Cycling day trip from Rovinj to Vodnjan

Set out from Rovinj, one of Istria’s prettiest coastal towns, and roll southeast toward Vodnjan on a roughly 33 km ride that combines a bit of everything—scenic paved stretches, rolling rural roads, and a healthy dose of gravel and track for adventure. You'll start among Rovinj’s colorful old town and sparkling blue Adriatic views, but soon swap seaside charm for peaceful countryside fields and olive groves as you climb gently inland.

The route is a mix of surfaces: about 40% paved or asphalt (enjoy those smooth bits!), with a solid 32% unpaved and a fair share of gravel (so wider tires help). There’s some moderate climbing early on (total ascent just under 380 meters), with beautiful vistas and quiet, low-traffic lanes.

Arriving in Vodnjan, you’ll spot its famous tall bell tower and perhaps catch a whiff of the local olive oil and prosciutto it’s known for. Perfect for anyone who likes a scenic challenge with a taste of Istrian heritage on either end!