The Portorož Riviera

Piran is a medieval town with a distinctive architectural mark left by the mighty Venetian Republic. Its name derives from the word pyr, the Greek word for fire, as a long time ago, fires were lit on the peninsula as a warning to sailors.

Piran is one of the most picturesque, best preserved and most original Mediterranean towns, and the Madonna peninsula on which it was built has been inhabited since pre-Roman times. Its coastline is a unique landscape, shaped not only by wind and sea, but also by the centuries-old tradition of salt production.

Alongside the Venecijanka (Venetian house), the oldest preserved house on Tartini Square, and the medieval city walls on Mogoron hill, be sure to visit the birthplace of violin virtuoso Giuseppe Tartini and the Baroque Church of St. George, which dominates the hill. The church bell tower, which is just over 46 metres high, is a special attraction and is a smaller version of the bell tower of St. Mark's Basilica in Venice.

Since the 13th century, Portorož has been recognized as a destination with beneficial effects on health and in 1897, it was officially declared a health resort. Today, Portorož is full of hotels, restaurants, bars, casinos, old villas and many other attractions, which means it is recognized for offering one of the most comprehensive wellness packages in Europe and is the only seaside spa in the region.

Aviation is also an important part of Portorož's development. Its origins date back to the time of the Cosulich brothers, who established the initial infrastructure for the first air links in the aftermath of the First World War. Today, it is a prized destination for private aviation tourism.

You should definitely explore the Portorož Auditorium - a local cultural, promotional and congress centre. A visit to the well-known Sečovlje salt pans is also a must while we recommend you experience the rich nightlife of the local beach bars. So, as well as providing professional business facilities, Portorož is ideal for treating yourself to a relaxing holiday with its popular seaside wellness amenities.

Halfway between Izola and Piran, on the coast of the old province known for its salt, lies Strunjan, a protected nature park that encompasses the hamlets of Marčane, Karbonar, Ronek, Sv. (Saint) Duh and Pretski Grič. The picturesque countryside, known for its salt and a touch of tradition, promises a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life. However, the high flysch cliffs, the slopes of the Ronk hill, the hidden and hard-to-reach coves and the indigenous hamlets offer many activities – so be bold and explore the attractive walking trails to Portorož, Piran and Izola.

Strunjan is a place where history and the present meet. You will be enchanted by the local landscape which bears imaginative flashes of modernity. The residents of Strunjan are involved in viticulture, fruit growing and plant production, which is why the authentic cuisine of the area provides a truly unique gastronomic experience.

Along with stunning views from the steep cliffs and the remote Moon Bay with the cleanest water, you should pay a visit to the Church of Mary's Apparition in Strunjan. According to legend, Mary appeared to the keepers of the vineyards and soon afterwards, this spot became the main pilgrimage site in Istria.

Do you want authenticity, a homely atmosphere and genuine contact with people? Just a few minutes’ drive from the coastal towns, you will find everything you desire! Beyond the olive groves and vineyards, you will discover the well-hidden idyllic Istrian villages with their typical old stone houses, where the locals will be happy to engage you in conversation. They might reveal to you some of the interesting village stories and legends or invite you for a glass of red wine!

The area has a long tradition of olive cultivation, viticulture and fruit growing, while the rural inns offer traditional Istrian dishes prepared from seasonal local produce.

In addition to experimenting with a variety of flavours and aromas, Istrian villages in the hinterland of Piran are an excellent starting point for cycling and hiking trips. Discover the authentic protected Istrian village of Padna, see the traditional olive press in St. Peter, take a drive along the best-preserved avenue of impressive pine trees in Slovenia and experience something truly unforgettable!