This ferry ride only takes 30 minutes, making this bike excursion ideal for a day trip from Zadar. The islands of Ugljan and Pasman are connected by a by a bridge at Ždrelac and have one main road that runs along the northeastern side of the islands. Both of these islands are really green and covered with olive trees. The best part is there aren't too many cars and loads of marked cycle trails if you want to get adventurous.
The best part is there aren't too many cars and loads of marked cycle trails if you want to get adventurous.
To get to Ugljan, you can catch the ferry from the old town or Gaženica and then it's a short ferry ride to Ugljan. Once you disembark at Preko, it's time get pedalling and head south-east for the fishing village of Kali, followed by Kukljica. These two little villages of Ugljan are a great place to stop for a coffee and explore their attractive town centres.
From Kukljica it's a short ride, and you'll get to the Ždrelac bridge which will take you over to the island of Pašman. Once you cross the bridge, you are in the Ždrelac which has a great little sandy beach called Matlovac, which is well worth considering.
From Ždrelac you then head through Banj, Dobropoljana, Nevidane, Mrljane, Pašman, Kraj all the way to Tkon. Some cool stops along the way include a visit to the Matulić OPG in Pašman, where you should absolutely try their Pašmanero hot sauce, the sandy beach at Mrljane and Barotul, the church of St Francis in Kraj, and lastly for those of you that want a real challenge, visit the Čokovac Benedictine Monastery.
Why is it a challenge you ask?
The Monastery is perched at the top of Čokovac hill which is a steep ascent from the main road. This little challenge will separate the strong from the weak, and those that have the will and strength will be rewarded with stunning views of the Pašman channel. Also if you visit between 4:00 - 6:00 pm you can take a tour of the monastery.
This cycle route is a 60km round trip . However, there are opportunities for lots of stops and with ferries departing Preko every hour, you don't need to stick to a tight schedule.
