TOP 5 trails for family cycling in northwest Istria

Family cycling in northwest Istria offers a unique experience that combines recreation in nature with the enjoyment of the cultural and culinary magic of the region. Discover why northwest Istria is the ideal destination for family cycling!

One of the main advantages of northwest Istria is the accessible cycle paths suitable for all members of the family, regardless of age and physical stamina. The trails are well marked and maintained, and many of them pass through beautiful natural landscapes and historical sites.

This popular cycling path runs along the route of the former railway line that connected Trieste and Poreč. Parenzana offers gentle ascents and descents, passing through tunnels, viaducts, villages and verdant countryside. It's ideal for families because it's easy and very interesting, and whichever section you choose, you won't go wrong. Each one is magical in its own way.

We suggest that you start from Kanegra and go down to the valley of the river Dragonja (the reverse of the route in the link). The trail is short, but full of panoramic points, viewpoints and views of Piran Bay and the salt pans that you will remember for a long time. It is highly probable that you will meet horses and ponies along the way, and if the distance from Kanegra to the border with Slovenia is too short, you can continue further, all the way to the entrance of the Sečovjlje Salina Nature Park.

From the tourist resort of Katoro to the center of Umag, there is a flat paved path, ideal for family recreation. The road is lined with beaches, children's playgrounds, parks and coastal bars where you can stop and rest with a drink and ice cream. In the center of Umag, you can park your bicycle and discover the city with the help of interactive panels, and if your route takes you to the breakwater, visit the town museum.

When you head south from the center of Umag, Zlatorog is waiting for you on the way, a woodland oasis by the sea. The newly renovated promenade and bicycle trail along the coast of Zlatorog has become a real mecca for families, and you can reach it from Umag in no time. In Zlatorog you can swim or enjoy a picnic. Your attention will be drawn to the little church of St. Peregrine, from the 12th century, and if you find yourself there at low tide, check if you can see the footprints of St. Peregrine in the sea below. Legend has it that the saint stayed there when he first set foot on this ground.

Staza kreće iz ribarskog gradića Novigrada uz obalu sve do Marede. Vozit ćete se poljskim putovima kroz vinograde, maslinike i tradicionalna sela poput Fiorina, Paolije i Velike Stancije. Putem se možete okupati na nekoj od plaža, a kad se vratite u Novigrad, ne propustite zaviriti u župnu crkvu s velebnim zvonikom i počastiti obitelj specijalitetima iz mora.