Things to do in Istria – Lim bay
The attractive west coast of Istria is split in two by a long bay and its valley called Lim. The legends tell the tales of pirates and treasures, vikings and their long ships cruising down the fjord and hermit saint who lived in caves. Today it tells the tales of beauty, untouched nature, spectacular views, fresh seafood, rich wildlife, excitement and adventure.
Lim bay separates the city of Rovinj on the south side and Vrsar on the north, so instead of a short drive from one to the other, you have to take a long way around. The bay is 12.8 kilometers long and it’s a part of the 35 kilometers long Lim valley which takes you inland almost to the city of Pazin.
At the opening to the sea it is the widest, around 600 meters and it’s narrowing slowly towards the inland. Also the banks are lower at the beginning and the steep slopes are rising to 150 meters in height and resembles a canyon. This protected significant landscape with a diverse ecosystem has a variety of adventures and activities to offer.
Specific nature and marine reserve
The natural wealth of Lim bay was first recognized in 1964 when it was put on the list of protected significant landscapes, and then again in 1980 as a special marine reserve. Due to many fresh water springs under the surface, the sea in the bay has reduced salinity and higher oxygen levels which create a different ecosystem than the adriatic sea. It is a perfect mix to grow oysters, mussels and different types of fish.
The south coast of the bay is covered with deciduous trees, mostly oak and ash, but the north coast, the sunny side, is more evergreen. On the north side you can also find the protected nature reserve of Kontija forest, spreading over 65 hectares of land between the villages of Kloštar, Gradina and Flengi. In the forest you can find several bike or hiking trails and beautiful excursion spots, like the monastery of St. Michael from the 11th century, or the ruins of a prehistoric settlement Mukaba.
Vikings, pirates and saint Romuald
Historically, in Croatia Lim bay was often called the Lim channel or Lim fjord. Fjords are made by glaciers and Lim was made by a river. So, geologically, it’s not a fjord, but it played the role of a fjord in a couple of viking films in the last century. The first one called “Viking” was filmed in 1958, starring Kirk Douglas and Tony Curtis. The second film “The Long Ships” was filmed 1964.
The legend says that the notorious pirate Henry Morgan was running from the prosecution and hid his stolen treasures somewhere in the Lim bay area. One theory says it was hidden in a cave close to the half way of the bay. Now the cave is known as the Pirate’s cave and it’s home to a Pirate Bar with a viewpoint that offers breathtaking views. You can become a part of the merry crew of Morgan’s pirates by joining this unique experience in Istra Inspirit’s offer.
The second theory says the treasure is hidden in the nearby area, abandoned in the beginning of 18th century, in Dvigrad settlement. Speaking of caves, it is important to mention Romuald’s cave on the south slope of the bay. It is located at the altitude of approximately 110 meters above the sea level and easily accessible by a hiking trail. Inside it is about 105 meters long cave. Currently it is home to a protected colony of bats, but in the past it was also home of the hermit saint Romuald of Ravenna who also established the monastery of St. Michael in the 11th century. The modern date research found evidence of life in the cave reaching all the way back to the Paleolithic times as paintings, tools and human and animal remains were found inside. Unfortunately, at the moment, the cave site is not open for the public.
Hiking, biking and kayaking in Lim bay
Lim bay area offers many opportunities for outdoor sports, adventures and activities, such as kayaking, snorkeling, swimming, stand-up paddleboarding all in the crystal clear water. On the north side of the bay there is a climbing area with spectacular views for the passionate, experienced climbers. Many bike trails on both sides of the bay on the hills above it. You can look for the bike trails here. Some hiking trails as well, you can find them here. Considering that the trails mostly take you on the hills above the bay, you can enjoy spectacular views of the bay from the high ground in some places. By hiring us for a tailor made guided tour, you’ll be able to enjoy the secrets and stories of Lim bay while kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, hiking or all of the above.
Combine your visit to Istria with adventure sports, nature walks, boat excursions and culinary delights which you’ll find in this area. Whatever may be the reason for your visit to the this magnificent destination, we are sure that you will enjoy your view and make it even better with a taste of gourmet seafood directly from the sea to your dinner plate.
If you need more advice or ideas on what to visit or do in Istria, check out our blog posts. If you’d like to create lasting memories and visit the Lim bay by kayak on a private tailor made tour or rent a kayak, contact us here.