Six tunnels, four viaducts and 21 kilometres of gravel: this is the classic descent through northern Istria to Livade’s old railway station.
Parenzana arrives in Livade
The former Trieste–Poreč narrow-gauge railway is now one of Istria’s signature cycling and walking routes. The celebrated Grožnjan–Oprtalj–Livade section runs for about 21 kilometres over gravel, passing six tunnels, four viaducts and a sequence of Mirna Valley viewpoints before reaching the former station in Livade.
The forest that makes the story possible
Motovun Forest extends along the Mirna River Valley toward Livade. Protected as a special forest vegetation reserve since 1963, it preserves a rare lowland Mediterranean forest community of common oak, narrow-leafed ash and elm. The official protected area covers 275 hectares.
When to come
Livade is easiest to explore by car or bicycle. Because event dates, forest access and individual business opening hours can change, verify practical details with the Oprtalj-Portole Tourist Board and official event organisers before travelling.
