Kraj Drage: Liburnia Cycling Route and Istrian History

Cycling Route 403 Liburnia runs through Kraj Drage, giving the village a clear connection to cycling holidays. The surrounding area is home to fortified settlements, castles and nature attractions; in the area of Općina Sveta Nedelja, hiking trails, historic churches and Istrian cuisine add to the picture. When looking for an apartment, consider whether cycling itself or a mix of activity, culture and scenery should shape your stay.

Cycling through Kraj Drage

The 71-kilometre Cycling Route 403 Liburnia runs from Raša via Čepić, Kršan and Martinski back to Raša, passing through Kraj Drage. The described route also includes Zulijani, Županići and Martinski as far as Snašići. Another section runs via Barbići and a fire road to the Liburna Nature Reserve. The route therefore provides a specific point of reference when choosing a destination.

There are also a variety of trails and landscape features to explore on foot in the municipality. Hiking Trail 861 is 10 kilometres long and links vineyards, freshwater ponds and traditional Istrian cuisine. One of the natural features along this trail is Kalić Dužica, one of the area’s few remaining freshwater habitats. The Šumberske dine are marl formations created by erosion.

Fortified settlements and castles nearby

Kršan, a fortified settlement in the upper part of the Čepić Field, is close to Kraj Drage. Its ruins can be explored on foot. Kožljak Castle can be reached via steps carved into the natural rock. Its complex includes walls and two semicircular towers; below it stands the Romanesque Church of St Hadrian, and the prison has also been preserved. The castle is located on the old road that connected ancient Histria with Liburnia.

Kaštel Šumber is another example of defensive architecture in the surrounding area: the polygonal structure is surrounded by walls and protected by two round half-towers. These varied structures make the fortified settlements a distinct excursion theme alongside the cycling and hiking trails.

Churches and history in Općina Sveta Nedelja

The area of Općina Sveta Nedelja is home to several churches with a range of historical features. The Parish Church of St John and Paul stands on the edge of Šumber, above the Raša Gorge. It was built in 1679, and two side chapels were added in 1705. The Gothic Chapel of St Quirinus in the Šumber cemetery was remodelled in the Baroque style in the 18th century and is in good condition.

The Church of Our Lady of Dren, near the Šumber cemetery, was also extensively restored in the 18th and 19th centuries and is in good condition. The local festival of Petangošt is associated with this church.

Trails, landscape and Istrian cuisine

In the wider destination of Općina Sveta Nedelja, the Šumberske Dine walking trail passes through an area of marl dunes. It is 7.3 kilometres long and links natural features, local family-run businesses and unspoilt nature. Along with the 10-kilometre Hiking Trail 861, it offers a second, shorter distance to consider when planning. Check current trail conditions before setting out.

The agricultural family business Giovanna Allegra is one of the municipality’s culinary attractions. It welcomes visitors and offers traditional Istrian dishes. Confirm your visit and the menu before you arrive. This can combine a walk or bike ride with a specific taste of local cuisine, provided your visit arrangements are confirmed.

Nature and art attractions in the area

The Liburna Nature Reserve protects native livestock breeds and is home to sociable donkeys; it also houses an ethnographic collection of old tools. The Liburnia cycling route passes via Barbići and a fire road to the reserve. Further afield is the entrance to the tunnel through which the former Lake Čepić was drained and converted into fertile farmland; visitors can see the tunnel entrance.

The Dubrova Sculpture Park is another nearby destination: this 33-hectare open-air gallery is open 24 hours a day, year-round, and admission is free. Check visitor information before setting out. The Dolac Amphitheatre hosts art performances, concerts, theatre and other events; the programme may change.

In the wider destination of Općina Sveta Nedelja, Bijela cesta in the Dubrova Sculpture Park adds a walking trail to the art experience, with 16 sections measuring 25 metres each. Since 1970, the International Sculpture Symposium has added sculptures made from Istrian stone to the collection every year. These regional attractions broaden the options for a stay, while the cycling route through Kraj Drage provides a specific local connection.

Discover more destinations

Martinski, Novaki, Kerestinec, Ružići, Frančići, Veli Turini, Rakitje, Veli Golji.

For the wider travel overview: Općina Sveta Nedelja.