Today is a shorter day in terms of kilometres. We cycled 34.6 kms with an ascension of 440mtrs and a decline of 166 mtrs. We started our journey in Slovenia and crossed the border into Croatia.
We travelled across the Istrian Peninsula, the largest in the Adriatic. We traveled along the Parenzana Route which was undulating with a lot of gravel in some parts. As we climbed we had amazing views of the Secovlje salt pans. About the salt pans:-
Salt production in Slovenia boasts a rich 700-year-old heritage, where ancient techniques and wooden tools have been carefully preserved and passed down through generations. The Sečovlje Salt Pans, now protected areas, serve as sanctuaries for an array of bird species. In these environmentally conscious sites, a variety of products are crafted, ranging from everyday table salt to the prized fleur de sel. Alongside these culinary delights, the Sečovlje Salt Pans also produce an array of salt-based cosmetics, showcasing the versatile and sustainable nature of this age-old tradition.
As we ascended to the top of the plateau past the border, we began to cycle in the pristine nature of Istria. Fortunately we came across this lovely boutique hotel that served coffee, and made this our break. As you can see by the name it is very near the Parenzana Route.
By this stage we were nearing our destination of the tiny city of Groznjan. It is a city because it has a mayor, so we were told by the locals! Again we had quite a climb to reach the town.
Grožnjan is a charming hilltop town located in Istria, Croatia, and it’s known as the most famous gathering place for artists in the region. The town has been declared a town of artists since 1965 and is home to about thirty houses, galleries, studios, and ateliers where artists outnumber permanent residents.
We explored the town’s narrow streets, saw exhibited paintings, listened to the sounds of music coming from the castle, and enjoyed stunning views of the sea.
After a big thunderstorm, Margaret and I decided to go on a walk and headed off towards the Parenzana Route without realising! We passed some beautiful old buildings and pretty countryside, and got some amazing views of Groznjan. On our return it was necessary to debrief over a G & T sitting in the hotel courtyard overlooking the beautiful countryside.
That evening we had an amazing meal at Mama Maria restaurant. It is one of only 2 restaurants in Groznjan (the other being a pizza restaurant), and Maria only serves steaks and salad. However what a steak and salad!! Maria bought out the steaks to the table and explained the cuts of meat and how they are cooked, and then made this tasty green salad with a great dressing plus a potato salad. It was just what we needed. Good wholesome fresh food. And then to top it off we had an amazing meringue roulade for dessert. Maria and her husband and son Luca, work as a team to give the best service and food, and they certainly did that tonight.
A great day. After our meal we walked back to our hotel and sat outside listening to an orchestra playing while the sun set over the countryside. What more could a person want!