Flavors of Croatia - Hike & Bike

Day 1: Zagreb
Day 2: Plitvice Lakes National Park, walking, 6 mi. (10 km)
Day 3: Krka National Park, walking, 2.5 mi. (4 km)
Day 4: Primošten, cycling, 35 mi. (56 km)
Day 5: Trogir, cycling, 26 mi. (42 km)
Day 6: Split, cycling, 11-22 mi. (17-35 km) + extra ride of 25 mi. (40 km)
Day 7: Island Brac, cycling, 22 mi. (36 km)
Day 8: Island Hvar, cycling, 12-29 mi. (20-46 km)
Day 9: Island Korčula, cycling 29 mi. (46 km) + extra ride  6 mi. (10 km)
Day 10: Korčula beaches and vineyards, cycling, 0-21 mi. (0-34 km) + extra ride up to 40 mi. (65 km total)
Day 11: Peljesac and Dubrovnik, cycling, 37 mi. (60 km)
Day 12: Dubrovnik  

*All distances are approximate. Due to circumstances beyond control, weather conditions, or provisions issued by local authorities, the itinerary may be subject to some changes before and/or during your holiday. For example, along the way, you may find temporary deviations or detours caused by roadwork. In this case, please follow the directions posted on-site. 

Day 1: Zagreb
On arrival in Zagreb, you will meet your guide and go on a guided walking tour of the city (approx 2 hours). Your guide will reveal the fascinating architecture and rich history of this Capital, showcasing its wonderful historical sites, museums, art galleries, and gastronomy. The fusion of old and modern elements in this vibrant city brings Croatia to life. Dine at one of the local eateries or cafes for dinner. Overnight in Zagreb.

Accommodation: Hotel Astoria, Zagreb
Activity: Guided tour of Zagreb
Highlights: Trg Bana Jelačića, Zrinjevac Park, Upper town, Zagreb Cathedral

Day 2: Plitvice Lakes National Park, walking, 6 mi. (10 km)
After breakfast, a transfer will take you to one of Croatia's top attractions - the Plitvice Lakes National Park. A World Heritage Site, the park is incredibly scenic with its stretch of forested hills and 16 interconnected turquoise lakes, linked together by hundreds of cascading waterfalls that extend into a limestone canyon. You will have ample time to walk the area using the hiking trails, wooden walkways and small bridges that connect the area. Overnight Plitvice Lakes.

Accommodation: Hotel Degenija, Plitivice Lakes
Highlights: turquoise lakes, waterfalls, wooden paths of Plitvice National Park
 

Day 3: Krka National Park, walking, 2.5 mi. (4 km)
Today you will travel to Skradin, a pretty little riverside town, and also the gateway to the Krka National Park. Explore this national park on foot as you walk the network of paths and bridges that lead to Skradinski Buk waterfall, the longest waterfall on the Krka River, flanked by traditional watermills. The gushing water from the many exquisite cascades adds to the natural beauty of the park. The Krka Monasteries, built above ancient Rome catacombs by monks, is also well worth a visit. Overnight in Skradin.

Accommodation: Hotel Skradinski Buk, Skradin
Highlights: Krka National Park and its lakes 

Day 4: Primošten, cycling, 35 mi. (56 km)
Today kicks off the start of your self-guided cycling. After a bike fitting, you will cycle mostly on backroads through inland Dalmatian villages from Skradin to Primošten, where people still live off the land. Located on a tiny peninsula off the Adriatic Coast, this charming town is well-known for its vast vineyards, with a rich history dating back to 1564AD. Bands playing in the main square, quirky gift shops, and inviting beaches will ensure you have a fun-filled day soaking up the sun and atmosphere of this delightful Croatian town. Overnight in Primošten.

Accommodation: Hotel Zora, Primošten
Highlights: Babic vineyards and ancient olive groves, Primosten town

Day 5: Trogir, cycling, 26 mi. (42 km)
Today you will cycle the inland country roads from Primošten to Trogir - an island connected to the mainland by two small bridges. Founded by the Greek colonists, Trogir oozes history, evident in the many Romanesque and Renaissance buildings dotted around the town. End off the day sipping a refreshing drink at one of the many cafes and restaurants along the seafront promenade. Overnight in Trogir.

Accommodation: Hotel Trogir, Trogir
Highlights: UNESCO inscribed Trogir

Day 6: Split, cycling, 11-22 mi. (17-35 km) + extra ride of 25 mi. (40 km)
After breakfast, you will take a shuttle from Trogir to Split, where your loop ride along Marjan Forest Park starts, not far from the town center. In the afternoon, you have the option of extending your ride and exploring the 1700-year-old Diocletian's Palace. A living, breathing monument of Roman heritage, the palace has 220 buildings within its boundaries, where 3000 people today. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a maze of alleyways and stone streets lined with bars, restaurants, shops, and Romanesque homes. Stop for a refreshing beer or delicious meal at one of the many eateries. The Green and Fish Markets are open daily and are great places where you can feel the vibe of this Mediterranean town. Overnight in Split.

Accommodation: Hotel Slavija, Split
Highlights: UNESCO inscribed Split, Marjan Hill

Day 7: Island Brac, cycling, 22 mi. (36 km)
Over the next few days, you will be island hopping between some of Croatia’s most exquisite islands. Today you will explore the Island of Brač - the largest island in central Dalmatia. A short 50 min ferry ride from Split will land you on this dreamy island in the Adriatic. Cycle through olive groves, located between inland and coastal villages, tasting local wines, visiting small museums and admiring art along the way. Brač Island is also well-known for its limestone, used to build the Diocletian's Palace in Split, and apparently also the White House in Washington! Take a refreshing swim in the ocean from one of the little coves before returning to Split by ferry in the afternoon. Overnight in Split.

Accommodation: Hotel Slavija, Split
Highlights: Island Brac, coastal and inland villages, Island art galleries

Day 8: Island Hvar, cycling, 12-29 mi. (20-46 km)
The Island of Hvar is your destination for today. After a two-hour ferry ride from Split, you will ride a loop along the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Stari Grad plain. During this ride, you will visit charming inland villages and enjoy a relaxed coastal ride in the shade of pine trees between Jelsa and Vrboska Bay. After reaching Stari Grad plain again, you start the climb across the island where your final destination, Hvar town awaits. On the top of the island, you will have a chance to see lavender fields before you take a descent, with the best view towards Hvar town. Overnight in Hvar Town.

Accommodation: Villa Nora, Hvar
Highlights: UNESCO inscribed plain of Ager, town of Hvar, Stari Grad town, lavender roads

Day 9: Island Korčula, cycling 29 mi. (46 km) + extra ride  6 mi. (10 km)
This morning you leave the town of Hvar by speedboat and start cycling an hour later. You will cycle across the whole island of Korčula, about 46 kilometers to the town of Korčula. The birthplace of Marco Polo, this beautiful fortified citadel is dripping in history, evident from the Renaissance and Gothic architecture that line the marble streets, mostly from the Venetian era of rule. You will cycle in the Smokvica and Čara areas where you can see vineyards of Pošip, one of the best white wines in Croatia. Some of the best local gastronomy can also be tasted on this route. Overnight in Korčula town. 

Accommodation: Hotel Korcula, Korcula Town
Highlights: Posip vineyards, charming villages of Korcula island, the medieval town of Korcula   

Day 10: Korčula beaches and vineyards, cycling, 0-21 mi. (0-34 km) + extra ride up to 40 mi. (65 km total)
Today you can choose what you would like to do. You can ride along the coast, stopping at beaches for a swim or a coffee. Alternatively, we suggest you ride a 34 km loop or, if you are feeling really active, extend your biking to a 65km ride. Whichever you choose, there are hidden gems to discover along the way - vineyards, olive groves, pine forests, hidden coves, and more. Your day will not be complete without tasting the traditional makaruni pasta in one of the local konobas, accompanied by some of the best Croatian white wines from the Island of Korčula. Overnight in Korčula town.

Accommodation: Hotel Korcula, Korcula Town
Highlights: Grk vineyards, beaches of Lumbarda, coastal riding    

Day 11: Peljesac and Dubrovnik, cycling, 37 mi. (60 km)
Today marks your final ride on this trip. With craggy mountains, sweeping valleys, picturesque coves and fine wines, your cycle along the Pelješac Peninsula will be filled with enjoyable moments from start to finish. Visit Dingac and Postup vineyards, tasting wines made from Plavav Mali vines - a close cousin to Zinfandel of California and Primitive from Calabria. Famous for its red wine, Peljesac serves up some of the best vineyards in Croatia. A couple of good climbs and some really nice coastal cycling lands you in Ston - a salt-producing town built in the 14th century with the longest fortified wall in Europe. From Ston, a shuttle will transport you to Dubrovnik. Overnight in Dubrovnik.

Accommodation: Hotel Lapad, Dubrovnik
Highlights: Plavac mali vineyards on Peljesac, Ston salt mine and fortified walls, Dubrovnik

Day 12: Dubrovnik  
After breakfast, your tour ends. Today is yours to spend exploring the charming city of Dubrovnik - known as the Pearl of the Adriatic. Hike up Srđ Hill for breathtaking views of the city below or walk along the ancient walls of this old town. For those wishing to stay longer, a few extra nights in Dubrovnik won't disappoint.

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Accommodations

You will be accommodated in very good 3 and 4-star establishments chosen for their quality of service and location. For example, in Primošten, you will enjoy a stay at Hotel Zora, located at the tip of the peninsula, directly on the sea. Only 1,650 feet from Primošten’s Old Town, it offers a restaurant, tennis courts, and a wellness center with a pool. On each day’s details, you will find the name of the preferred hotel. If the preferred hotel is not available, you will be offered accommodation in an establishment of equal standard.

Bicycles

Hybrid Bike

Custom designed by Muesing

• Aluminum frame (male or female)
• Shimano Alivio 3 x 9 gearing system (triple chainring)
• 700 c wheels and road tires
• Various saddle options: gel, soft, & racing (please specify)
• Flat or toe cage pedals. Shimano SPD, SPD SL or LOOK Keo pedals on request
• Rear rack
• Adjustable stem

Accessories

• Small pannier
• Water cage and water bottle
• Spare tube
• Patch kit
• Tire levers
• Pump
• Cycle computer
• Lock
• Helmet

Road Bike

Custom designed by Muesing

• Aluminum frame
• Adjustable stem
• Carbon Fork
• Shimano compact or triple-chainring gearing
• Rear rack

Accessories

• Small pannier
• Water cage and water bottle
• Spare tube
• Patch kit
• Tire levers
• Pump
• Cycle computer
• Lock

Electric Bike

Cube

• Aluminum step-through frame
• Bosch drive
• Hydraulic disc brakes
• Shimano Deore 9 speed transmission
• Rear rack

Accessories

• Small pannier
• Water cage and water bottle
• Spare tube
• Patch kit
• Tire levers
• Pump
• Cycle computer
• Lock
• Helmet

Tandem Bike

Cannondale RACE (road) tandem

• Aluminum frame
• Dropdown handlebars
• Hydraulic disc brakes
• Shimano Ultegra triple ring gearing
• Rear rack

Accessories

• Small pannier
• Water cage and water bottle
• Spare tube
• Patch kit
• Tire levers
• Pump
• Cycle computer
• Lock