Another great campsite on Istria’s west coast is in the idyllic town of Vrsar. We visited it out of season at the beginning of March and were not disappointed. Incidentally, the campsite was almost full even then, mostly with guests from Austria and Germany who – what a wonder! – spend the whole winter here.

Vrsar is located above the Lim Channel, on its northern part, and is connected to Poreč by a ten-kilometer-long promenade. Arrival is pleasant and easy, best from the Slovenian side, from the direction of Koper, then about fifty kilometers along the Istrian Y and a few kilometers along the local road. Campsite Porto Sole is on the south side of Vrsar, on the way to Koversada and the entrance to the Lim Channel. The official website of the campsite is here: https://www.maistra.com/properties/campsite-porto-sole/#/

The campsite has excellent infrastructure, including all the usual camping needs (electricity and water on every pitch) and excellent internet in every corner of the campsite. A small remark concerns the size of the plots, which are somewhat smaller than other campsites of the same status. This is not so much a problem as many plots are on sloping terrain, which is a challenge for leveling campers or caravans. The bay in front of the campsite is very nice, but relatively small for the number of guests staying here during the season. However, you can find a place by the sea on both sides of the campsite.

We praise the new building’s showers, toilets, and other necessary amenities (chemical toilets, a place to wash dishes, etc.). For example, we were pleasantly surprised by the fact that there are separate sections for morning hygiene. Otherwise, in most campsites, this is an open space, and sometimes, one really appreciates privacy when brushing teeth, shaving, or other similar “activities.”

There is also one uniqueness in this building that we have not encountered anywhere else: the possibility of renting private saunas and jacuzzis! For a relatively low price of around thirty euros, you can enjoy a hot tub with bubbles all day with a view that seems to belong in an exotic postcard. Or, if you prefer, a sauna with the same view for a slightly higher but still acceptable price.

Other options around the camp include walking, cycling, and sports activities—hey, it’s Istria! There is everything your heart desires: long promenades, paths through vineyards, the magical Kontija forest, a few kilometers from the camp, or the Limski Kanal, worth visiting along its banks or by boat. The Vrsar is a picture of old Istira, with fantastic street views.

Location: Perfect. By the sea, far from any disturbance, but with everything easily accessible. Our score is 10.

Environment: Perfect, with the small bay in front and the surrounding pine forest. Score: 10

Accessibility: The camp is easy to find and well-marked. The entrance is wide enough, but the parcels are somewhat small and sometimes hard to maneuver. We do not recommend large campers or caravans. Our score is 7.

Functionality: Perfect in every way. Our score is 10.

Comfort: The toilet and shower buildings are new, heated, and have extra privacy. Our score is 10.

Hospitality: Warm, informative, and open. Score: 9.

Added values: 10 +10 + 6 = 8

Our score for sports activities: 10; cultural activities: 10; gastronomy: 6. 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. In Vrsar, restaurants are as usual, but Poreč is just 10 km away, and there you can even find a vegan restaurant and some really good pizzas.