In the small picturesque village of Gavani, one of the largest adrenalin parks in Croatia is being constructed and it should soon open its doors to adventure and adrenaline sports lovers. On a total of four acres, this theme park will have the longest wire descent to the last platform in Europe. This will be a 113 m freefall above the olive trees, which should satisfy even the most daring adrenaline addicts. Glavani Park will be an ideal place for escape from stress and everyday activities, which will very easily be forgotten above the tree tops. The park will offer many hours of carefree fun, in which the whole family can participate, regardless of gender and age. Glavani are located next to Barban, a small picturesque medieval village, on the high plain which separates Labinjština from Puljština, located 27 km from Pula.
The old Romans used to roam on this pre historic location.. Throughout history Barban was also known by its strategic position, dominating by its height and ruling the valley and the bridge on river Raša. In time, the place became a fortification, with round and square towers, walls, small and large city gates and a castle. In 1535 it was bought by the Venetian noble family Loredan, from the counts of Pazin, who will later tear down the old castle and build a palace and the parish church of St.Nikola in the same place. In front on the large city gates there is a small stone church of St. Anton the Abbot from the 15th century, with an interior painted with murals.
Barban is famous today for the knights game `Race for the ring`, its wine fest and the festival of figs. Last year it became famous for its rest house Mala Kopa, which was proclaimed one of the ten most romantic holiday houses in the world, according to HomeAway Holiday-Rentals, a British website for holiday house rentals. Mala Kopa was fifth on the list, behind similar facilities in Switzerland, Greece, Costa Rica and Spain and followed by luxury villas on Bali, Italy, France and Great Britain. Mala Kopa is a rustic villa with 6000 square meters of yard and garden, a pool for four persons, surrounded by meadows and vineyards. The location of the house is described as ideal for couples in love, because it is secluded but at the same time close to all the important Istrian sites and towns.
The Tourist Board of Istria County
www.istra.com
The Tourist Board of the Borough of Barban
www.istria-barban.com
Glavani park
www.glavanipark.com
HomeAway Holiday-Rentals
www.homeaway.co.uk