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Day 1:
Arrival in Klostar
Klostar is a small and pretty village set above the astonishing Lim fjord on the western Istrian coastline. In this former monastic village, a real Istrian welcome awaits you in the authentic atmosphere of the agritouristic accommodation. After you have settled in you will be briefed and introduced to your bikes.
Day 2:
Klostar to Volpija, approx 30 miles (48km)
You begin by riding through the surroundings of the medieval town of Buje. Bujstina is an area on the peninsula renowned for its vineyards, olive orchards and food. Before reaching this region you will pass through typical old Istrian towns and also have a steep climb up to the medieval hilltop town of Groznjan.
Day 3:
Volpija to Motovun, approx 31 miles (50m)
In the morning you will cycle through the hills of northwest Istria along the Slovenian border, passing near the medieval town of Oprtalj. Afterwards there is a descent to the Mirna river valley just before the last climb of the day up to the picturesque and historic square of the Venetian town Motovun where you will stay in a hotel that was a former Venetian palace.
Day 4:
Motovun to Buzet, 37 miles (60km)
Today you will cycle through the heart of Istria, uphill and down dale towards Pazin, the old capital city of Istria. You will continue to the holy place of Grimalda, with one of the most astonishing views in Istria and then on to Buzet – the city of truffles. Your overnight stay is in the very centre of this town below the mountains.
Day 5:
Buzet to Lupoglav, 25 miles (40km)
An early morning climb will be rewarded with stunning views of the central hilly part of Istria. On the Cicarija mountain plateau and through half deserted villages you will head towards the medieval town of Hum, claiming to be the smallest town in the world. Leaving Hum you will encounter a few more climbs before reaching Lupoglav for your overnight stop in a country club with unique traditional bungalows.
Day 6:
Lupoglav to Gracisce, approx 31 miles (50km)
Heading south, you climb to Boljun, an old medieval fortress. Then, cycling under the slopes of the Ucka mountain and below Liburnian peaks, you reach Vozilici, a good place for lunch. After lunch you ride through the central part of the peninsula to one of the most beautiful and historic places of Istria, the village of Gracisce with its moving history and wonderful scenery.
Day 7:
Gracisce to Klostar, approx 31 miles (50km)
The final stage brings you westwards across the Istrian peninsula from the centre which means seeing the best of Istrian landscapes - valleys, hills, rivers, vineyards and olive orchards. Returning to Klostar you will be welcomed again back in the authentic atmosphere of the agritouristic accommodation for your last night’s sleep.
Day 8:
Departure from Klostar
After breakfast it is time to depart for home.
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