Goriška Brda & Collio Wine Region 10-Day Trip Itinerary

Travel to Collio

Drive from Dutovlje to the heart of the Collio wine region in Italy, a scenic journey through charming Karst landscapes.

Your luxury accommodation awaits.

Check into Wine Resort

Settle into your elegant accommodation at Venica & Venica Wine Resort, known for its beautiful setting amidst vineyards and its renowned wines.

Take some time to explore the resort grounds and relax before your first tasting.

Venica & Venica Wine Tasting

Enjoy a private guided tasting of the exceptional wines produced by Venica & Venica, specializing in local varietals like Ribolla Gialla and Friulano.

Booking required. Learn about their winemaking philosophy and the unique terroir of Collio.

Gourmet Dinner at Resort

Savor a exquisite dinner at the resort's restaurant, featuring local ingredients paired perfectly with their wines.

Experience the rich cultural cuisine of the region.

Reservations highly recommended. Enjoy the serene vineyard views.

Morning Run in Vineyards

Start your day with an independent run or brisk walk through the picturesque vineyards surrounding the resort.

Enjoy the fresh morning air and stunning vistas.

Ask the resort for recommended routes. The rolling hills offer a beautiful challenge.

Explore Šmartno Village

Drive across the border to Slovenia and visit Šmartno, a charming medieval village within the Goriška Brda wine region.

Walk the cobbled streets and enjoy panoramic views.

Often referred to as the 'pearl of Brda,' it's a preserved cultural monument. Free parking usually available outside the village walls.

Lunch in Goriška Brda

Enjoy a traditional Slovenian lunch at a local agriturismo or trattoria in the Goriška Brda region, savoring regional specialties.

Šošič Winery Tasting

Experience a tasting at Šošič Winery, a highly regarded family-run winery in Goriška Brda, known for their focus on natural winemaking and indigenous varieties.

Advance booking is essential for a personalized experience. Explore their cellars and vineyards.

Dinner at Local Gostilna

Indulge in a delightful dinner at a traditional 'gostilna' (Slovenian inn) known for its authentic regional dishes and warm hospitality.

Ask your accommodation for recommendations or try a place near Šmartno. Enjoy the relaxed evening.

Collio Morning Hike

Embark on an invigorating independent hike or walk through the beautiful Collio countryside. Discover hidden paths and enjoy the tranquil vineyard scenery.

Wear comfortable shoes. Many trails are well-marked and offer stunning views.

Discover Cormòns

Visit the charming Italian town of Cormòns, the unofficial capital of the Collio wine region.

Explore its historic center, including the Rocca di Cormons and the Church Of St. Leopold.

Lunch in Cormòns

Savor a delicious Italian lunch at a local trattoria in Cormòns, perhaps trying some Friulian specialties.

Schioppetto Winery Visit

Indulge in a tasting experience at Schioppetto Winery, a historic and acclaimed producer in Collio, renowned for its Picolit and other premium wines.

Booking is highly recommended for tours and tastings. This is a chance to taste some of the region's best.

Relaxing Dinner at Resort

Enjoy a more relaxed evening with dinner at your resort, allowing for a leisurely pace and the opportunity to unwind.

Consider dining al fresco if the weather permits.

Morning Yoga/Stretch

Start your Monday with a gentle yoga session or stretching, perhaps in a peaceful spot on the resort grounds or overlooking the vineyards.

Enjoy the quiet morning for personal wellness.

Panoramic Vineyard Drive

Take a scenic drive through the more remote parts of Goriška Brda and Collio, discovering breathtaking viewpoints and charming hamlets off the beaten path.

Stop at local viewpoints for photos. This is a great opportunity to just wander and enjoy the beauty.

Light Lunch in Cormòns

Enjoy a lighter lunch in Cormòns, perhaps a selection of local cheeses and cured meats paired with a glass of regional wine.

Ronchi di Cialrís Winery

Visit Ronchi di Cialrís, a smaller, family-run winery that offers a more intimate tasting experience, focusing on organic production and unique blends.

Reservations are essential for this boutique experience. Discover their commitment to sustainable winemaking.

Upscale Collio Dinner

Treat yourselves to an upscale gourmet dinner at one of the highly-rated restaurants in the Collio region, celebrating local culinary artistry.

Consider 'La Subida' in Cormòns for a truly memorable experience. Reservations are crucial.

Final Morning Walk

Enjoy a final independent walk or gentle jog through the vineyards, soaking in the last moments of the serene Collio landscape.

A perfect way to clear your head before transitioning to your next destination.

Local Market Exploration

If available, visit a local market in a nearby town to pick up some regional delicacies, cheeses, or olive oil to take home.

Markets might be less frequent on Tuesdays; check local schedules. Gorizia offers more options for markets if Cormòns is quiet.

Farewell Wine Tasting

Enjoy one last intimate wine tasting at a local winery you haven't visited yet, or revisit a favorite for some last-minute bottle purchases.

Many wineries offer shipping services if you find something you love.

Check-out & Depart

Complete your check-out process from the Venica & Venica Wine Resort, and prepare for your onward journey to the next segment of your trip along the Slovenian Coast.

Ensure you have all your purchases and memories packed! The drive to the coast is scenic and takes approximately 1 hour.

Travel to Piran

Enjoy a scenic drive from the Goriška Brda/Collio region to the picturesque Slovenian coast.

The journey offers varied landscapes as you approach the Adriatic Sea.

Ensure you have your accommodation details handy for check-in.

Check-in & Settle In

Check into your luxurious accommodation in Portorož, allowing time to unpack and relax after your journey.

Enjoy the amenities of your hotel upon arrival.

Lunch in Piran

Head to Piran for a delightful lunch at a waterfront restaurant, savoring fresh seafood and local Istrian specialties.

Piran Old Town Stroll

Wander through the enchanting narrow streets of Piran's old town, taking in the Venetian architecture and charming squares.

Explore Tartini Square, the heart of the town.

Piran is mostly pedestrianized, making it perfect for leisurely exploration on foot.

Sunset Aperitivo

Find a cozy bar overlooking the Adriatic Sea in Piran for an aperitivo as you watch the sunset.

Gourmet Dinner

Return to Portorož for a gourmet dinner experience, perhaps at one of the hotel's restaurants or a nearby upscale eatery.

St. George's Church & Walls

Visit the majestic St.

George's Church and climb the Piran Town Walls for breathtaking panoramic views of the town, the Adriatic Sea, and the surrounding coastline.

The walk up to the church and walls can be steep but is very rewarding. Wear comfortable shoes.

Maritime Museum

Explore the Sergej Mašera Maritime Museum to delve into Piran's rich seafaring history, from ancient times to modern days.

Seaside Lunch

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a restaurant right by the sea in Piran, sampling more fresh catch of the day.

Afternoon Swim & Relax

Find a quiet spot along the Piran coast or return to Portorož for a refreshing swim in the Adriatic Sea.

Relax by the water with a book.

Bring swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. The sea is usually warm and pleasant in June.

Istrian Wine Tasting

Indulge in a tasting of local Istrian wines, known for their unique character, particularly Malvasia and Refošk. Several wine bars in Piran or Portorož offer guided tastings.

Casual Dinner

Enjoy a more casual dinner in Portorož, perhaps a traditional pizzeria or a konoba (tavern) serving hearty local dishes.

Coastal Run/Walk

Start your day with an invigorating independent run or brisk walk along the coastal promenade between Portorož and Piran, enjoying the fresh sea air.

The path is relatively flat and offers beautiful sea views. Perfect for an independent workout.

Relaxing Spa Treatment

Indulge in a luxurious spa treatment at your hotel's LifeClass Spa, known for its wellness offerings.

Choose from massages, thalassotherapy, or a dip in the thermal pools.

Book your preferred treatment in advance to ensure availability.

Lunch in Portorož

Enjoy a healthy and delicious lunch at a restaurant in Portorož, perhaps focusing on light Mediterranean dishes.

Sečovlje Salt Pans

Visit the Sečovlje Salina Nature Park, one of the last remaining traditional salt pans in the Mediterranean.

Learn about salt harvesting and enjoy the unique natural landscape.

There is a museum and walking paths. Consider bringing binoculars for birdwatching.

Sunset Cocktails

Sip on refreshing cocktails at a stylish bar in Portorož, watching the sunset over the sparkling bay.

Fine Dining Experience

Indulge in a memorable fine dining experience in Portorož, exploring modern Slovenian cuisine with a coastal twist.

Bike Ride on Parenzana

Rent bikes and cycle a portion of the scenic Parenzana trail, an old railway line converted into a cycling path, offering stunning views and tunnels. Cycle towards Izola.

Bike rentals are available in Portorož. This is a beautiful way to enjoy the coastal landscape and get a workout.

Explore Izola Old Town

Discover the charming fishing town of Izola, known for its authentic atmosphere, marina, and narrow streets.

Stroll through the old town and browse local shops.

Izola offers a more relaxed and local feel compared to Piran or Portorož.

Lunch in Izola

Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch at a traditional 'gostilna' (inn) or restaurant in Izola, known for its excellent local cuisine.

Local Craft Shopping

Browse local boutiques and art galleries in Izola for unique souvenirs, handmade crafts, and local products.

Look for local olive oil, lavender products, and artisan goods.

Return to Portorož

Cycle or take a short taxi ride back to Portorož from Izola.

Craft Brewery Experience

Discover a local craft brewery near Portorož or Koper (a short drive away) and sample some Slovenian artisanal beers.

Farewell Dinner on Coast

Enjoy a special farewell dinner at a high-end restaurant in Portorož, savoring the final tastes of the Slovenian coast.

Relaxed Breakfast

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel or a charming cafe in Portorož, soaking in the last morning views of the coast.

Last Swim / Souvenir Shopping

Take one last refreshing swim in the sea or use the time for some final souvenir shopping in Portorož or Piran.

Look for local olive oil, salt, and handcrafted items.

Farewell Lunch

Savor a final delicious lunch by the sea, perhaps revisiting a favorite spot or trying a new one in Portorož.

Hotel Checkout

Complete the check-out process from your hotel in Portorož.

Return to Dutovlje

Embark on the short, scenic drive back to Dutovlje, concluding your 10-night coastal getaway.