If you’re craving a taste of authentic Istrian life, a visit to Stancija Collis in Rovinj offers just that. This private tour combines scenic beauty, educational wine and olive oil tastings, and the chance to relax in a peaceful countryside setting. While it might not be suited for very young children or pregnant women, it’s a wonderful way for wine lovers, foodies, or anyone seeking a slower-paced, sensory experience in Croatia’s stunning interior.
What we like most about this tour is its focus on local craftsmanship — you’ll learn directly from knowledgeable guides, and taste wines and oils that reflect the region’s unique terroir. The picturesque vineyard views and relaxed atmosphere make it stand out from more commercialized experiences. A potential consideration? The price is on the higher side, but with personalized attention and quality tastings, many travelers find this to be a worthwhile splurge.
This experience is ideal for those who appreciate authentic local products, enjoy scenic countryside, and want a deeper understanding of Istrian wine and olive oil production. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone eager for a private, educational retreat in Croatia.
- Authentic experience: Guided tasting of COLLIS wines and olive oils with local experts.
- Beautiful scenery: Views of Istrian vineyards and rolling countryside.
- Private group: Intimate experience tailored to your party.
- Flexible timing: Tour duration around 3 hours, with available starting times.
- Costly but comprehensive: $658 for up to 2 people — reflects personalized attention and high-quality tastings.
- Suitable for adults: Not recommended for children under 18 or pregnant women.
Exploring the Stancija Collis Winery in Rovinj
Taking a step away from the bustling streets of Rovinj, the Stancija Collis winery offers a peaceful retreat into the heart of Istria’s food and wine culture. Located in the scenic countryside, this private tour combines sightseeing, tasting, and education, all in a setting that’s more like visiting a friend’s farm than a commercial winery.
You can check availability for your dates here:The Journey to the Heart of Istria
The adventure begins with a pickup in Rovinj, where a professional guide transports you comfortably to the estate. As you leave the coast behind, the landscape transforms into lush vineyards, olive groves, and idyllic rural scenery. The drive itself hints at the authenticity awaiting you during your visit.
Once at Stancija Collis, the focus turns to the guided tour of the vineyards and cellar. Here, you’ll see the grape varieties cultivated in this region, witness the traditional winemaking process, and learn how the local climate influences the flavors. The guides are well-versed in the region’s viticulture, offering insights that elevate the tasting experience.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Rovinj.
Tasting the Wines and Olive Oils
The highlight of the visit is the guided tasting of COLLIS wines, which range from crisp whites to fuller reds. Travelers often mention the “exquisite flavors,” with some calling the wines “velvety” and others “refreshing.” You’ll be encouraged to savor each sip, noting the deep aromas and balanced acidity that speak to the careful craftsmanship involved.
Alongside wine, you’ll sample COLLIS olive oils, renowned for their flavorful richness. The tasting includes an exploration of the oils’ nuances—fruity, grassy, or peppery notes—paired with artisanal finger foods sourced from local farms. These accompaniments are thoughtfully selected to complement each product, giving you a true taste of Istria’s culinary traditions.
Scenic Views and Authentic Atmosphere
What makes this experience notably special are the stunning views during the tour, whether from the vineyard terraces or the cozy cellar. The atmosphere is relaxed, and the guides’ friendly, knowledgeable approach makes learning about wine and olive oil enjoyable rather than intimidating.
Practical Details and Value
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, giving ample time for tasting and sightseeing without feeling rushed. Transportation is included, so you don’t need to worry about navigating yourself. The tour is exclusive to your private group, making it an intimate, personalized experience.
The cost of $658 covers everything for up to two people. While this might seem steep, it includes not only the tastings but also the expert guidance, transportation, and artisanal finger foods. Several reviews highlight that the personalized attention and the quality of products make the price worthwhile.
More Great Tours NearbyWhat the Tour Entails: Breakdown of the Itinerary
Pickup in Rovinj:
Your day begins with a pickup from your accommodation or a designated location in Rovinj. This convenience allows you to relax and focus on the experience ahead.
Visit to Stancija Collis:
Once at the estate, the guided tour starts with a walk through the vineyards. Expect to see the grape varieties that thrive in Istria, with the guides explaining how the terrain and climate influence the wines. The cellar visit offers a peek into the winemaking process, from fermentation to aging, giving you insight into local traditions.
Tasting Session:
The core of the experience is the tasting, where you’ll sample a selection of COLLIS wines. Most reviews describe the wines as both impressive and reflective of the region’s terroir. The olive oils are showcased alongside, with guides explaining the production process and flavor profiles.
Enjoying Local Flavors:
The finger foods are carefully curated from local farms, often praised for their freshness and authenticity. These bites are meant to enhance the tasting, offering a true taste of Istrian culinary craftsmanship.
Return to Rovinj:
After approximately 2.67 hours at the estate, your guide will transport you back to Rovinj, leaving you with memories of a relaxed, flavorful adventure.
Authentic Experiences and Why They Matter
Travelers often mention that the knowledgeable guides make a difference, turning what could be a simple tasting into a rich educational experience. Many reviewers appreciate the genuine passion for local produce, which comes through in the detailed explanations.
The stunning views are another highlight. The vineyard panoramas provide a perfect backdrop for enjoying your tastings, and many describe the setting as “breathtaking.” If you’re after a peaceful escape with a focus on genuine craftsmanship, this tour delivers.
The Value Proposition
While $658 covers a private experience with everything included, it’s worth considering that you’re paying for both the high-quality products and the personalized attention. Compared to larger, group tours, the intimacy and depth of knowledge offered here make it stand out. For couples or small groups eager for a tailored experience, this can be a memorable highlight of your trip.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is best suited for adults who appreciate wine and olive oil, and those craving a more authentic, behind-the-scenes look at Istria’s food culture. It’s ideal for couples seeking a romantic escape, small groups wanting a personalized experience, or anyone eager to learn about regional craftsmanship.
It’s less suitable for children or pregnant women due to the tasting focus and alcohol consumption, but still perfect for food and culture enthusiasts who want a relaxed, scenic tour. The approximately 3-hour duration makes it manageable alongside other activities in Rovinj.
FAQs
How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts around 3 hours, giving enough time for sightseeing, tasting, and conversation without feeling rushed.
Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides transportation from Rovinj to Stancija Collis and back, so you don’t need to worry about how to get there.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel plans.
What should I bring?
Just your passport or ID card — no special gear required. Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking around the estate.
Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s designed for adults, especially because of the wine and olive oil tastings.
What languages are offered?
Guides speak English and Croatian, ensuring clear explanations whether you’re a local or a visitor.
Final thoughts
For travelers looking to deepen their understanding of Istrian food and wine in a beautiful, relaxed setting, the Stancija Collis tour offers genuine value. The combination of scenic views, expert guides, and high-quality tastings makes it a memorable way to connect with Croatia’s culinary roots. While the price tag is notable, many find the personalized experience and authentic products justify the expense.
If you’re eager to learn about local winemaking, sample exceptional olive oils, and enjoy a peaceful countryside escape from Rovinj’s busy streets, this tour could be a highlight of your trip. It’s especially well-suited for those who appreciate small-group experiences that prioritize quality over quantity.
References and Similar Experiences
Looking for other ways to explore Rovinj and Istria? Consider day trips to nearby towns like Motovun or Groznjan, sunset boat tours with dolphin watching, or even a day trip to Venice by speedboat. Each offers a different flavor of Croatian adventure, but none quite match the intimate charm of a private winery visit like this one.
Similar experiences:
- Day tour from Rovinj to Motovun and Groznjan
- Rovinj sunset speedboat tour with dolphin watching
- Rovinj Buba kayak tours with snorkeling
No matter what you choose, the Istrian coast offers a wealth of memorable experiences — this winery tour surely stands out for its quiet elegance and genuine craftsmanship.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Wine Tours in Rovinj
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More Tour Reviews in Rovinj
- From Zagreb to Istria: Private Day Trip to Pula and Rovinj
- Novigrad: Lim Fjord & Rovinj Boat Trip with Lunch and Drinks
- Rovinj Islands: 4-Hour Guided Kayak Tour with drinks
- Rovinj: Luxury Old Town Night Cruise with Drinks
- Rovinj: Fish picnic with sunset and dolphin watching
- Rovinj Islands, LImski Fjord & Shellfish Tasting (Optional)
Not for you? Here's more nearby things to do in Rovinj we have reviewed
- From Zagreb to Istria: Private Day Trip to Pula and Rovinj
- Novigrad: Lim Fjord & Rovinj Boat Trip with Lunch and Drinks
- Rovinj Islands: 4-Hour Guided Kayak Tour with drinks
- Rovinj: Luxury Old Town Night Cruise with Drinks
- Rovinj: Fish picnic with sunset and dolphin watching
- Rovinj Islands, LImski Fjord & Shellfish Tasting (Optional)
- Rovinj: Fish picnic in Lim fjord and Red Island
- Rovinj: Dolphin Watching Sunset Speedboat Tour with Drinks
- Rovinj Islands: 3-Hour Tour with Swimming and Snorkeling
- Rovinj: Dolphins at Sunset & Island Swimming Speedboat Tour
- Rovinj: Shared Dolphin and Sunset Tour with Drinks
- Rovinj or Vrsar: Rovinj Islands and Lim Fjord Speedboat Tour