general, istria, sailing

A sailing holiday with a camper van

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A sailing holiday with a motorhome - a combination of land and sea adventures in Istria

Istria offers the perfect backdrop for a varied holiday full of adventure. The peninsula in the north of Croatia is not only a paradise for sailors, but also for travellers who love the freedom of a motorhome. So why not combine the two and explore Istria from land and water? A sailing holiday with a motorhome gives you the opportunity to discover the most beautiful corners of the region independently and flexibly – on land and at sea.

Advantages of combining a sailing boat and motorhome

The combination of motorhome and sailing boat gives you the opportunity to experience unforgettable moments both on land and on the water. While the motorhome offers you a comfortable base from which you can explore Istria’s coastal towns, villages and natural landscapes, the sailing boat gives you the freedom to discover secluded bays and hidden beaches. You are not dependent on a hotel or a fixed route and can decide spontaneously where to go next.

Flexibility and freedom

A motorhome allows you to go to new places at any time, and at the same time you always have your ‘harbour’ with you. If you want to spend one day on the water and the next in the city, that’s no problem. So you remain flexible and can set your own pace.

Close to nature

With a motorhome, you can spend the night in the countryside, whether by a lake, in a wooded area or on a campsite with a sea view. There are numerous pitches and campsites in Istria that are located directly on the coast and offer an ideal base for your sailing trip. From the pitch, you can get on the boat and enjoy the beauty of the Istrian coast from the water.

The best places for land and water adventures in Istria

Istria offers a multitude of breathtaking places for sailors and motorhome travellers. Here are some highlights you shouldn’t miss:

Rovinj – The picturesque harbour town

Rovinj is an ideal starting point for your sailing holiday and also offers beautiful pitches for your motorhome. The old town centre of Rovinj attracts many visitors with its narrow streets and charming houses, and the town has a very special charm when viewed from the water. Sail out and discover the offshore islands or relax in the evening in one of the cafés right by the water.

Pula – Historic sites and inviting bays

Pula is known for its Roman amphitheatre, but you can also experience a lot here as a sailor. There are numerous bays and beaches in the area that you can explore from the water. There are also campsites and motorhome pitches nearby from which you can explore the city and the surrounding nature.

Brijuni Islands National Park – a natural paradise off the coast

The Brijuni Islands are a national park and offer you the opportunity to experience unspoilt nature and rich wildlife. This archipelago is only accessible by boat, and as a sailor you have the advantage of enjoying the beauty of the islands away from the tourist crowds. Park your motorhome near Fažana and cross over to the islands by boat. A real insider tip for nature lovers!

Cape Kamenjak – waves, cliffs and spectacular views

Cape Kamenjak is a nature reserve and a must-see for anyone who loves nature and adventure. There are hiking trails and cycle routes on land, while the coastline with its spectacular cliffs and hidden bays invites you to explore. Park your motorhome on one of the pitches in the area and explore the cape by boat.

Practical tips for a combined holiday

A combined sailing and motorhome holiday requires a little planning, but the freedom and independence are worth the effort. Here are some tips to help you get organised:

Find suitable pitches

Istria has a large number of campsites and pitches that are suitable for motorhomes. Find out in advance where you can park your motorhome – ideally in places that are close to marinas or bays so that you can easily get to your sailing boat.

Chartering boats on site

If you don’t have your own sailing boat, there are numerous options for chartering a boat in Istria. Many marinas offer flexible hire options, including day trips, so you can decide when you want to go out on the water depending on the weather.

Check the weather conditions

Weather conditions on the coast can change quickly and it is advisable to check the weather forecast daily – both on land and at sea. Especially when sailing, you should always pay attention to wind conditions and possible storms.

Plan sufficient supplies

As you will be travelling both on the water and in remote places, you should take sufficient supplies with you. Water, food and emergency equipment are important, especially if you spend a long time on board or park your motorhome in remote areas.

Our summary

A sailing holiday in combination with a motorhome is a perfect way to experience the diversity of Istria. You have the freedom to explore the region on your own and can decide spontaneously when to hoist the sails or discover new places on land. Whether you prefer romantic Rovinj, the wild cliffs of Cape Kamenjak or the tranquillity of the Brijuni Islands – this way of travelling gives you unforgettable experiences and the opportunity to discover Istria in a very special way.
Pack up the sails, start the motorhome and let yourself be inspired by the adventures of Istria!