If you want to experience an authentic feel of life in Istria, consider visiting Buje, a small town in the northwestern part of the Istrian Peninsula. Rich in history and the incredible beauty of nature, Buje is a perfect destination for all those who want to escape the crowds. Even though smaller than nearby cities like Rovinj and Poreč, Buje offers a lot of activities that will make your stay interesting. Here is what to see and experience while you’re in Buje.
Explore the Old Town
When you visit Buje, the first thing you should do is take a walk through the old parts of the town. Buje is located on top of a hill, and the old town will give you a breathtaking view of the vineyards that surround the city and the Italian Alps if the weather is good.
The narrow, cobbled streets of the city, medieval walls, and architecture have a special charm and will allow you to breathe in the spirit of the past. The Church of Saint Servul dominates the city square and is one of the biggest sacral places in Buje. It’s built in baroque style, and here, you can enjoy the quiet atmosphere and marvel at its interiors decorated with frescoes.
Not far away from the church, you can find the Belfry of St. Servula, which dates back to the 15th century. The bell tower is actually a tower that once served as a watchtower for observing the surroundings, and today, from the top, there is a panoramic view of Istria that will not leave anyone indifferent. It is recommended to climb to the top, especially at sunset.
While you’re exploring all that Buje has to offer, you’ll also need the perfect accommodation. Villsy offers luxury villas in Istria, including the Buja area, which are the perfect base for exploring the region.
Buje Town Museum
To learn more about the history of the city visit the Buje Town Museum. The museum is placed inside the palace dating from the 18th century and hosts interesting exhibitions that include archaeological artefacts from the daily life of the citizens of Buje, and speak about the history of trade and crafts of this area. During the Roman period and Venetian rule, the city was an important trading centre and all that can be seen in the museum.
The museum also hosts exhibitions of local artists and different cultural events.
The Road of Olive Oil and Wine
Locals sometimes refer to Buje as “The Guardian of Istria” because of the city’s position. Buje is also one of the main centres of wine and olive oil production in this area. Here you can walk the famous roads of olive oil and wine, visit local wineries and oil mills, and enjoy the degustations of local products. Local producers proudly display their award-winning wines, such as Malvasia and Terrano, and extra virgin olive oils that are among the best in the world.
One of the most famous wineries located here is Winery Kozlovic, which offers tours of vineyards, cellars, and organized tastings.
If you travel to Buje in September, you might get a chance to experience the Buje Wine Fest, taste the best Istrian wines, and enjoy local food and music. If olive oil is more of your thing, there is also the Olive Oil Festival, which celebrates the rich tradition of olive growing in this part of Istria.
Skarline Nature Park
If you enjoy spending time in nature, Skarline Native Park should be added to your must-visit list. This nature park is located between Buje and Brtonigla and is known for its unique landscape and the clear water of the Skarline stream. During the hot summer days, you can use your time in the park to find shelter from the sun in the shade of the trees or even refresh yourself in the cold water of the stream.
Outdoor Activities
Istria is an ideal destination for bike lovers. The area that surrounds the city offers numerous bike trails, suitable for those who are riding with families as well as experienced bikers. One of the most popular trails is Parenzana, a cycling and walking path that passes through the area of Buje and leads you through vineyards, olive groves, and beautiful panoramas. This path used to be a railway that connected Poreč and Trieste, and today it is one of the most popular places for cyclists and hikers in Istria.
The Buje area also offers other outdoor activities, such as hiking, horseback riding, and exploring the surrounding caves. For those who crave adrenaline, there are also options for zip-lining and quad-biking through the Istrian hills.