Istria
Natural Feature

© Dalibor Brlek / Alamy Stock Photo
Winter can be the best time to visit Istria, the verdant peninsula of coastal resorts and traditional hilltop villages between Italy and mainland Croatia. Ruled from Rome before World War II, the region still has many Italianate influences, seen in the cuisine and architecture, but a newly revived Istrian identity has been influencing the resurgence of the local wine industry, olive oil, gastronomy and rural accommodation. Istria is a destination for winter walks, clear panoramic views and mistletoe- or honey-flavoured rakija (fruit brandy) at the end of every hike or meal.