We headed north from Rovinj and set out for the picturesque hill town of Motovun. We arrived in the late afternoon as some clouds began to move in.
A steep narrow road took us up to a tiny parking lot. From there we hiked the rest of the way up the hill. We passed through two arched gateways that led to the center of the old town. The two prominent structures on the main square were St. Stephens Church and the Hotel Kastel. The church is named after the patron saint of Croatia.
We found a cobblestone path that led us onto the ramparts atop the ancient stone walls protecting the tiny hamlet from invaders. The panoramic views from the old town took in the sprawling valley below with acres of vineyards and forests that provide truffles, a delicacy found underground near the roots of oak trees. Specially trained dogs are able to sniff them out to local truffle gatherers.
The sun was beginning to set quickly so our short but memorable visit to Motovun came to a close. We curled back down the hill and back to the main road leading to the Učka Tunnel. As we approached the tunnel we caught a glowing sunset to the west, a fitting close to our day tour in Istria. Two very memorable destinations that will be wanting us to return some day.
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