Baredine Cave (Grotta Baredine) Tours

Tunneling to depths of 433 feet (132 meters), the Jama-Grotta Baredine is one of Istria’s most impressive natural wonders. While most visitors come to admire the dramatic stalactites and stalagmites, the cave is also famous for a subterranean lake filled with cave olm, fish-like that are creatures endemic to the region.

The Basics
Guided tours of the Jama-Grotta Baredine cave take around 40 minutes and leave at 30-minute intervals throughout the day. By following a series of steps and pathways, visitors can explore the cave’s five chambers; admire the unusual rock formations and sculptures; and observe olm swimming in the underground lake.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Entrance to the cave is by guided tour only; tours are available in multiple languages including English.
• The steps and pathways inside the cave can be slippery so wear sturdy shoes. The temperature in the cave is a steady 57°F (14°C) so warm clothes are recommended.
• There’s a café, restrooms, souvenir shop, and free parking at the cave.
• The caves are not wheelchair accessible or suitable for those with mobility issues.

How to Get There
The cave is located just outside of Nova Vas village in north-western Istria, a 20-minute drive from Poreč. There’s no public transport directly to the cave so you’ill need to take a taxi or join a tour if you don’t have your own transport.

When to Get There
Tours of the cave run daily year-round but it can get crowded in the summer months, when the best option is to visit as part of a pre-booked day tour or arrive early to beat the crowds.

The Tractor Story
Right next door to the Jama-Grotta Baredine is The Tractor Story, a small museum devoted to the history of farming in the region. The open-air museum provides an introduction to traditional and industrialised farming practices, with highlights including a demonstration of wheat threshing, a collection of 50 historic tractors, and a tasting area where visitors can sample regional breads, wines, and olive oils. Combination tickets are available for both attractions.