Cycling along the backroads of Istria, Croatia

Istria is the large Adriatic peninsula situated in the northwest of Croatia; a region with an ancient history, stunning coastline and rolling countryside of medieval hilltop towns and villages.

For those looking to explore this beautiful countryside at your own pace we have this gentle self guided option along quiet country roads.

We book all your accommodation, transfer your luggage and then provide you with route notes and itinerary for you to do the trails unguided. Trips start preferably on Saturdays with a minimum of two people.

The riding here is ideal for the regular cyclist of a reasonable fitness, looking to explore a hidden corner of Europe.

Your start point for this circular self guided tour is the monastery village of Klostar, our route then heads to the fascinating Bujstina region before reaching the beautiful town of Motovun.

Your next stop is the old Istrian capital of Pazin, famous for its castle and caves. From here you continue to the "City of Truffles" Buzet before reaching Lupoglav. After a visit to Rabac, you finish your journey by crossing from east to west as you end in style with a ride from Rabac back to Klostar.

Detailed Itinerary:
Day 1 - Arrival in Istria
You will begin your trip in Klostar above the astonishing Lim fjord and it is in this small but pleasent former monastery village that you will be welcomed to Istria by our host Milka.

Day 2 - Klostar to Bujstina - 48kms / 30 miles approx
Today you will be travelling from Klostar to Buje. The Bujstina region is one of the most interesting areas on the peninsula. Getting to Bujstina will involve cycling through typical Istrian before tackling the steep climb which leads into Groznjan. This village is known not only for its medieval buildings and scenic location but for its artistic population. Your final stop will be near to the town of Buje where you will spend the night at one of the rural hotels in the area.

Day 3 - Buje to Motovun 50kms / 31 miles approx
Passing through the hills of northwestern Istria close to the Slovenian border, you will see the part of the country that produces the sweet Moskat wine. After a ride through the historic town of Oprtalj and down to the Mirna river you head towards your final destination for the day. The medieval town of Motovun is where you will rest for the night.

Day 4 - Motovun to Buzet - Total distance – 60kms / 37 miles
Today you shall travel through the heart of Istria, tackling the hills that lead us to the old capital of Pazin. Later your journey will take us to Grimalda where you can catch your breath and enjoy the most astonishing views that Istria has to offer! After soaking up the views you pass over the ridge and into the town of Buzet which is known as the truffle capital of Istria, this is where you will stay for tonight.

Day 5 - Buzet to Lupoglav - 40kms / 25 miles approx
The morning may start with a climb but this is soon rewarded by some wonderful views of the central Istrian hills. Today you shall pay a visit to Hum, the smallest village in Croatia and on the way pass over the cicarija mountain plateau. After Hum you will climb again, this time up sandy hills to reach your overnight stop in Lupoglav.

Day 6 - Lupoglav to Rabac - approx. 56kms / 35 miles
Heading towards the south today, your first climb will see you reaching Boljun which is situated at an old fortress nestled in the lower slopes of the Ucka mountains. Cycling under the shadow of the Ucka and Liburnian mountains you can visit Vozilici to enjoy lunch before heading to the centre of the peninsula and then onto the east coast. Your accomodation tonight will be in a hotel in the area.

Day 7 - Rabac - Klostar - approx. 60kms / 37 miles
The final day of cycling will be a tour from east to west, meaning you will get to see something of everything! You will start from Rabac and head for Klostar on the opposite coast. This will be a wonderful opportunity to see the variety of Istria with its valleys, hills and rivers and also present the opportunity to enjoy a swim in the Adriatic sea.

Day 8 - Departure
Alas your holiday comes to an end today. After enjoying breakfast we will transfer you and your luggage to your departure point.

Equipment
If you don't own a suitable bike or would prefer to avoid bringing your own we have bikes available to hire. These bikes are typically mountain bike featuring front suspension, disc breaks and good quality components. If you do decide to hire we will include a helmet and all necessary spares for the trip. Please contact us for the current model of bike used on this departure.

What the price doesn't include
A) Personal clothing and equipment.
B) Meals and drinks whilst travelling to and from Croatia.
C) All lunches and evening meals (half board option available)
D) Travel insurance (available if required, £26).
E) Bar bills, telephone calls, souvenirs, etc.
F) Bike hire (available if required).
G) Single room supplement (if required) - £100