Plizio Visual Lab

Tupljak

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

City

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Practical info — Tupljak

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🌤 Weather — 5 days

📍 Nearby

Sights nearby

💡 Tips

Check out the mining monument in the center, commemorating Croatia's last operational coal mine, which closed here in 1999.
Hike to the 'Drunken Railway' (Pijana pruga) near Kožljak, where the tracks have warped into surreal waves due to shifting terrain.
Pair your visit with a trip to the hilltop town of Pićan to see its massive medieval town gates and bell tower.
Look for the Sopot waterfall nearby; it's one of Istria's hidden gems, featuring a 30-meter drop and an ancient stone bridge.
Embrace the local 'Pomalo' lifestyle; life in this part of Istria is slow, quiet, and centered on tradition.

🍽 Food

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Labinski Krafi

Ravioli-like pasta filled with cheese, raisins, and lemon zest; try them savory with sauce or sweet.

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Maneštra with corn

A thick, traditional vegetable stew with pounded corn, once the staple fuel for local miners.

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Karbun Gin

A unique local gin served with activated charcoal, a nod to Tupljak's coal mining heritage.

🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots

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Biska (Mistletoe Brandy)

A traditional Istrian herbal spirit with a secret recipe from the nearby Buzet/Pićan area.

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Local Family Wine

Look for small family-run OPGs to buy robust Teran red wine directly from the producers.

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Sopot Waterfall path

A serene trail through forests and fields leading to a hidden, peaceful natural site.

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Pićan City Walls

A quiet spot near the old fortification of Pićan with vast views over the Istrian valleys.

Tupljak is located in the hilly hinterland of Labin and has a deep connection to mining. The last coal mine in Croatia was closed here in 1999, marking the end of a centuries-old era of mining in Istria. Today, a monument and industrial architecture recall this tough but defining period for the local community. In recent years, Tupljak has transformed into a quiet residential and holiday spot. The surrounding landscape is characterized by dense forests and agricultural land. Many old stone houses have been lovingly restored and now serve as holiday homes with modern comforts, without losing their traditional charm. The location provides good opportunities for exploratory tours to Labin or the beaches of Rabac. Hikers and cyclists appreciate the low-traffic paths through the Istrian hinterland. Nearby, you'll also find cozy agritourism establishments serving local specialties such as truffles, homemade pasta, and top-quality wines.