Black dog standing on a stone wall with a park and Cathedral building in the background in Pula, Croatia.

When it’s time for some beach fun, we head over to Valovine Beach. This pet-friendly location allows dogs to run free and splash in the sea, and there's nothing my dog loves more than chasing waves! The beach is clean, well-maintained, and offers plenty of space for pups to socialise. We regularly go kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), we usually head to Stoja and Seagull Rocks Beach, where the water is calm and the views are stunning. Pula is a fantastic location for pet owners seeking a perfect blend of history, relaxation, and outdoor adventures.

A black dog sitting on a round swing in a park with stone structures kažuni near Vodnjan in Istria.

On this 8 kilometres long trail you'll pass by a frog paradise, Lokva Fontana, walk along the field roads, pass through olive groves and vineyards with stunning views and plenty of mesmerising photo opportunities. As you walk, the trail reveals more than just these iconic huts - it shows the harmonious blend of natural beauty and human craftsmanship. The landscape itself feels like a storyteller, whispering secrets of times gone by.

Two zebras walking on an open grassland with some trees and a small shelter in the background on Brijuni Islands in Istria.

A legend on the Brijuni Islands, Koki is Tito's most famous pet, he is one of the few examples of yellow-crested cockatoos, which can live up to 100 years. Josip Broz Tito gave Koki to his granddaughter as a gift for her ninth birthday and throughout decades he has been the most attractive inhabitant of the islands. 

Kayakers paddling towards rocky cliffs with bunkers in Galebove stijene, Pula, Istria.

In 1909, four coastal batteries (bunkers) were built on the shore near the fort. During our guided kayak tour we get to see these now abandoned army bunkers carved into the cliffs, standing tall above the clear waters of the Adriatic. In addition to being important for military tactics, the network of fortifications surrounding Pula shaped the cultural and economic structure of the city. These fortifications provided protection and stability, which led to the growth of Pula as a thriving harbour city. The fortresses are a powerful reminder of the city's resilience and its role as an entrance to the Adriatic Sea.

A dinosaur sculpture on a rocky shoreline with the Adriatic sea in Premantura, cape Kamenjak, Istria

Each step along the Dinosaur Path on Kamenjak is a step through time. Reflecting on the millions of years that these dinosaur footprints have been preserved, it’s an experience that captures the imagination of visitors, both young and old. As you walk along the path, consider the many events that these rocks have silently witnessed throughout the ages. It’s a humbling reminder of our place within Earth’s vast timeline.

People with bikes near a 'KAMENJAK' sign overlooking the sea and greenery in Premantura near Pula, Istria in Croatia.

Spread over almost 3,000 acres, Cape Kamenjak is an amazing place for nature lovers. It has a stunning mix of rocky shores, hidden bays, and pine forests that smell wonderful. Whether you're wandering through olive groves or finding quiet pebble beaches, the natural beauty of Kamenjak will impress you. The air often smells of wild orchids, rosemary and lavender, making every walk feel like a treat for your senses. Be sure to bring a camera to capture the beautiful views!

Earth day poster featuring sea turtle, sea star and a yellow kayak underwater

Kayak Blondie in the service of protecting the Northern Adriatic. Did you know? Date mussels live in rock, which they dissolve by releasing acid, thus creating space for themselves to grow. It takes them as long as 10 years to reach a length of 1 centimeter!

Person in a kayak near rocky shore with cliffs in Lim, Istria, Croatia.

Explore the stunning Lim bay in Istria, known for its legends of pirates and vikings, rich marine and wildlife, and breathtaking views. Enjoy activities like kayaking, snorkeling, and tasting fresh seafood while discovering historic caves and hiking paths.

Dog and a person's legs emerging from gaps on the Drunken Railway in Istria, with mountainous scenery behind them.

The Drunken Railway in Istria, a hidden gem near the Učka mountain foothills, offers a unique countryside adventure. Visitors can enjoy scenic walks along the abandoned railways with a fascinating history dating back to mid 20th century. Discover Istria's Drunken Railway, a scenic and historical adventure ideal for family outings, hidden in the foothills of Učka.