Welcome to Istria – one of the best olive oil regions in the world.
Istrians have great respect for olive oil because they know how important the interplay of the microclimate, quality of soil, timely processing and a thousand-year-long tradition is for obtaining supreme olive oil. If you are looking for an authentic experience, taste the best Istrian olive oils at the very oil mills, where experts will tell you how to best pair different olive oil varieties with famous delicacies.
The tradition of olive growing in Istria has lasted for more than two millennia: the ancient Romans were the first to realise that Istria’s soil was fit for planting olive groves. Even today, we can find many archaeological sites with Roman mills and presses, and amphorae in which oil was stored and transported.
Istria has since become a globally relevant olive growing region. Oils of many Istrian olive farmers have won the highest awards at various international competitions, and Flos Olei, the influential global guide, has given Istria the prestigious title of the best olive-growing region in the world six times now.
There are many varieties of olives in Istria. Leccino and Pendolino are the most common among the imported ones, while Buža, Istarska bjelica, Crnica, Oblica and Rošinjola are the most famous indigenous varieties. Each of them gives distinctive olive oil – some are gentle and so subtle that you cannot get enough of them, while some are so zesty that only a few drops are enough.
Olive oil in Mediterranean cuisine is a must. A drop of good-quality olive oil truly enhances any dining experience, but you should know this: milder oils pair well with fish and salads, and stronger ones with meat, stews and spicy dishes. Did you know that some oils also pair well with desserts, like native Istrian Oblica?
Join us for a visit to carefully selected, world-renowned oil mills and taste the world’s best oils. You will be delighted with soft home-made bread for oil dipping, and learn from local experts how to pair different olive oil varieties with well-known delicacies.
Please ask the concierge for more information.
Taste and learn about Istria's best olive oils
Hotels by Maistra Collection
The Grand Park Hotel Rovinj provides a holiday experience that comes to life. It is harmoniously situated on Rovinj’s eastern shore, offering remarkable vistas of its old town and a revitalising wellness & spa experience. The Grand Park hides many small pleasures. Take time to discover them. The fragrances and flavours of Istria can be experienced at the Albaro Wellness & Spa, as well as at seven restaurants and bars, including Michelin-recommended Cap Aureo and the two-Michelin-starred Agli Amici Rovinj.
This chic boutique hotel is located in Rovinj’s historic centre and is entirely inspired by art. Every part of the hotel is decorated with art by Croatian artists made exclusively for the hotel. And if you feel inspired to create a piece of your own, the view of Rovinj’s rooftops from your room is an excellent motif with which to start.
A unique hotel with a charming atmosphere located in Lone Bay, in the shade of the fragrant Golden Cape forest park. With first-class service and a long tradition of individual approach to every guest, you can relax to the fullest with our Mediterranean beauty treatments and fragrances of Istria at our wellness and spa centre or stay active by playing tennis, swimming or cycling.
Combining a unique and functional design over six floors, located by the sea and the centuries-old Golden Cape forest park, this hotel is a year-round leisure and business destination. Just like a contemporary art museum, every detail of the Hotel Lone, awakens your desire to explore.
Enjoy the carefully curated cuisine in one of three high-end restaurants, soak up the sun at the Beach Club with a refreshing cocktail in your hand or simply relax in our boutique wellness and spa designed to offer you pampering for the body and relaxation for the mind. Monte Mulini, an adults-only experience that will revitalise you in true hedonistic fashion.
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