Svetilnik Beach is located in the city centre of Izola. From there, views extend as far as Debeli rtič, Koper and Mesečev zaliv. The Strunjan Landscape Park borders Izola. The park, which is designated as a nature reserve, includes the 80-metre-high cliff of Strunjan, the 200-metre-wide stretch of sea below it and the salt pans.
Those wishing to book a hotel in Izola can narrow down the selection according to their own criteria.
Coast and landscape
Built in 1837, the Riva Lunga connects Izola and Koper and is used for recreational activities. This recreational use offers open views of the sea and conveys a sense of history.
The prehistoric hillfort in Korte, also called Kaštelir, is the largest settlement of its kind in Slovenian Istria. From Kaštelir, views extend as far as the Sečovlje salt pans.
Culture and history
Izolana – House of the Sea offers a fishing simulation, interactive fish-catching activities and 360-degree videos showing Izola in the past and present. It also features models of traditional boats, a restored Pasara boat, a scale model of Izola and a projection about the history of the town.
The traditional Refuscus Mundi festival takes place at the Manzioli Palace in Izola. The Manzioli Palace also houses the Italian Self-Governing National Community, which seeks to preserve the Italian language through educational and cultural activities. At Refuscus Mundi, wine producers from Slovenia, Italy and Croatia present their red wines; the festival also includes guided wine tastings and themed workshops on the red wines of the northern Adriatic.
The archaeological site of Simonov zaliv is protected as a cultural monument of national importance.
Wine and regional specialities
Malvasia and Refosco are among the most characteristic grape varieties of Slovenian Istria. Olive oil tastings in the surrounding area of Izola include several olive oils and other local specialities. Wine tastings in the surrounding area of Izola include a guided tasting of several wines, often accompanied by a homemade snack. If a tasting takes place at the winemaker’s home, it may also include tours of vineyards and wine cellars.
In the surrounding area of Izola, visitors can visit family farms, explore olive groves and learn about the olive oil production process.
Pomol okusov takes place several times a year on Saturdays at the North Pier in Izola. Selected vendors in Izola offer Istrian dishes and drinks there.
Routes and activities
The Parenzana, the former narrow-gauge railway between Trieste and Poreč, is now a cycling and hiking trail that runs through Izola. It is rated as having a medium difficulty level of 3 out of 5 and is suitable for mountain biking because its route consists mainly of forest paths and gravel roads.
The outdoor adventure game “Discover the forgotten secret of Izola” consists of eleven challenges that are solved with a digital companion.
