Sunny Croatia turns yellow: 3 reasons to visit Motovun in Istria

Sunny Croatia turns yellow too, meaning travel is allowed: more and more international sun destinations are open to tourists. And where Croatia is concerned, we are glad to write about the medieval-looking ‘mountain village’ of Motovun.

It is a place with character. Partly because of its unique position on a central, steep hill between the valleys.

1. A viewpoint over Istria’s landscape full of nature

Istria is Croatia's tourist heartland. With larger towns such as Poreč and Rovinj that draw big tourist crowds. In Motovun the crowds are, disclaimer: usually, more modest.

This much smaller town serves as an appealing viewpoint over the landscape, full of nature, of Istria. Here you are surrounded by a green valley, a world of woods, truffles and vineyards.

Your eye will doubtless be drawn to the Mirna, the river that runs through the valley. All of it while you stand on the high town walls of an authentic, romantic ‘mountain village’. An excellent spot.

2. Motovun itself: historic heritage, cinematic moods

This charming little place is a sight in itself as well, thanks to its historic character. The handsome houses are spread over the steep hilltop, with all sorts of enjoyable streets.

At times it almost feels cinematic. That quality, of walking through an old film, belongs to several spots in Istria. The dried-up Sopot falls , for instance. And Motovun.

Very fittingly, an open-air film festival is held here every summer. The medieval character of this lovely little town completes the setting.

3. The best of both: the finest terraces on the high town walls

For food and drink a few restaurants are strategically placed. With terraces on the town walls, between the photogenic gates. Tables with a view, which is an understatement.

So on the ‘edge’ of the old centre you get the best of both. Motovun as a viewpoint and as historic heritage. These are the finest terraces for miles around. We will drink to that.

Croatia yellow, northern Croatia not

• Since 17 June 2021 Croatia has been yellow. That colour code means Dutch travellers may go to the country as tourists.

Before then only essential travel was advised, because of corona (COVID-19).

• Northern Croatia (Sjeverna Hrvatska), with Zagreb, is an exception. At the time this blog is published code orange still applies there.

More and more international sun destinations open to tourists

The South Aegean islands (briefly orange) jump back to yellow. Those Greek islands include Kos and Rhodes. Cyprus goes yellow too, says the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Besides the typical sun holiday other destinations such as Liechtenstein and Switzerland can be visited as well. And finally (after Malta) Iceland, Poland and Romania even turn green: no particular safety risks.