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Želiski

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

City

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Practical info — Želiski

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🌤 Weather — 5 days

📍 Nearby

Sights nearby

💡 Tips

Drive to the Puntera viewpoint for a dramatic panorama over the Raša valley and the Adriatic Sea.
A car is essential here to reach the best hidden taverns and the secluded swimming spots in Raša Bay.
Visit during the third weekend of August to witness the traditional 'Trka na prstenac' horse race in Barban.
Take advantage of the cooler morning hours for cycling through the oak forests surrounding the village.
Explore the old stone architecture in Želiski to see the traditional Istrian building style.

🍽 Food

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Fuži with Truffles

This handmade pasta is a staple of Istrian cuisine; try it at Konoba Vorichi in the nearby village.

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Istrian Pršut

The local ham is dry-cured in the salty 'bura' wind, giving it a unique and intense flavor.

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Wild Asparagus

In spring, look for dishes featuring freshly picked wild asparagus from the surrounding woods.

🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots

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Barban Market

Visit on Saturdays for fresh regional produce, honey, and homemade brandies.

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Edi Radola Winery

A local family-run winery where you can buy authentic Malvazija and Teran wines.

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Local Olive Oil

Look for small signs at farmhouse gates to buy fresh, high-quality olive oil directly.

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Raša Bay

A fjord-like bay with calm waters, convenient for peaceful walks along the shoreline away from crowds.

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Oak Forests

The hiking trails around Želiski lead through dense forests and offer absolute silence.

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Puntera Plateau

A wide-open area with sea views, great for a sunset picnic in nature.

Želiski is a small, authentic village in the southern part of central Istria, just a few kilometers from the historical town of Barban. It embodies the typical atmosphere of the Istrian hinterland, far from the main tourist crowds. The village architecture is defined by robust stone houses, often arranged around a central courtyard (dvoria), reflecting the communal life of bygone days. The surroundings of Želiski are gently rolling hills characterized by a mix of Mediterranean forests and agricultural land. In recent years, the village has become a popular destination for travelers seeking to relax in carefully renovated stone villas equipped with modern amenities like pools. Despite this modernization, the place has kept its rural charm, where you can still hear the rooster crowing in the morning and neighbors greeting each other by the well. The location is strategically excellent: the Bay of Raša is just a short drive away, offering hidden swimming spots and excellent fish restaurants. For active travelers, Želiski is a well-suited stop on the Barban cycling network that winds through untouched nature. A nearby highlight is Barban itself, famous for the 'Trka na prstenac' knightly tournament. In Želiski, guests can enjoy Istrian cuisine in its purest form, often enhanced with local olive oil and cheese from surrounding farms. It is a place of absolute relaxation and genuine Istrian lifestyle.