142 THE ST.MAURO TRAIL

This varied tour takes us through the hilly landscapes to Vrsar, the southernmost part of Poreč countryside, returning to Poreč along the scenic coastal paths. Due to its favorable profile and good surface, this tour is well suited for the increasingly popular gravel bikes.

We start our ride on the Maximus Agri MTB trail and turn south towards Sv. Lovreč. On the way, we pass through Rušnjak, village famous as the symbol of Antifascist resistance of Istria. Passing through a few smaller villages, we arrive to Kloštar where we enter the Kontija Park Forest. This is probably the most beautiful forest in the area, spreading its treetops all the way to the slopes of Lim bay.

The trail partially leads along the forest borderline, offering spectacular views of this geological phenomenon.

From Kontija we continue on forest roads near the romantic town Vrsar. It is famous as the hiding spot of the legendary lover Giacomo Casanova who used it to hide from the jealous husbands of his dames. Vrsar and its archipelago is one of the prettiest sites of Croatian coast; we suggest visiting Montraker, deserted stone pit that with a spectacular viewpoint.

The trail continues to Funtana  winding through vineyards and forest to Zelena Laguna and further back to Poreč.

POI: Vrsar, Kontija, Rušnjak, St. Lovreč, Funtana, pirate cave, Dušan Džamonja sculpture park.

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