Discover the secrets of the Piran countryside
Just a few minutes’ drive from the coastal towns, you will step into a world of old Istrian villages, surrounded by olive groves, vineyards, and orchards. Everything is wrapped in tranquility and simplicity – ancient stone houses, kind-hearted elderly women eager to share stories of the good old days, and farmers diligently working the steep slopes. One might think that time has stood still here.
Explore the rolling hills, stop for a local feast featuring fresh Mediterranean delights, listen to the gentle whispers of the breeze, or lose yourself in the picturesque landscape for a few hours.
Discover authentic Istrian villages
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Do you know that feeling of finding a box full of old photographs and memories
That’s exactly what it feels like to travel through the typical Istrian villages in the countryside of Portorož and Piran – each one is like a treasure chest full of secrets. The only difference is that here, the stories are still alive, evolving with every new visitor who walks their paths.
Seča, Fiesa and Strunjan – discover peace between the sea and the countryside
Seča
Seča lies on the edge of the Sečovlje Salt Pans and offers a peaceful contrast to the bustle of the town. It is known for the Forma Viva park, an open-air gallery where stone sculptures by local and international artists are displayed among olive trees and pines. Olive oil lovers can learn more about local agriculture at the Gramona farm. The village maintains its connection with the sea through its long salt-making tradition as well as fish farming, which can be explored at the Fonda Fish Farm. A walk through Seča reveals a landscape where nature and cultural heritage intertwine in a calm, rural rhythm.
Fiesa
Peaceful and hidden, Fiesa offers a perfect escape in the embrace of nature. Its uniqueness lies in two lakes in Fiesa, one natural and the other artificial, forming an interesting ecosystem and home to many animal species. The surroundings of the lakes and coastal paths are popular among hikers, as the trails connect Fiesa with Piran and Strunjan, offering opportunities for nature observation and enjoying the silence. The pines surrounding the bay provide pleasant shade on the beach, while the sound of the wind and birdsong further emphasize the tranquility. Fiesa is a jewel in the Piran hinterland, offering visitors a peaceful place for walking, relaxation, and an authentic seaside experience far away from the city noise.
Strunjan
At the heart of Strunjan lies the Strunjan Nature Park, which brings together unique natural motifs: the picturesque Strunjan salt pans, the majestic Strunjan Cliff and the tranquil Moon Bay, reached by a narrow footpath. This is a place where coastal wetlands, agricultural landscapes and the sea converge. Another highlight of the park is the Stjuža Lagoon, the only lagoon of its kind in Slovenia, providing an important habitat for birds and fish. Strunjan invites visitors to explore its quiet trails that wind along the sea and through Mediterranean vegetation.
Discover the authentic Istrian tradition in the enchanting hinterland
Tona’s house
Museum, Sv. Peter
Tona’s house takes you into the authentic world of the Istrian countryside, where time seems to stand still and tradition comes to life in every corner. With genuine explanations and guided tours led by locals, you’ll discover stories you won’t find in any book – only here, in the place where they were born.
Enjoy the countryside
A guide to hiking, cycling, and horseback riding trails in Slovenian Istria
Portorož and Piran with their surroundings are an excellent starting point for cycling, hiking, and horseback riding trips across scenic Slovenian Istria.
To make exploring easier, the free guide “Enjoy the Countryside” offers 39 routes – 17 cycling, 19 hiking, and 3 horseback riding. Each route comes with a map, elevation profile, attractions along the way, and a QR code for easy access. Among them you’ll also find popular tours from Portorož and Piran to Strunjan, the Sečovlje Salt Pans, or along the former Parenzana railway.
Traditional Istrian recipes
Invite your family, friends, business partner, or loved one and join us in exploring the flavors of Slovenian Istria.
