The Istrian peninsula, located at the head of the Adriatic is shared by Croatia, Slovenia and Italy, with Croatia encapsulating around 90% of the land mass. Delightful coastal towns are strung along the coast while the inland heart is full of natural beauty and unspoiled nature. Within easy reach of our Slovenian fishing operations, a combination angling and touring holiday here would offer a magnificent week to 10 days or so.
Slovenia – The Fishing
The fly fishing in Slovenia offers an incredible experience with great versatility in terms of locations, species and even times of the year. Much like our fishing in the UK, it is possible to fish all year round if one wants to target different species and is willing to wrap up warm in the winter! Commonly encountered are rainbow trout and grayling but you will also see brown trout, brook trout and even marble trout. During the winter months you can target the huchen (Danube salmon), a close relative of the Mongolian taimen.
To the north west of the country are two systems that offer some of the world’s finest river fishing: the Sava, Slovenia’s longest Alpine River, and the Soča River in the Adriatic basin. Small mountain tributaries of sky blue water flow from the Julian Alps into Soča and Sava where the water clarity ensures plentiful opportunities for sight fishing.
These gin-clear rivers benefit from snowmelt throughout the season which drains through porous rock before resurfacing as mineral-rich spring water. The water runs cool through the summer, offering perfect growing conditions for fly life and fish.
Slovenia and Croatia – The Touring
Meneghetti Hotel and Winery, Istria, Croatia
This gorgeous hotel and winery, one of only a handful of Relais & Chateaux properties in Croatia, is an oasis of peace and quiet surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. With 58 luxury rooms and suites and an outstanding restaurant it’s a wonderful spot for a few nights’ total relaxation off the beaten track. There’s a superb spa, several swimming pools and a nearby beach area. Should you feel like exploring, the Adriatic coast is just a couple of miles away and the historic city of Rovinj is within 30 minutes.
San Canzian, Istria, Croatia
Perched on the Croatian peninsula near the medieval village of Mužolini Donji, San Canzian Hotel & Residences is a mediaeval hamlet turned into a luxurious hideaway. Surrounded by shady olive groves, gardens and vineyards, 24 rooms, suites and a villa have been crafted into this 14th century Istrian estate. The pool has panoramic views over the countryside while the spa is a great spot to relax and reenergise. Some of Istria’s best food and wine awaits in the restaurant and the lovely bar is full of character. The charming village of Grožnjan, known as the city of artists, is within walking distance, and there is plenty more to explore in this delightful corner of the world.
Kempinski Palace, Portoroz, Istria, Slovenia
This iconic seafront hotel has had a recent makeover and is a superb choice in the popular resort of Portorož, on the Slovenian coast. Classical décor and exemplary service are the order of the day in this 182-room resort which sits just metres from the Adriatic. The restaurants offer various dining options ranging from the formal to casual, the luxury spa offers myriad treatments, and there are indoor and outdoor pools to enjoy. Step outside and you’ll find lush gardens to explore, along with the cafes, bars and restaurants of the increasingly fashionable town of Portorož. The marina at Lucija, less than a mile away, is a fun place to visit and is well populated with cafes and restaurants.
For more information about creating a perfect Slovenia and Croatia fishing and touring combination please contact Alex Jardine. Alternatively you can call our office on +44(0)1980 847389.
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