We left Pula early, planning a full day of exploring the region of Istria by driving up through the middle on the way to our next destination, Opatija on the east coast.

First and foremost on the itinerary was our morning coffee.  We were getting quite used to the Espresso and occasional Macchiato.  So European!!

Our morning coffee break was at Svetvincenat, a village in the central part of Istria which grew around a Benedictine Abbey in the first century.

The town is dominated by Grimani Castle which has two round towers and living quarters purchased in 1589 by Marino Grimani which he then renovated.  There’s also many churches (of course).  The whole town has such a lovely feel to it.

It’s quaint and quiet – we could have stayed longer but needed to get on the road.

The constantly changing landscape from hills to farmlands was picturesque as we made our way further north.  Always with a church or castle in sight.

On to our next destination, Hum.

Jeff and Catherine x