Day 2: Monday, November 3rd

Farms, Flavors & Michelin Magic

Get ready for an unforgettable day with Chef Luka Košir and his team, masters of farm-to-table dining! At Grič (Slovenian for "hill"), we’ll savor traditional dishes with a creative twist, made with ingredients sourced almost entirely from Luka’s family farm—including gardens, forests, and his very own heritage ducks.

Goats, Cheese & Ducks—Oh My!

We’ll start with a scenic drive to one of Slovenia’s top cheese makers for an exclusive peek behind the scenes. Meet the adorable goats and sample some of the region’s finest artisanal cheeses. Next, it’s off to Chef Luka’s duck farm, where he’s been raising heritage breeds since 2013. This stop is all about understanding the journey from farm to plate, connecting chefs and ingredients in a truly meaningful way.

Michelin-Star Magic

Our culinary adventure hits new heights at Chef Luka’s Michelin-starred restaurant, Brunarica Grič. This gem also boasts a Michelin Green Star for its commitment to sustainability. You’ll indulge in a multi-course tasting menu paired with exquisite wines—a feast that’s as delicious as it is eco-friendly.

Overnight: Hotel Intercontinental (5-Star)
Hotel Details

Prepare for a day of incredible flavors, farm-fresh insights, and Michelin-starred memories!

Day 3: Tuesday, November 4th 

Bled: Castles, Boats & Sweet Treats

Today, we’re off to the storybook town of Bled, nestled in the stunning Julian Alps. Our adventure kicks off with a ride across Lake Bled in a traditional wooden pletna boat—a tradition since the 1500s! This charming vessel will take us to Slovenia’s only island, home to the iconic Church of Mary the Queen, the most photographed spot in the country.

Next, we’ll enjoy a cozy homemade Slovenian lunch at a historic homestead, where you’ll also learn the secrets behind potica, Slovenia’s beloved rolled pastry. Trust us, it’s as delicious as it sounds!

After lunch, it’s time to explore Bled Castle, perched high above the lake with jaw-dropping views of the Alps. This thousand-year-old fortress is a treasure trove of history and a perfect spot for soaking in the breathtaking scenery.

We’ll return to Ljubljana in the early evening, giving you time for more city exploration at your leisure.

Overnight: Hotel Intercontinental (5-Star) Hotel Details

Prepare for a day filled with stunning views, local flavors, and unforgettable memories!

Day 4: Wednesday, November 5th
 

1492 Will Take on a Whole New Meaning for You! 

Today, history and flavor come together as we head to BioSing, home to the legendary sausage maker, David Lesar. The roots of his craft trace back to 1492 when traveling woodworkers perfected sausage-making to fuel their long journeys. David has taken this centuries-old tradition and transformed it into a globally celebrated art form, with his creations gracing the tables of world-renowned restaurants.

Our visit begins in BioSing’s cellar, where the secrets of sausage perfection unfold. From the technology to the techniques, we’ll learn how David’s passion turns simple ingredients into masterpieces. And, of course, we’ll taste! Paired with exceptional wines from David’s incredible private cellar—one of the finest in Europe—you’ll indulge in an array of sausages, including the region’s iconic kožnca. For a special treat, there’s a local surprise you won’t want to miss.

Into the Depths of Wonder

Next, we’ll journey to Slovenia’s natural marvel—the Postojna Caves. A charming train ride takes us deep into this underground wonderland, followed by a leisurely guided tour. You’ll be mesmerized by the ancient formations and the magic of this subterranean world.

Hello, Rovinj!

From the depths of the caves, we’ll emerge into the coastal beauty of Rovinj, Croatia. This enchanting town will be our home for the next few nights. After checking in at the luxurious 5-star Hotel Lone, we’ll wind down with a laid-back seaside pizza dinner—just the thing to toast the day’s adventures.

Overnight Stay: Hotel Lone (5-Star)
Hotel Details

Prepare for a day filled with history, flavor, natural wonders, and coastal charm!

Day 5: Thursday, November 6th: A Day of Discovery and Delight in Istria

Market Exploration

Dive into the vibrant heart of Istria with a morning exploration of Rovinj's bustling farmers' and fish markets. Here, the essence of local life comes alive in the form of colorful produce, fresh seafood, and handcrafted goods. As you wander through the lively stalls, engage with the vendors, sample regional delicacies, and immerse yourself in the authentic flavors of Croatia.

City Center Charm

After our market adventure, the enchanting streets of Rovinj await. Enjoy free time to explore the charming city center and old town at your own pace. Meander through cobblestone alleys lined with quaint boutiques, artisan shops, and cozy cafes. Pause to admire the stunning coastal views and historic architecture that make Rovinj a true Adriatic treasure.

Embrace "Fjaka" 

Round out your day by embracing the Croatian concept of fjaka, a blissful state of relaxation and leisure. How you spend this time is entirely up to you:

Unwind with a soothing spa treatment or rejuvenate in the saunas and baths.

Energize your day with a workout in our state-of-the-art gym.

Stroll along the picturesque Adriatic coastline, breathing in the salty sea air and soaking up the tranquil atmosphere.

Whether you're drawn to the vibrancy of the markets, the charm of the old town, or the serene beauty of the seaside, this day is yours to experience Istria in your own perfect way.

Overnight Stay: Hotel Lone (5-Star) Hotel Details

Day 6: Friday, Nov 7th: Truffles, Treats, and Timeless Sights: A Journey Through Istria

Today, we dive straight into the heart of Truffle Country for an adventure unlike any other. Guided by a local truffle expert and their sharp-nosed dogs, we’ll scour the forest in search of hidden treasures buried beneath the soil. The thrill of the hunt culminates in a delightful truffle tasting, where we’ll savor the luxurious flavors of this culinary gold.

Next, we’ll raise our glasses at a charming distillery—a liquid paradise tucked away in the countryside. Enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour and sip on some of their finest spirits, crafted with care and bursting with character.

From there, it’s a scenic drive through Istria’s rolling hills to the enchanting hilltop village of Grožnjan. Known for its vibrant artistic vibe, this medieval gem invites you to wander its quaint streets, explore galleries, and soak in the creative energy of its peaceful surroundings.

Our evening brings us to Alla Beccaccia, an iconic countryside retreat that started as an old hunting lodge and now shines as a family-run Michelin treasure. This cozy spot, lovingly run by a husband-and-wife team, is celebrated for its exquisite braised meats and deep-rooted Istrian flavors. Sit back, relax, and indulge in a meal that’s steeped in tradition and bursting with warmth—a perfect finale to our unforgettable day.

Overnight Stay: Hotel Lone (5-Star) Hotel Details

Day 7: Sat, Nov 8th 

Oil and Water…do mix and MORE Michelin Bites

Today, we set sail into the serene waters of the Adriatic, diving into the world of Croatia's prized flat oysters, straight from the source at the Limski Kanal—the country's longest and most vibrant bay. At a charming local oyster shack, you'll savor these briny delicacies, freshly plucked alongside exquisite clams, while soaking in the beauty of this ecological haven.

Next, we head to Vodnjan, a small town with big claims to fame. It's home to Croatia’s top olive oil producers, earning the region the title of world’s best olive oil for an incredible eight years in a row. 

Vodnjan is also a hub for eye-popping street art, with an annual festival turning the town into an open-air gallery. At a visit to the country’s premier olive oil producer, you'll hear their inspiring story and indulge in a tasting that will transform your view of this golden elixir.

From there, we journey to Pula, a city steeped in over 3,000 years of history. Our private tour of the awe-inspiring Roman Amphitheater, the Arena, and its ancient streets offers a glimpse into this coastal town’s storied past.

The grand finale of the day brings us to Batelina, the Michelin-starred restaurant of Croatia’s culinary legend, Chef David Skoko. Here, you’ll indulge in a seafood feast like no other, crafted with artistry and passion. To top it all off, a surprise awaits during dinner, making this an unforgettable evening of gastronomic delights.

Overnight Stay: Hotel Lone – 5-Star Luxury Learn More

Day 8: Sunday, November 9th  

Farewell to an Unforgettable Culinary Adventure 

Checkout

As the sun graces our final day, we reluctantly bid farewell to the enchanting landscapes of Croatia and Slovenia, turning our course toward Venice, where our remarkable culinary tour concludes. Before parting ways, we venture to the picturesque hilltop village of Groznjan in Croatia, celebrated for its charm and beauty. A haven for artists, the village is adorned with studios and galleries, inviting you to explore its romantic medieval alleys at your leisure. 

Our journey back to Venice includes a stop in the captivating Trieste, where we'll indulge in coffee and shopping at Eataly—an Italian haven showcasing the finest in food and drink. With a mission to bring the best of Italian cuisine to the world, Eataly lives up to its name, blending "EAT" and "ITALY" seamlessly. Trieste, with its name derived from the Latin "Tergeste," meaning "marketplace," aligns perfectly with our visit to Eataly.

Anticipate our return to Venice by early evening, allowing you some time to wander the city at your own pace. As we bid our farewells, we are confident that the indelible memories forged during this culinary odyssey will linger with you. Your palate has danced with enchanting flavors, your understanding of wine has evolved, and your appreciation for the artistry behind exceptional cuisine has deepened.

As you journey back home, carry the joy of discovering new tastes, the warmth of shared moments with fellow food and wine enthusiasts, and the assurance that the world of culinary delights eagerly awaits your return. Safe travels, and until our paths cross again, may your passion for wine and food continue to illuminate your journey.

Culinarily yours,

Chef Richard Gruica, Chef Bruce Moffett, Captivating Croatia Tours, and The Gourmet Vacation Team