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Duration
8 days
Activities
  • guided cycle
Accommodation
  • 7 nights boat
Meals
  • 2 Dinners
  • 5 Lunches
  • 7 Breakfasts

Price

$1690USD

 
 

Overview

Trip Code: KBS

Trip highlights


  • Cycling on the islands of Kvarner Bay with dramatic scenery
  • Exploring the small towns and villages enroute
  • Krk with its beautiful old township and Pag with its specialty cheeses
  • The seafarer’s island of Losinj with its picturesque bay
  • Soaking up the hospitality onboard the comfortable sailing boat

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.

Trip Grading

moderate

More info about grading system

Traveller Rating

 

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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 2:00pm and 3:00pm. At around 3:00pm we will cruise (for approx 4 hours) to the island of Cres. In the evening you can enjoy a short guided walk through the Venetian old town. If you arrive 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.

Meals:  D

After breakfast we start our tour from the city of Cres to Martinšcica. The boat awaits your 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 wellness town of Mali Lošinj. The port with its colourful facades and numerous cafes offers its visitors a welcoming atmosphere for a relaxed evening.

Meals:  B,L

This morning we cycle along a seaside path to Veli Lošinj, a picturesque town in the south of the island. Hilly cobblestone streets leading up from the main square meld with the rocky coastline. After lunch on the boat we cruise to the island of Molat where we'll take another short bike ride. We spend the night in a peaceful and secluded port on the island.

Meals:  B,L

We'll begin cruising this morning during breakfast, passing many small islands until we reach the ‘spice island’ of Dugi Otok (meaning ‘Long Island’). Today’s cycling will commence from the bay of Bozava, which is surrounded by woods of pine, agave and tamarisk trees. On roads almost free of traffic we'll cycle to the northern-most point of the island, where the light house of Veli Rat stands proudly since 1849, fulfilling its duty to guide sailors safely on their way. A ride along the island’s “Road in the Sky” brings us to the harbour of either Savar or Bribinj. There will be ample time for a swim in the afternoon before continuing to the small island of Zadar for the night. Zadar has been the political, cultural and spiritual centre of Dalmatia for centuries. 3000 years of history have left their imprint on the character of this town and there are many things to be admired: the mighty fortified walls with their bastions, the loggia and the early Romanesque St. Donatus Basilica. In the evening our tour guide takes us on an extensive walk through the lively city centre.

Meals:  B,L

In the morning we cross to the island of Pag, home to many fig and olive trees in a harsh but delightful landscape. Over time the island's inhabitants have built many stone walls as protection against the wind. Starting from Mandre we cycle along the peninsula as far as the sea, where the boat will be waiting to take us to Rab. The island of Rab is said to be one of the sunniest places in Europe. The fortified town of Rab, with its four famous bell towers, is the capital of the island and was built in the Middle Ages. There is plenty of time to explore the narrow alleys with their numerous cosy cafés in the evening.

Meals:  B,L

Today we enjoy a round tour through diverse landscapes on the Island of Rab. 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 start our cruise towards the island of Krk. Along the way we hope to stop for a refreshing swim from the boat. We spend the evening in the historical town of Krk.

Meals:  B,L

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.

Meals:  B,D

Disembark after breakfast around 9am and individual departure (or group transfer to Zagreb - additional cost applies, must be pre-booked).

Meals:  B

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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 (for approx 4 hours) to the island of Cres. In the evening enjoy a short guided tour through the Venetian old town.

Meals:  D

After breakkfast we begin cycling from the city of Cres pedalling to the small port of Martinšcica . Starting with an asphalt climb we head off onto gravel roads with wonderful views over the bay of Valun steadily making our 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 undulating sections past the Vraner Lake in the direction of Martinšcica. Lunch is served on board 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 harbor wellness town of Mali Lošinj. The port with its colourful facades and numerous cafes offers its visitors a welcoming atmosphere for a relaxed evening. Approx. elevation 550m/1800ft

Meals:  B,L,D

A short bike tour in the morning leads us across the island of Lošinj, which is a perfect place for mountain biking. We bike through pine forests, past palm trees and agaves and along a promenade to our destination of Veli Lošinj. The former capital of the island, the town has numerous fishing boats, cafes and ice cream parlours, and is dominated by the huge church of St Anthony. After lunch on the boat we cruise to the 'flower island' of Molat, where we'll start our second bike tour, although there are no official MBT trails. Molat impresses with its rich vegetation, neat gardens and great views of the neighbouring islands. Overnight stay in the harbour of Molat. Elevation: approx 350+200m/1150+650ft

Meals:  B,L,D

We’ll begin cruising this morning during breakfast, passing many small islands until we reach the ‘spice island’ of Dugi Otok (meaning ‘Long Island’). Here we'll explore mostly on asphalt roads the northern, elongated part of the narrow island by bike. The scenic road opens to magnificent views of bays, islands and the mainland. Many spots offer a view of the sea on both sides of the island. Our boat can be seen navigating to the next harbour, where it awaits our arrival in Savar or Brbinj. There will be ample time for a swim in the afternoon. We continue by boat to the small island of Zadar for the night. Zadar has been the political, cultural and spiritual centre of Dalmatia for centuries. 3000 years of history have left their imprint on the character of this town and there are many things to be admired: the mighty fortified walls with their bastions, the loggia and the early Romanesque St. Donatus Basilica. In the evening our tour guide takes us on an extensive walk through the lively city centre. Elevation: approx 600m/990-1970ft

Meals:  B,D

In the morning we cross to the island of Pag, home to many fig and olive trees in a harsh but delightful landscape. Over time the island’s inhabitants have built many stone walls as protection against the wind. Today’s bike tour takes us past stone walls and a sheep’s pastures to Novalja, mainly on asphalt roads. After a short coffee break we continue to the northernmost part of the island Pag. The rugged, karstic island, which is covered with herbs, offers the ideal basis for the famous spicy cheese of Pag. Also well-known are the olives from the ancient olive groves of Lun, through which we descend just before the end of the tour. The short crossing to Rab offers a marvelous view of the medieval city walls of the city of Rab. The island of Rab is said to be one of the sunniest places in Europe. There will be time after dinner to explore the narrow alleyways and cosy cafes of Rab. Elevation: approx 450m/1475ft

Meals:  B,L,D

Rab is a relatively small island but excellent for mountain biking. Today's bike tour takes us along narrow promenades and Roman roads, winding through the protected evergreen holm oak forest, the Dundo Forest, and offering great views of the sea and Rab town. At lunchtime the boat will be waiting for us in the harbour directly in front of the old town of Rab. Explore the old town or take a swim before we cruise (2.5 hours) to the neighbouring island of Krk, where we will spend the evening in the historical town. Elevation: approx 550m/1800ft

Meals:  B,L,D

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

Meals:  B,D

Disembark after breakfast around 9am and individual departure (or group transfer to Zagreb - additional cost applies, must be pre-booked).

Meals:  B


Inclusions

  • 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches*, 2 dinners (does not include drinks) - the cook on board is a member of the crew. The meals begin with dinner on day 1 and ends with breakfast on day 8. *Note that the included lunches and dinners labelled on the itinerary may be swapped as these depend on sailing conditions on the day and from time to time we may substitute one of the lunches for a dinner or vice versa, your tour guide will inform you locally when these will be included.
  • 7 nights in a double cabin below deck with ensuite facilities on board a standard boat (supplement applies for above deck or single cabin). If you are travelling by yourself you can pay the single supplement (limited no. of cabins) or if you are willing to share can be matched with another passenger of the same sex (where available). The compact cabins are configured with a double bed or two separate beds. Excellent discounts apply to a third person sharing a triple cabin, with a configuration of a French bed (quite cosy for two people as it is a little smaller than a double) and a single bunk bed above (not available on all vessels). Note that the lower deck cabins by their very nature will be marginally noisier and less ventilated due to their proximity to the engine and working part of the boat.
  • 21 speed hybrid bike rental with pannier (24 speed basic mountain bike option available on select departures; electric bikes available on most trips on request, limited supply and supplements apply). The guides will carry bike locks for the group when cycling, or individual locks can be provided on request if you decide to bike alone (limited supply).
  • Experienced crew including English speaking cycle guide
  • Bed linen and towels
  • Guided cycling tours as described in the itinerary
  • Information pack including overview maps per cabin
  • tourist tax

  • Travel to and from Omisalj
  • Upgrade to a cabin on deck or single cabin – supplement applies, please ask our office for details
  • Group transfer from/to Zagreb on day 1 and day 8 - Day 1 - 11:30am from Zagreb centre, 12:15pm from Zagreb airport. Return transfer from Omisalj on day 8 to Zagreb Airport at 8am (reservation required at the time of booking including flight details, contact your consultant for pricing details)
  • Individual transfers available on request for an additional cost on embarkation and disembarkation days only, from Rijeka or Zagreb - please ask our office for details.
  • Drinks on board and meals not included
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Water flat rate & tourist tax EUR60pp (adult) or EUR30pp (child up to 16) to be paid to the captain
  • Tips for crew and tour guides (see pre departure information provided on booking)
  • Travel insurance - mandatory *cruise cover may be required - check with your insurer
  • Helmets - 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.
  • Optional Bicycle insurance - can be paid in cash locally if booked on board, or pre-paid if booked in advance. Please note that normal travel insurance often does not cover loss or damage to rental bikes. If you do not take out bike insurance you will need to pay for the cost of the bike or repair of damages.
  • Optional extension to Zagreb (2 days) before the tour (supplement applies - please ask for our rates). Inclusions: arrival transfer from the airport to the hotel, choice of 3 or 4 star hotels (1 night), guided walking tour of Zagreb (does not include entry fees), dinner in Zagreb, transfer to the boat in Omisalj. Alternatively, Zagreb hotel can be booked for pre or post tour accommodation (3 or 4 star - rates on request - please ask your consultant).

Cabins


Bike information


Grading

moderate  

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.


Departure dates


Notes

M
Mid Season
H
High Season
Note:
Mid season 28 Jun - 15 Aug. High Season 17 May - 21 Jun and 16 Aug - 27 Sep. Supplement applies. Allow for drinking water and tourist taxes EUR60pp (adult) EUR30pp (child up to 16).
IT2
Mountain bike option available and a supplement applies for MTB rental. Runs parallel with standard itinerary and distances vary - see trip notes. Subject to minimum numbers.
Note:
Itinerary subject to change according to weather conditions. Option to add 2-day pre tour extension in Zagreb - ask our office for details.
Note:
There is a deluxe boat version of this trip - see Kvarner Bay Bike and Boat - Deluxe.

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Priceper person from

$1690USD

Options & Supplements*
  • Bicycle insurance - standard bike (pp)USD$13
  • Bicycle insurance - electric or mountain bike (pp)USD$33
  • Electric Bike SupplementUSD$190
  • below deck level single cabin supplementUSD$580
  • deck level single cabin supplementUSD$870
*Prices listed are per person

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