A closer look at the place around Bougain Villa

Motovun looks like it was placed on its hill for one reason: to make every visitor stop and stare. From Rovinj, the drive is short enough for a relaxed half-day trip, yet the change in scenery feels dramatic. One moment you are near the Adriatic, with stone lanes and sea air. Soon after, you are rolling through inland Istria, where vineyards, forests, hilltop villages and truffle country take over.

Rovinj is the kind of place where a weekend can feel longer than it is. Stay near the Old Town and you can do the best parts on foot: morning swims, stone lanes, seafood suppers, church views, harbour cafés and a sunset boat ride, all without spending half your break in transit.