About Istria
The Istria is the largest peninsula in the warm Adriatic Sea between the Gulf of Trieste and Kvarner Bay. Istria is a province of Croatia, boarded by Slovenia and Italy. It enjoys Mediterranean climate combined with warm current influence from the sea water. Along the eastern coast of Istrian peninsula lies Rabac and Labia which are two small villages with total population of over 13,000. They serve as excellent summer resort.
Rabac is also called as “The Pearl of the Kvarner Bay” owing to the pride of white pebble beaches and beautiful landscape stretching along the coastline which provides serenity attracting tourists from different parts of the world. Labin is located 320 meter above sea level and it rests firmly on the top of the hill above Rabac. Labin exists as hill resort attracting tourists to see and enjoy its famous multi-cultural centers and historical places. Swamped by the warm sunshine of Mediterranean and breathtaking view of the Kvarner Bay, Rabac is an ideal place for you to relax. Labin was full of mining industries earlier but after the development of tourists spot and camping places, cafes and pizza huts have occupied the space of mines. You can reach Labin by foot in just 45 minutes from Rabac and in 5 minutes by car. Some museums and art galleries are spotted here and there at Labin where you can buy traditional paint works for remembrance. Nightlife in Labin is full of wire where you can dance when the local musicians perform on streets.
Place
Rabac and Labin are situated in the peninsula of Istria in Croatia of Europe. The town is well connected by roadways after the development of tourism. You can find links from many parts of Europe making it convenient to travel by car or bus. If you are tempted to visit the place then you can get there by car and plane from any part of Western Europe and Central Europe. If you belong to other continent then you can fly to Pula, Rijeka and Zagreb airports from where you can take a cab or a bus to get to Rabac. Numerous visitors from Germany, Austria, France, Italy and England visit this place repeatedly.
History
Rabac was a small village till 19th Century which was occupied by fishermen, and people who own boats as their biggest possession. The first famous foreign visitor to this place was probably Sir Richard Francis Burton who was an English writer, got attracted by the bay and tranquility and he was so impressed by the setting of Rabac, he wrote a book detailing the beauty and charm of the place. The first hotel ever built in 1925 was named ‘Trieste’ which is now called ‘Primorje’. It saw more population only after 1960 when gradually it became summer resort destination for the people of Istria and Austria. From then on many hotels, parks and camping sites were creeping in stealthily.
Culture
The inhabitants of Rabac and Labin were primarily fishermen and sailors. Sea and water was the main recreation and fishing was their only occupation for many years. For about 40 years ago, the place has witnessed change and slowly to a tourism industry, recreation and hotels started to develop the supply for the incoming tourists. This small town has completely changed from the past and after the establishment of tourism industry the place has completely revolutionized.
St. Andrea’s Church constructed in 15th century stands as an example of Rabac’s architecture. Baroque Palace, Porta Sanfior and Church of Blessed Virgin Mary’s Birth are three important places showing the cultural heritage of Labin. You can admire the words of legendary English writer Sir Richard Francis Burton in his book, “The seaboard of Istria” where he denotes Rabac as the peaceful, naitive bay with clean air. If you come to Rabac this summer, then you can enjoy watching masked parades during the summer carnival. Lots of people wearing colorful masks, pass through the streets with music bands and the entire event is worth watching.
In Labin, each year a symposium is organized where you can see sculptures made from Istrian stone are gathered and kept in the exhibition. Both events speaks much of culture and tradition of the Labin people and the value they attach to the music and art are expressed in precise form in this parade. It is not an understatement to say that exhibition and concert have become part of daily life in Labin. This is highlighted by the celebration of Labin Art Republic which is considered to be top cultural program in this locality. People gather in groups listening to stories and legends of historically important personalities. This event is organized throughout summer season and you can never miss out, if you are in Labin during your vacation.
Sea
Bay of Kvarner is situated in the northern side of Adriatic Sea. It’s location and vast area of 3300 square km attracts many visitors daily. The sea water is crystal clear studded with white gravels and it looks like heaven on earth to witness the bluish turquoise water near the coast. Hence, the town of Rabac is justified in getting it’s name, ‘Pearl of Kvarner’.
The beach of Rabac is awarded with ‘Blue Flag’ mark which is given for maintaining excellent eco system without any pollution of inorganic wastes in the beach water. Getting the Blue Flag award means the beach is safe and well preserved meeting the standards set by Foundation for Environmental Education. It adds grandeur to Rabac for maintaining top quality beaches viable for tourists. The bay enjoys average temperature throughout summer and the water temperature never falls below 22 degree Celsius. The water is ideal for swimmers and divers. Many glass boats in which the flooring is made out of opaque glass are always flooded with tourists. You can have a ride in these boats for watching the varieties of fishes and under sea world which becomes an unforgettable experience in your life.
Maslinica Beach in Rabac spreading over 500 meters long attracts tourists by its beautiful scenario where you can swim, dive and play water sports with your family. You need not worry about the condition of water, since it is pure and safe for your kids. This beach is surrounded by dense Mediterranean vegetation. If you have someone with disability in your family then there is separate portion of the beach allotted to them specially. Girandella beach is another popular beach in Rabac. Many more beaches are lying there with undiscovered without human foot prints, but with richness of water and beauty. These beaches will not only provide thrill and fun filled activities but will satisfy your appetite with varieties of traditional food.
Food
Rabac and Labin are well known for it’s gastronomical richness. Apart from country cuisine, mouth-watering fish, langoustines and lobster are added to the menu with variety of meat sauces. A good number of restaurants provide local food along with multi-cuisine and tourists are often tempted to taste the unique food items in Rabac which is specially served in traditional atmosphere. Provincial varieties include “Manestra”, “Prsut”, and “Zarebnjak” with sauerkraut and if you are visiting Labin and Rabac the first time, never forget to taste the special traditional food from the local shops. A popular dessert called ‘Krafi’, which is made of cheese, eggs and garnished with raisins served as traditional food especially at weddings in Rabac and Labin.
Climate
Rabac and Labin enjoys mediterranean climate. Typically it has long hot summers and mild winters. Owing to the influence of sea water it enjoys coastal breezes throughout the year. Whether it is Christmas holiday, Easter break or summer vacation, you can find this area suitable for tourists throughout the year.
The season starts in the middle of March or April and ends in midway of September. The day time temperature will be around 20 to 25 degrees Celsius and you can see bright sunlight for even 14 hours during the summer. July and August are the hottest months for Rabac with scorching sun soaring up to 35 degrees. If you are planning your travel in advance, then you can avoid these two months if you cannot tolerate hot weather. May and September are therefore more recommended. Sea water is ideal for swimming, diving in summer and you can enjoy the water throughout the day beating the heat.
Colder months prevails in Rabac from October to February and sometimes continues till first week of March. You cannot see snowfall in this area and rainfall is seldomly expected during the summer.
People
Rabac and Labin were occupied by fishermen in early periods. After the entry of visitors and many foreigners and due to development in technology they have gradually picked up many languages like English, Italian and German. Tourism industry is fast growing business in Rabac and this small town literally transforms during summer season offering its visitors lot of events and cultural programs. People here are very outgoing, charming and friendly.
Recreation
Vacation is not perfect without sport and recreation. In Rabac and Labin you have plenty of opportunities. Walking along the sea shore with your loved ones will be ideal plan to start your holiday. Beach volleyball, jetski, parasail, water skiing, water polo and various other interesting water games are offered here. A typical croatian water game is “Picigin”. You can rent tennis courts and goofy golf on hourly basis and enjoy table tennis with your family and kids. Paintball, horse riding, bike riding, bicycling and jogging trails are other leisure time activities in Rabac. You can learn diving from nearby diving schools where they train you for three days to explore more on sea.
If you have some more days left, then lot of one day trips and excursions are available in Rabac at affordable rates. Rabac serves as a great opening point for many one day trips. You can take a ferry, bus or train to visit numerous islands, national parks, other beautiful and charming towns in Istria. Take a short motor boat trip to the Island of Cres where the view of the sea water is tremendous. Lot of catamarans is offered for visiting Pula, Porec, Rovinj and Venice where you can have a look at magnificent historical monuments. Rabac is fully packed with all types of transportation suiting your comfort and budget.
Restaurants
Different kind of restaurants are available in Rabac and Labin which are satisfying the needs of the tourist. Countless cafes and local pubs are creeping in this village. For vegetarians some pizza huts come to rescue the appetite. It really becomes difficult for the first time visitor to choose the appropriate restaurant since each one is unique in its way of serving delicious varieties of pastas. Home made breads and local wines are traditionally served in typical regional set-up built of rocks and a large fireplace with exposed beams and wooden furniture which creates a feel like living in their tradition.
Environment and Nature
You will be taken away by the picturesque atmosphere and scenic beauty. Lot of pine trees with green meadow inside the Mediterranean woods, cool breeze, and greenish blue water and warm sunshine is all Rabac about. No one can resist the temptation of swimming in the translucent beach water. If you wish to take a break from stressful city life, then Rabac and Labin is defenetly the best choice. Anytime is apt here but summer season is being the most preferred by visitors. You can completely unwind yourself in the serene setting of coastline and rejuvenate with extra energy when you leave the town of Rabac and Labin.
It is easy to find a deserted beach stretched for you alone to spend the time in peace with nature. You can go to any number of places on vacation but a visit to Rabac and Labin are treasured in your heart as sweet memory for ever.
Activities in the Labin/Rabac area
The climate in Istria, particularly Labin and Rabac is the most pleasant before and after the hot winter months. Especially the months from September to October and from March to June are ideal for fans of hiking, mountain biking and walking. The temperature during the fall and the spring in the region is extremely mild and you can count on many sunny days.
Walks in the Rabac Environs
Rabac offers even more recreational options than its reputation as a wonderful seaside resort would have you believe. There are countless opportunities for small and long walks or even hikes that you and your family can undertake. In the following we will provide you with some tips and suggestions.
Of course, first mention must go to the seaside promenade that streches from the beginning of Rabac, the Oliva auto campground to be exact, all the way to the so called Golubiera. Here you have the opportunity to visit one of the many little cafes, ice cream shops and restaurants along the Riva before continuing on your walk. While you make your way to the Rabac Spitz, as the light house is called, you will encounter the wonderful scent of the pine forests in the direction of Girandella. After about half an hour, when the beaches are out of sight and you are surrounded by forests, you have two options: You can either choose the upper trail, leading you back to the village center, or choose the staircase, taking you back to the beach.
If you cross the beach you will find a small path. Engage in a little adventure and see where it will lead you to. There is a bunker from World War II, beautiful views, and, at the very end, a deserted beach...
Of course the route towards the Girandella is also very recommendable expecially for bikers or inline skate fans.
On Foot or by Mountain Bike: Rabac to Labin
For hiking enthusistasts or bicyclists there is more than one way to get from Rabac to Labin and back. Take as your starting point the auto-campground Oliva. On the right hand side where the beach ends, you will find a trail. At times somewhat steep and possibly causing you to break into a bit of a sweat, it will reward you generously for the exertion once you reach the top, for a grandiose view of Cres Island awaits you. Once you reach the main road which in spite of its name is not much trafficked, it´s not far anymore to the historic oldtown of Labin!
Historic Oldtown Labin
6 km west of Rabac and at an altitude of 300 meters, the medieval town of Labin will charm you with its amazing views of the Ucka mountain range and the Kvarner bay. During the middle Ages, the Venetians built bastions, city walls and portals here.
The Venetian handwriting can also be seen in the architecture of the city hall and loggia, the cathedral with its campanile bell tower, and the palace. A stroll through the narrow alleys of the old town up to the 17th century bell tower is very romantic. The view of the sea and the green hillsides are an invitation to dream.
The Istria is the largest peninsula in the warm Adriatic Sea between the Gulf of Trieste and Kvarner Bay. Istria is a province of Croatia, boarded by Slovenia and Italy. It enjoys Mediterranean climate combined with warm current influence from the sea water. Along the eastern coast of Istrian peninsula lies Rabac and Labia which are two small villages with total population of over 13,000. They serve as excellent summer resort.
Rabac is also called as “The Pearl of the Kvarner Bay” owing to the pride of white pebble beaches and beautiful landscape stretching along the coastline which provides serenity attracting tourists from different parts of the world. Labin is located 320 meter above sea level and it rests firmly on the top of the hill above Rabac. Labin exists as hill resort attracting tourists to see and enjoy its famous multi-cultural centers and historical places. Swamped by the warm sunshine of Mediterranean and breathtaking view of the Kvarner Bay, Rabac is an ideal place for you to relax. Labin was full of mining industries earlier but after the development of tourists spot and camping places, cafes and pizza huts have occupied the space of mines. You can reach Labin by foot in just 45 minutes from Rabac and in 5 minutes by car. Some museums and art galleries are spotted here and there at Labin where you can buy traditional paint works for remembrance. Nightlife in Labin is full of wire where you can dance when the local musicians perform on streets.
Place
Rabac and Labin are situated in the peninsula of Istria in Croatia of Europe. The town is well connected by roadways after the development of tourism. You can find links from many parts of Europe making it convenient to travel by car or bus. If you are tempted to visit the place then you can get there by car and plane from any part of Western Europe and Central Europe. If you belong to other continent then you can fly to Pula, Rijeka and Zagreb airports from where you can take a cab or a bus to get to Rabac. Numerous visitors from Germany, Austria, France, Italy and England visit this place repeatedly.
History
Rabac was a small village till 19th Century which was occupied by fishermen, and people who own boats as their biggest possession. The first famous foreign visitor to this place was probably Sir Richard Francis Burton who was an English writer, got attracted by the bay and tranquility and he was so impressed by the setting of Rabac, he wrote a book detailing the beauty and charm of the place. The first hotel ever built in 1925 was named ‘Trieste’ which is now called ‘Primorje’. It saw more population only after 1960 when gradually it became summer resort destination for the people of Istria and Austria. From then on many hotels, parks and camping sites were creeping in stealthily.
Culture
The inhabitants of Rabac and Labin were primarily fishermen and sailors. Sea and water was the main recreation and fishing was their only occupation for many years. For about 40 years ago, the place has witnessed change and slowly to a tourism industry, recreation and hotels started to develop the supply for the incoming tourists. This small town has completely changed from the past and after the establishment of tourism industry the place has completely revolutionized.
St. Andrea’s Church constructed in 15th century stands as an example of Rabac’s architecture. Baroque Palace, Porta Sanfior and Church of Blessed Virgin Mary’s Birth are three important places showing the cultural heritage of Labin. You can admire the words of legendary English writer Sir Richard Francis Burton in his book, “The seaboard of Istria” where he denotes Rabac as the peaceful, naitive bay with clean air. If you come to Rabac this summer, then you can enjoy watching masked parades during the summer carnival. Lots of people wearing colorful masks, pass through the streets with music bands and the entire event is worth watching.
In Labin, each year a symposium is organized where you can see sculptures made from Istrian stone are gathered and kept in the exhibition. Both events speaks much of culture and tradition of the Labin people and the value they attach to the music and art are expressed in precise form in this parade. It is not an understatement to say that exhibition and concert have become part of daily life in Labin. This is highlighted by the celebration of Labin Art Republic which is considered to be top cultural program in this locality. People gather in groups listening to stories and legends of historically important personalities. This event is organized throughout summer season and you can never miss out, if you are in Labin during your vacation.
Sea
Bay of Kvarner is situated in the northern side of Adriatic Sea. It’s location and vast area of 3300 square km attracts many visitors daily. The sea water is crystal clear studded with white gravels and it looks like heaven on earth to witness the bluish turquoise water near the coast. Hence, the town of Rabac is justified in getting it’s name, ‘Pearl of Kvarner’.
The beach of Rabac is awarded with ‘Blue Flag’ mark which is given for maintaining excellent eco system without any pollution of inorganic wastes in the beach water. Getting the Blue Flag award means the beach is safe and well preserved meeting the standards set by Foundation for Environmental Education. It adds grandeur to Rabac for maintaining top quality beaches viable for tourists. The bay enjoys average temperature throughout summer and the water temperature never falls below 22 degree Celsius. The water is ideal for swimmers and divers. Many glass boats in which the flooring is made out of opaque glass are always flooded with tourists. You can have a ride in these boats for watching the varieties of fishes and under sea world which becomes an unforgettable experience in your life.
Maslinica Beach in Rabac spreading over 500 meters long attracts tourists by its beautiful scenario where you can swim, dive and play water sports with your family. You need not worry about the condition of water, since it is pure and safe for your kids. This beach is surrounded by dense Mediterranean vegetation. If you have someone with disability in your family then there is separate portion of the beach allotted to them specially. Girandella beach is another popular beach in Rabac. Many more beaches are lying there with undiscovered without human foot prints, but with richness of water and beauty. These beaches will not only provide thrill and fun filled activities but will satisfy your appetite with varieties of traditional food.
Food
Rabac and Labin are well known for it’s gastronomical richness. Apart from country cuisine, mouth-watering fish, langoustines and lobster are added to the menu with variety of meat sauces. A good number of restaurants provide local food along with multi-cuisine and tourists are often tempted to taste the unique food items in Rabac which is specially served in traditional atmosphere. Provincial varieties include “Manestra”, “Prsut”, and “Zarebnjak” with sauerkraut and if you are visiting Labin and Rabac the first time, never forget to taste the special traditional food from the local shops. A popular dessert called ‘Krafi’, which is made of cheese, eggs and garnished with raisins served as traditional food especially at weddings in Rabac and Labin.
Climate
Rabac and Labin enjoys mediterranean climate. Typically it has long hot summers and mild winters. Owing to the influence of sea water it enjoys coastal breezes throughout the year. Whether it is Christmas holiday, Easter break or summer vacation, you can find this area suitable for tourists throughout the year.
The season starts in the middle of March or April and ends in midway of September. The day time temperature will be around 20 to 25 degrees Celsius and you can see bright sunlight for even 14 hours during the summer. July and August are the hottest months for Rabac with scorching sun soaring up to 35 degrees. If you are planning your travel in advance, then you can avoid these two months if you cannot tolerate hot weather. May and September are therefore more recommended. Sea water is ideal for swimming, diving in summer and you can enjoy the water throughout the day beating the heat.
Colder months prevails in Rabac from October to February and sometimes continues till first week of March. You cannot see snowfall in this area and rainfall is seldomly expected during the summer.
People
Rabac and Labin were occupied by fishermen in early periods. After the entry of visitors and many foreigners and due to development in technology they have gradually picked up many languages like English, Italian and German. Tourism industry is fast growing business in Rabac and this small town literally transforms during summer season offering its visitors lot of events and cultural programs. People here are very outgoing, charming and friendly.
Recreation
Vacation is not perfect without sport and recreation. In Rabac and Labin you have plenty of opportunities. Walking along the sea shore with your loved ones will be ideal plan to start your holiday. Beach volleyball, jetski, parasail, water skiing, water polo and various other interesting water games are offered here. A typical croatian water game is “Picigin”. You can rent tennis courts and goofy golf on hourly basis and enjoy table tennis with your family and kids. Paintball, horse riding, bike riding, bicycling and jogging trails are other leisure time activities in Rabac. You can learn diving from nearby diving schools where they train you for three days to explore more on sea.
If you have some more days left, then lot of one day trips and excursions are available in Rabac at affordable rates. Rabac serves as a great opening point for many one day trips. You can take a ferry, bus or train to visit numerous islands, national parks, other beautiful and charming towns in Istria. Take a short motor boat trip to the Island of Cres where the view of the sea water is tremendous. Lot of catamarans is offered for visiting Pula, Porec, Rovinj and Venice where you can have a look at magnificent historical monuments. Rabac is fully packed with all types of transportation suiting your comfort and budget.
Restaurants
Different kind of restaurants are available in Rabac and Labin which are satisfying the needs of the tourist. Countless cafes and local pubs are creeping in this village. For vegetarians some pizza huts come to rescue the appetite. It really becomes difficult for the first time visitor to choose the appropriate restaurant since each one is unique in its way of serving delicious varieties of pastas. Home made breads and local wines are traditionally served in typical regional set-up built of rocks and a large fireplace with exposed beams and wooden furniture which creates a feel like living in their tradition.
Environment and Nature
You will be taken away by the picturesque atmosphere and scenic beauty. Lot of pine trees with green meadow inside the Mediterranean woods, cool breeze, and greenish blue water and warm sunshine is all Rabac about. No one can resist the temptation of swimming in the translucent beach water. If you wish to take a break from stressful city life, then Rabac and Labin is defenetly the best choice. Anytime is apt here but summer season is being the most preferred by visitors. You can completely unwind yourself in the serene setting of coastline and rejuvenate with extra energy when you leave the town of Rabac and Labin.
It is easy to find a deserted beach stretched for you alone to spend the time in peace with nature. You can go to any number of places on vacation but a visit to Rabac and Labin are treasured in your heart as sweet memory for ever.
On Foot or by Mountain Bike: Labin to Rabac
On the way back you can choose a faster way if you wish. This trail descends rather steeply in some parts and is a bit narrower but all the more adventurous. The trailhead is located to the left of the little basilica as seen from the market square. Follow the little alley and when you arrive at the terrace, descend the stairs. This is where the trail begins. It is a bit rough in patches, but it will lead you across a brook and past a little cave which serves as a memorial to the engineer Aldo Negri. Negri was a partisan fighter against fascism in Labin during World War II. You will soon have reached your destination Rabac. This trail, too, ends in the auto-campground Oliva.
Hiking in the Skitača
There is a hiking area in the region with is very popular with the Istrians called Skitača. Ask in the tourist office in case you would like to get a map. Skitaca is reached via the road from Labin to Pula. Bevor getting on the main road to Pula, make a turn towards Koromacno at the intersection. Skitaca is a wonderful place for relaxation, offering an amazing view of Cres Island and environment. For this hike you will need good shoes, however, since the trails are quite rocky and typically karstic for the region.
Hiking in the Nature Park Učka
Učka is the largest mountain range in Istria with its highest point in the Vojak with with an altitude1401 meters. The Učka range has a size of about 160 km² and was declared a nature preserve in May 1999. The two highest peaks of this mountain range are the Vojak (1401 m) and the Veli Planik (1272 m). The villages Vela und Mala Učka are located at an approximate altitude of 950 m. The ridgeline Poklonlies right in the center of the Učka and its name is derived from a pilgrim site there where people come to show their veneration to the Mother of God of Trsat.
The Učka mountain range presents a climate barrier for northern Istria, forcing air masses to rise, thereby causing a steady supply of precipitation. The mild climate in the region has created a very diverse meditareanean vegetation. You can find forests in which oleander, ashes and beeches grow besides mandarins, kiwis and citrus trees. You can find quite a number of rare animal and Plant species. You will find mostly oak and chestnut forests, but hornbeams and maple are also represented.
Though it is possible to drive all the way to the top, it is of course much nicer to reach the peak on foot or bicycle. The road to the top is very narrow and not recommended during the winter months. In terms of parking, Poklon is the ideal place to leave your car. Here you will find an inn with rooms for the night and a restaurant which offers exclusively local and typical cuisine.
Poklon represents an excellent starting point for your hikes because you can reach all possible destinations from there. Trails in the Ucka are well marked and equipped with the typical red dot. Even without a map, it is impossible to get lost. By the way, it is possible to extend your hike all the way to Lovran if you want.
Let us not forget the most important aspect of all: the view! The view from the Vojak is so stunning that you will probably not have visited for the last time. With clear weather, you can see almost all of Istria. Climb to the top of the tower on the Učka and you will be rewarded with an amazing view, from the islands scattered in the Kvarner bay, among them Cres and Krk, to the seaside towns of Opatija and Rijeka, all the way to the Italian Alps.
Please come prepared for the difference in temperature if you are planning on hiking to the top of the Učka mountain. Temperatures can vary quite a bit, in summer as in winter.
Seasonal Recommendation: Collecting Chestnuts and Mushrooms
If you are a hiking fan and enjoy searching for mushrooms and chestnuts in the forest, September and October are the months in which you want to be visiting Istria. With a bit of luck, you will find porcini and the white button mushrooms. But in order to find chestnuts you need a tip from someone who knows. Because there is a place in the Labin region where you can find them. It is in the backcountry of Labin, only a few kilometers´ drive from the center of town in the direction of Rijeka. Take a left onto the road to Vinez right before the first gas station in Labin. This is the place you are looking for. It has famous chestnut forests inviting connoisseurs to fill their baskets.
Another possibility is the nature preserve Ucka. This one too has famous chestnut trees. But here you have to be careful not to enter into private property, because you will be chased out. For the Istrians chestnuts are an very important revenue source.
Chestnut Festival Lovran
Every year at the beginnng of October the town of Lovran celebrates its famous Chestnut Festival. It lasts a whole week and offers joyful entertainment for the whole family. You can purchase chestnuts in all forms and varieties:Cakes and pies, as vermicelli or preserves, or simply roasted over a wood fire. There is something for every preference. Of course, there is also live music a big market offering traditional hand crafts and regional specialties.
