Although the entire experience was wonderful, and we’d love to do it again, we’ll try to summarise what we liked the most, and perhaps it’ll inspire you to visit next year.
Top-Quality Wines and Authentic Istrian Bites
At seven carefully designed stations, visitors had the chance to taste wines from renowned Istrian winemakers such as Sosich, Bruno Ferenac, Deklić, Franc Arman, Pilato, Giulio Ferenac, Arman Marijan, Geržinić, Rossi, Pino Rossi, and Vorić. Vižinada is home to over a million vine stocks, and the wines from local producers often win prestigious awards, ensuring a top-notch wine experience for both connoisseurs and those about to become one.
In addition, guests enjoyed Istrian delicacies such as premium prosciutto from the Mekiši village agrotourism, phenomenal Istrian maneštra from Konoba Jadruhi, homemade pasta, and veal in teran wine and thyme served with Roman gnocchi, all curated by the Gourmet Style team. Of course, there were also typical Istrian desserts like pandišpanja, kroštule, and breskvice. Truly mouthwatering. Participants appreciated the delicious gourmet offerings and even asked for a second serving.
Enjoying Time Outdoors in The Fresh Air
The ten-kilometre-long trail took us through the vineyards, olive groves, and forest paths of Vižinada, offering unforgettable views and an opportunity to enjoy nature. Although the sun was scorching, we didn’t feel the trail was demanding as everything was very relaxed, with no competition about who would arrive first or last. The relaxed atmosphere was maintained by the friendly local guides from the Vižinada Tourist Board.
The Experience of the Former Narrow-Gauge Railway Parenzana
The seven stations, or “štaciona,” were named in honour of the former narrow-gauge railway Parenzana, which connected Istrian towns from 1902 to 1935, and whose route the wine walk partially followed. We were reminded of this by the actors from Istra Inspirita, namely Adam, the ticket and newspaper seller with the special power to control time, Amelia, the elegant lady in love with the keeper of memories, and Viola, the street musician in search of happiness. Together, they brought to life the memories of the golden age of Parenzana through storytelling, song, and dance. Participants of the wine walk, through laughter, discovered many fascinating facts and hidden gems related to this unique railway, enjoying a vivid encounter with the past in the special atmosphere of Vižinada.
Excellent Organisation by the Local Tourist Board
Something that might be taken for granted at such events is the excellent organisation, as it requires careful coordination of three groups of participants, as well as numerous local partners who were ready at their stations. To make it easier for us, the participants, to navigate the wine walk, we received a map with all the stations and what to expect at each one. We were also given a comfortable T-shirt to remind us of this beautiful eno-gastronomic event.
Socialising and Fun for Everyone
This type of event is perfect for hanging out with your friends in a cheerful and relaxed atmosphere, but also for meeting new people, as everyone is friendly and the language spoken is the universal wine language, which everyone understands. We were delighted by the Istrian traditional games at one of the stations, which further lifted the atmosphere and had all of us, even those just watching, laughing.
There was also music at almost every station, as well as a concert by the local band Tu i tamo at the end of the day. As you can imagine, the party was guaranteed! Although we didn’t stay until the end, we noticed on social media that participants were dancing and having a great time.
Insta-friendly Experience
We can’t forget to highlight how everything at the Wine & Walk event looked incredibly photogenic: from the plates and decorations to the panoramic views. Everything had a wow factor, and people love to photograph it and share it with their friends on social media. No wonder tickets sell out faster each year.
“Life’s too short to drink bad wine!”
And as the saying goes, “Life’s too short to drink bad wine!” We hope to see you again at this event next year. It filled us with positive vibes and reminded us just how beautiful, authentic, and still underexplored Istria is for many visitors.
