Istria by motorhome: sea, hilltop towns and plenty of time to settle in

This is where your trip starts. It's best to set off early in the morning so you can manage the first stage without stress.

A peaceful stopover right on the warm Ossiacher See, ideal for splitting the journey over two days. The shallow lake access is perfect for your little one, and there's plenty of shade under the trees.

Booking ahead is often cheaper here

A large, well-shaded campsite with direct access to coves and pebble beaches south of Poreč. Shallow swimming bays and a children's pool make it a good base camp for the next few days.

Booking ahead is often cheaper here

The Euphrasius Basilica, dating from the 6th century, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and famous for its shimmering golden Byzantine mosaics. Climbing the bell tower is worth it for the view over the old town; the cool interior is also a lovely break from the beach day.

The old town, founded by the Romans on a peninsula, is easy to explore on foot, with marble alleyways, small squares and ice cream parlours. Ideal for a relaxed morning with a pushchair.

A cool stalactite cave north of Poreč with guided tours through colourful limestone formations. The cave is home to rare olms, an exciting contrast to the warm sea outside. For your two-year-old, the tour works well with a baby carrier, as there are steps.

Around the hilltop village of Momjan lies one of Istria's most beautiful wine regions, known for Malvazija and sweet Muškat. At a winery such as Kabola or Kozlović, you can stop in the shade while your little one romps around outside. Just a small tasting, since there's still driving to do.

The narrow, wooded inlet cuts deep into the land and feels almost like a fjord. From the viewpoint on the road, you have a wide view over the green water, with mussel and oyster stalls beckoning below. A short, worthwhile stop on the way to Rovinj.

A family-friendly campsite north of Rovinj with shade, a children's pool and its own pebble beach. In summer, an excursion boat runs from here into the old town, so you can leave the motorhome parked up.

Booking ahead is often cheaper here

The old town, clustered on a peninsula with its colourful houses and the towering Church of Sv. Eufemija, is considered by many to be the most beautiful spot in Istria. Studios and small cafés line the steep alleyways, and from the church hill the view opens out over the rooftops and the sea. For the climb, it's best to take the baby carrier rather than the pushchair.

On the edge of the old town there's a small market with fruit, Istrian olive oil, truffle products and cheese. A good place to stock up on supplies and pick up souvenirs.

The well-preserved Roman amphitheatre from the 1st century is among the largest in the world and impresses even from the outside with its mighty arches. Inside there are underground passages with an exhibition on olive oil and wine production. There's plenty of space for small children to marvel and run around.

Booking ahead is often cheaper here

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A large, wooded campsite near Medulin with plenty of shaded pitches and coves for swimming, close to Cape Kamenjak. A good base for the last few days by the sea in the south.

Booking ahead is often cheaper here

The rugged southern tip of Istria is a nature park with clear water, small coves and flat rocky plateaus for swimming. There's no development here, just maquis scrub, wildflowers and quiet spots. Bring sun protection, water and water shoes, as shade is scarce.

Motovun sits enthroned above the Mirna Valley and is surrounded by a walkable town wall, from which the view stretches far across the truffle forests. The small old town has winding alleyways, truffle shops and quiet viewpoints. The motorhome stays in the car park at the foot of the hill, and you go up on foot or by shuttle.

The artists' town of Grožnjan is a quiet spot built entirely of stone, with galleries, studios and music in summer. Car-free and easy to get around, it's ideal for a relaxed afternoon stroll. The view over the vineyards and woods is wonderful.

A shaded coastal campsite near Novigrad with direct access to pebble and rocky coves. A good last night by the sea before heading home.

Booking ahead is often cheaper here

Return to your trip's starting point. You'll split this long stage with several breaks; if you like, you can add another stop at a lake between Villach and Munich.