Plovanija: Discover cycling and hiking routes

Plovanija is a starting point for several clearly distinct cycling and hiking routes. Those planning a stay can consider a longer cycling tour, a section of the European E12 long-distance footpath, and a shorter route near Mulino-Kanegra. The route distances, itineraries and surfaces provide different points of reference for planning your trip.

Cycling the Parenzana

The Parenzana cycling route runs for 80 kilometres from Plovanija via Buje, Grožnjan, Livade, Motovun and Vižinada to Poreč. Of the total distance, 78 kilometres are on gravel and two kilometres on asphalt. The route is officially rated easy. The distance, surface and rating describe different aspects of the route; the sequence of towns makes its course to Poreč clear.

The cycling route approaches from the Plovanija border crossing area. One suggested tour begins in Kanegra, follows the yellow markings towards Buje, and continues via Kaldanija and Volpija.

EuroVelo 8: from Plovanija to Vrsar

The Plovanija–Vrsar section of EuroVelo 8 begins at Sečovlje/Plovanija, ends in Vrsar and covers 72 kilometres. Immediately after the Plovanija border crossing, the route turns right off the main road and then climbs gently along the Parenzana. The section has a total ascent of 840 metres and a surface of asphalt and gravel.

At 72 kilometres, this section is shorter than the 80-kilometre Parenzana; the two cycling routes also lead to different endpoints. Route details for the EuroVelo 8 section may change. Check the route before setting off.

The E12 as a hiking route

The first Croatian section of the European E12 long-distance footpath runs from Plovanija to Poreč. The E12 enters Croatia at the international Plovanija border crossing and follows the route of the former Parenzana railway to Grožnjan. The route thus links a clearly identified border crossing with the historical context of the former railway line.

The Mulino–Kanegra route

Route 21, Mulino–Kanegra, begins at the Plovanija border crossing by the Mulino Casino and follows a gravel road beside the Dragonja River. It is five kilometres long, takes about 30 minutes, and is rated easy and suitable for families. In terms of the stated distance, it is a much shorter option than the 72- and 80-kilometre cycling routes.

A viewpoint along the route offers a view of the Sečovlje Salt Pans. Along with the starting point by the Mulino Casino, the route’s specific landmarks include the stretch beside the Dragonja and the view of the salt pans. The distance and approximate duration provide a concise outline of this route.

Landscape in the wider Buje area

The landscape in the wider Buje area is hilly and gently undulating. Its features include vineyards, olive groves, farmland, oak and pine forests, karst formations and Mediterranean vegetation.

Discover more destinations: Kaštel, Buje, Sveta Marija Na Krasu, Kaldanija, Momjan, Baredine, Marusici, Buroli.

For the broader travel overview: Općina Buje.