The Parenzana is no ordinary cycling route. It follows the trackbed of a historic narrow-gauge railway that connected Trieste with Poreč from 1902 to 1935 – running directly through the Istrian hills around Višnjan. For guests of Villa Verde, it’s a highlight that can be explored from the very first day.
From Steam Engine to Gravel Bike
For over 30 years, the narrow-gauge railway rattled through vineyards, olive groves and small villages – until it gave way to road traffic in 1935. Today, the 123 km network between Trieste and Poreč has become one of the most popular cycling routes on the Adriatic.
The route is well-signposted throughout, easy to ride and can be broken into stages. Gravel bikes and e-trekking bikes are ideal; mountain bikes work well too. Road bikes are less suitable on the gravel sections.
The name Parenzana comes from Parenzo – the Italian name for Poreč. The route still connects places that were once under Venetian, Austro-Hungarian and Yugoslav rule.
The Best Stages from Višnjan
The Višnjan → Poreč route is perfect for the evening – have dinner in Poreč and take a taxi back. Bikes stay in Poreč, collected the next day.
Access is right on the doorstep – no transfer needed:
- Višnjan → Poreč · approx. 18 km, mostly downhill, ideal for beginners and e-bikes
- Višnjan → Grožnjan · approx. 22 km, uphill into the hills, artist village as destination
- Višnjan → Buje · approx. 35 km, views across the entire peninsula
- Full day stage · Poreč → Višnjan → Grožnjan → back, approx. 55 km
- Višnjan → Trieste · approx. 90 km, the complete northern route via Buje and Koper – an unforgettable day stage for the very sporty
Practical Information
Total length
123 km (Trieste – Poreč)
Croatian section: approx. 78 km
Difficulty
Medium · hilly, in stages
E-bike for uphill sections
Surface
Gravel & paved paths
Gravel bike or MTB ideal
Bike rental
Poreč (several providers)
E-bikes & gravel bikes available
Best time
April – June
September – October
Start from Villa Verde
Direct access in Višnjan
No transfer needed
Villa Verde as Your Base
The Parenzana starts right outside the door – no transfer, no planning. Just get on and ride. Check availability now and plan your cycling holiday in Istria.
