The stone town of Bale Valle
One of the most beautiful Istrian jewels is the small town of Bale located on the western coast of Istria. This historic stone town is built on a hill surrounded by endless olive groves and vineyards, and is five kilometers from the sea and pristine seashore. The narrow and stone-paved streets surrounding the medieval castle of the 15th-century Bembo family hide many stories. Even before Roman times, there was an old fortress, and numerous historical documents and remains of buildings testify to the tumultuous past of this city. The bales exude a special atmosphere and are an inspiration to many artists who create and live there. Numerous events during the summer attract visitors who can enjoy different types of art, especially music
Old Town - Castel Soardo – Bembo
Walking through the old town of Bale, sightseeing of stone houses and wandering the paved streets inside the fortified walls, you will surely find Kaštel Soardo – Bembo on your way. One of the most picturesque sights in the town, which is especially emphasized by the beauty of the Gothic-Renaissance facade. Built in the 16th century between the two towers, it first belonged to the Soardo family to become the property of the Bembo family in 1618. It is considered one of the most important monuments in Croatia, and in 2012 it was completely restored. History lovers will be able to visit the Bembo Castle and embark on an adventure of the early modern era.
Lapidarium - crypt in Bale
Lapidarium – crypts are located in the Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Bale.
At the time of construction of today’s church, the stone remains of the older churches were stored in the crypt. There is also a lapidarium in which stone sculptures are preserved, as well as fragments of decorative stone plastic and liturgical furniture from the period from antiquity to the late Middle Ages. In the crypt is also stored a sarcophagus from 1595 in which are stored the remains of Blessed Julian, patron saint of Bale.
Restorants in Bale
The highlight of Croatian and Istrian gastronomy is in Bale and the surrounding area. In this part of Istria you can enjoy restaurants with top quality gastronomic offer based on fresh, local ingredients. In selected restaurants, try dishes prepared with homemade olive oil laced with intense aroma and truffle flavor. We recommend La Grisa Restaurant, Dado, Villa Lav, Mali Mol ect.
Sea and coast
Tourists looking for a holiday by the sea can head to the coast where they will be amazed by the beauty of the blue sea. Just a few minutes from Bale, the Istrian coast is washed by the crystal clear sea. Numerous hidden beaches and bays, as well as unspoiled nature are a true refuge for tourists looking for a complete break away from the bustle of the city, while a number of restaurants along the coast offer a blend of local ingredients with the skillful preparation of local chefs, and are a unique challenge for gourmets. Whether you are on a secluded beach, relaxing in the shade of pine trees, enjoying the delicacies of a local restaurant or spending time on one of the islands of the Istrian waters, do not miss the beautiful sunsets. Find the lost tranquility and indulge yourself in the wildness of its colors.
Bale Water and Paleo Park
This theme water and paleo park with dinosaur-shaped swimming pools is ideally suited to the Istrian landscape. It is located near the well-known paleontological sites, at the Camp Mon Perin in Bale.
As fun and education are a major part of this park’s story, it is an ideal place for parents and children, as well as organized kindergarten and school groups. Free transportation from Bale to Water Park and Paleo Park
Cycling in Istria near Bale
Discovering Istria is extremely popular on a bicycle, and Bale is an ideal starting point for this kind of adventure. Kilometres of off road trails, marked trails through forest areas or trails that stretch along the coast will bring you to the beautiful views and picturesque towns all the way to popular Rovinj and Pula. Professionals who love riding on road bikes will be delighted by the picturesque views, which will each follow one after the other. The roads are not very busy, so you will be able to relax and enjoy the archaeological sites, medieval towns, unspoiled nature, and picturesque views of the vineyards and olive groves, as well as the old tradicional Istrian farmer house “Kažun” (round field shelters, built in stone wall technique) and the traditional stone walls.
Riding
If you are moving from Bale to the seafront and are animal lovers, do not miss the unforgettable company of horses. If you have been acquainted with these animals before, enjoy horse-drawn nature, and if you are just a beginner and have the courage, the experts will introduce you with everything you need to know to get started and fall in love with this sport. Those with a little less courage can simply enjoy the companionship and treasure of these magnificent animals.
