Hands up! I am going to be brutally honest! I am not a cyclist and the thought of it scares me to the core!
BUT PLEASE DON'T STOP READING!
However, I can see exactly why thousands upon thousands of cyclists flock to Croatia every year.
Firstly, the bendy roads and breathtaking scenery must be hard to match anywhere else in the world (especially on the coastline) and secondly the weather throughout parts of the summer must be perfect for all types of cycling!
And my word is it popular! Super popular!
Here in Novalja we even have beautiful boats arrive at the harbour with about 50 to 100 people onboard all 'armed' with their bicycles and all the standard Lycra cycle gear!
Simply put, they are island hopping via a fantastic boat, exploring the island on their bikes during the day, having dinner, resting and setting sail again early the next morning to the next island or Adriatic destination!
I mean, if you are a keen cyclist, that is an incredible way to spend a weeks vacation.
Let's take a closer look at cycling in Croatia and uncover why it is so very popular.
Cycling in Croatia: Exploring The Adriatic via Pedal Power
Get ready to pedal your way through the stunning landscapes of this beautiful country, because cycling in Croatia is an experience you don't want to miss!
Now, don't just take my fairly limited word for it - the locals will be quick to tell you that Croatia is a top cycling destination in Europe.
And they're not exaggerating!
With its diverse terrain, gorgeous coastline, and charming towns, Croatia has everything a cycling enthusiast could want.
The only problem?
There's no official tourism website to guide you through it all. It's like trying to find the perfect beach without any recommendations - a bit of a challenge.
But fear not, my friends!
That is where Novalja Local comes in. We're here to help you navigate the winding roads and scenic routes, so you can focus on the fun part, pedalling your way through paradise!
Cycling in Croatia: Popular Destinations
From the picturesque island of Pag to the historic city of Split, there are plenty of biking destinations to explore.
And with a growing infrastructure to support cycling tourism, including bike-friendly paths and guided tours, Croatia is quickly becoming a top choice for biking enthusiasts around the world.
So pack your bags, grab your helmet, and get ready to discover the beauty of Croatia on two wheels. We think you will love the following destinations. Happy cycling, folks
Cycling in Novalja
Fellow cyclists! Are you ready to pedal your way through the charming town of Novalja?
Well, let's talk about all the cycling adventures waiting for you in this beautiful Croatian destination.
Novalja is the perfect mix of stunning coastlines, rugged terrain, and charming townscapes, making it a top choice for cyclists of all levels.
With plenty of bike-friendly paths and routes to explore, you can soak in the beauty of the island at your own pace.
But it's not just the scenery that makes Novalja a must-visit for cyclists. The town also hosts a number of cycling events throughout the year, including the popular Pag Island MTB Race.
So whether you're a seasoned pro or a casual cyclist, there's always something to look forward to in Novalja.
And let's not forget about the food! With plenty of traditional Croatian cuisine to enjoy, you'll have plenty of fuel to keep you going on your cycling adventures.
So what are you waiting for?
Grab your helmet, pack some snacks, and get ready to discover the beauty of Novalja on two wheels.
Cycling in Zadar
With its stunning coastline, charming Old Town, and a variety of bike-friendly paths and routes to explore, Zadar is the perfect destination for cyclists of all levels.
You can pedal your way through the town's winding streets, take in breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea, and explore nearby islands such as Ugljan and Pasman.
But it's not just the scenery that makes Zadar a must-visit for cyclists. The town also hosts a number of cycling events throughout the year, including the popular Zadar Gran Fondo.
And if you're looking for a more casual ride, there are plenty of local bike rental shops and guided tours to help you discover the best of what Zadar has to offer.
And when it's time to refuel, you'll find plenty of delicious local cuisine to enjoy, from fresh seafood to traditional Croatian dishes.
Cycling in Split
Are you ready to discover the beautiful city of Split on two wheels? Well, let's talk about all the cycling adventures waiting for you in this charming Croatian destination.
With its stunning coastline, historic landmarks, and bike-friendly paths, Split is the perfect mix of adventure and culture.
You can pedal your way along the scenic Marjan Hill, take in breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea, and explore the city's UNESCO-listed Old Town.
But it's not just the scenery that makes Split a must-visit for cyclists. The town also hosts a number of cycling events throughout the year, including the popular Split Half Marathon and the Vuelta a Croatia.
And if you're looking for a more leisurely ride, there are plenty of local bike rental shops and guided tours to help you explore the city at your own pace.
Cycling in Istria
Looking for your next adventure? Well, get ready to saddle up and explore one of Croatia's top cycling destinations - Istria!
Now, don't be fooled by the lazy pelotons of cyclists shepherded around by cyclo-tourist agencies. Istria has a lot to offer, even if the cycling infrastructure isn't quite up to snuff for a leisurely self-guided vacation. But fear not, my friends!
The locals are starting to catch on that cyclists are good spenders armed with mighty credit cards, and they're making efforts to be friendlier to the two-wheeled tribe.
And if you're up for a bit of off-road adventure, you simply must check out Parenzana. This abandoned railroad-turned-hiking-cycling trail takes you through the heart of black truffle country.
Trust us, you won't want to miss the mistletoe brandy bars along the way. It's the perfect pit stop for refueling and sharing stories with your fellow riders.
So hop on your trusty bicycle and get ready to discover the hidden gems of Istria. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a casual cyclist, there's something for everyone on this picturesque peninsula.
And who knows, maybe you'll even pick up some cycling culture tips from the locals along the way.
Cycling in Central Dalmatia
Looking for your next cycling destination? Well, let us introduce you to Central Dalmatia - the future of biking vacations!
This stunning region has been making huge strides in recent years, thanks in part to the regional tourist board's commitment to cycling tourism as a year-round attraction.
With over 4,000 km of bike routes appearing in recent years, Central Dalmatia has quickly become a top choice for cyclists of all levels.
And let's not forget the gorgeous islands of Hvar and Braฤ, which have established themselves as must-visit cycling destinations.
Cycling in Rijeka
Are you ready to discover the charming city of Rijeka on two wheels? Let's talk about all the biking adventures waiting for you in this beautiful Croatian destination.
With a mix of coastal and inland routes, Rijeka offers plenty of opportunities for both leisurely rides and more challenging treks.
You can pedal your way along the scenic coastal promenade, explore the city's historic neighborhoods, and venture into the nearby mountains for a more rugged adventure.
And if you're looking for a bit of a challenge, the popular Rijeka-Kastav bike route offers stunning views and a steep climb that's sure to get your heart pumping.
But it's not just the scenery that makes Rijeka a must-visit for cyclists. The city also hosts a number of cycling events throughout the year, including the popular Rijeka Criterium.
Whether you're a seasoned pro or a casual cyclist, there's something for everyone in this picturesque city.
Cycling in Zagreb
Let's talk about taking on the vibrant city of Zagreb on two wheels!
Zagreb offers plenty of opportunities for both leisurely rides and more challenging treks.
You can pedal your way through the city's charming neighborhoods, explore its historic landmarks, and venture out into the nearby countryside for a more rugged adventure.
One of the most popular routes is Maksimir Park, a scenic oasis in the heart of the city that offers over 5 kilometers of bike-friendly paths.
And if you're looking for a bit of a challenge, the Medvednica mountain offers a steep climb and stunning views.
But it's not just the scenery that makes Zagreb a must-visit for cyclists.
The city also hosts a number of cycling events throughout the year, including the popular Zagreb Grand Prix.
Read this next: Day Trips from Split: Discovering the Gems of the Adriatic
Island Hopping By Bike
THIS is what I was on about earlier!
Have you ever thought about island hopping with your trusty bicycle? Well, let us tell you - it's totally doable!
The Adriatic islands are some of the best that Croatia has to offer, but we know that dealing with narrow, overcrowded roads and bike-unfriendly passenger ferries can be a hassle during peak season.
But fear not, my friends! If you stick to larger car ferries and plan your trip outside of the July-September peak season, you can experience a dazzling island adventure.
And let's talk about the weather - it's ideal for year-round cycling, so much so that even Bahrain Merida chose the island of Hvar for their winter training camp. And the best part? Prices are agreeable outside of peak season and traffic is light.
Now, we should give you a heads up - while some islands may seem deserted in the winter months, don't be surprised if you come across a few inhabitants moving sloth-like as pedestrians.
And if you happen to encounter them behind the wheel of a vehicle, watch out! They tend to transform into loosely guided missiles, cutting corners and claiming their right of way with a lead foot.
But don't let that deter you from embarking on your island-hopping bike adventure. The stunning views and charming towns are worth it.
Taking Bikes on a Croatian Ferry
Are you planning on exploring the beauty of Croatia on your trusty bike? Well, let's talk about transporting your wheels on ferries and catamarans.
With the rise of cycling tourism in recent years, the issue of transporting bikes on ferries has become increasingly important. Luckily, in general, bringing your bike on a ferry is no problem at all.
But when it comes to catamarans, things can get a bit trickier.
Read this next: Things to do in Zadar: Novaljaโs Closest City
We know that figuring out the logistics of bringing your bike on a boat can be a bit overwhelming, so we've got you covered. Click here for an overview of transporting bikes in Croatia.
So don't let the logistics of transportation hold you back from experiencing the beauty of Croatia on two wheels.
What To Pack For a Cycling Holiday
If you're planning a cycling holiday in Croatia during the summer, it's important to pack the right gear to ensure you have a comfortable and enjoyable trip. Here are some items, besides your trusty bikes, you should consider bringing:
Lightweight, breathable clothing: Summers in Croatia can be hot and humid, so it's important to pack lightweight and breathable clothing that will keep you cool and comfortable while cycling.
Sunscreen and sunglasses: The Croatian sun can be intense, so make sure you pack plenty of sun cream and a good pair of sunglasses to protect your skin and eyes.
A helmet: A helmet is a must-have for any cycling trip, as it will help protect your head in case of an accident.
Bicycle repair kit: It's always a good idea to bring a basic bicycle repair kit with you, including spare inner tubes, tire levers, and a small pump. This way, you can make any necessary repairs on the go and avoid getting stranded.
Water bottles and hydration pack: Staying hydrated is key when cycling in the heat, so make sure you pack enough water bottles or a hydration pack to keep you fueled and refreshed throughout the day.
Read this next: Fitness in Novalja
Maps and navigation tools: While there are plenty of cycling routes to choose from in Croatia, it's always a good idea to have a map or navigation tool on hand to help you stay on track.
Swimsuit and towel: With Croatia's beautiful coastline and crystal-clear waters, you won't want to miss the opportunity to take a dip in the sea. So, make sure you pack a swimsuit and towel for those refreshing breaks during your cycling trip.
Remember to pack light and only bring the essentials. Happy cycling!
Croatian Cycling Holiday Travel Insurance
While it's not required to have specific travel insurance for a cycling holiday, it's always a good idea to make sure you're adequately covered in case of any unforeseen circumstances.
General travel insurance typically covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost or stolen baggage, but it's important to check the policy details to make sure cycling is covered as an activity.
If you're planning a more extreme cycling adventure, such as downhill mountain biking or BMX racing, you may need to look into more specialized insurance options.
And if you're traveling abroad, it's a good idea to make sure your policy includes coverage for medical expenses, emergency evacuation, and repatriation.
So before you embark on your next cycling adventure, make sure to review your travel insurance policy to ensure that you're properly covered. This will give you peace of mind and allow you to fully enjoy your biking holiday without any worries.
Cycling in Croatia: Summary
Alright, cycle fans, let's wrap up this cycling adventure through Croatia! After exploring some of the top biking destinations in this beautiful country, one thing is clear: Croatia is a true paradise for cyclists of all levels.
With its stunning coastline, rugged terrain, and charming towns, Croatia offers a unique mix of adventure and culture that's hard to find anywhere else.
Whether you're exploring the picturesque island of Hvar, taking in the historic landmarks of Dubrovnik, or pedaling your way through the vibrant city of Zagreb, there's always something new and exciting waiting for you around the corner.
And with a growing infrastructure to support cycling tourism, including bike-friendly paths and guided tours, it's easier than ever to discover the beauty of Croatia on two wheels.
So grab your helmet, pack some snacks, and get ready to embark on the cycling adventure of a lifetime.
But be warned, you may never want to leave! With its delicious local cuisine, friendly locals, and stunning scenery, it's easy to get hooked on the cycling lifestyle in Croatia.
So what are you waiting for? Come and discover the beauty of Croatia on two wheels, and join the growing community of cycling and adventure enthusiasts who have fallen in love with this beautiful country.
Happy cycling, folks!