When Dinosaurs Walked Through Istria
A Story from Long Ago
More than 200 million years ago, right here in Istria, one of the most fascinating stories in the world began – the story of dinosaurs.
Today, that story is far from forgotten. It still lives on – in stone, in footprints, and in the imagination of every little explorer.
Islands that remember the steps of giants
In Brijuni National Park, surrounded by Mediterranean scents and sea views, lies a small wonder. Preserved in the rock are real dinosaur footprints – traces of a distant past.
There are said to be more than 200 of them. Some are small and light, as if they belonged to young dinosaurs, while others are deep and powerful – marks left by large herbivores and perhaps even predators searching for prey.
Children often stop, look at the footprints, and wonder:
“How big was it?”
“Was it fast?”
“Was it dangerous?”
And in those questions, the story comes alive again.
Brijuni can easily be reached by boat from Fažana – a charming place where small adventures begin.
A trail where dinosaurs “walk” again
At the very south of Istria, in the protected landscape of Rt Kamenjak, the story continues in a vivid and tangible way. Alongside real dinosaur tracks found on the nearby islet of Fenoliga, visitors can explore a specially designed Dinosaur Trail.
Along this 1.5-kilometre path, you’ll encounter seven life-sized models of extinct animals, accompanied by educational panels. Surrounded by pine trees and the sound of the sea, the past suddenly feels close.
As children run ahead excitedly, pointing at each new dinosaur, adults pause and smile – as if, just for a moment, time travel were possible.
When imagination becomes reality
Just a 30-minute drive from Camp Peškera, the story takes another exciting turn.
At Dinopark Funtana, dinosaurs move, roar, and come to life before your eyes.
Here, there’s no need to imagine – you can see, hear, and almost feel them. Children watch in awe, while adults rediscover a sense of wonder.
A place where knowledge turns into play – and play into lasting memories.
Istria – a land of ancient secrets
Istria is one of the rare places in Europe where such well-preserved dinosaur tracks have been found. This area was once part of a vast land with shallow seas – an ideal habitat for many species.
Scientists believe that both peaceful herbivores and fast predators once roamed here.
And as you walk these landscapes today, you might just be following in their footsteps.
Small adventures, big memories
A stay at Camp Peškera easily becomes more than just a holiday – it becomes a story to remember.
Because sometimes, all it takes is a little imagination… and a journey through time.
And Istria? It’s ready to tell its story.

