Croatia: Best Biking on The Istria Peninsula
Photo Gallery:
Croatia
Trip Leaders
Upcoming Dates
- May 4, 2011
- May 25, 2011
- June 18, 2011
- August 27, 2011
- September 7, 2011
- September 18, 2011
Accommodations
Classic
Ability Level
Intermediate
Terrain
Mostly Rolling
Distance
Total Mileage: 180 Daily Average: 43
Arriving
Trieste, Italy
Departing
Trieste, Italy
Price
- May-Jun: $4,095
- Aug-Sep: $4,195
Single Supplement
$800
Bike Rental
Included!
Cycling the unspoiled Istria peninsula along the Adriatic Sea
Highlights
- Arrive and depart from nearby, historic Trieste, Italy
- Sail to the unspoiled Brijuni National Park- once the vacation spot for aristocrats from centuries past
- Cover peaceful roads linking historic hilltop villages and picturesque seaside towns
- Explore the legendary towns of Porec, Motovun, and Pula
- Learn about Croatia's blossoming wine industry and taste the latest vintages
- Admire the beauty of Istria's coastline on our boat transfer
Italy’s neighbor to the East, Croatia, offers idyllic cycling through a medieval landscape of castles and vineyards, all with a beautiful view of the Adriatic Sea. Bright blue waters line a coast littered with architectural wonders, against a backdrop of deep green, truffle-filled forests. The terrain on this peninsula’s coast is perfect for the cyclist who wants to combine slightly rolling and hilly terrain with images of Croatia's history and unspoiled beauty.
Itinerary
Day 1 – Trieste, Italy
Our tour begins in Trieste, Italy's gateway to Eastern Europe. We meet at 1pm in the lobby of our hotel for greetings, bike fitting and a warm-up ride.
Day 2—3 – Motovun, Croatia
Today we leave Italy, and cross through Slovenia to enter Croatia. We'll get our first taste of Croatian culture in the typical town of Motovun. Located in the green heart of the Istria region, we'll explore Motovun's cobblestone streets, and bright red roofs will stir images of Tuscany. On Day 3 we'll pedal to beautiful Groznjan, stopping to sample some of the finest Istrian white wines. Along our path, enjoy our views of the thick green forests which have inspired Croatian folklores of monsters and giants.
Day 4—5 – Rovinj
Today we'll journey to flatter land, and the warm shores of the "Istrian Riviera". As we bike southward along the coast, take in the rich blues and vibrant greens of our surroundings! We'll head into the Venetian peninsula city of Rovinj, famous for its majestic bell tower, and the narrow cobblestone streets which are reserved for pedestrians only.
Day 6 – The Capitol: Pula
Pedal further south to Pula, the largest city in Istria and home to a Roman amphitheater and majestic Venetian castle. Having viewed its breathtaking sites, relax on the beach and enjoy Pula's spectacular seafood restaurants!
Day 7 – Brijuni Island National Park
After a ride down the coast, we'll catch a ferry ride to the Brijuni Islands. Surrounded by crystal clear waters, the lush parks are filled with rare trees and exotic animals.
Day 8 – Zdravo! (Goodbye!)
We provide a return transfer to Trieste, Italy. Saying goodbye to the tour does not have to be the end of your trip! You may choose to spend some more time exploring Croatia or other Adriatic islands. We are happy to help you plan any further excursions!