Valamar’s ambitious strategy through 2030 - an investment cycle worth EUR 820 million
In March, the Pical Event Center Poreč will open as part of the Pical Resort 5*, becoming the largest and most technologically advanced convention venue in Istria and marking a new phase in the development of business tourism in Poreč. Backed by a EUR 200 million investment by Valamar, the project brings the destination infrastructure suited to large international congresses, high-production corporate events and exclusive branded experiences.
Designed for large international congresses, luxury corporate events and exclusive branded experiences, with 1,900 sqm of flexible event space and capacity for up to 1,200 participants, Pical Event Center introduces a new level of production freedom and operational excellence.
Flexible space and technology to international standards
The central Parenzo Hall, with capacity for up to 870 participants, can be divided into three separate spaces and has direct outdoor access, making it suitable for product launches, trade exhibitions and automotive presentations.
An additional seven modular meeting rooms, with a combined capacity of up to 330 participants, can be adapted to different formats, from breakout sessions and workshops to exclusive VIP meetings. Networking lounges and spacious pre-function areas for registration, exhibitions and cocktail events complete the functionality of the new convention centre.
A special focus has been placed on technology: state-of-the-art AV systems, LED stages, premium acoustics and lighting, as well as advanced solutions for hybrid and virtual formats, enable events to be delivered in line with the highest international production standards. This combination of flexibility and technology makes the centre particularly attractive for IT conferences, pharmaceutical meetings and global corporate events.
An integrated resort model as a destination advantage
What sets Pical Event Center apart from other convention venues is the full integration of infrastructure, luxury and destination experience. With 514 accommodation units, the possibility of partial or full resort buyout, and a dedicated team led by an Event Manager overseeing every aspect of the client experience, organisers are offered a unique all-in-one model that significantly simplifies the logistics of large-scale events.
„Pical Event Center combines luxury positioning with congress capacity and will position Poreč as a first-choice destination for a wide range of business and social events throughout the year. The events already confirmed for this year are proof of the strong interest from partners who had eagerly been awaiting an expansion of the congress infrastructure, which has enriched the offer of the destination as a whole“, said Lana Radolović Jakus, Head of MICE Sales at Valamar.
Gastronomy and lifestyle experiences as part of the event offer
Additional value comes from Croatia’s first ESPA-branded spa centre, featuring a holistic wellness concept present in some of the world’s most prestigious hotels, as well as a rich dine-around concept with 10 restaurants and 10 bars. Through this offer, guests gain access to a carefully curated selection of Valamar signature restaurants, including Harry’s Piccolo Poreč, developed in collaboration with Italian chefs Matteo Metullio and Davide De Pra, whose namesake restaurant in Trieste holds two Michelin stars. The dine-around experience also includes Miramare by Fratelli Cerea at Isabella Island Resort and JAZ by Ana Roš Poreč at the Jadran Heritage Hotel in the old town, while the lifestyle dimension is completed by the Pical rooftop bar by Laurent-Perrier and Purobeach, a globally recognised beach club concept.
Already this year, Pical Event Center will host events with several hundred participants from different segments of the MICE industry, including incentive programmes for corporate partners, expert gatherings with international participation, and IT conferences. In addition, the venue will host the international event Synergy – The Retreat Show, bringing together wellness and travel professionals from more than 50 countries worldwide.
The opening of Pical Event Center marks an important step forward not only for Poreč and Istria, but for Croatia’s conference industry as a whole. Integrated resort models, premium delegate experiences and technological excellence are key standards of competitiveness, and with this project Istria is clearly positioning itself on the map of leading Mediterranean MICE destinations.
