s just you, your loved ones, and uninterrupted relaxation.

Villa Olive Tree, Rovinj

3. Great for Groups & Families

Travelling with family or friends? A villa gives you the freedom to cook meals together, lounge by the pool, and enjoy quality time without being crammed into a hotel room. Plus, our villas come with outdoor BBQ areas, perfect for al fresco dining under the stars.

4. Live Like a Local

One of the best things about staying in a villa is getting a taste of the local lifestyle. Shop at village markets, cook with fresh local ingredients and immerse yourself in Istria’s relaxed way of life. You’re not just visiting, you’re experiencing!

What to Do in Istria

A villa holiday means you can set your own pace, whether that’s pure relaxation or jam-packed adventure. Here are some must-do experiences:

Explore Rovinj’s Old Town

Possibly one of the most charming towns in Europe, Rovinj is a maze of cobbled streets, pastel buildings, and lively cafés. Climb to the top of St. Euphemia’s Church for jaw-dropping views, then wander the waterfront at sunset.

Visit Pula’s Roman Amphitheatre

Istria’s largest city, Pula, is home to one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world. Imagine watching gladiator battles here thousands of years ago! It’s still used for concerts and events today, so check if there’s something on during your visit.

Indulge in Truffles & Wine

Istria is a paradise for foodies, especially when it comes to truffles and wine. The town of Motovun is famous for its truffle-hunting experiences, where you can join local experts (and their adorable dogs) to hunt for these prized delicacies. And don’t leave without trying Istrian Malvasia wine! crisp, refreshing, and perfect for warm evenings.

Swim in the Crystal-Clear Adriatic

Istria’s coastline is dotted with beautiful beaches and hidden coves. Head to Kamenjak Nature Park for some of the most unspoiled swimming spots, or try Zlatni Rt in Rovinj, a stunning forest park with rocky beaches and turquoise waters.

Take a Day Trip to the Brijuni Islands

A short boat ride from the mainland, the Brijuni Islands offer a mix of nature, history, and even safari animals! You’ll find ancient Roman ruins, lush landscapes, and seriously peaceful beaches.

Ready to Book Your Istrian Villa?

If you’re after a holiday that combines relaxation, culture, adventure, and amazing food, Istria ticks all the boxes. Whether you’re lounging by your private pool, exploring medieval towns, or feasting on truffles, you’ll fall in love with this enchanting region.

So, why not make Istria your next holiday destination? Trust us, you won’t regret it!

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Where to visit in Croatia

Where to visit in Croatia

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From pristine white sand beaches to historical Roman ruins, Croatia has a wealth of treasures just waiting to be discovered on your villa holiday. In the last ten years, this Eastern European country has become a true summer holiday destination, where the coastline stretches for almost 1800 kilometres, and 1185 islands make the perfect backdrop to a family photo. So, what’s Croatia like for holidays? It’s a little bit of everything! The Dalmatian coast boasts incredible beaches and boating trips, while the Istrian Riviera features a strong snorkelling scene which is ideal even for beginners thanks to its calm and warm waters. When you are not enjoying the beach or your private villa, there’s plenty of historical sites to discover in the ancient cities of Split, Pula and Dubrovnik, as well as walking trails in the country’s national parks.  

Plitvice Lakes National Park

If you love getting outdoors and you’re wondering where to go in Croatia, nature-lovers will relish hiking this stunning park, which has 16 waterfalls that are interconnecting, and a wide range of wildlife to discover. Days trips are recommended, as the hiking trails can be rather extensive, so pack food and plenty of water with you for the day. If you don’t have a car, shuttle buses to the park are available. The park attracts large numbers of tourists every year, and is most popular in the summer. During the winter, skiers take to its majestic slopes. When you feel like stretching your legs and heading out of your Villa Lorna Lucia for an adventurous drive and a long, rewarding walk, this is the place to go.

Pula

Pula is another popular destination for travel lovers thanks to its historical roots. The city boasts a traditional Roman amphitheatre built in the same style as the Colosseum, and visitors can wander around this magnificent ruin and imagine what it must have been like to watch gladiator fights back in the day. Other historical sites of significance include the city’s old gates and monasteries, a Venetian fortress, and the city’s main square which is known as the Forum, surrounded by ancient Roman buildings. Pula is a vibrant mix of buzzing nightlife, trendy eateries and historical sites.  

Zagreb

Zagreb is often compared to Prague thanks to its many events, vibrant nightlife and social scene and variety of stores for high-end shopping. It’s an ideal place to go in Croatia for a day trip, where you can meander around the Upper Town and discover Zagreb cathedral, St. Marks Church, Lotrscak Tower and the stone gate (Kamenita vrata), which is part of the old city walls. Discover Zagreb’s history and culture through its various museums and galleries, before stopping off for a strong coffee and a pastry in one of the many cafes in the area. For those who enjoy a buzzing nightlife, there are also plenty of restaurants, clubs, cocktail bars and live music to keep you entertained as the evening rolls in.    

Rovinj

If you’re looking for a slower and quieter pace and want to know where to visit in Croatia, then we’d recommend Rovinj. Situated on the breathtaking Istrian peninsula and surrounded by the Adriatic Sea, the archipelago of Rovinj features 20 islands and an Old Town positioned on a small peninsula. Stunning holiday photos, beautiful vistas, delicious food and historical sites are all on offer here. Explore the various narrow cobbled streets of the town, taking in an old town clock from the 12th century, St. Euphemia’s Basilica and city gates dating back to the medieval era. Pick up local produce for cooking back at your Villa Kristina, before touring the harbour and Carrerra Street, which boasts plenty of art galleries for picking up local artworks and souvenirs.  

Explore the stunning beaches, ancient sites and nature trails of Croatia on your perfect villa holiday. Browse our exclusive range of holiday villas.

5 things you didn’t know you could do in Croatia

5 things you didn’t know you could do in Croatia

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Think Croatia is just sun, sea and scenery? Think again. Here are 5 brilliant activities you never knew you could do in Istria, the most popular region.

1. Whizz through a canyon on a zip wire

Head to the town of Pazin to experience Zip Line Pazin Cave – an adrenalin-filled adventure you won’t forget in a hurry. After two short practice lines, you’ll fly down two long wires (220m and 280) that run 100m above the canyon below.

As you reach heart-racing speeds of up to 50km/h, you’ll take in spectacular views of this beautiful abyss through which Istria’s longest subterranean river flows. You’ll also get a good glimpse of the cliff-perched castle that’s the largest medieval fortress in the region.

2. Explore one of the world’s best-kept Roman amphitheatres

Pula Arena is one of the most popular attractions in Croatia. This ancient Roman amphitheatre is the 6th largest in the world, as well as one of the best preserved. Built between 27BC and 68AD, gladiator fights were held within its huge limestone walls, drawing crowds of up to 20,000.

Today the arena hosts all sorts of cultural and sporting events, including the annual summer “Spectacvla Antiqva” which recreates those gladiatorial contests. And year-round you can enter the Arena’s underground chambers to enjoy museum exhibits about how olive oil and wine were made in the past.

3. Make a splash in the Med’s biggest wave pool

Aquapark Istralandia, Croatia’s first water park, opened in 2014. Covering more than 80,000 m2, this aquatic paradise features 20 thrilling slides (including a 27m free-fall drop) and the largest wave pool in the Mediterranean.

Those who prefer a little less excitement can relax and unwind in the two-level hydromassage pool. And when you’re done with the water, you’ll find sand volleyball and badminton courts as well as plenty of bars and cafes.

4. Ride a train around an Istrian island

Sitting just off Istria’s coast, Brijuni Islands National Park is an extraordinary archipelago of two main islands and 12 smaller islets. The beautiful pine-covered Veliki Brijuni is the largest of them all and home to archaeological sites, landscaped gardens, a safari park and even dinosaur footprints!

You can book a day excursion to Veliki Brijuni from Fazana. After the short boat transfer to the eastern port, why not hop on the tourist train for a sightseeing tour round the island?

5. Taste some of the best olive oil there is

Croatia has a long tradition of growing and pressing olives for their oil. It may not produce anywhere near as much as Spain, but it’s recognised internationally for the quality of its extra virgin oils – particularly those made in Istria.

Agrolaguna, in the resort town of Porec, has 65,000 olive trees producing more than 100 tonnes of extra virgin oil a year. Make a visit to see the groves, tour the mill and sample its award-winning oils in the beautiful tasting room. Delicious!

Think Croatia could be the perfect destination for your next getaway? Take a look at our great range of holiday villas in Croatia.

On the Gourmet Trail. Croatia: Truffle Pasta

On the Gourmet Trail. Croatia: Truffle Pasta

chiracshah

This tasty and simple dish is from Croatia and is the ideal dinner for a night in at your villa.

Ingredients

150g Fuži

30g butter

100g cream

40g Truffle sauce

Pinch of salt & Pepper

Garnish

Drizzle of Truffle Olive Oil

Grated Parmesan Cheese

 

Method

1. Put fuži into a pot of boiling salt water and cook until al dente

2. On another stove, at the same time, heat butter into a pan on a low heat. Once melted down, add cream, truffle sauce and season with salt & pepper. Stir well.

3. Once the pasta has cooked, drain it and pour into the pan with the sauce. Mix well.

4. Serve with grated parmesan cheese and a drizzle of Truffle Olive Oil

 

Dobar Tek! (Enjoy your meal!)

Floral Themed Villas

Floral Themed Villas

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To celebrate the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2019 we decided to dig out some of our floral inspired villas and share a bunch of our favourites with you.

 

Villa Poppy, Polis, Cyprus

Situated in a fantastic central location, just 900 yds from the beach, is Villa Poppy. Ideal for couples and small groups, this 2 bedroom villa is spacious inside and out and is the ideal place for a relaxing week or two in the sun.

poppy_914_villa1e_w4

Villa Daisy, Lagos, Algarve

Part of our Very Villa Plus programme is the daintily named Villa Daisy. With 4 bedrooms, sleeping up to 9 people, you’ll have plenty of room for all the family. Enjoy your private, heated swimming pool and impressive garden space during your Villa Plus holiday in Portugal.

Daisy

Villa Lavanda, Playa Blanca, Lanzarote

Just a 20-minute walk from the centre of Playa Blanca is Villa Lavanda. With 3 bedrooms, bright and airy rooms and a private, heated pool you have everything you need for your dream holiday this summer.

Lavanda

Villa Rosemary Sostis, Agios Sostis, Zante

This centrally located, 2-bedroom property is Villa Rosemary Sostis. Situated just 500 yds from the beach, the villa is also close to the waterside restaurants and mini markets. Enjoy the privacy of your villa, with heated pool, or use it as a base to explore the island. The choice is yours!

Rosemary Sostis

Villa Lotus, Porec, Croatia

Nestled in the countryside is Villa Lotus, an ideal choice for those looking for a relaxing holiday away from the hustle and bustle of a busy resort. The property had a landscaped garden, perfect for sunbathing in after a refreshing dip in the pool.

Lotus

Villa Jazminez, Marbella, Costa del Sol

This delightful 3-bedroom property is Villa Jazminez. Set amongst a mature, private garden, you’ll have a private pool, al fresco dining area and plenty of privacy.

Jazminez

Which of these villas would you pick? Let us know in the comments below

 

By Maddy Morgan

 

Recipe for Lamb Peka, and why it is perfect to cook on a self-catering holiday to Croatia

Recipe for Lamb Peka, and why it is perfect to cook on a self-catering holiday to Croatia

Self-catering accommodation is an ideal way to save money on food, but this doesn’t mean you have to miss out on local flavours or luxurious dining experiences. In the comfort and privacy of your home away from home, you can get stuck in to recreating authentic dishes on your own. Once you’re done cooking, pop open a bottle of wine and sit down to enjoy your culinary masterpiece by candlelight on the terrace of your villa.  Read more →

Good snorkelling holidays for villa-loving travellers

Good snorkelling holidays for villa-loving travellers

Holiday rentals provide the perfect basecamp for snorkelling getaways. Hiring a villa gives you the freedom to prepare your own packed lunches and dinners, and you’ll have plenty of room to store your snorkels, flippers and wetsuits.


Image by Lance, used under CC License (CC by 2.0) 

Good snorkelling holidays unlock a country’s most enthralling secrets. Pack your underwater camera and get ready to delve deep in some of these top destinations…

Costa del Sol, Spain

Costa del Sol is blessed with tepid waters bustling with marine life. On top of that, there’s plenty of sun-kissed beaches where you can set up camp before a few hours of snorkelling. Visit Maro beach, near the town of Nerja, and try to find its fascinating underwater cave if you’re feeling daring.

The shores surrounding Las Yucas and La Viborilla beaches, near Benalmadena, house a wide range of fish such as tuna, bonitos, and dolphinfish.

Costa Blanca, Spain

Like Costa del Sol, the Costa Blanca is a snorkelers’ paradise. Explore the region’s shorelines and you’ll quickly find that it’s simply brimming with underwater life. Granadella Cove, near Javea, has notoriously clear waters. Not only that, it’s quite sheltered so younger snorkellers can see the bay’s treasures, too.

The Algarve, Portugal

Portugal’s Algarve coast comprises playful Atlantic waters and warming sands. It’s also home to the famed Ria Formosa lagoon, one of the country’s many natural wonders. Here you’ll find one of the largest populations of seahorses in the world – wipe down your face mask and prepare to dive amongst them.

Cyprus

If you visit Cyprus during summertime, you might encounter beautiful green and loggerhead turtles on the island’s western coast. The island’s Cape Greco National Park is well worth a visit, too, complete with some of the clearest waters in the region and picturesque in every sense of the word.

Corfu, Greece

The Greek island of Corfu has plenty of spots for a good snorkelling holiday. Its pebbly beaches tend to have clearer waters, but you might want to wear a wetsuit or flippers to protect your feet from the jaggier rocks! Keep your eyes peeled for a diverse range of silverside fish, alongside flathead mullet and painted combers.

Pula, Croatia


Image by Christoph Sammer, used under CC License (CC by 2.0)

Croatia’s idyllic Adriatic coastlines are the envy of the world. Pula houses some of its finest and along with these renowned views, it has a number of great snorkelling spots.

Take Brijuni National Park, a short boat journey from Pula. The waters of these 14 small, protected islands are alive with flora, fauna and old Roman artefacts. In Verige Bay, on the western coast of the park, you can get a guided tour to explore submerged archaeological sites. Take full advantage and get excited for a day of underwater education.

Whether you’re travelling as a family, with friends or with your partner or spouse, a snorkelling holiday provides an unrivalled way to get to know a country’s ins and outs. Uncover exotic species of fish or simply paddle around and let the waves wash over you – underwater getaways are always ones to remember.

Have a look at some of the Villa Plus offerings in these hotspots and let your snorkelling dreams come to life.

By Isabella Perkins, a freelance travel writer best known for writing about self-catering holidays. Her writing tends to have a family focus, and she is in the middle of writing a new travel guide due to be published next year.

Best drinks for your self-catering holiday to Croatia

Best drinks for your self-catering holiday to Croatia

By Shaun Fraser

Croatia has some exceptional drinks that you can’t leave the country without trying. If you’re planning a self-catering trip to Croatia, you’ll be able to sample authentic Adriatic flavours without spending a fortune in the hotel bar. Furthermore, the best Croatian drinks aren’t included in most package holiday deals – so you won’t be missing out by choosing self-catering.

Croatian wine
Image by ironypoisoning, used under Creative Commons license (CC BY SA 2.0)

In the privacy of your villa’s terrace, you can sip on chilled beer as you wind down after a busy day of sightseeing. Or, enjoy some rich fruit spirit aperitifs before you sit down to a delicious homemade meal. Tempted? If so, here are some Croatian drinks for you to sample:

Rakia

This fruit brandy is Croatia’s most popular spirit. It’s strong, and often home-brewed, but you’ll also find it to buy if you want to take some back to your holiday home.

Croatian Rakia
Image by pinguino, used under Creative Commons license (CC BY 2.0)

Rakia comes in a wide range of flavour varieties. Sljivovica, the most traditional, is made with plums, and found largely in the north of the country. Other common types include lozovaca, which is made from grapes, and the pear-based kruskovac.

Pelinkovac

A bitter-tasting liqueur like Jägermeister, Pelinkovac is a popular drink throughout Croatia, and there are many local brands you can try. Renting an apartment in Split? Dalmacijavino is the favourite variety there. If you’re staying in a villa in northern Croatia, near Zagreb, look out for Badel Pelinkovac.

Biska

Croatia’s Istrian peninsula produces biska. This unique liqueur is made using mistletoe leaves and herbs. It’s been around for thousands of years, and locals are adamant supporters of its medicinal effects. For a true Croatian experience, serve cold, and drink it as an aperitif.

Bambus

This odd but easy and sweet drink is well-loved in Croatia and some surrounding countries. It consists of a half-and-half mix of red wine and cola. Mix one up in seconds in the kitchen of your rental accommodation for a refreshing fizzy drink to enjoy in the sun.

Wine in Croatia

Croatia is an up-and-coming wine producer, and oenophiles are sure to enjoy the different varieties on offer. There are tens of thousands of vineyards, and hundreds of wineries, so you’re bound to find something to suit your tastes.

Istria is a predominant wine region, and white Malvazija is one of its best known products. The island of Korcula, off Croatia’s southern tip, is also home to some delicious, light white wines.

For red, the best quality wines are made in Dalmatia. The full bodied Bavic is amongst the region’s most popular types. Lookout for the Plavac wines if you feel like treating yourself to a luxurious, premium variety.

Beer in Croatia

Two brands dominate the Croatian beer scene: Ožujsko and Karlovačka. Both come in a range of different flavours. You’ll find these on sale in shops and bars everywhere in Croatia, so wherever you’re staying, they won’t be hard to get your hands on.

For local specialities and craft beers, there is also plenty on offer, especially around Zagreb. Here, you’ll find a number of microbreweries, and the two beers produced by the esteemed Lika Brewery.

Inspired? Take a look at the different types of property Villa Plus offer.

Shaun Fraser is a former drinks rep, who now focuses on writing about his favourite tipples from Europe and beyond. He credits his good nose to a previous life as a sommelier.

5 of the best beach holidays for families in Europe

5 of the best beach holidays for families in Europe

Europe is blessed with many of the world’s most stunning coastal destinations. Take advantage of shorter flights and jet off to explore the best of them with your loved ones. Here’s the continent’s five best beach holidays, made for families who want something extra special for their next getaway…

Spain

Viva Espagna! Spain is a great holiday destination for families. Take the time to unwind on beautiful strips of sand – the Costa del Sol, Costa Blanca and the Balearic Islands pack them in abundance. On the Costa del Sol, you can explore Marbella’s lush harbours before parking up on nearby beaches, or head to Estepona for buoyant waves and dreamy Mediterranean sunsets. With over 200km of Mediterranean coastline, the Costa Blanca is a beach lover’s gem. Enjoy the beaches, popular with both locals and tourists, at Javea, Moraira and Calpe.

The island of Majorca, one of Spain’s Balearic Islands, is known for its glistening waters and pure sands. Head to Alcudia for relaxed beaches – usually within the backdrop of Alcudia Bay – well suited for young families set on making unforgettable holiday memories.

Portugal

Portugal’s Algarve has all the right ingredients for a great beach holiday – wide coastlines, entertainment facilities and tranquil views. Located in the southeast, one of the region’s vibrant hotspots Lagos is flanked by turquoise coves and sun-kissed strips, particularly the Blue Flag Meia Praia Beach.

Head here and take your pick from over 5km of prime lounging spots. The waves are top-tier, so why not embark on some bodyboarding or a few hours of splashing about with the little ones?

Greece

Some of Greece’s beaches arguably rival that of the Caribbean. Factor in the rich history, cuisine and culture, and you’ve got everything you need for the ultimate family getaway. The country’s rich selection of islands give it an edge over many other countries, many thanks to the luscious coastlines of Corfu and Rhodes…

Both islands boast unreal views over the Aegean Sea, which sits at a temperature ideal for a spot of swimming. Agios Gordios beach and the bays of Sidari and Paleokastritsa beach are some of Corfu’s best family hangouts. In Rhodes, you can’t go wrong by visiting either Ladiko, Lindos or Stegna.

Croatia

Croatia has some of the greatest landscapes, beaches and architecture in Eastern Europe. The waters are crystal clear and the history is ripe with Roman amphitheatres and medieval castles.

Try heading to Pula, the largest city in the district of Istria, with your family. It’s a fantastic location to stay during your holiday and it has stunning coastlines for whenever you want to take a dip. For a secluded couple of hours away from the city, head south to Kamenjak Cape, a sheltered pebbled beach complete with unbeatable views of the Adriatic Sea.

Cyprus

As the third biggest island in the Mediterranean Sea, Cyprus is a treasure trove of fine beaches. On top of that, there’s three breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The best beach for a family holiday in Cyprus is without a doubt Coral Bay. It’s got all the amenities you could ask for – think snorkelling, boat trips, and quad biking tours. Not only that, it’s also safe for swimming, after which you can dry off on any number of prime Mediterranean sand spots. If you get a chance, then both Makronissos and Nissi beach are also worth a visit.

Ready to put the wheels in motion for your own family beach retreat? Take a look at some Villa Plus properties near beaches.

By Lara Scott. A former executive at a major hotel chain, Lara Scott is a freelance travel writer and journalist. She says her previous career gives her extra insight into both sides of the tourism industry.

3 Croatian food and drink combos for a self-catering holiday

3 Croatian food and drink combos for a self-catering holiday

Whether you plan to holiday in Croatia for its stunning coastline, epic architecture or paradisiacal islands, one thing is certain – your taste buds are in for a real treat. Croatian food and drink is as rich and varied as the country itself. Almost every region has its own delicacies, as well as its own twists on authentic dishes. Master the nation’s culinary skills yourself, and you’ll be able to whip up Croatian food no matter where you are in the world.

Image by Connie used under CC License (CC by 2.0)

1. Strukli and Croatian white wine

Self-catering holidays are great for learning new cooking skills and recipes, such as the Croatian speciality strukli. Originally from the northern regions of Zagreb and Hrvatsko Zagorje, strukli is a prized national dish made up of dough and a cottage cheese filling which can be either baked or boiled. Better yet, it uses relatively few ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

All-purpose flour
Salt and pepper
Eggs
Sunflower oil
Vinegar
Fresh cottage cheese
Butter
Sour cream

This is best enjoyed with a fine, crisp local white wine, preferably while sat on the balcony of a villalooking over Croatia’s serene scenery.

2. Pasticada and Dalmatian red wine

Cooking Croatia’s local cuisine also opens your eyes to the amount of love and care that some dishes require. Pasticada is one such dish, and although it takes a little longer to make, the end results entirely justify the means. It’s a slow cooked, stewed beef dish that originates from the Croatia’s southern Dalmatia region.

Drizzle it in a special red wine and puréed vegetable sauce, before serving it with homemade gnocchi. There’s plenty of different ingredients and flavours, so it’ll certainly fill your villa holiday with its sweet aromas for days. To compliment the allures of the dish, opt for a cooled glass of Dalmatian red wine, you won’t regret it.

3. Manestra and Croatian beer


Image by Nikolaj Potanin, used under CC License (CC by 2.0) 

Manestra is a vegetable soup that hails from the Istrian region of Croatia. Again, it does take some time to prepare, but the taste makes it well worth the fruits of your labour. This traditional dish is a hearty one made with beans, seasonal vegetables, and often pasta shells and pork.

You’ll find many local families and restaurants have their own well-guarded Manestra recipe, and for good reason too. This dish is delicious and is extremely enjoyable with a Croatian beer such as Osjecko, the oldest beer brewer (it’s been produced since the 17th century) in all of Croatia! To top it off, you can always follow it up with a glass of Prošek. Not to be confused with Prosecco, Prosek is a sweet desert wine that will add a finishing touch of heaven to any meal.

Feeling inspired? Take a look at some Villa Plus Croatian properties and take the first step towards your next big getaway.

By Imogen Bishop, a part time travel writer, part time restaurant critic, and full-time mum. She has an affinity for Mediterranean cuisine and can usually be found in the kitchen with a bottle of olive oil in hand.