Rovinj Holidays

Rovinj's often called the Pearl of Istria – a peninsula in Croatia's north – and it’s not hard to see why. Squeezed on the western coast of Istria, it centres around a postcard-worthy Venetian old town, loaded with cool bars and classy restaurants. Beyond the bustle of tourist shops and gelato stands, you'll find acres of parkland and pine woods, too.

Rovinj sits on Lone Bay – a cute collection of tiny shingle beaches, hugged by a forest. Most of the coves have snack bars too, so you can grab some goodies without abandoning your sunbathing spot. A little farther along the coast's Montaura Cape – bring your camera, because this little lookout's got breathtaking views of the Rovinj archipelago.

If Rovinj were a table setting, its Venetian old town would be one heck of a centrepiece. The Balbi Arch is a firm favourite among visitors, but the remnants of the original town walls and cobbled alleys leading right to the sea are just as sweet. Dominating the picture's the Church of St Euphemia – a climb up the bell tower gets you an impressive vantage point for your holiday snaps.

It’s just a 45-minute drive to Pula, where you can tour around an old Roman amphitheatre, a triumphal arch and the Temple of Augustus. Cruise 40 minutes in the opposite direction and you'll land on Baredine Cave – keep your eyes peeled for weirdly cute white salamanders.