2025 H&I company teambuilding trip
2025 H&I teambuiling trip to Brijuni
As every year H&I decided to takeย trip to a diffrent part of Croatia to explore and meet our beautiful country.
This year, the choice fell on Istria, more specifically, the stunning coastal gems of Faลพana, Brijuni, and Pula! With their rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and unique activities, this trip offered the perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration. Whether it was exploring ancient Roman ruins, experiencing the natural beauty and history of Brijuni National Park, or bonding over a scenic boat ride, this getaway was an unforgettable adventure that strengthened both teamwork and friendship.
Our Team by the 1,400-Year-Old Olive Tree
Fazana: our home base for the trip.
Our apartment was situated in Faลพana, and it was a beautiful 3-bedroom apartment with pool access and a large yard. While we only really spent mornings and nights in the apartment, it was very clean and had everything we needed.
Some briefe history Faลพana: A Seaside Town with a Storied Past
Just across the sparkling waters from the Brijuni Islands lies Faลพana, a charming Istrian fishing town with deep historical roots and a relaxed Mediterranean spirit. Today, it serves as the main gateway to Brijuni National Park, but Faลพana itself has a story worth discovering.
Faลพana dates back to ancient Roman times, when it was known as Vasianum. The town was an important Roman settlement, especially known for the production of amphoraeโlarge ceramic vessels used for storing olive oil, wine, and fish sauce. Archaeological remains and Roman kilns found in the area still remind visitors of this industrious past.
In the Middle Ages, Faลพana became part of the Venetian Republic and later came under the rule of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Through it all, it remained a small but lively fishing village, with generations of locals building their lives around the sea.
The townโs identity is still closely tied to its maritime heritage. Colorful boats dot the harbor, fresh seafood fills local menus, and festivals celebrating fishing traditions are held every year. At the heart of Faลพana lies the lovely Church of St. Cosmas and Damian, dating back to the 15th century, with beautiful frescoes that reflect its long-standing spiritual significance.
Today, Faลพana blends history, culture, and natural beauty, offering a peaceful yet engaging backdrop for any visitor. Whether you’re exploring the old stone streets, enjoying a sunset by the sea, or embarking on a boat to Brijuni, Faลพanaโs timeless charm is impossible to miss.
Faลพana as seen from the boat
Our team on one of Faลพanas beaches
A Brief History of the Brijuni Islands
The Brijuni Islands, located just off the coast of Istria near Faลพana, are not only a natural paradise but also a place steeped in fascinating history. This stunning archipelago of 14 islands has been a favorite retreat and strategic location for centuries โ from Roman emperors to world leaders.
Archaeological evidence shows that the islands were inhabited as far back as the Bronze Age. During Roman times, Brijuni became a popular spot for luxurious villas and settlements. Today, visitors can still see the remains of Roman villas, temples, and mosaics scattered across the islands, especially on Veliki Brijun, the largest island in the group.
In the Middle Ages, the islands were part of the Venetian Republic, then later fell under Austrian rule. But their transformation into a modern paradise began in 1893, when Austrian industrialist Paul Kupelwieser purchased the islands. He turned Brijuni into an exclusive health resort and invited famous microbiologist Robert Koch to help eliminate malaria from the area. Thanks to these efforts, Brijuni became a fashionable destination for European aristocracy and artists.
In the 20th century, Brijuni gained global attention as the summer residence of Yugoslav President Josip Broz Tito. From the 1950s to the 1980s, Tito hosted over 90 world leaders on the islands, including Queen Elizabeth II, Fidel Castro, and Sophia Loren. Many of their visits are documented in the Brijuni museum today.
Now a national park, Brijuni combines untouched nature, rich biodiversity, and layers of history. It’s a truly unique destination where the past meets the present โ ideal for visitors looking to explore, connect, and be inspired.
Enterance to Veliki Brijun showing the old boathouse and the hotel
When we arrived on Veliki Brijun, we were escorted onto the tourist train by our guide, and we embarked on a one-hour guided train tour around the island.
Roman ruins are undisturbed and wonderful to see
Walk trough the center
Animals on the island
You can walk all around the island and see everything on foot, or even rent an electric bike or a golf cart to drive around.
On the island, you can also find animals that were given as gifts to Tito by foreign dignitaries. The most famous of these is Lanka, the Indian elephant, who was brought to the island in 1972 along with another elephant. One of them passed away in 2010. These elephants were a gift from late Indian leader Indira Gandhi.
Titoโs pet, a foul-mouthed parrot named Koki, is still as energetic as when he was small even in his old age.
Lanka
There are also zebras and a large open area where the animals live and are well taken care of.
Large open area on which the animals live and are taken care of.
Tito museum and the island hotels
The Tito Museum on Brijuni: A Glimpse into History
The Tito Museum on Brijuni offers a fascinating look into the life and legacy of Yugoslav President Josip Broz Tito, who made these islands his personal summer retreat. Tito hosted numerous world leaders, including Queen Elizabeth II, Indira Gandhi, and even Fidel Castro, transforming Brijuni into a diplomatic hub during the Cold War. The museum showcases personal memorabilia, photographs, and artifacts from his time here, offering a rare glimpse into the man who once shaped much of European and global politics. It’s a must-visit for history buffs and anyone curious about Titoโs unique role in world history.
Hotels on Brijuni: Where Comfort Meets Nature
For those looking to extend their stay on the islands, Brijuni offers a handful of charming accommodations, blending seamlessly with the natural beauty of the national park. There is the hotel and there are also smaller guesthouses scattered across the islands, allowing visitors to stay close to nature and enjoy a peaceful, rejuvenating getaway.
Titos prized Cadilac
The last day: Pula and return home and a extra passenger!
Pula
While most of us had visited Pula many times before, we still took some time to walk around its historic center and iconic streets, as well as visit the Arena. We also enjoyed a lovely lunch and some shopping.
The return home
Like all good thing this trip had to come to an end. So we heded home back to Crikvenica after a great lunch and some “light shooping” .
Throughout the entire trip, the group was talking about how our director should finally get a dog, something she had wanted for some timeโespecially a Lagotto Romagnolo which she liked a lot. Sheโd always put it off, but with a lot of encouragement from the team, we took a detour off the highways and into the backroads to take a look at some puppies (just to “take a look,” she said!).
Our Director and her new pupy!
Soโฆ we want everyone to say hi to our newest team member, Heidy!
While Heidy isn’t quite ready to join the team yet, we have no doubt she will be a great addition!
And with that, we closed this year’s great teambuilding trip on a cute and positive note. Now, we continue planning and getting ready for next year’s tourist season, back at our usual location in Dramalj, where we’re ready to help you have as great a time as we did in Istriaโright here in our home turf of Kvarner!