Bijele Zemlje lies in hilly terrain that slopes down to the Mirna. Historic routes once crossed the area, including a Roman imperial road. For planning your trip, two very different routes are available: a 31.3-kilometre cycling route of moderate difficulty and a two-kilometre path from Ponte Porton to Baštija. There are also historic sites and a place to eat in Ponte Porton.

Hills and Historic Connections

The transition from the hills down towards the Mirna Valley shapes the landscape of Bijele Zemlje. Historic connections are also part of this picture: the routes that once crossed the area included a Roman imperial road. This historic route should be distinguished from today’s cycling and walking descriptions; it refers to an earlier connection, not a current route recommendation.

One current cycling option passes through several places and connects sections of varying terrain. After an initial climb, the section through Bijele Zemlje runs mostly downhill towards the Mirna. Those interested in the route can find both the climb and the subsequent descent into the valley described in the route details.

Cycling through Bijele Zemlje and Ponte Porton

The 31.3-kilometre cycling route, of moderate difficulty, runs from Buje via Krasica, Bijele Zemlje and Ponte Porton towards the Mirna Valley. At kilometre 18.6, the route climbs again towards Nova Vas and Brtonigla. On the return to Buje, it follows the main Novigrad–Buje and Umag–Buje roads, then continues along a side road into the centre of Buje. This sequence gives a clearer picture of the ride than the distance alone: the initial climb is followed by a mostly downhill section through Bijele Zemlje, before the route climbs again.

Another useful option for cyclists is the official Istria Bike Trail 211 North-Northwest, which passes through Ponte Porton. Ponte Porton is within the settlement of Bijele Zemlje. For both routes, road and route conditions can change. Check the latest conditions before setting out, especially if you are planning your day around a particular route.

On foot from Ponte Porton to Baštija

The two-kilometre Ponte Porton–Baštija path starts at a car park beside a hospitality business in Ponte Porton. It follows a road downstream along the right bank of the Mirna. After 1.5 kilometres, you reach the single-nave Church of St Mary of Baštija. The route description thus links a stretch along the river with a specific historic destination. Accessibility can change, so check before setting out.

The church was built in the 14th century and restored in 1610 and 2000. Historically, it was an important meeting place for sailors and people from the surrounding area. Baštija is considered the former port of Grožnjan; the port is said to have been located there. In the Middle Ages and the early modern period, the place was an important spot for loading and unloading goods. This history connects the walk’s destination to the Mirna region’s former use.

Further Cultural and Practical Information

Sv. Ivan is designated as an archaeological site. The Church of St John the Baptist there is also designated as a religious building. These two details describe different cultural aspects of the place: the archaeological area and the church’s religious function.

In Ponte Porton, Konoba Ponte Porton is a food and drink establishment. Business details can change; check the latest information if you plan to eat there. A total of 28 beds were recorded for Bijele Zemlje in 2024. Please check current accommodation availability for your travel dates.

Discover more destinations: Groznjan, Martinčići, Kostanjica

Return to the main travel overview: Općina Grožnjan.