Scenic Istria, the westernmost county of Croatia, blends majestic coastal areas and vineyards with verdant mountains at the foot of the Alps. Boasting an exceptional choice of real estate with meaningful returns potential, it’s the ideal region for a second home.
Our partner Engel & Völkers is an international leader in the field of luxury real estate; their Istrian office looks after some of the peninsula’s top properties in its diverse portfolio. We asked their agents to select the best listings to keep your eye on this summer, reflecting the area’s unique charm.
Istria: A Green Oasis
The largest peninsula in the North Adriatic, Istria is home to valleys, vineyards, olive groves, and pine forests, plus pretty coastal towns like Rovinj, Pula, Umag, Novigrad, Poreč, Vrsar, and Rabac. But inland there’s much to explore too, whether it’s discovering the unspoiled nature of Učka on foot or by bike, or visiting places like Pazin and Barban. What’s more, native grapes like Malvasia grow in the region, producing quality white wine.
Trio of Superb Istrian Properties
Let’s tour a handful of villas that are currently on the market with Engel & Völkers Istria.
Five-Bedroom Residence with direct access to the sea and a private boat dock Near Labin
Price: On request
Overlooking the sea on the eastern coast of Istria close to the hilltop town of Labin is this one-in-a-million property with 482 square meters of interior space and a 1,834-square-meter plot. Enter via the second floor and check out around the spacious kitchen, dining, and living area, which enjoys direct access to a balcony and glorious waterside views.
Two bedrooms are situated on this level; the other three are downstairs – all have an en-suite. Additional notable features range from a wellness zone with two saunas, a pool table, and a fireplace to a gym in the adjacent outbuilding. Outside, take in the terrace with an outdoor kitchen, the infinity pool, and the private pier with its own dock. Out and about, Labin is close to Rabac and home to an array of cycling and hiking trails, as well as vineyards.
Designer House at the Water in Rovinj, with a Private Elevator and Direct Sea Access
Price: €4,450,000
The idyllic town of Rovinj is primely positioned on the west coast of Istria between Poreč and Pula, and home to narrow winding alleys, colorful houses, a host of top-class restaurants, and a vibrant promenade. This sea-facing designer residence sits on a 65-square-meter lot, and may only have one bedroom, but there’s 200 square meters of interior space across four floors, including an impressive contemporary kitchen and a dining area with access to a balcony cantilevering the sea.
The second floor is divided into the master and a modern en-suite with a free-standing bathtub and vistas of the crystal-clear Adriatic. Also of note are the characterful stone walls and exposed ceiling beams, plus a private internal elevator, an in-house basement tavern for entertaining, and a covered outdoor kitchen.
Six-bedroom Masterpiece in a Tranquil Location in Baškoti
Price: €1,990,000
This architecturally appealing six-bedroom house is situated near the west coast of Istria and benefits from a well-thought-out living, cooking, and dining area that’s generously sized and light-laden. There’s also space for an office, a fitness and yoga area, and a sauna. Spanning 473 square meters and sitting on a two-acre plot, each bedroom has an en-suite and direct access to the surrounding terraces and the pool.
Additional special features include high-quality walnut parquet flooring, underfloor heating, and Kerlite tiles from Cotto d’Este. Outside, admire the pool, outdoor shower, and covered kitchen, plus the well-kept garden that’s filled with olive trees and local flora, and has its own bocce court. Northeast about 15-20 minutes from Poreč, the peaceful village of Baškoti is off the tourist path – enclosed by heavenly scenery and close to excellent winegrowers, yet just 40 minutes from Pula airport.
To learn more about these one-of-a-kind villas and find a property that suits your individual needs, contact Engel & Völkers Istria.
