Fodor's Expert Review Hotel San Rocco

Nine km (6 miles) up the road from Novigrad in Brtonigla (on the road to Buje), Hotel San Rocco is a real change of pace from the coast: among rolling hills surrounded by olive trees and vineyards, this upscale boutique hotel makes an impressive entrée to the Istrian interior. It's in a renovated farmhouse with exposed stone walls and wide wooden ceiling beams. Rooms are decorated with warm colors and rich fabrics, and the outdoor pool and patio area has stunning views of the hilly towns nearby.