Self-guided Cycling - Croatia Coast & Islands

[Dubrovnik, Elaphite Islands, Mljet & Korcula]

Summary

Cycling through some of southern Croatia's most impressive countryside on the mainland and her nearby islands.

START/FINISH - Dubrovnik.

Activity code: CRHK05

Duration: 8 Days

Croatia is the country of a thousand islands, rich history, Mediterranean vegetation and mild climate and one of the best ways to explore it is by bicycle.

This cycling tour starts in the Konavle Valley, near Dubrovnik, for two days after which the itinerary shifts to the Peljesac peninsula and Korcula Island, then Mljet island, finally to Dubrovnik and Sipan island, one of the Elaphite islands near to this historic town. 

During the 7 full days you will have the opportunity to explore these incredibly beautiful islands, mediaeval towns, old villages and lovely bays of Croatia.

Departure Dates

  • any reasonable date between April 1st and October 31st
  • Other dates on request

Essential Information

Activity level: Trips are designed for flexible, energetic people who like to be active and have a spirit of adventure and a positive attitude.

  • Daily cycling distances 25 – 45km
  • Grade: easy to moderate
  • Terrain: mainly flat with some hills.

Additional costs:

  • Bike rental: approx. € 15 per person per day
  • e-bike: approx. € 25 per bike / day
  • Entrance fee to the National Park of Mljet is not included, this can only be paid on the spot!

Important note on bikes: Cube / Cannodale or similar brand, hybrid bikes, come equipped with: tool bag, lock, spare tyre, repair kit, pump, rack for the panniers, helmet.

Weather: Summers are typically warm and sunny. From May to October temperatures are comfortable for hiking, paddling, and swimming. Rain is always a possibility in Croatia so it is essential to bring adequate rain wear and a jacket in case of inclement weather.

Accommodation: B&B (hotels and small family guesthouses), all accommodations include private bathroom and daily breakfast.

NB. This itinerary can be subject to change due to weather, special events, etc. Our local staff will do their utmost to ensure the best possible experience for you without compromising safety at any time. This may mean changing the original itinerary to avoid discomfort or risk which could be caused by exceptional situations.

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Prices from £824 per person

  • Bike rental (per day, from): £ 15 per person

  • Single supplement: £ 188 per person

What does your Cycling Holiday include:

  • 7 nights accommodation (4 bases)
  • Meals as per itinerary
  • 7 days cycling routes with full information pack (orientation, riding routes with maps, suggestions for sightseeing visits, dining, local shops & services, bus & ferry timetables)
  • Luggage transfers throughout
  • Services for the orientation at each destination and co-ordination of transfers and support during travelling between tour destinations.
  • Local emergency support and general assistance
  • Transportation as in itinerary
  • Round trip airport transfers
  • All local taxes

Highlights

Itinerary

Meet at Dubrovnik airport and transfer to Konavle; time to get your bike(s) and a briefing with local representative. Afterwards, a warm up ride in the Konavle valley.

Stay in Konavle (2nts).

A day for cycling in the farming area of the Dubrovnik region -  the Konavle Valley. Your cycling route follows the valley of the river Ljuta, through the village of Zvekovica and a group of small villages in Gornja Banda.

  • Route 1: Gruda – Zvekovica – Ljuta - Gruda (circular route, 40 – 50 km); type of ground: asphalt

- or a longer route ...

  • Route 2: Gruda – Cilipi – Prevlaka –Gruda (circular route up to 65 km)

A shuttle transfer from Konavle along the beautiful Peljesac peninsula, ending on Korcula Island, where you can take a shorter bike ride on the island. However, if you prefer a longer bike ride on this day then you have the opportunity to cycle the Peljesac peninsula bike route (up to 50 km). This route is very scenic; however, there are some demanding parts. Please advise us about your choice due to the shuttle arrangements.

  • Total cycling distance of 48 km (climbing - total gain 740 m)

Stay in Lumbarda on Korcula Island (2 nts)

A second day on Korcula Island; we suggest a circular ride from the village of Lumbarda to Korcula  Town. After exploring the old town on your own, you will cycle along the coastal road to the picturesque bay of Racisce for lunch; return on same road back to Lumbarda.

  • Route: from Lumbarda to Korcula town – from Korcula town to bay of Racisce.

- or longer route extension: Racisce – Pupnat – Lumbarda

  • The total route length is approximately 40 km, maximum elevation 80 m; type of the ground: asphalt.

Today you visit the delightful island of Mljet, famous for its natural protected area where there are two salt lakes and many historical monuments that date from ancient times. After breakfast head to the port of Korcula where you take a ferry to Mljet, journey time about 30 min. Your cycle ride starts in the village of Pomena or Polace (a two small towns just outside national park territory) and your
route will take you around the salt lakes, through villages of Babine Kuće and Soline, around the lakes and back to the village of Polace or Pomena.

  • Mljet cycle route 1 - Polace village - Salt lakes - Vrataosolina - Polace
  • Total distance approx. 30 km, max. elevation 90 m; type of ground: asphalt.

Stay on Mljet at either Polace or Pomena (1 nt)

Travel to Dubrovnik from Mljet by taking a ferry (or combine with a shuttle - transfer from the
island depends on the available ferries which is determined by the season). Upon arrival in Dubrovnik you will be taken to your accommodation; free time in the old town of Dubrovnik (optional city sightseeing tour available).

Stay in Dubrovnik (2 nts)

After breakfast you leave Dubrovnik for a day trip to the Elafite island of Sipan. From your Dubrovnik accommodation you will cycle the short distance to the port of Gruz where bikes are put on board for the crossing to the island Sipan. Today’s ride on the island is very easy, a relaxing, short biking distance which can be combined with sightseeing and swimming on this quiet island. The island of Sipan was the residential place of Dubrovnik's patricians but today it is a calm and well-preserved typical Dalmatian island. Follow the road from Sudurad past vineyards and olive groves to Luka, a small harbour on the west of the island; here you will find many interesting sights to explore: including old churches, summer residential palaces, beautiful pine forests and hidden bays. This is an ideal way to round off your cycling holiday to Croatia and her islands, a day for easy cycling, swimming and relaxing from the city crowds.

  • Route: from port Sudurad Pakljena to port Luka and back to Sudurad.
  • Total distance approx. 20 km, max. elevation 230 m; type of ground: paved roads.

During the afternoon take a ferry back to Dubrovnik.

After breakfast a transfer to Dubrovnik airport (or at a suitable time for your flight); transfers also available to a new location if you are extending your stay in Croatia.

Flexible Tailor-Made Holidays

  • We believe passionately that no two holidays should be the same.
  • With our flexible tailor-made holiday options you can travel at your own pace.
  • Rediscover a city, a resort or an island in a weekend or longer.
  • Take a small group tour or embark upon a more adventurous trip.

Travel Knowledge

  • We have all travelled extensively and will be happy to share our experiences.
  • Personally-chosen hotels, riads, guest houses & apartments in places we know and love.
  • Individual sightseeing recommendations and route planning.
  • Add excursions, activities and food & wine experiences (one of our passions).

Trusted Service

  • ATOL cover for flight inclusive holidays.
  • One of us at Rediscover the World is very likely to have visited the hotels and travelled along the routes on your itinerary.
  • Dynamic, comprehensive travel app with all your documents, maps and much more.
  • Full financial protection for your holiday (TTA).