Last weekend, on February 15 and 16, 2025, Poreč became the heart of the sports and adventure scene thanks to two thrilling races – Parenzana Ultra Trail and Parenzana Gravel Race. These events, held along the legendary Parenzana route, a former narrow-gauge railway connecting Istria with Trieste, gathered more than 800 participants from around fifteen countries. Competitors had the chance to experience a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and physical challenge as they moved from the starting line in Poreč to the finish in Portorož, passing through gravel paths, vineyards, and picturesque villages of the Istrian peninsula.

Saturday’s Adventure: Parenzana Ultra Trail
Saturday, February 15, 2025, marked the beginning of an adrenaline-filled weekend. At 6 a.m., Freedom Square in Poreč was the stage for the start of the Parenzana Ultra Trail, a competition that attracted runners from all over Europe. This race offered three different routes tailored to various fitness levels – the longest at 88 kilometers for the most resilient, and shorter ones at 50 and 30 kilometers, allowing less experienced runners to participate as well. The route led through diverse terrains – from coastal areas to hills covered with forests and olive groves – providing participants with not only a test of endurance but also an opportunity to discover Istria’s natural wonders. At the finish in Portorož, in the Soline area, runners were greeted by enthusiastic fans, adding a special warmth to the atmosphere.

Sunday’s Cycling Challenge: Parenzana Gravel Race
After Saturday’s running fever, Sunday brought a new dimension of sporting enjoyment with the Parenzana Gravel Race. This cycling race began on February 16 at 11 a.m., again from Freedom Square in Poreč, drawing enthusiasts of gravel, MTB, and electric MTB bikes. Participants could choose between routes of 88, 50, or 30 kilometers, each designed to highlight the beauty of Parenzana. The route passed through historic tunnels and over old railway bridges, offering not just a physical challenge but also a journey through the region’s past. The finish in Portorož was marked by joy and camaraderie, with participants noting how favorable weather conditions further enhanced the experience.

Parenzana: A Historical Thread That Connects
Parenzana is not just a sports trail – it is a living monument of the past. Built in 1902 as a narrow-gauge railway linking Poreč with Trieste, it once served to transport fish, stones, and other goods, and today it has been transformed into one of Europe’s most renowned cycling and walking routes. Its revitalization began over two decades ago, and the "Path of Health and Friendship" project turned it into a symbol of active tourism and cross-border cooperation between Croatia and Slovenia. With nine tunnels, the most famous being Valeta between Strunjan and Portorož, and numerous viaducts, Parenzana offers an experience that uniquely blends nature and history.

Poreč and Istria: A Destination for All Seasons
Hosting such events has further solidified Poreč’s position as a key spot on the map for outdoor enthusiasts. The city, famous for its rich history and UNESCO gem – the Euphrasian Basilica – increasingly attracts visitors seeking more than a classic summer vacation. Winter months like February demonstrate how Istria can be appealing off-season, offering a mild climate ideal for sports activities. The Parenzana route passes through some of Istria’s most beautiful spots, such as Grožnjan, an artistic gem perched on a hill, and Livade, known for truffles, allowing participants to explore local culture and cuisine alongside the sports experience.

A Record Year for Parenzana Races
The third edition of these races, held in 2025, brought a record turnout. More than 800 competitors, a significant increase from previous years, reflects the growing popularity of this event. Organizers from the Portorož Sports Society, with support from the City of Poreč and the Tourism Board, ensured a flawless event. Special attention was paid to safety – the routes were mostly off public roads, allowing participants to fully immerse themselves in nature’s enjoyment. Warm-ups were organized at the start, while a warm welcome with local delicacies awaited at the finish, emphasizing the event’s communal spirit.

Cooperation and Community
The ceremonial opening of the races last weekend in Poreč was graced by Mayor Loris Peršurić and Tourism Board Director Nenad Velenik, who highlighted the importance of such events for promoting a healthy lifestyle and regional connectivity. Parenzana is not just a sporting event – it’s a platform for strengthening ties between Croatia and Slovenia and an opportunity for local communities to showcase their potential. Beyond the competitive aspect, participants had the chance to explore the surroundings, from quaint villages to nature reserves like the Sečovlje Salt Pans, part of the route.

Economic and Tourism Impact
These races have a broader impact. Poreč and Portorož see heightened visitor interest during this weekend, positively affecting the local economy. Hotels, restaurants, and shops report increased traffic, while many participants extend their stay to better explore the region. Parenzana thus becomes not only a sports route but also a tourism product attracting people worldwide, fostering the development of the rural areas it traverses.

Nature and Sport in Perfect Harmony
What makes the Parenzana races special is the seamless blend of nature and sport. The 88-kilometer route starting in Poreč winds through diverse landscapes – from the coast to inland areas lush with vineyards and forests. Shorter routes, like the 30-kilometer one starting from Grožnjan, offer equally stunning views, including passage through the Valeta tunnel, an attraction in itself. Gentle slopes, never exceeding 5%, make these trails accessible to a wide range of participants, while gravel terrains provide ideal conditions for gravel bikes and trail running.

Field Highlights
This year’s edition brought several noteworthy moments. Some participants took on a double challenge – running the Ultra Trail on Saturday and then riding the Gravel Race on Sunday, showcasing exceptional strength and passion for sport. Additionally, a growing number of competitors with electric MTB bikes points to the races adapting to modern trends, opening space for a broader audience. At the finish in Portorož, alongside the welcome, a small fest with local specialties was organized, further enriching the experience.

The organizers also provided practical conveniences, such as transportation back to Poreč after the race, easing participants’ return. This February 2025 weekend once again proved how Parenzana can unite people, nature, and history into an unforgettable experience, leaving a mark on the hearts of all who took part.