Just twenty years ago in Saini, the walls of the houses were leaning one against the others, trying to hold on to the ruins of time.
Trees were finding their way through windows and roofs but nonetheless there was magic surrounding the hamlet. You could not but feel it and our dreams grew, giving us the energy to restore Saini to beauty and dignity.
The houses have been rebuilt with their original stones, the garden created with devotion, cherishing each tree, plant and flower. Sculptures added to embellish the lawns.
Everything under the shade and protection of our imposing oak. It’s a tree that loves to be embraced… Welcome to L’Abbraccio della Quercia.
If you are interested in historic and artistic sites, some 8.5 km away you will find the medieval town of Grisignana. Its stone paved streets and squares that stretch across the Quieto valley or the sea on the horizon provide a stunning backdrop to the concerts of classical or jazz music, art exhibitions and the countless craft workshops with their products. Not far away Montona, another medieval village with later Venetian remains, clings to the top of a hill in the heart of the valley where the truffle, king of Istrian cuisine, prevails.
The coastal towns of Umag (22 km) and Novigrad (20 km) offer their beaches and their restaurants overlooking the sea. A little way further along the coast you will find Poreč with its Byzantine basilica and Rovinj, another Venetian pearl, and you can continue exploring this wonderful country until you reach Pula, with its dramatic reminder of the Roman presence in Istria.
For the lovers of hiking and cycling, the ancient train route La Parenzana winds its peaceful way flanked by breathtaking views, crossing through forests and over bridges and into tunnels built in stone that spring up next to towns and villages, some abandoned, others ready instead to offer refreshment to walkers and cyclists.
In the excellent restaurants at a stone-throw from L’Abbraccio della Quercia you can taste the seasonal changes of our Istrian cuisine.
Savor pasta with truffles, wild asparagus, mushroom and tasty meat. In the autumn months, the white truffle makes its way from the woods onto the dishes, scenting the air and delighting the palate.
Malvasia and muscat are the local wines that elevate the spirits, make words rise into conversations and spread into friendship. Red wines are blended into excellent cuves making people wish for the excellent Istrian ham.
In a few minutes you can reach our best wineries set in beautiful spots that will make you just wish to linger on, tasting the nectar of Gods, delighting your sight and continue with the enchantment.
