- Escape to the Croatian island of Lošinj in the northern Adriatic Sea
- Explore the archipelago on private tours, including a full-day island-hopping speedboat trip
- Spot bottlenose dolphins with marine researchers from the Blue World Institute
- Go in search of Istria’s famous truffles on a small-group truffle hunting adventure
Losinj & Istria Fly-Drive
Breathe in the healing air of Lošinj, a lesser-known gem in the northern Adriatic. Once favoured by Austro-Hungarian elites for its curative microclimate, the island remains a haven for those seeking nature, culture and wellbeing. This independent week-long fly-drive holiday blends active exploration with time to unwind.
Cruise through the island-dotted Kvarner Bay by private boat, spot dolphins with marine researchers, and walk ancient towns and forests guided by local experts. Discover the layered history of Cres and the vibrant marine life of Lošinj, including the Greco-Roman Apoxyomenos statue pulled from the seabed after 2,000 years.
Then, cross to the Istrian mainland and explore the cobbled streets of Rovinj. Round off your trip with a truffle hunt in the forested hills around Motovun and a visit to Grožnjan, a hilltop village brought to life by musicians and artists. With your own car, you’re free to set the pace.
Tour Itinerary
Fly to Pula on Croatia’s Istrian peninsula. Collect your rental car at the airport and drive to the port at Brestova (approx. one hour). From there, the regular ferry takes just 20 minutes to reach Porozina on the Cres-Losinj archipelago. Head south through the wild landscape of Cres until you reach your base in Mali or Veli Losinj. This will be your base for the next five nights.
Today cruise the archipelago on your private speedboat, complete with your own personal skipper. Each island will offer you something special and unique; from endless fields filled with herds of Boškarin buffalos on Unije, to the wonderful sandy beaches of Susak, the pristine nature of the uninhabited islands and the famous flower gardens of Ilovik. Swim and dive in the crystal-clear waters, explore hidden coves and let the healing powers of the island's unique microclimate wash over you. (B)
Today, set off on a self-drive discovery of Lošinj and Cres, with expert local guides along the way. Begin with a walking tour of Mali Lošinj, including a visit to the Apoxyomenos Museum, home to a Greco-Roman bronze statue recovered from the seabed after 2,000 years. Continue to Osor, the historic town of Lubenice perched dramatically on a cliff, and the Venetian-influenced streets of Cres. After lunch—perhaps sampling the island’s prized lamb—head into the Tramuntana Forest and visit the Beli Griffon Vulture Sanctuary before returning to your hotel. (B)
The archipelago is also home to many wonderful animal species, including the magnificent bottlenose dolphin. Your safari adventure starts with a visit to the Blue World institute in Veli Losinj, where you will learn all about the local marine life and bottlenose dolphins. Once you have a better understanding of these wonderful mammals, it’s time to experience them in the wild so hop on the boat and head out in search of them. Even though there are hundreds of dolphins in the archipelago, it takes great skill and knowledge of the area to locate them so with a little bit of luck, you will witness their lively nature in their natural habitat. (B)
Enjoy a free day to unwind. Stroll along the coast, enjoy the hotel spa, or discover more of Lošinj at your own pace. (B)
Leave Losinj behind today and drive back across the island to Porozina for the ferry across to mainland Istria. On arrival in Brestova, make the one-hour drive across the peninsula to Rovinj, Istria’s star attraction. The charming old town is located on an oval peninsula and its steep cobbled streets and small squares are dominated by a tall church tower rising from the highest point. Originally an island, it was only connected to the mainland in 1763 when the narrow channel separating it was filled. (B)
Head inland to the beautiful Istrian interior, dotted with hilltop villages, the most scenic of these being Motovun. This iconic village is set above rolling vineyards and forests full of truffles. Spend some free time in Motovun, perhaps explore the old town walls before meeting your guide on a small group tour of Truffle Hunting and Tasting. Head down into the forest in search of this local delicacy. Your guide will prepare some truffle delights for you to try.
Afterwards, make your way on to Groznjan for a walk around at your own leisure. Situated high above the Mirna River valley, this 14th Century Venetian fortress was colonised by artists and musicians in the 1960s and today a summer school for musicians means you will often find an impromptu concert taking place. Return to Rovinj for an evening at leisure. (B and three-course tasting/lunch)
Make your way back to Pula Airport today (approx 40-minute drive) for your flight to the UK. (B)
Pricing Information
Price Includes
- Return International flights from the UK to Croatia
- All airport taxes and security charges
- Accommodation in four-star hotels with breakfast
- Meals as specified (B = breakfast, L= lunch, D= Dinner)
- Car Hire in B-class including CDW, unlimited mileage, insurance, theft, vat, airport fees and all local taxes
- Excursion – 7-hour private speedboat
- Excursion – 2-hour private walking tour of Mali Lošinj including entry to Apoxyomenos Museum
- Excursion – 2-hour private walking tour of Cres
- Excursion – 3-hour Dolphin Safari (please note that this is weather dependent and valid only from 1 Jun to 30 Aug)
- Excursion – Truffle Hunting and Tasting Small Group Excursion including welcome drink, unlimited home-made wine, guided truffle hunt with trained dog/guide and 3-course tasting lunch
Price Excludes
- Travel Insurance
- Any meals not specified in the itinerary
- Optional excursions
- Ferry tickets
Price Includes
Price Excludes
Price Notes
This is an example itinerary staying at our favourite four-star hotels, accompanied by a guide price based on departures in June. If you would like alternative options staying in three or perhaps five-star hotels, or if you have a higher or lower budget than the guide price, please ring one of our travel specialists on 0207 666 1290 and we can tailor this trip to suit your precise requirements.
Tour Route Map
- Croatia, Pula
- Croatia, Losinj
- Croatia, Rovinj
Tour Accommodation
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