Guest User
January 31, 2023
This was a wonderful experience in the mountains of Istria, close to the border with Slovenia. A truly charming hotel atop a winding and narrow road in the Stari Grad from the modern part of town below. The surrounding scenery presented a range of stunning views of the hills and valley below. Amazingly, we were able to park outside the hotel without charge and I remain confused by the one parking meter 10 yards away which appeared not to be necessary for anyone parked in front of the hotel ! On the first evening, we dined in the restaurant on the ground floor. Service and food both excellent and entertainment provided by a group of male Austrian Cyclists (12 in number) relaxing after a testing day on the hilly terrain around, whom we got talking to. As they were offered a post-dinner schnapps, we felt it only proper we should be considered honorary members of the group and were similarly rewarded by the waiting team, which we very much appreciated. This led me into a conversation with head waiter, Dean, who turned out to be a fan of English Premier League and, amazingly, a particular fan of Arsenal. We thank him in particular for his attentive service and good humour. Thanks also to the endlessly helpful lady at reception who provided us with some details of a local walk which took us down the very steep hillside and along the valley of the River Mirna towards Buzetski Canyon on Saturday ensuring we had a most healthy appetite for dinner that evening. We dined just as well as the first evening at a lovely restaurant just round the corner and up the hill from the hotel, Vero Tartufo, I think, famous for truffles. Breakfast was served on the top floor in a large room with a most abundant presentation of food and very helpful staff. I particularly enjoyed the pre-made cereal/fruit and yoghurt jars and wide range of breads and croissants. The old town is very charming and easily walked around in 15 minutes with plenty of history recorded on various plaques. Minor point : why dinner in restaurant couldn't be charged to room ? Is it a different ownership ? By the way, there was also excellent outdoor seating with beautiful views.