Izola a Coastal town in Slovenia
Today we’re in Izola, a coastal town in Slovenia with a long stretch of promenade leading to a rather quaint, old centre.
It’s early May and the weather is still verging between cool Spring and attempts of Summer. In other words, chilly one minute, quite warm the next. Along the way we’ve had our fair share of rain too.
One thing’s for sure, there’s no doubting it’s very much “off season” here still. Yes, Summer activities are closed, sun-loungers piled high and beachside cafe’s boarded up. But, on the plus side, this means we get the place virtually to ourselves.
Motorhome Parking
Did you know Slovenia has some Aires? Well here in Izola, there’s a mixed motorhome parking area in close proximity to the sea with a dump/fresh area too. Its location beside the promenade route into Izola centre and right by the beaches, makes it absolutely ideal.
Although it’s €24 a night, payable at a machine. Of course, the convenience makes it a great place for us to stop the night. Especially as wild camping is pretty much out of the question in Slovenia.
We choose our place from the row of parking places, luckily at this time of year there’s plenty of space. In fact, the parking area is more or less empty.
Promenade Walk
After taking some time for a coffee at the van, it’s time to head out on foot along the adjacent promenade walkway.
Here, the Adriatic laps up against the shore, whilst crystal clear water is the star attraction. Somehow, there’s nothing more relaxing and intriguing than looking into a dreamy sea. I love the clarity of the water and watching the fish, so many of them swimming amongst the incredible sea life.
The coastal walkway runs alongside a mix of holiday accommodation, car parks, derelict buildings and marina’s. To put it midly, there’s a combination of scenic meets redevelopment and everything in between. On the whole, it’s a pleasant enough walk, made so much better with the endless sea views.
Izola town
Izola was once a fishing port and you can still see these origins at play. It’s a town of boats and everything to do with boating. With it’s Roman roots and Venetian influence from its middle age rule under Venice, Izola has a strong history.
We get the feeling Izola is not a place for mass tourism, which gives a genuine appeal, as it seems purely made for locals.
There’s low-key eateries and plenty of places to stop and admire the views of the sea. In the early evening when the sun is setting, there’s a somewhat romantic charm to Izola.
Behind the sea front we find tiny streets, narrow, old and meaningful. They look as if they are well worn, but in an authentic kind of way which is quite lovely.
I could imagine Izola to be absolutely idyllic on a balmy, hot Summer night, without the tourist trappings of larger, well known resorts.
Beaches – Izola a Coastal town in Slovenia
Our walk along the promenade brings us to a few beaches. Most are small, but there’s ample swim opportunities along the way, for a dip when the weather allows.
Close to the motorhome parking is the largest beach named Simon’s Bay. It’s a sweeping beach with grassy areas to lounge and a beach cafe area for Summer. On our visit, everything is closed with no sign of opening for the Summer yet.
It’s a pleasant place though, and in the heat of Summer, it must be a good spot to spend the day.
Quick Summary
The walk from the camper Aire into Izola town centre and to the beaches is direct along the waterside prom.
Although it’s probably about an hours walk into town, it’s only minutes in the opposite direction to the main beach.
Overall, Izola is well worth a visit, especially due to the location of the motorhome parking. In Summer it would be superb and makes a low-key alternative to larger Koper 7km away.
Now it’s time to leave Izola for the more popular coastal town of Piran. Join us next time where we get rather wet exploring this superb resort.