The pearl of the Adriatic and its surrounding areas are a global tourist hotspot, with sites such as the UNESCO-listed Old City of Dubrovnik, the wine region of Pelješac, Mljet National Park, and Korčula the birthplace of the famed explorer Marco Polo, there is so much to see. Fortunately for cyclists, bike trails are traversing this entire region including many of the islands allowing you to get out and explore on two wheels.
Dubrovnik & Neretva County is the Southernmost county in Croatia and shares borders with Bosnia & Herzegovina in the east and Montenegro to the south and was known as the Republic of Ragusa from 1358 to 1808.
Southeast of the City of Dubrovnik is the beautiful region of Konavle, which has numerous cycle trails that pass through charming villages, ancient sites, vineyards, and the orchards which dominate the landscape.
The Pelješac peninsula is most famed for its outstanding wines, namely Plavac Mali, which you absolutely must try, but is also a choice cycling destination. Take in the idyllic Ston and its impressive 5km medieval defensive walls, the historic captain’s town of Orebič and the enchanting pine and cypress forests which blanket the Pelješac.
From Pelješac bikes can be taken on the ferry as you make your way to Mljet. The island of Mljet also known as the green island, is for those that love nature, with a small population and half the island a National Park, lush vegetation abounds and you can cycle the many trails in peace. Saplunara, one of Croatia's best beaches, is on Mljet, and many of the cycle routes include this beach as a stop. Another must see sight are the salt lakes of the Mljet National Park. Be sure to find a shady place for your bike and take a swim as well as paying a visit to the little island of St Mary with its 12th-century church.
Korčula is also a short ferry ride from Pelješac and has some remarkable sites including the Korčula Old Town where you’ll find the explorer, Marco Polo’s house. For cyclists, there are many great on and off road routes which will take you through many Korčula villages, some of which, include Lumbarda, Pupnat, Smokvica, Blato and Vela Luka. Beginners can take a comfortable ride to the fishing village of Račišće from Korčula. It’s panoramic sea views all the way along the winding roads through Žrnovska and Banja. Hungry? No problem, there are lots of places to stop for a meal, drink or more importantly a dip in the Adriatic.
For total peace and quiet head to Lastovo Nature Park, a known cycling hotspot. With bike trails that traverse the island, you can stop at any of the island's 40 medieval churches.
(Stay tuned for more great cycling information, as we await more detailed cycling info from local tourist board)
