Stara maslina (ulika)

Stone, mortar and a long past, Stara maslina (ulika) is the sort of landmark that makes you read every information plaque.

Good to know

Stara maslina (ulika) stands in Istria, one of the six regions that make up the Croatia most visitors fall for. From the Adriatic shore to the karst mountains and the quiet inland valleys, this part of the country gives you something worth the detour.

A guided tour is usually worth the few extra euros, the stories are the point.

Practical info

• Entry: check the official site for today’s price and hours. These move with the seasons, and some locations close fully outside the main window.
• How to get there: Tap the map for the route. Croatian town parking is mostly paid and marked with blue P signs; if your trip involves an island, build buffer time in for the ferry.

Best time to visit

Aim for May to October at Stara maslina (ulika), and within that, June and September for warm water without the peak crowds. High summer means heat and queues; winter, by contrast, is quiet, cheap and surprisingly handsome inland.

This is part of an open Croatia library by Photograph by John, real places, real maps, no paywall. Share it if it was useful.