PHOTOGRAPHS: MARK READ/LONELY PLANET. WRITTEN BY ANNA TYLER
10 Istria Croatia
There’s something regal about Istria’s heart-shaped peninsula, with its limestone riviera, grand monuments and abundant ine produce. Perhaps that’s why the Romans, Venetians and Austro-Hungarians tussled over this beautiful, fertile land for centuries. Today, you can ly direct from all over the UK. Begin with the history: Pula’s Roman amphitheatre and Poreč’s Unesco-listed mosaics. Then laze, with dozens of beautiful beaches to idle on, from Mulini, with its relaxed atmosphere and beach bar, to secluded Felsen Strand. Diversify with a gourmet cycle tour during spring, music festivals in summer, and trufle-hunting excursions come autumn.