Piran a coastal town in Slovenia
A few km from our last stop at Izola is Piran, a coastal town in Slovenia that really leaves you wanting more.
Unfortunately for us, the weather in early May is quite the opposite to what some might expect. Yes, we’re here on possibly the most rainy day of the year, or at least that’s what it feels like. To say it’s pouring down is putting it mildly, and it’s relentless.
With no end in sight for the foreseeable future, there’s only one thing to do and that’s carry on! So, we just need to find a place to park up for the night and make the best of it.
Motorhome Parking in Piran
Well, Slovenia isn’t the best for wild camping, so that option is out. And, Piran, being one of the most popular places on the Slovenia coast is not the easiest place to park.
Basically we find a couple of options, which happen to be right next door to each other. Both are on a narrow road which is on a hill leading to a grassy area and beach. At first we can’t make head nor tail of where to drive, but then get waved down by an over enthusiast guy.
He’s from the Pizzeria Fiesa and eagerly try’s his best to get us to stop at his adjacent motorhome stopover.
But, we want to take a look at Kamp Fiesa, which is just to our left, right opposite the Pizzeria. So, we say our goodbye’s for now and drive into Camp Fiesa.
Unfortunately, this looks tight, old and somewhat unappealing. Then, a chap comes over to us from the campsite reception, tells us the price and where the parking is for motorhomes.
We follow him back out onto the road where he takes us to a locked gate. He opens the gate and shows us the empty motorhome parking area. It’s grassy, and long grass at that and you use the public toilets on the next door beach area.
He leaves us to think about it for a minute or two, but we don’t really need to think too hard. After some deliberating, we decide to drive back to the Pizzeria guy. Taking him up on his offer of hot showers, loos, which are also in the public toilet block on the beach and dump/fresh for €35 a night.
Pricey and dreary
Wow, it’s a bit steep, but the campsite is €40 a night – steep for a 1960’s style camp ground. We’ve no doubt if we were here in the heat of Summer, we’d be jumping at either one of these places to park up for the night.
Actually, we’d probably take any free space available and think it was amazing! After all, this is right by the beach and within walking distance along a coast path into Piran itself.
On reflection though, it’s funny, how bad weather and off-season travel just has a totally different feel.
Both overnight stops are on the usual Apps .
Walking into Piran
For a while, we put off walking into Piran, simply because the rain is so heavy. Luckily, just beyond the Pizzeria stopover is a coastal path. This takes you directly into Piran, and in fine weather it would be a lovely walk.
Today, after a lull in the downpours, we take our chances. With walking coats on we make our move. About 20 minutes later, we reach the outer part of Piran’s historic old town.
It’s deserted, but in some ways it has its advantages. At least we have the town to ourselves, even if it’s cold, wet and miserable.
Piran – a coastal town in Slovenia
Our route from the Pizzeria stopover comes out above Piran at the beautiful Church of St.George. This 12th century church is open, so we wonder inside to admire the painted frescoes and shelter from yet more rain.
Piran itself has much in the way of Venetian influence, following its rule during the 13th to 18th centuries.
The architecture reflects this and is simply beautiful with the backdrop against the Adriatic. Pastel coloured buildings surround the main square named Tartini, which is glorious, a diamond within the centre of town where everything seems to come together in one mass wave of charisma.
There’s something special about Piran, even in the rain and we’re beginning to really like this town.
Piran – A jewel on the Adriatic
Along the seafront, which is mostly paved promenade, we find absolutely delightful sea views. Not only are the views across the Adriatic quite beautiful, but there’s ample areas along its entirety to take a dip. All thanks to ladders dropping into the crystal clear sea, to say it looks inviting is an understatement.
In Summer, Piran must be stunning, yes there’s no other word for it. Piran is a jewel and if you haven’t been, then remember its name and make time to see it for yourself.
Not only is it quite classy but simple too. This make the most interesting mix, almost perfect and by the time we reach the harbour we are even more smitten.
Here, boats are moored, filling in every gap, whilst in the background is the 46m bell tower belong to St.George church. It’s completely in keeping with Venice, but of course, it would be. There’s the marble, delicate undertones of the facades and hidden world of narrow streets winding behind the main square.
Taking shelter – Piran a coastal town in Slovenia
As the rain belts down on our heads, puddles swell on the already water-logged roads. Now it’s time to take shelter, enough is enough.
By chance we’re outside what looks like a bit of a pub, come cafe, so venture indoors for a break.
It’s quite a character place, with views out to sea and outdoor seating which would be lovely when dry. Before we know it, the indoor seating is filled with wet folk, all eating, drinking and wasting time.
There’s only so much drinking we can do. We’re only on coffee but after a couple we’re ready to set off, regardless of getting another soaking. Besides, there’s now a queue for seating and we’re getting those “hurry up and leave” looks.
Historical old town
Taking a back street away from the harbour takes us into the heart of Piran’s old town. It’s a new angle for us and we’re soon walking passed shops and restaurants.
Arriving at the main square again, we then find another older centre piece – The First of May Square. This has stone steps leading up to a fountain type structure that was actually built following intense droughts during the 18th century.
It’s a beautiful place and full of character, even in the rain.
Piran’s old town reminds me of so many places in Italy, the influence from its Venetian rule is clearly evident.
Piran is perfect
Our afternoon exploring Piran has proved quite perfect. What a delightful town. I can only imagine how stunningly beautiful Piran must be on a hot Summer day or evening.
There’s so much to offer here. Not only is the town beautiful, but the options to plunge into the superb Adriatic make it ever more inviting. Then there’s the convenience, the ease to walk to from the motorhome parking, which must be gorgeous in peak season.
I can’t think of any downside, other than maybe the price of the overnight stay. However, it’s a price worth paying – as to us Piran is perfect!
