8 Day Split - Split South Bike Cruise in Croatia
Croatia Cycling Tour
This guided cycling tour in Dalmatia begins and concludes in the vibrant city of Split, taking you on an unforgettable journey through Croatia's stunning coastlines, medieval towns, and charming villages. You'll pedal through picturesque bays, discover pristine beaches, and ride amidst lush vineyards and fragrant pine woods. The tour also includes visits to historic islands and the breathtaking Mljet National Park. Croatia, with its stunning islands, rich cultural heritage, Mediterranean vegetation, and mild climate, offers the perfect setting for an immersive cycling adventure. There's no better way to explore this beautiful land than by bike.
Key information
- Trip type: Guided
- Lodging: Point to Point
- Terrain: Paved and macadam roads
- Starts in: Split
- Ends in: Split
- Total Distance: 150 Miles / 241 Kilometers
- Type of bike: Hybrid bike
- E-bike: 170 EUR per week
- 20 participants as minimum
Highlights
- 7 days of cycling
- Ride through villages beaches, bays, cliffs, and fields
- Professional bike guide
- 7 nights accommodation
- Daily meals
- Luggage handling for Premium superior and Premium packages
Skill level
- Intermediate
- Advanced
Accommodation
Facilities
- Air-conditioned rooms
- Dining area
- Free Wi-Fi
Premium superior vessels
Modern, recently built mini deluxe vessels, 35 to 41 meters in length, featuring a spacious sun deck, air-conditioned salon, cozy lounge area, and cabins from eight to 14 square meters in size with double or twin beds, hairdryer, and safety deposit box.
Premium vessels
Steel-hulled vessels with a traditional, yet modern look offer accommodation in air-conditioned, spacious en-suite cabins with double or twin beds, a hairdryer, and a safety deposit box. Premium vessels are 29 to 35 meters long with eight to 14 square meters in size cabins.
Traditional ensuite vessels
Wooden vessels feature air-conditioned cabins with private showers or toilets, mostly bunk beds, and air-conditioned salons.
Note
Daily cabin servicing, fresh bed linen, and towels midweek can be ordered in advance.
Program
Highlights include great beaches, vineyards, pine woods, cycling across the historic islands, and exploring Mljet National Park.
Daily itinerary
Day 1: Split - Supetar - Pučišća (lunch)
Arrival in Split and check-in from 11:00 a.m. Departure at 1:00 p.m. followed by lunch on board on the journey to the island of Brač. Upon arrival in Supetar, cycle tour through the coastal road to the northern part of the island. Pass by the fishing villages Splitska and Postira and arrive in one of the most beautiful small settlements in Europe - Pučišća. Free afternoon for sightseeing in this charming village, well known for its long stonemason tradition. Overnight in Pučišća.
- Bike course: Supetar - Pučišća
- Highest point: 90 meters
- Difficulty level: 2/5
- Distance: 25 kilometers
- Elevation: 380 meters
- Terrain: 100% paved road
Day 2: Pučišća - Pokrivenik or Jelsa - Sućuraj - Kućište (breakfast, lunch, and captain's dinner)
Breakfast and morning cruise towards the longest Croatian island - Hvar with the view of Biokovo mountain. The cycling tour starts in a small picturesque bay Pokrivenik. It starts with ascending to the highest point of the route and then descending to the eastern point of Hvar island - Sućuraj, where the ship will be waiting. After lunch on board, cruise towards the second biggest Croatian peninsula - Pelješac and a charming settlement Kućište. Captain's dinner onboard (included on Premium). Overnight in Kućište.
- Bike course: Pokrivenik - Sućuraj
- Highest point: 350 meters
- Difficulty level: 3/5
- Distance: 32 kilometers
- Elevation: 450 meters
- Terrain: 100% paved road
Day 3: Kućište - Trstenik (breakfast and dinner)
Today’s ride could be called the wine-panoramic route. After breakfast, start riding towards Orebić, the city of seafarers and captains. The first few kilometers of ascending and then descending with the unique viewpoints of the Korčula archipelago. After Orebić, ascend to the vineyard area with the most famous varieties of Croatian wine. Cross the tunnel Dingač to the south side of Pelješac and continue riding through vineyards to Trstenik. Overnight in Trstenik.
- Bike course: Kućište - Trstenik
- Highest point: 540 meters
- Difficulty level: 4/5
- Distance: 30 kilometers
- Elevation: 800 or 580 meters
- Terrain: 100% paved road
Day 4: Trstenik - Mlje - Korčula (breakfast and lunch)
Cruise during breakfast from Trstenik to Mljet island, the lush green island also known as Honey Island. Mljet National Park (entrance fee to be paid on the spot, 25 EUR ) is a beautiful area of unique charm, featuring two connected saltwater lakes, lush flora, a unique appearance of indented coastline, cliffs, and numerous islets as well as always green plants of the surrounding hills.
Cycle around the saltwater lake, inside which there is another island with the Benedictine monastery from the 12th century. Refreshment in saltwater lakes and return to the vessel for lunch on board. Afternoon cruise to wards Korčula and upon arrival, time at leisure to explore the town of Marco Polo. Overnight in Korčula.
- Bike course: Mljet National Park
- Highest point: 45 meters
- Difficulty level: 1/5
- Distance: 18 kilometers
- Elevation: 120 meters
- Terrain: 80% paved, 20% macadam roads
Day 5: Korčula - Vela Luka (breakfast and dinner)
After breakfast, start with the longest route of the week passing through the entire island of Korčula. Ascend to Žrnovo village and then to the oldest settlement on the island - Pupnat, the highest point of the route. Descend to the south side of Korčula and road ride between one of the most beautiful bays of the island with steep cliffs above it.
Continue the ride through numerous olive groves and vineyards of one of the most famous grape varieties, Pošip. Short break in the charming village of Smokvica. Descend to the sea and refresh on one of the numerous hidden pebbly beaches. Ascend towards the viewpoint above town Blato and finally descend towards Vela Luka. Dinner on board and overnight in Vela Luka.
- Bike course: Korčula - Pupnat - Smokvica - Prižba - Blato - Vela Luka
- Highest point: 340 meters
- Difficulty level: 4/5
- Distance: 55 kilometers
- Elevation: 750 meters
- Terrain: 100% paved road
Day 6: Vela Luka - Hvar - Stari Grad (breakfast and lunch)
Early morning cruise from Vela Luka to the town of Hvar, with breakfast on board. Short sightseeing of Hvar, a fairy tale city with great architecture, beautiful nature, and a mild climate. Cycle from Hvar to the other side of the island - Stari Grad. Pass through numerous lavender fields and enjoy the view of neighboring islands and the mainland.
Lunch on board in Stari Grad. Easy afternoon ride up to two Hvar's pearls - Jelsa and Vrboska and through Stari Grad Plain where the ancient Greek land division has been preserved to these days with the system of roads and plots equally divided. Overnight in Stari Grad.
Bike course 1: Hvar - Stari Grad
- Highest point: 410 meters
- Difficulty level: 3/5
- Distance: 23 kilometers
- Elevation: 450 meters
- Terrain: 100% paved road
Bike course 2: Stari Grad - Jelsa - Vrboska - Stari Grad
- Highest point: 85 meters
- Difficulty level: 1/5
- Distance: 22 kilometers
- Elevation: 110 meters
- Terrain: 85% paved, 15% macadam roads
Day 7: Stari Grad - Stomorska - Split (breakfast and lunch)
The last day starts with a morning cruise from Stari Grad to the island of Šolta. After breakfast, start cycling from Stomorska to the highest point of the island - Gornje Selo, enjoying the views on both sides of the island and the scents of Mediterranean plants. Continue to Maslinica on the west part of the island. Short break and return to Stomorska. Lunch on board and cruise towards Split. Free afternoon for sightseeing and enjoying the Diocletian's city. Overnight in Split.
- Bike course: Stomorska - Maslinica
- Highest point: 135 meters
- Difficulty level: 2/5
- Distance: 36 kilometers
- Elevation: 450 meters
- Terrain: 100% paved road
Day 8: Split (breakfast)
An early breakfast, followed by check-out and farewell to the crew.
Bicycles
Bike rental is possible on request. Katarina Line is not responsible for any damage that may occur to personal bicycles during bike tours and transportation from land to the vessel and vice versa. Repair kit for personal bikes obligatory. Bike rental includes bikes equipped with bottle holders (own bottles are recommended), bag carrier, small bag (14x8x8 centimeters), and helmet.
1. Hybrid bike
- Frame: 700 Alloy
- Color: Matt black
- Fork: Suntour matt black nex
- Chainwheel: Shimano T4010E866CL3/48T
- Octalnik: 175 CG
- B.B parts: Shimano BB - ES300B*126
- Pedal: Alloy SP - 823
- Chain: Z 9000
- Rear derailleur: Shimano DEOREKRD591SGSL
- Front derailleur: Shimano ALIVIO 4000TSM6
- Shifting levers: Shimano ALIVIO SLM 4000
- Freewheel: Shimano CS HG 20091134
- Rims: X ALT X3 double wall
- Tyres: CST 40 - 622 SALVO HIGH PROTECTION 5 millimeters
- Brake: V Brake Shimano ABRT 4000 FC14SL
- Carrier: TANGSHAN HLJY - F4 - 28 black
Weekly rent: 160 EUR
2. E-bike
- Wheel size: 26 inches
- Pedalassist: Up to 25 kilometers per hour
- Display: Panasonic Side Lcd
- Motor: Panasonic 36v
- Assistance levels: four assistance levels
- Gears: Shimano Nexus 8 Speed Hub Gears
- Breaks: Magura Hs22 Hydraulic End V - Brake
- Battery: 540wh/15ah/36v
- Charger: 36v Panasonic Charger
- Fork: Sr Suntour Nex Suspension Fork 63mm
- Tyres: Schwalbe Maraton Plus
- Anti-theft protection: Abus Frame Lock
Weekly rent: 260 EUR
Swimming breaks
In good weather and depending on timings, you will have regular swim stops while the vessel anchors in secluded bays or after the cycling before departure to the next island.
Cycling route
The length of the daily cycling routes is estimated and depends on local information and various detours or shortcuts that can be done en route. Sailing and cycling routes may be changed on the spot due to weather conditions and the capacity of the respective cyclists on board. Departure is during morning hours, mostly after breakfast.
Special notes
The captain reserves the right to change the route in case of bad weather conditions. All Katarina Line cruise departures are guaranteed, however, if fewer than 20 participants are booked, Katarina Line reserves the right to cancel the departure and change the ship name if the need arises. Katarina Line reserves the right to change the ship in case of a charter. Notification will be sent at least 45 days prior to departure. Passengers are obliged to follow the ship rules and regulations found in written form on board, especially in regards to bringing drinks on board.
In case of inappropriate behavior, Katarina Line or the captain reserves the right to ask passengers to disembark. Biking recommended equipment: biking shoes, backpack, extra clothes, rain or sun protection, and repair kit for personal bikes obligatory. If taking part in biking activities, you are responsible for yourself and agree to abide by the decisions and instructions given by the guide who reserves the right to change the itinerary according to weather conditions and the group’s abilities.
You are responsible for the rented bike and associated equipment and are obliged to return the same in its original condition. In the event of damage, you are liable for damages according to the Katarina Line price list of spare parts available on request from the guide. The agency is not responsible for any damage to personal bikes.
Due to specific mooring conditions and requirements in some Croatian ports, Katarina Line ships are moored side by side, making it necessary for the clients to cross from one vessel to another with gaps in between ships to get to the shore. In such cases, you need to take special care when crossing and do this at your own risk. Crew assistance will be given to those needing and requesting it.
Location
The tour will take place in Croatia. The route is Split - Brač - Hvar - Pelješac - Mljet - Korčula - Hvar - Šolta - Split. Croatia is a beautiful country with beautiful islands, a rich history, Mediterranean vegetation, and a mild climate. Without a doubt, the best way to explore it is by bike.
Food
You will be served daily breakfast, five lunches, two dinners, and water, as well as a captain’s dinner, olive oil and wine tasting on board, afternoon tea, and coffee with biscuits for Premium superior and Premium packages only, included in the price. During your cycling routes, stops at local restaurants are recommended where you can sample the local specialties. These meals are not included in the price of the trip and are paid by the customers. If not included, there is a possibility to book a captain's dinner, which is paid directly on the spot and is offered by the captain.
Breakfast
Each regular breakfast includes coffee, tea, milk, juice, cereal, bread, and a variety of spreads - butter, honey, jam, soft cheese as well as daily additions such as ham and cheese or boiled eggs, frankfurters, salami, etc. English breakfast supplement includes two eggs, bacon, tomato and mushrooms, or fruit and yogurt, or similar.
Captain's dinner
Choice of fish or meat menu - ship's specialty served.
The following meals are included:
- Breakfast
- Drinks
The following drinks are included:
- Water
- Coffee
- Tea
- Alcoholic beverages
The following dietary requirement(s) are served and/or catered for:
- Regular (typically includes meat and fish)
Things to do (optional)
Pre- and post-cruise land options
1. Coast express - pre-cruise land tour departing from Zagreb, Venice, or Ljubljana (four days)
- Zagreb - Plitvice - Split
- Venice - Opatija - Plitvice - Split
- Ljubljana - Bled - Postojna - Split
2. Lakes and Mediterranean harmony - pre-cruise land tour (nine days)
3. Međugorje Pilgrimage - pre- or post-cruise (four days)
4. Zagreb direct - post-cruise option (two days)
5. National park express - post-cruise option (three days)
6. Salona Split retreat - pre or post-cruise (wellness retreat in Solin - three days)
Wedding renewal or other occasion or special day celebration package
It costs 150 EUR per couple and includes a renewal ceremony performed by the captain, certificate, champagne, and gift.
What's included
- 7 days of cycling tour
- 7 nights accommodation
- Daily buffet breakfast (for Premium superior and Premium packages) or continental breakfast (for Traditional ensuite packages)
- 3-course lunches or dinners
- Captain’s dinner (for Premium superior and Premium packages only)
- Bike guide
- Daily cabin service (for Premium superior and Premium packages only)
- 1 mid-week fresh set of towels and bed linen (for Premium superior and Premium packages only)
- Luggage handling (for Premium superior and Premium packages only)
- Olive oil and wine tasting on board (for Premium superior and Premium packages only)
- Afternoon tea and coffee with biscuits (for Premium superior and Premium packages only)
- Water
- Wi-Fi
What's not included
- Airfare
- Visitor's tax and port fees (60 EUR per person per cruise)
- Bike handling (20 EUR per person per week)
- Bike rental
- Saddlebags rental (21 EUR per person per cruise)
- Baby chair or cot rental (50 EUR per cruise)
- Parking (from 14 EUR per day)
- Airport transfers
- Wedding renewal or other occasion or special day celebration package
- Pre- or post-cruise accommodation
- Ferry tickets
- Beach towels (can be purchased on arrival for 10 EUR)
- English breakfast supplement (40 EUR per cruise)
- Captain's dinner (30 EUR - for Traditional ensuite packages)
- Extra towels (3 EUR per cruise per towel)
- Beach towels (5 EUR per cruise per towel)
- Daily cabin cleaning (50 EUR per person per cruise)
How to get there
Recommended Airports
Split Airport
41 km
Transfer not provided
Cancellation Policy
- A reservation requires a deposit of 20% of the total price.
- The deposit is non-refundable, if the booking is cancelled.
- The rest of the payment should be paid 30 days before arrival.
For this organizer you can guarantee your booking through Tripaneer.com. All major credit cards supported.