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Countless islands in crystal clear water, deeply fissured cliffs, picturesque beaches and numerous small bays are the typical features of Croatia's stunning Kvarner Bay in the northern Adriatic. Spend a week discovering the landscape and people of this unique island world by bike, independently and with the aid of knowledgeable tour guides. Based on a comfortable motor yacht, our floating accommodation, discover the charm of the Adriatic. Cycle off after a hearty breakfast and meet the boat at a harbour for lunch. In the evening the boat will be waiting in the next harbour, allowing you to enjoy fantastic cuisine as the sun sets, followed by a stroll through a historic harbour town. Flexibility is the key to this holiday, with the option to take a day off cycling and spend time on board, swimming or wandering through the alleyways of pretty port towns.
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190kg of CO2-e PP per day
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Day 1
Arrive Omišalj, cruise to Rabac, overnight
Individual arrival in Omišalj (or group transfer from Zagreb - cost not included and must be pre-booked) and check-in to the motor yacht between 2:00pm and 2:30pm. At around 3:00pm we will cruise to Rabac on the Istrian Peninsula. The coastal town is surrounded by crystal clear blue waters and numerous cafes on the seaside promenade give an inviting impression. Explore the surroundings on foot and familiarise yourself with the boat and fellow travellers. The night is spent in Rabac.
Meals: D
Day 2
The island of Cres (32km/20mi)
Today’s bike tour starts with a transfer to Labin, a village at 300m above sea level. The descent back down to the sea alternates between asphalt roads, forest tracks, and simple trails. A more technically demanding trail takes you along the coast of the peninsula with fleeting views of Rabac. Once back at the boat we cruise to the island of Cres to the main town with the same name. A quaint harbour town characterized by its Italian architecture. The night is spent here. Approx. elevation 550m/16400ft
Meals: B,L,D
Day 3
The islands of Cres and Lošinj (30+34km/19 + 21mi)
The tour starts with an asphalt climb before turning off onto gravel roads with wonderful views over the bay of Valun steadily making your way inland. In the clifftop town of Podol our efforts are rewarded with a short break. After catching our breath, we continue along natural paths and goat trails with flowy sections past the Vrana Lake in the direction of Lubenice. The final trail to the port of Martinšcica has technically demanding sections. The boat awaits our arrival in Martinšcica and takes us on a cruise to the relaxed harbour town of Mali Lošinj. The various cafes and bars along the seaside promenade offer plenty of choice to enjoy a relaxing sundowner before catching a restful night’s sleep. Elevation: approx 700+600m/2300+1970ft
Day 4
Islands of Losinj and Ilovik (30+25km/19+15mi)
The island of Lošinj is sculpted for Mountain bikers. Here we have the tough choice either to bike along the coastline through lush pine forests once around the peninsula, past picturesque bays, or to take a more technically challenging ride to the harbour of Veli Lošinj. Veli Lošinj was originally the capital city of the island before its harbour became too small for modern day boats and Mali Lošinj overtook it in size and popularity. In the afternoon, we cross over to the island of Ilovik where we can enjoy the afternoon exploring the island by foot and going for a swim. Elevation: approx 400-600m/1310-1970ft
Meals: B,D
Day 5
Cycle on the island of Rab (37+33km/23+20mi)
In the morning we cruise to the island of Rab. A small island, but great for mountain biking. The tours take place on seaside trails along historic roman roads with exceptional views over the island and on flowy sections through the Dundo Forrest with constant glimpses of the clear blue sea. Those seeking to ride more technically challenging trails will be pleased to know that the island offers many rocky and blocked riding sections. The island offers great variation for all riders. The old town of Rab, with its four clock towers, is regarded as one of the most picturesque old towns on the Adriatic coast. A wonderful town to spend the evening in looking back on a day of great riding. Elevation: approx 450m/1475ft
Day 6
Cruise to Krk (27km/17mi)
In the morning, we cruise to Krk, the capital of the island of Krk. The first ascent leads through olive groves on a gravel road. The descent is on a natural single trail that ends at the sea. The route continues along the coast on a single trail past some small bays. On the other side of the town of Krk, the route climbs through a forest to Punat. The descent leads over rocky terrain. Enjoy an evening exploring the alleyways with your guide and relaxing on one of many beautiful spots near the sea. The night is spent in Krk. Elevation: approx 420m/1378ft
Day 7
Cycle the island of Krk and to Omišalj (50km/31mi)
Our last bike tour takes us across the 'golden island' of Krk. The famous Zlahtin grape vines thrive here, grown mainly around the town of Vrbnik. We bike past expansive vineyards, olive groves and long stone walls. After a coffee break we follow the wide coastal paths back to the muddy bay, Soline. The final stretch takes us along narrow paths and through peaceful villages to Omišalj, where we'll enjoy the end of our trip with dinner on board with the crew and tour guides. Elevation: approx 700m/2300ft
Day 8
Trip concludes in Omišalj
Disembark after breakfast around 9.00am and individual departure (or group transfer to Zagreb - additional cost applies, must be pre-booked).
Meals: B
Arrive Omišalj, cruise to Rabac
Individual arrival in Omišalj on the island of Krk (group transfer available from Zagreb, additional cost and must be pre-booked) and check-in to the motor yacht between 1.00pm and 1.30pm. At 2:00pm we will cruise to Rabac on the Istrian Peninsula. The coastal town is surrounded by crystal clear blue waters and numerous cafes on the seaside promenade give an inviting impression. Explore the surroundings on foot and familiarise yourself with the boat and fellow travellers. The night is spent in Rabac. If you arrive in Omisalj early you can look around town. It has an attractive medieval centre and a pretty marina. In medieval times the town with a present population of 2,000 belonged to the aristocratic Frankopan dynasty. In 1420 it was secured with a fortress (which was dismantled in the 20th century). The narrow lanes of the medieval centre are ideal for strolling around. In the pedestrian zone stands the parish church of Holy Mary built in 1213 as a three-naved basilica. The nearby bell tower as well as the adjoining loggia were built in the 16th century, the dome of the church in the 17th century.
Cycle Rabac to Labin and cruise to Cres (39km/24mi)
After breakfast our tour starts with a steady climb from sea level to the city of Labin. Once at the top, we enjoy our first views over the Kvarner Bay and its islands. We cycle through the scenic landscapes of Istria and small rural villages before returning to Labin for lunch. After sampling our first locally cooked meal, we descend to the boat in Rabac and cruise to the island of Cres to the main town with the same name. A quaint harbour town characterized by its Italian architecture where we overnight.
Meals: B,L
The islands of Cres and and Lošinj (28km/17mi)
After breakfast we start our tour from the city of Cres to Martinšcica. The boat awaits our arrival, and lunch is served during the cruise to the island of Lošinj. If the weather is good, the captain will arrange a swim stop along the way before tying off in the harbour town of Mali Lošinj. The port with its colourful facades and numerous cafes offers its visitors a welcoming atmosphere for a relaxed evening.
Cycle on Lošinj, cruise to Ilovik (20km/12mi)
We cycle along the seaside promenade to the south of Lošinj and visit the picturesque small harbour town of Veli Lošinj before returning to the ship for lunch. In the afternoon, we cross over to the island of Ilovik where we can enjoy a swim stop on anchor or at the local beach. We spend a peaceful night on this quaint island.
Cruise to and cycle Rab Island (25km/16mi)
In the morning we cross to the island Rab said to be one of the sunniest places in Europe. We enjoy a round tour through diverse landscapes on the Island. Starting from the old town, our tour takes us through alternating landscapes from coastal promenades to shaded forests and secluded bays. After returning to the boat, we can enjoy some free time in this enchanting town before taking part in a guided city tour. In the evening there is plenty of time to explore the narrow alleys with their numerous cosy cafés.
Cruise to Krk, round cycle tour (21km/13mi)
In the morning, we cruise to Krk, the city capital of the island Krk, with its lovely old town. A round tour from the city of Krk takes us through the diverse landscapes of the island, inland from the coast through vast vinyards and small villages. Back in Krk we enjoy an evening exploring the alleyways with our guide and relaxing on one of many beautiful terrace bars near the sea. The night is spent in Krk.
Cycle the island of Krk and to Omišalj (45km/28mi)
This morning we will cycle over the ridge of Krk island, through macchia (fragrant Mediterranean scrubland) to a valley of vineyards. We continue to the town of Vrbnik, built on a 50m high cliff and surrounded by vineyards. This small town is home to the famous Croatian white wine Zlahtina and what is said to be the second narrowest alley in the world. From Vrbnik we continue across the island through old villages and rich vegetation to Omisalj, from where Rijeka, Croatia’s main seaport, is visible across the bay. On the way we have a can have a swim in the bay of Soline. The last night will be spent on board the boat in the harbour of Omišalj, where we'll enjoy dinner together with the crew and tour guides.
What's included
What's not included
Below Deck Cabins
There are 3 cabins located bleow deck. Two of these cabins have twin beds and two portholes. The other has a double bed. All cabins have ensuite facilities.
Above Deck Cabins
Above deck there are 10 twin share cabins, 6 with double beds and 4 with separate beds. Each cabin has a private tiled bathroom. A supplement applies for above deck cabins.
During the trip you will be provided with a 21 speed bike with hand brakes. You will be provided with a pannier to carry your gear during the day. The bikes do not have water bottle holders. Helmets are not supplied but are mandatory on all bike tours - you are encouraged to bring your own well-fitted helmet. A limited number of rental helmets are available on board (reservation essential), however we cannot guarantee their suitability. Please note that the minimum height for a rental bike is 1.20 m (4 ft) for hybrid bikes.
A mountain bike (MTB) option is available on select departures running parallel with the standard itinerary - subject to minimum numbers. Refer to the mountain bike itinerary - a supplement applies. It is not possible to carry a pannier on the MTB rentals, you will need to bring your own hydration pack or water bladder to store drinking water needed during the cycling. We also recommend riders bring arm and leg protectors for the mountain bike tour. E-Mountain bikes are also available for a supplement.
An electric bike is available on request. A supplement applies, see below. Electric bikes, or e-bikes, are designed to make cycling easier. The pedaling ‘boost’ provided by an e-bike opens up more options, allowing people of different fitness levels to cycle together or for cyclists to take on routes they may otherwise consider too tough for their current fitness capabilities. Please note that e-bikes are heavier than normal bikes and given the higher speed possible, should only be ridden by confident cyclists. Minimum age for e-bike rental is 14 years and a minimum height requirement is 150cm.
There are no designated bike paths in Kvarner Bay. The roads are mostly paved and experience little traffic outside of the holiday season. On the island of Krk, a short section runs over unpaved gravel and forest paths. On the island of Lošinj, the tour follows a narrow seaside promenade where especially cautious and controlled riding is required. Traffic can be expected in and around coastal towns. Some sections on the islands of Cres and Krk also have slightly higher traffic.
GRADE 3 - The trip requires a good level of fitness from participants, which you should have acquired from steady cycling. The tours will take us up to a height of between 200 and 500m/656 and 1640ft above sea-level. The cycling, from 20 to 45km/12.5 to 28mi, will take us through hilly and mountainous terrain and will be completed without any time constraints. Participants will also need to master long and steep climbs, during which you may need to push the bike. You are free to set aside a half or full day to swim or spend on board the boat, instead of taking a planned bike-tour. We will traverse mostly asphalted roads, which are rarely travelled outside of the holiday seasons. Each day you can either decide to bike alone, using the information and maps provided, or join the two tour guides or other participants. It is considered suitable for active children with bike experience (minimum 10 years, height minimum is 1.4m or 4.6ft). For the mountain bike option, the cycling stages are from 32 to 55km and 200 to 900m of elevation. The terrain is diverse, from hilly to mountainous terrain and along wide natural paths, small side roads, Roman roads and narrow paths. *For safety reasons, we insist that cycle helmets be included as a compulsory item on your equipment list.
Per Person, Twin Share
Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
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8Days
Moderate
Introductory to Moderate