Breathtaking views of Istria at Villa Klarici

“A real sense of history” – Two traveller’s ‘happy days’ in Villa Klarici, Istria.

The medieval town of Motovun is situated in central Istria, a particularly stunning region of Croatia.

With a population just over 500, and positioned on a hill almost 900 feet above sea level, it is safe to assume that the ancient village of Motovun, with the beautiful river Mirna flowing beneath the hill on one side, and the famous Motovun forest, alive with fantastically diverse wildlife and the region’s prized black and white truffles, is the perfect place to make a peaceful, picturesque and historical escape.

Joanna and Peter Huyton from Herefordshire wanted to find a secluded, tranquil and scenic destination for their holiday this year, somewhere where they could relax, unwind and enjoy some exceptional landscapes.

Their yearnings for a restful break took them to Croatia, to the charismatic region of Istria, where they embarked on a week’s holiday at ‘Klarici’, a traditionally-restored stone cottage rested amongst the undulating hills of the countryside near Motovun.

Did Villa Klarici and its surroundings live up to their expectations? In a word “yes”!

“The one thing that stood out about our stay in Istria, was the diversity of the landscape,” Joanna Huyton told Vintage Travel.

“The views from Villa Klarici were simply divine. To the south, the verdurous hills resembled English countryside at its prettiest, whilst over to the North, towards Slovenia, the scene was much more mountainous and rugged, yet equally as breath-taking,” Mrs Huyton continued.

Being fascinated by ruins and the history surrounding them, the Huytons were not disappointed by the history of the Motovun area.

Being connected by a system of internal and external fortifications with city gates and towers all comprising elements from the Gothic, Roman and Renaissance eras, Joanna and Peter Huyton were impressed by the village of Motovun itself. But it was the tiny village of Visani that the couple were particularly overwhelmed by.

This tiny village has a population of just nine families, and, according to the Huytons, creates a “real sense of history”.

“Without any notices, safety rails, tourists, and just a crumbling pebbled Roman road leading up to the castle, a place like this wouldn’t be allowed in the UK. There is no pretence here, instead just a sense of history normally lost in tourist attractions,” said Mr Huyton.

“Will you be returning to Istria?” we asked Mr and Mrs Huyton? “No, because we’ve been there and seen it all now, and enjoy the thrill of new places and sites. That’s not to say that we wouldn’t wholeheartedly recommend it,” they replied.

Do you fancy taking in the breathtaking views of Istria at Villa Klarici? Check out this villa and more on the Vintage Travel website.