From Poreč to Split

The tour begins in the heart of Istria, cycling south from the historic town of Poreč towards Pula. The route follows quiet roads through the green Istrian countryside, passing vineyards, olive groves, traditional stone villages and Mediterranean landscapes. Along the way, you will discover the authentic character of the Istrian peninsula, with gentle hills and panoramic views over the Adriatic Sea. As you approach Pula, the landscape gradually changes, leading you towards the southern tip of the peninsula and its fascinating ancient heritage. The stage ends in Pula, one of Istria’s most important historic cities, famous for its impressive Roman amphitheatre and charming old town.

Today begins with a crossing of the Adriatic towards the islands of the Kvarner Gulf. After the transfer the ferry crossing towards Mali Lošinj, you continue by bike along quiet roads through pine forests and Mediterranean landscapes, with spectacular views over the Adriatic Sea. The destination is Nerezine, a picturesque fishing village at the foot of Mount Osoršćica. Its small harbour, traditional stone houses and peaceful atmosphere make it the perfect place to end the cycling stage.

Today you continue your island adventure, leaving Cres behind and crossing by ferry towards the mainland before heading to the island of Rab. The landscape is particularly impressive here, with rugged coastlines, deep-blue waters and Mediterranean vegetation creating a constantly changing panorama. Rab is known as the “Happy Island” and is famous for its beautiful beaches, secluded bays and charming historic town. The old town of Rab, with its
four distinctive bell towers rising above the rooftops, is particularly atmospheric and well worth exploring after your ride.

Today brings one of the most striking changes of scenery of the entire journey. After a short ferry crossing, you reach the mainland, and you continue towards the island of Pag. Pag is unlike almost anywhere else in Croatia. Shaped by the powerful Bora wind, its landscape is dominated by pale limestone, stone walls and sparse vegetation, creating an almost lunar appearance. The contrast between the white rocky landscape and the deep blue Adriatic is spectacular. The island is also famous for its traditional salt pans and its distinctive Pag cheese, one of Croatia’s best-known local specialities.

Today you leave the rugged landscape of Pag and head towards Zadar, one of the most fascinating cities on the Dalmatian coast. Zadar is a city where history and contemporary life blend beautifully. Its old town is filled with
Roman remains, medieval churches and Venetian architecture, while the waterfront is home to two of its most unusual attractions: the Sea Organ and the Monument to the Sun. The waterfront is particularly beautiful at sunset,
making Zadar the perfect place to end the day.

Today is another memorable island-hopping adventure. From Zadar, you take a ferry towards Preko on the island of Ugljan. From here, the route continues by bike through Ugljan and Pašman before another short ferry crossing
brings you back to the mainland at Biograd. Every crossing reveals a new perspective of the Croatian coastline and its countless islands. From Biograd, you continue south towards Šibenik, following sections of the EuroVelo 8 Mediterranean Route. Šibenik is one of Croatia’s most beautiful historic coastal towns. Its atmospheric old centre is a maze of narrow stone streets and historic buildings, crowned by the magnificent Cathedral of St. James, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The final cycling stage takes you deep into the heart of Dalmatia. Leaving Šibenik behind, the route follows the coast through increasingly spectacular scenery. After around 20 kilometres, the road gradually climbs near Primošten
Burnji, opening up magnificent panoramic views across the Adriatic and its islands before descending once again towards the sea. Built on a small peninsula and surrounded by the sea, it is one of the most photogenic coastal villages in Dalmatia. For those who prefer a shorter final stage, it is possible to shorten the last section of the ride by taking a ferry from the Trogir area (ticket not included).The reward at the end of the day is Split, one of Croatia’s most vibrant cities. At its heart lies the extraordinary Palace of Diocletian, built by the Roman emperor as his retirement residence and now completely integrated into the modern city.
Day 9: Departure Individual departure or possibility to extend your stay.