Since its launch, IRONMAN 70.3 Porec quickly has quickly become an athlete-favourite, and it’s easy to see why.
Already a popular destination for sporty types and tourists alike, this historical seaside town on the Istrian peninsula is the perfect host for a late-season race. What better way to escape the onset of autumn/fall than a race where you can experience the beauty of the Adriatic coast line in mild conditions. Offering a beautiful contrast of tradition and modernity, Porec makes for the perfect late season getaway.
Location - sun & sport
Sun, sea and sport – the three S’s that must surely add up to any triathlete’s paradise destination.
The race venue is all set within the Zelena holiday resort just south of the town with the race village spread across between the Hotel Molindrio Plava Laguna and the race’s official hotel, the 4 star Hotel Parentium Plava Laguna located right on the start/finish line.
The race village hosts the usual offerings from the 70.3 Expo, registration, race briefing, bike service and the welcome banquet alongside last minute swim and bike training sessions and the oh-so-needed post race massage and pasta party.
Getting to Porec is fairly simple with Pula, the nearest airport 45km away (Trieste and Venice airports are also options given its proximity to Italy) with public shuttle buses to transport you into the town.
If you hire a car, then just park up in one of the town’s many car parks when you first arrive and then go on foot for the rest of your stay as all the event locations are close by.
As one of Croatia’s most popular holiday resorts, there are literally hundreds of hotels, apartments, B&Bs etc to suit all tastes and wallets.
If you’re on a tight budget, Camping Zelena Laguna site is right next to the race village so you can just roll out of your tent and into your wetsuit.
Course - first timer & PB friendly
The course suits all levels whether you’re dipping your toe into the world of 70.3 for the first time, or you’re a veteran chasing a World Champs slot.
Swim - 1.9KM
Those who hate freezing cold lakes will find the warm, crystal clear waters of the Adriatic Sea with an average temperature of 18-20 degrees Celsius truly inviting. The point-to-point swim route hugs the headland of the Zelena resort and finishes in a sheltered bay making it perfect for those not so confident in open water. The route also makes it easy for spectators trying to spot you although the rolling start helps avoid the usual washing machine of bodies.
BIke - 90KM
T1 is just a short sprint across the race village then you’ll soon be on the out-and-back bike course. There are no big climbs to contend with, just gentle undulations (total elevation is 600 metres) that keep things interesting. While most of the course isn't particularly technical, there are three u-turn points so practice your turns to avoid losing unnecessary time here! The main leg takes you out into the spectacular countryside passed olive groves and vineyards onto a long highway stretch where you can really put the hammer down and go for that PB.
Run - 21KM
The run course is just one loop, heading along the coast all the way to Porec city centre before heading back towards the Zelena resort and the city of Funtana. With 150m elevation gain, expect some rollers but no major hills to disrupt your stride. Hopefully the spectacular views of the glistening Adriatic Sea and medieval city of Porec will provide enough distraction from burning thighs and lungs until you hit the red carpet finish line and get that iconic medal around your neck.
Spectators - family & tourist friendly
Set across the Zelena holiday resort, the race village offers all the usual facilities like toilets and food and sponsors stalls as well as the Ironman Expo where you can pick up exciting new kit or just a few extra inner tubes.
In the race village nothing is more than a five minute walk away, so supporters can happily spend the day following the action and soaking up the atmosphere as well as grabbing the best spots at the start/finish lines and the transition zones.
The swim course around the Zelena resort headland is probably the most spectator friendly part but friends and family can easily walk out along the seaside route to watch the runners pounding up and down the seafront.
Most of the course is accessible for spectators with disabilities and thanks to the wonders of technology, anyone can simply follow the race from the comfort of their sun-lounger by downloading the Ironman tracking app.
Race-cation - a Roman holiday
For that well-earned post-race holiday, Peroc has something to entertain you and the whole family.
If sunbathing on the golden sands becomes too much, head to the old town with its warren of cobbled streets filled with charming cafes by day and buzzing bars by night.
The town’s countless restaurants are the perfect place to sample the local delicacies – seafood is on every menu and you won’t find truffles, usually eye wateringly expensive, anywhere cheaper!
A culture vulture? Once a Roman settlement, there are Roman sites around every corner and the sixth century gem-filled mosaics in the Euphrasian Basilica, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are a must-see.
Even when shopping on Decumanus Street, one of the Peroc’s busiest retail spots, the architecture looks like its barely changed from the days of Julius Caesar.
And heading back even further in time, kids will love the thrill of going underground into the magnificent Baredine Cave, a grotto filled with impressive stalagmite and stalactites 6km north of the town.
Further afield in Istria, there are loads of day trips for foodies such as olive oil tasting and of course, some fabulous local wineries but just make you’ve decided who is the designated driver…
More event inspiration with our Let's Race... guides
