Villas in Motovun for rent

Situated in the heart of the picturesque Istrian peninsula, Motovun is a hidden gem that attracts travelers with its timeless beauty and rich history. With its well-preserved walls, stunning landscapes, and rich culinary scene, Motovun offers an unforgettable experience for all who visit.

Motovun's Historical Charm

The history of Motovun dates back to the Illyrian and Celtic times. The modern-day name of the city originates from the Celtic word Montona, meaning “town on the hill”. The town's best feature is its walls, which encircle the entire settlement and offer a glimpse into Motovun's importance in the past. Guests have the opportunity to enjoy a relaxed walk along the ramparts while taking in amazing views of the countryside. The central square, known as Trg Andrea Antico, is the heart of Motovun on which the baroque Church of St. Stephen is situated. Next to the church stands a 13th-century bell tower decorated with parapets. What is intriguing is that beneath the modern-day church lies an early Christian Basilica that is even larger in structure than the present-day church.

Facing the church, you will find the Communal Palace, which dates to the 12th century. Beneath the town square lies a large cistern that supplied Motovun with life-giving water. Climbing 1,052 steps grants access to the top of Motovun, making it Croatia's lengthiest staircase. Once at the top, your efforts will be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views.

Motovun on Hilltop

Motovun activities

Surrounding Motovun is the magical Motovun Forest. The forest is a prime truffle-hunting destination, and you can join truffle-hunting tours with local experts and their trained dogs.

The town hosts the Truffle Days, a gastronomic event that takes place in the autumn, usually every weekend from the end of September till the end of October. This festival offers a unique opportunity to educate yourself in the world of truffles, with truffle tastings, cooking demonstrations, and a truffle market.

Perfectly complementing the truffle festival are famous Istrian wines. The vineyards surrounding Motovun give testimony to the region's rich wine history. The Wine Festival, typically held in late July, allows wine enthusiasts to try the finest Istrian wines while enjoying live music and cultural performances.

In addition to truffle hunting, the Motovun Forest offers hiking and cycling trails, such as the Parenzana route. Exploring these rich woodlands will lead you to serene viewpoints, hidden chapels, and the Mirna River. For the adventurous, tandem paragliding is a highly popular option, offering an unparalleled view of Motovun and its surrounding areas.

For those guests who prefer to keep their feet firmly on the ground, a stroll through the historic old town promises a rewarding experience. The city walls offer a splendid vantage point, allowing you to gaze upon lush green fields and vineyards that surround it.

Historic town Motovun

Motovun Film Festival

Started in 1999. Motovun open-air film festival focuses on films from small, independent producers worldwide. The festival screens a diverse selection of films so everyone can find something they like. The town stays lively 24/7 during the festival, and there are no formalities or VIP areas.

What to eat in Motovun?

At the heart of Istrian cuisine is the prized Istrian truffle, known as "black gold," eagerly sought after by chefs and food enthusiasts.

Motovun is famous as one of Istria's main truffle spots, with its rich, wooded surroundings offering an ideal habitat for these highly prized fungi. You can try truffle-seasoned dishes at local restaurants, where pasta, cheese, and even ice cream are elevated with the earthy aroma of these prized fungi.

Truffle hunters, known as "tartufari," and their skilled dogs go into the Motovun Forest, a serene woodland that encircles the town, to uncover these culinary gems. The truffle hunting experience in Motovun is a captivating adventure that allows visitors to witness the symbiotic relationship between man and dog, as they work together to reveal the hidden treasures beneath the earth's surface. The black truffles, with their robust and earthy flavor, flourish in the region's soil and are typically harvested during late autumn and winter.

Motovun's culinary scene truly shines with the arrival of the white truffle season which peaks in October. These highly prized truffles emit an intoxicating aroma, blending notes of garlic, cheese, and musk, and they are celebrated as the ultimate gourmet privilege.

Food in Motovun

Apart from truffles, Motovun's cuisine includes other regional specialties, such as Istrian ham, local olive oil, and Malvasia wine. The town's restaurants and taverns offer a variety of tasty dishes made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Dining in Motovun is not just a meal; it is an experience that immerses you in the flavors of Istria.

Motovun offers visitors chances to dive into local culture and cuisine through various events and festivals held throughout the year. The town's medieval architecture contrasts with its pristine natural surroundings, providing a well-rounded tourist experience.

Weather in Motovun

The weather in Motovun, like much of the Mediterranean region, experiences distinct seasons. Spring and autumn are generally mild and pleasant. Temperatures start to rise, and you can expect daytime temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. Spring experiences moderate rainfall, while autumn sees more frequent rain. Summers (June to August) in Motovun are warm and dry. Daytime temperatures can often exceed 30°C. This is the peak tourist season due to the pleasant weather and various outdoor activities and festivals taking place.

Winter is cool and relatively mild. Daytime temperatures typically range from 5°C to 12°C. Snowfall is rare, and the area doesn't experience extreme cold. Additionally, keep in mind that Motovun's elevation, 277 meters above sea level, can impact its weather, with slightly cooler temperatures than coastal areas.