Bale is the name of a small town in Istria, between Rovinj and Pula. Like many similar towns and villages, it is located on a small hill, a few kilometers from the sea. Bale (or Valle in Italian) keeps a lot of history. The bones of dinosaurs have been found in the Istiran soil (thus, you will find a lot of so-called Paeo Parks around. But Bale has the charm of a peaceful, slow-moving place with the most beautiful woman (as the famous Casanova said; apparently, he was a regular visitor).
You can find a lot more information about Bale on the official site: https://www.bale-valle.hr/en
We spent four days in a camp named Mon Perin, which probably means “the hill of Perun” (Perun is one of the forgotten Slavic gods, a pandan to Nordic Thor and Vedic Indra). However, the camp is not on a hill but on the seashore. And it is enormous!
The official site of the camp is here: https://www.monperin.com/
Our impressions about Mon Perin
The parcels are large, mainly in the pine shade. Everything is working fine, although we felt there were not enough toilets and washing points, considering the number of people the camp can accommodate. Also, the showers, although in a building, were not heated.
On the plus side, there is a market in the camp and a bakery, which is very convenient if you like fresh bread in the morning.
Two restaurants (working in November!): one a kind of classic pizza-spaghetti šlace (San Polo) and one a little bit posh and a bit expensive but with an interesting daily menu (Paleo Park).
There is a lot of playing ground for children (yes, Paleo Park and dinosaurs again), but the highlighted point is the Saltwater Oasis wellness and pool.
Wellness (saunas) guests have to pay (12 euros per person), but the pool is free. What can we say? After an active day, relaxing every evening in a warm, saltwater pool was a pleasure! It is quite an extra quality for the Mon Perin camp.
Mon Perin Score
Location: Perfect. By the sea, far from any disturbance, but with everything easily accesible. Our score is 10.
Environment: Also perfect. Green and blue rapsody. Score: 10
Accessibility: The camp is easy to find and well marked, the entrance is wide enough, and there is enough space for maneuvering your camper or trailer. Our score is 10.
Functionality: Everything works, no problems here. Our score is 10.
Comfort: The toilet and shower building are not heated, which can be uncomfortable on cold mornings. Our score is 8.
Hospitality: Formal add official. Score: 8.
Added values: 10 +10 + 5 = 8
Our score for sports activities: 10; cultural activities: 10; gastronomy: 5. Average: 8
The camp is an excellent starting point for an active lifestyle. You can hike, bike, walk, or swim. There are many cultural sites to see around—if that is your thing, you will not be disappointed. Two restaurants are great, but the menu could be more diversified.
Will we return?
Yes! The stunning environment is magical, the camp is very comfortable, and it is an excellent base for sports activities. However, we would avoid it during the high season. With so many people in one place—that can’t be quiet.