Livade: Truffle Tradition and Parenzana History
Accommodation in Livade
Livade brings together two specific travel interests: the truffle tradition in the Motovun Forest and the history of the Parenzana. There are also events held during different periods, as well as historical traces at the railway station. If you are looking for a hotel for your trip to Livade, these themes can help you assess your interests and preferred travel dates.
Truffles Between Nature and History
Livade is located in the Motovun Forest, where the white Istrian truffle grows. The truffle trade is also historically connected with the town: from 1933, Livade was home to the region’s oldest truffle company, Azienda del Tartufo – Sella, Hütterott and C. Levade. A bronze replica of the Guinness record-breaking truffle is on display at the Zigante truffle shop in Livade. The subject thus comes into view as a natural habitat, as part of the region’s earlier economy, and in the form of a specific exhibit.
Events and Travel Dates
The Tuber(food) fest in October offers truffle-focused cooking, themed gastronomic workshops, a children’s programme and sports activities in Livade. The Days of Zigante Truffles take place in Livade from mid-September to the end of November. They include exhibitions of truffle products, an international wine exhibition, truffle hunting in the Motovun Forest and culinary demonstrations. The dates provide different planning points: the Tuber(food) fest is held in October, while the Days span the period from mid-September to the end of November. If you are planning your trip around an event, check the specific dates in advance.
Parenzana Traces at the Railway Station
Well-preserved original railway facilities stand at Livade railway station. The Parenzana Museum collection includes documents, photographs, old postcards, milestones and other objects from the railway’s operating period, from 1902 to 1935. The facilities at the station and historical items in the collection thus offer different insights into railway history.
The station’s former use is also clearly defined: the tracks were intended for loading timber, wine and dressed stone from the St. Stjepan quarry. Historically, Livade also served as a transport and trading centre for wine, olive oil and other agricultural products. These details complement the visible railway facilities with information about the goods traffic of the time and the town’s economic role.
The Parenzana as a Route
The Parenzana itself is 123 kilometres long and passes through three countries. The route can be explored on foot, by running or by bicycle; its landscape features paths, bridges, viaducts and bright tunnels. The Parenzana can therefore be experienced both through its railway history and as a route for a range of activities.
A guided tourist train ride into the Motovun Forest with a truffle hunter and truffle dogs is also available. As this is a seasonal programme, check the dates and itinerary in advance.
Discover more destinations: Gradinje, Žnjidarići, Zrenj, Bencani, Oprtalj, Cepic
Return to the wider travel overview: Općina Oprtalj.
