An expert has revealed the area of Croatia where Brits tend to miss for more popular destinations like Dubrovnik and Split. Croatia has become a hugely popular destination for British tourists over the last number of years, offering thriving nightlife, amazing scenery, and oftentimes, cheap food and drink. In fact, some people are now opting for Croatia over traditionally popular British tourist destinations like Spain and Portugal, often getting better value for money. 

But even within Croatia, there are areas that British tourists don’t tend to see, and one of them has breathtaking coastal scenery and marvellous food. At the recent National Geographic Traveller Food Festival in London, a travel expert from Croatia Full of Life revealed to the Daily Express which area that Brits tend to overlook, even though direct flights to the region have recently been reintroduced by Jet2. The area where more Brits will soon be flocking, she said, is Istria, a peninsula in the northern part of Croatia.

“If we are talking about the coastline, the least discovered region by the UK tourists is Istria,” she said. Jet2 relaunched its routes from Birmingham, Manchester, and London Stansted to Pula, which is the largest city in Istria. 

The Croatian expert added: “We are seeing really good numbers from UK tourists rediscovering Istria. It’s really interesting because Istria is normally the number one destination for tourists coming from all other parts of Europe. But as the UK tourists are flying into Croatia, we needed this route to be relaunched in order to have our UK friends visiting. 

“Istria is super popular with gastronomy because they have the best olive oil you can taste, called ‘liquid gold’. It has a welcoming and nice atmosphere. It’s a hilly region with the beautiful surroundings of the seaside, ancient history, little vineyards, and villages.”

Indeed, Istria seems to have plenty on offer. Famous sites and things to do there include the ancient Roman Pula Arena and the scenic Mediterranean towns of Rovinj, Porec, Motovun, Hum and Groznjan.

Meanwhile, the region is home to amazing beaches, which include Punta Kamenjak, Cuvi Beach, Fazana Beach, Mulini Beach, Njive Beach and Felson Strand. 

Other activities include scenic hikes around the rugged landscape, a thrilling waterpark, water sports, and truffle hunting, as well as sampling the local Mediterranean-influenced cuisine and wine. 

For those looking for a relaxing time in Istria, there are a number of resorts to stay at. Some of the top-rated ones include Isabella Island Resort, Maistra Select Belvedere Resort, Eden Hotel and Girandella Resort.

Online reviewers have had amazing things to say about Istria. One Tripadvisor reviewer wrote: “Istria is highly recommended for general tourist interests, no matter what part of the year and time of staying.”

Another shared: “I loved the area. I based myself in Zminj at a bed & breakfast and drove everywhere. Went to Rovinj, Pula, Porec, Buzet, Rabac, Vrsar etc and loved it all.

“It was stunning weather, and I highly recommend the area. Get a car though as many areas you come across are definitely worth stopping for photos.”