Vacation in Tar

Are you looking for the perfect combination of peace, culture, and beach, without paying top dollar? Welcome to Tar (Tar-Vabriga), a charming and authentic village situated on a gently sloping hill on the beautiful west coast of Istria, Croatia. Tar offers the best of both worlds: the serene tranquility of the Croatian countryside, surrounded by vast olive groves, and the close proximity to bustling coastal towns.

From your comfortable holiday home in Tar, you will be in popular surrounding places such as historic Poreč, cozy Novigrad, and the picturesque fishing village of Funtana in no time. The impressive culture of Rovinj and the breathtaking nature of the Lim Fjord are also nearby. Whether you choose a relaxing sun holiday by the Adriatic Sea or want to soak up the region's culture, Tar is the ultimate starting point.

Do you want a flexible and budget-friendly getaway? A last-minute holiday to Tar is the ideal way to enjoy an affordable vacation in Europe. Where Southern Europe can sometimes seem unaffordable, Istria remains a fantastic destination for travelers who manage their budget wisely. In Tar, you enjoy the Mediterranean sun, crystal-clear water, and delicious food for a fraction of the price of traditional West European seaside resorts.

By choosing a stay just outside the busiest tourist hotspots, you save significantly on your accommodation, while the beaches of Lanterna and Santa Marina are literally just around the corner. This keeps a summer holiday with the whole family affordable and comfortable.

Wondering what there is to experience during your stay? There is plenty to do in Tar for young and old. Tar is world-renowned for its excellent quality olive oil; a visit to a local olive grove and a tasting session is therefore a must.

• Action at the Aquapark: For families, the nearby Istralandia, one of the largest water parks in Europe, is an absolute highlight.
• History in Poreč: Visit the iconic Euphrasian Basilica (a UNESCO World Heritage site) in Poreč, just a 10-minute drive away.
• Beach and water sports: The beaches on the Lanterna peninsula offer excellent facilities for sailing, diving, and windsurfing.
• Cycling and walking: Explore the surrounding region via the famous Parenzana route, an old railway line that has now been transformed into a beautiful cycling and walking path.

Tar is a versatile destination suitable for a wide variety of travel groups. Thanks to the diverse range of accommodations and activities, you can put together the exact trip that suits you:

• Family holiday in Tar: With quiet beaches, safe cycling paths, and the best amusement parks nearby, this is a paradise for families with children.
• Active holiday in Tar: Ideal for mountain bikers, hikers, and water sports enthusiasts who want to explore the rugged nature of Istria.
• Cultural holiday in Tar: Discover Roman history, visit medieval hilltop towns in the interior (such as Motovun), and enjoy the local gastronomy.
• Dog owners: Many beaches and holiday homes in the region are highly dog-friendly, perfect for a holiday with your four-legged friend.

To fully enjoy your well-deserved rest, a pleasant home base is essential. You can easily and safely book a holiday home in Tar and the surrounding area through Leisure Time. Whether you choose a luxury villa with a private pool among the olive groves, or a cozy, authentic apartment close to the center; the selection is carefully curated to offer you the perfect holiday experience.

Why book through Leisure Time? Enjoy reliable service, transparent prices, and the most beautiful locations in Istria. This guarantees a carefree start to your holiday.

Are Tar and Vabriga located directly on the beach?

Tar and Vabriga are located on a fertile plateau, approximately 112 meters above sea level. Although the villages themselves are not right on the waterfront, you have a beautiful view over the sea and the Mirna river. By car, bicycle, or the tourist train, you can reach the popular beaches of the adjacent Lanterna peninsula or the quiet bay of Santa Marina within a few minutes.

Why is Tar world-renowned for its olive oil?

According to international experts (including the UN organization FAO), the region around Tar-Vabriga produces the best olive oil in the world. The olive groves of Larun, just below Tar, have been producing liquid gold since Roman times. During your holiday, you can visit numerous local farmers (olivetari) for an authentic tasting.

Is it easy to park in Tar and are there charging stations for electric cars?

Yes, Tar is very car-friendly. The village has a large central parking lot (near the local market). Are you traveling to Croatia with an electric car? Right next to this central market in the town center, you will find a public electric charging station, so you can easily charge your battery for your trips around Istria.

Do I need to book in advance for activities like Istralandia or boat trips?

For the nearby water park Aquapark Istralandia and popular boat trips (such as dolphin watching from Novigrad or a trip to the Lim Fjord), it is highly recommended to book tickets online in advance during the high season. This prevents long queues in the burning sun. When you book a holiday home through Leisure Time, you can often get tips from guest services on booking these excursions in advance.

Is a vignette required to drive to Tar?

You do not need a vignette for Croatia itself (and therefore Istria); here you pay tolls (cestarina) at the toll booths on the highway, which can easily be done by debit or credit card nowadays. Please note: when traveling to Tar by car from countries like the Netherlands or Belgium, you will need vignettes for the transit countries Austria and Slovenia.

What supermarkets and facilities are available in Tar?

Despite its quiet character, Tar is fully equipped with all conveniences. You will find larger supermarkets (such as Plodine and Tommy) for your daily groceries, local bakeries, a pharmacy, and an ATM. For larger shopping centers or a visit to Lidl/Kaufland, you can drive to the edge of Poreč in less than 10 minutes.

The scent of the salty sea, fresh truffles, and ancient olive groves awaits you. Tar is the hidden gem of Istria that will make your holiday heart beat faster. Don't wait any longer and secure the best spot for yourself.

Check out the current availability and book your holiday home in Tar directly through Leisure Time!

Are you traveling from the Netherlands or Belgium by car or plane? Plan your journey to Tar easily and start the anticipation!