We invite you to slow down and take a deep breath, to connect with the beauty of nature and the rich heritage of our land.
The legacy of the Polesini family is an important part of the history of Istria, and visitors to St. Ana estate are encouraged to explore this fascinating history by visiting the Poreč museum. This museum houses an impressive collection of museum objects that make up an exceptional artistic, photographic, and book heritage, as well as the legacy of the Polesini family documentation.
The Polesini family was one of the most prominent noble families in Istria during the time of the Venetian Republic. They were active in both political and commercial affairs, and their influence extended far beyond the borders of Istria.
In the 16th century, the Polesini family owned a vast estate in Valfontane, which was one of the most important agricultural centers in the region. The estate was primarily focused on producing wine, olive oil, and other crops, and the Polesini family were renowned for their expertise in these areas.
As members of the Venetian nobility, the Polesini family were also involved in political affairs, and several members of the family held important positions within the Venetian government. They were known for their skillful diplomacy and their ability to navigate the complex political landscape of the Venetian Republic.
Despite their considerable wealth and influence, however, the Polesini family were not immune to the challenges of the times. Like many other noble families, they faced financial difficulties and were forced to sell off some of their assets in order to maintain their status and influence.
A day trip to St. Ana Heritage Garden is an ideal way to experience the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of Valfontane. You can start your day by taking a refreshing dip in the waterpool or sunbathing by the poolside with a refreshing drink in your hand.
Next, you can take a leisurely walk around the estate’s beautiful gardens and orchards, taking in the heady scent of lavender, cherry blossom, and olive trees.
As you stroll through the estate’s winding paths, you’ll come across several energy spots that are believed to have a positive effect on physical and emotional wellbeing. Take a moment to pause and breathe deeply, soaking in the peaceful ambiance of the estate.
After your walk, you can head to the olive oil ‘fontana’ and taste the freshly pressed olive oil. Savor the different varieties of olive oil, including the local istrska belica, and learn about the traditional methods of olive oil production.
For lunch, you can indulge in the farm-to-table cuisine prepared with locally sourced ingredients, including fresh fish, meat, and vegetables. You can also try Ana Roš’s culinary creations at the nearby restaurant.
Before leaving, make sure to visit the St. Lawrence Church located on the estate, and learn about its rich history and significance to the local community.
In short, a day trip to St. Ana Heritage Garden is the perfect way to relax, rejuvenate, and immerse yourself in the beauty and cultural heritage of Istria.
St. Ana estate is located in Valfontane, a village in Croatian Istra, located in the area known as the Red Mountain, Crveni Vrh in Croatian or Monte Rosso in Italian.