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This adventure has 2027 dates with 10% deposit available

Off-Road Motorcycle Adventure in Croatia: Ride, Eat, Explore

7-9 days | Moderate
From $3,996 ()
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This off-road motorcycle tour brings together the best of Croatia you already know—and the Croatia we’ve been riding for years. Two routes: a 7-day loop starting and ending in Split, and a 9-day point-to-point from Dubrovnik to Zagreb—both traveling via gravel backroads, mountain tracks, and scenic roads, skipping highways entirely. Off the bike, things stay just as good thanks to Croatia’s hospitality: family-run lodgings, small boutique stays, and regional kitchens where meals reflect the land around them — think Istrian truffles, mountain stews, island wines, and fresh Adriatic seafood. Come join us if you’re a rider who likes variety under the tires and off the bike, not pressure on the clock.

Ivo
Ivo
MTB Guide, Tour Planner, Bike Mechanic

Adventure Highlights

  • Europe in miniature: From Istria and the wild Velebit to Dalmatian islands and the shores of Cres and Lošinj, these routes stitch together Croatia's most distinct regions into one ride
  • A curated Croatian experience: Not a cookie-cutter moto tour—expect local guides, authentic lodgings, sustainable cuisine, and a true taste of Croatia’s traditions, customs, and regional flavors
  • Croatia’s off-road secret—ride it first: Routes built around roughly 60% off-road riding, with the remaining 40% on quiet backroads, always staying clear of highways and heavy traffic
Duration
7-9 days
Season
Spring & Fall
Group size
Up to 6 people
Accommodation
Comfort: Boutique hotels, family-run lodges & guesthouses
Difficulty
Moderate: Good fitness required as well as at least 2 years of off-road riding experience & comfort on gravel
What's included
Guide, lodging, support van, all meals (except rest days), ferry rides & tolls

The adventure, day by day

A circular route that starts and ends in Split, covering seven of Croatia's most distinct riding regions in under a week. We head north through the Dalmatian hinterland, hop island ferries to Cres and Lošinj, loop through the red-dirt trails of Istria and back down through the wild Velebit and Lika highlands to finish under the walls of Knin and Dinara. Built for riders who want serious variety without a one-way logistics puzzle.

Day 1: Split to Zadar — coastal warm-up and Krka canyon views
zadar coastal view

We kick off from Split on panoramic gravel tracks carved into the ridges high above the Adriatic coast. Leaving the sea breeze behind, the route dives inland into dramatic canyon country near Šibenik, with hidden vistas opening up over Krka National Park. The day ends with a smooth cruise into Zadar, one of Dalmatia’s most compelling old towns, its Roman-era streets and waterfront right on the sea.

Distance: ~180 km (110 mi)
Meals: Lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Zadar old town

Day 2: Zadar to north Cres — island ADV odyssey
mali losinj panorama

An early ferry kicks the day off with an immediate change of scenery. We ride through Mali Lošinj and the ancient canal town of Osor before hitting the real prize: the empty ridge roads of northern Cres. Here, rough tarmac gives way to sweeping gravel tracks suspended between sky and sea, with dual-side views the whole way.

Distance: ~170–220 km (105–135 mi) + ferry
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in the north Cres area (Beli/Porozina region)

Day 3: North Cres to Rovinj — into the heart of terra rossa
motovun town istria

After a short ferry crossing back to the mainland, we plunge into the rolling hills of the Istrian peninsula. Red clay roads and lush vineyards replace the rocky coast, and we weave through technical dirt loops near the medieval hilltop fortress town of Motovun before a golden-hour ride into the old harbor town of Rovinj.

Distance: ~180–240 km (110–150 mi) + ferry
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Rovinj

Day 4: Rest day in Rovinj
rovin j stunning aerial

Time to park the bikes, check your gear, and recharge. Rovinj is one of the best-preserved Venetian towns on the Adriatic, with a tangle of cobblestone streets, a harbor packed with fishing boats, and good seafood in every direction. Spend the morning over espresso, take a boat out to the islands offshore, or just wander.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Rovinj

Day 5: Rovinj to Senj — climbing the mountain massifs
sheep wild croatia

A long, dramatic day that pulls us out of Istria and into the wild mountain terrain of the Dinaric Alps. We climb the backroads of Učka Nature Park, cross the karst plateaus of the Novi Vinodolski hinterland, and push through high-altitude tracks before a sweeping descent to Senj, a fortified coastal town on the Kvarner Gulf with the 16th-century Nehaj Fortress watching over the harbor.

Distance: ~260–320 km (160–200 mi)
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Senj

Day 6: Senj to Knin — the untamed Velebit and Lika
croatia hills adventure

The finest off-road day of the tour. We cut through the uninhabited interior of the Velebit mountain range—one of the longest mountain ranges in Croatia—onto the fast, flowing gravel tracks of the Lika high plateau. Forgotten historic routes, vast alpine fields, and zero traffic define the stage. We finish in Knin, a royal fortress city with the ruins of the largest medieval fortress in Croatia on the hill above it.

Distance: ~240–300 km (150–185 mi)
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Knin

Day 7: Knin to Split — the grand finale under Croatia's highest peak
split window view

The final chapter takes us through the Dinara mountain range at the base of Croatia’s highest peak. We ride rugged dual-sport trails, stop at the “Eye of the Earth”—the turquoise spring source of the Cetina River near Sinj—and finish with a twisting trail behind the Klis Fortress before descending back into Split.

Distance: ~150 km (90 mi)
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Note

To ensure the best experience, the guide may adapt the itinerary based on weather or local conditions.

This 9-day off-road motorcycle tour from Dubrovnik to Zagreb is built for riders who want more than just miles. We ride a mix of gravel, mountain tracks, and quiet roads, guided by locals who know where the riding flows and where it’s worth stopping. Everything is taken care of—routes, stays, meals—so you can focus on the ride, the landscapes, and the food waiting at the end of the day.

Day 1: Dubrovnik to Orebić
dubrovnik ciry walls

We begin our adventure in Dubrovnik, riding north along the Adriatic coast before heading inland onto quieter roads and gravel tracks across the Pelješac Peninsula. The route blends coastal views with remote inland riding, setting the tone for the journey ahead. We finish the day in Orebić, surrounded by vineyards and sea views, and gather for our first dinner together.

Distance: ~200 km (120 mi)
Meals: Lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Orebić

Day 2: Orebić to Zaostrog — Pelješac peninsula
parked bike views

Today is a lighter riding day as we explore more of the Pelješac Peninsula. Gravel ridgelines trace the coast from above, offering wide Adriatic views and a relaxed pace. We pass through the famous Dingač wine region, with vineyards clinging to steep slopes above the sea. A ferry crossing brings us back to the mainland before continuing to Zaostrog for the night.

Distance: ~100 km (60 mi) + ferry
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Zaostrog

Day 3: Zaostrog to Omiš (via Hvar island)
lavender fields croatia

We take a morning ferry to Hvar Island and ride across rocky trails, lavender fields, vineyards, and scenic ridge roads with constant sea views. After soaking up island riding at its best, we return by ferry to the mainland and continue on to Omiš, where mountains, river, and sea meet in dramatic fashion.

Distance: ~150 km (90 mi) + ferry
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Omiš

Day 4: Rest day in Omiš
Dalmatian town of Omiš surrounded by mountains

A well-earned rest day by the beach. You can relax in Omiš, swim in the sea, or join an optional ride in the Split area. It’s a chance to recharge before heading back into the mountains.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Omiš

Day 5: Omiš to Knin
Omis and Cetina river aerial view, Dalmatian Coast, Croatia.

Leaving the coast behind, we ride inland across remote gravel tracks and hidden valleys toward the rugged slopes of Mount Dinara, Croatia’s highest peak. Pine forests, wild herbs, and panoramic ridgelines define the day as the landscape transitions from Mediterranean to continental. We finish near Knin, where local mountain cuisine rounds out the evening.

Distance: ~150 km (90 mi)
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in the Knin area

Day 6: Knin to Plitvice Lakes
mountian croatia bike

We continue north through forest and dirt roads deep in the Velebit region, riding through raw and dramatic terrain. The route leads us toward the Plitvice Lakes area, passing striking landscapes and the secret Cold War–era underground airbase at Željava, which we can ride into. An optional afternoon walk offers a chance to explore Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Distance: ~200 km (120 mi)
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in the Plitvice area

Day 7: Plitvice Lakes to Istria
aerial plitvice lakes

Today’s ride takes us from continental Croatia back toward the Adriatic, mixing fast gravel, winding tarmac, and sweeping views across valleys and rivers. As we approach the Istrian Peninsula, the scenery softens into rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves. We arrive in Buzet, our base for exploring Istria, and enjoy homemade cuisine at our family-run lodge.

Distance: ~260 km (160 mi)
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Family-run lodge in Buzet

Day 8: Istria exploration — the Tuscany of Croatia
istria croatia hilltop

We spend the day riding through the heart of Istria, following red-dirt trails near the sea, rolling hills, and quiet country roads. Highlights include the artists’ hill town of Grožnjan, the scenic Limski Canal, and the coastal gem of Rovinj. In the evening, we return to Buzet after enjoying Rovinj’s old town and local seafood.

Distance: ~180 km (110 mi)
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Family-run lodge in Buzet

Day 9: Istria to Zagreb
zagreb capital

On our final day, we leave Istria behind and ride through the lush forests and gravel roads of Gorski Kotar. The scenery gradually shifts as we approach Croatia’s capital, bringing the journey full circle. We arrive in Zagreb with time to celebrate the end of an unforgettable ride.

Distance: ~250 km (150 mi)
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Note

To ensure the best experience, the guide may adapt the itinerary based on weather or local conditions.

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Meet your guides

Seasoned pros, local legends, and passionate adventurers—your trip is in the best hands.
Ivo
5.00
Ivo
MTB Guide, Tour Planner, Bike Mechanic
Ivo, born and raised in Zagreb, Croatia’s capital, has been working as a bike guide since 2016. Though not originally from the coast, Ivo shares a special bond with Croatia's gorgeous coastline, and leads MTB and cycling tours there, as well as in other special places around the world, such as the Alps. In his free time, he's out traveling and enjoying life with his mountain-biking wife, scouting out new locations, and planning new custom trips.
Ivan
5.00
Ivan
Dentist by profession, trailblazer by passion. Since he was a kid, Ivan’s trusty mountain bike has been his key to unlocking new worlds beyond the confines of his town. Entire Europe is his playground (Croatia, Austria, Italy, France, Greece… you name it), racking up adventures across the continent. Enduro racing (even at some famous events like Megavalanche) offered a challenge, but competition never truly captivated him. What truly fuels his passion are epic rides, capturing breathtaking photos, and sharing the journey (along with local cuisine and wine!) with friends.

Things to know

  • Included:

      • An experienced, local guide on a motorcycle with extensive knowledge of the area
      • 7 or 9-day Croatia motorcycle tour (6 or 8 days of riding + 1 rest day)
      • Accommodation for 6 or 8 nights in 4-star hotels and family-run lodges/apartments (double occupancy)
      • Support vehicle — carrying an additional motorcycle, all your luggage, and support necessities
      • All breakfasts, lunches, and dinners during the tour (except for lunch & dinner on rest day) — from lunch on Day 1 through dinner on the last day
      • One drink per person during lunches and dinners
      • Local experiences along the way (such as Istrian truffles & wine tasting, traditional mountain and Mediterranean food, etc.)
      • Tolls & ferry rides

    Add-ons (available to arrange, let us know if interested)

      • Single occupancy room
      • Motorcycle rental (Kove 450RALLY) — 110 EUR per day, leave us a note at checkout if interested (you’ll pay it in person)

    Not included:

      • Transportation to the starting point (Split or Dubrovnik)
      • Lunch and dinner on rest day
      • Anything not mentioned in the “Included” section above
      • Insurance — recommended, available to add at checkout
      • Guide gratuities — optional
  • You don’t need to be a hard-core off-road or rally rider to join this Croatia motorcycle tour. What is important is having at least 2 years of off-road riding experience, some comfort on gravel, and being in good physical condition.

    The pace is relaxed and social—this isn’t a race. We stop often, take breaks, snap photos, and leave room to wander through towns or grab a coffee. There’s even an optional rest day to soak up the local culture.

    That said, days can be long, and riding, combined with weather, can be physically demanding at times, so being comfortable in varied conditions helps keep things fun. The Split Coastal Loop in particular includes some longer, more technical stages — notably the crossing of Učka Nature Park and the Velebit interior — and is best suited to riders who are comfortable at an intermediate to advanced level. The Dubrovnik–Zagreb tour is the more accessible of the two, though both require solid off-road foundations.

    Newer to off-road but keen to join? Reach outa two-day off-road course can be arranged to set you up perfectly for the journey.

  • The Dubrovnik–Zagreb tour is a 9-day point-to-point route covering Croatia’s southern Dalmatian coast, islands, and inland mountain range before finishing in the capital. It’s the more accessible of the two in terms of daily distances and technical difficulty, though it still requires solid off-road experience.

    The Split Coastal Loop is a 7-day circular route that starts and ends in Split. It covers different terrain—notably the Kvarner islands (Cres and Lošinj), Učka Nature Park, and the deep Velebit interior—and includes some longer, more demanding stages. It’s best suited to riders with an intermediate to advanced skill level.

    If you’re unsure which suits you better, get in touch and we’ll help you work it out.

  • You should be good to go as long as you…

      • Have at least 2 years of off-road riding experience
      • Are comfortable riding on gravel
      • Are in good physical condition.

    You don’t need to be a hard-core off-road or rally rider to join this Croatia motorcycle tour. If you’re a novice, but would love to join this tour, please reach out! We can arrange a 2-day off-road course to set you up for this adventure.

  • Because Croatia offers an incredible mix of terrain in a country that’s still remarkably uncrowded for off-road riding. You can cross forests, mountains, national parks, islands, and coastline—riding through places like Gorski Kotar, Istria, Plitvice Lakes, Velebit, Dinara, Hvar, Pelješac, and all the way to Dubrovnik—often without seeing another rider.

    Unlike well-known off-road hotspots in Spain, Portugal, or France, Croatia is still flying under the radar. The trails are there, the variety is unmatched, and the sense of discovery is very real. It feels like one of those places you’re lucky to experience before everyone else catches on—a country best enjoyed the long way, while it’s still quiet.

  • Riding gear

      • Helmet — rental available
      • Motorcycle jacket & pants — rental available
      • Riding boots — rental available
      • Rain layer (if gear isn’t fully waterproof) — rental available
      • Riding gloves
      • Base layers (moisture-wicking, not cotton)
      • Neck buff / balaclava

    Personal items & essentials

      • 2–3 casual outfits (quick-dry helps)
      • Lightweight shoes or sandals
      • Sleepwear
      • Swimsuit
      • Compact down or insulated jacket
      • Hat & sunglasses
      • Credit card + small cash
      • Phone + charger + power bank
      • Earplugs
      • Sunscreen & lip balm
      • Personal meds
      • Toiletries (travel size)

    Got everything you need? Grab your gear through Active Junky and earn cash back on top outdoor brands — plus a $10 bonus on your first $25+ purchase. Shop now at Active Junky!

  • Yes, you can! To keep your Croatia motorcycle tour as smooth and hassle-free as possible, your guides can arrange a motorcycle rental for you. However, if you’d rather ride your own bike, you’re of course welcome to bring it along.

    We offer the Kove 450RALLY Regular Edition, a road-legal rally bike that feels just as at home on winding coastal roads as it does on gravel tracks and remote backroads. Lightweight, agile, and purpose-built for adventure, it’s a great choice for riders who want freedom, control, and serious off-road capability without sacrificing comfort on longer days. Read more about its specs here.

    The Kove 450RALLY cost is 110 EUR per day. If interested in renting a bike with us, leave us a note at checkout. We can arrange the rental for you and you will pay for it in person at the beginning of the tour.

    croatia hills adventure croatia off road trip

  • Group sizes and pricing

      • For this Croatia motorcycle tour, the usual client-to-guide ratio is 6:1. 
      • It takes a minimum of 4 people for this tour to operate. The maximum group size is set at 6 participants.
      • Solo travelers are more than welcome. They can either share a room with another same-gender solo traveler at no extra cost, or guarantee a private room by paying a single occupancy fee.

    Croatia motorcycle tours can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.

    Min. age requirements

      • If you are over 18 and hold a valid driver’s license, you’re good to go and can join this motorcycle tour.
  • The price for this Croatia motorcycle tour is based on twin-share rooms, but a single occupancy room can be arranged at an additional fee. You can add it to your booking at checkout.

    Solo travelers are more than welcome. They can either share a room with another same-gender solo traveler at no extra cost, or guarantee a private room by paying a single occupancy fee.

  • Absolutely, non-riding partners are welcome to join the tour and can travel alongside the group in the support van. They’ll visit the same spots, take breaks together, and enjoy meals and shared moments with the group throughout the day.

    If you have a non-riding partner interested in joining the tour, please reach out for arrangements and pricing.

  • The starting point of your Croatia motorcycle tour is either Zagreb or Dubrovnik, depending on your chosen departure date and itinerary. The tour runs in both directions—Zagreb to Dubrovnik or Dubrovnik to Zagreb—with the same route and experiences included, just in reverse order.

      • Split Coastal Loop: The tour starts and ends in Split. Fly into Split Airport (SPU). From there, a taxi or shuttle will get you to the city center in about 30 minutes.
      • Dubrovnik to Zagreb: The tour starts in Dubrovnik and ends in Zagreb. Fly into Dubrovnik Airport (DBV) for the start — a taxi or shuttle to the city takes about 30 minutes. For departure, Zagreb is well connected by air and rail to the rest of Europe.

    You will meet your guide on Day 1 either in Split or Dubrovnik, depending on your chosen itinerary.

  • We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with insurance. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, you’ll be offered to simply insure your trip with Redpoint at checkout.

    Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner—tailors protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations! Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.

  • Deposits

    Secure your spot with a 30% deposit upon booking! The remaining 70% of the trip price must be paid 90 days prior to departure at the latest. If booking within 90 days of departure, the full amount is required at the time of booking.

    Cancellations

    Booking fees are non-refundable after a 48-hour grace period. During checkout, however, you can choose one of 57hours’ flexibility options—Basic, Flexible, or Super Flexible. Depending on which one you choose, a different cancellation policy will apply to your booking.

    Basic

      • If cancelled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
      • If cancelled 90 or more days before departure, a 70% refund of the total trip price will be issued.
      • If cancelled within 89 days of departure, no refund will be issued.

    Flexible

      • If cancelled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
      • If cancelled 90 or more days before departure, a full refund of the total trip price will be issued.
      • If cancelled 60-89 days before departure, a 50% refund of the total trip price will be issued.
      • If cancelled within 59 days of departure, no refund will be issued.

    Super Flexible

      • If cancelled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
      • If cancelled 60 or more days before departure, a full refund of the total trip price will be issued.
      • If cancelled within 59 days of departure, a 50% refund of the total trip price will be issued.

    Early Bird booking

    Want to be the first one to know when we publish new dates or secure your spot well in advance? Select a future month that suits you best and lock in your Early Bird spot in time with just a 10% deposit.

    As soon as our guides publish new tour dates, you’ll be the first one to know. We’ll hold your spot for 2 weeks until you choose the date that suits you best.

    More about how Early Bird bookings work below:

    • Only a 10% non-refundable deposit must be paid upon booking, but this deposit can be transferred to any other 57hours adventure in case the dates don’t end up working for you.
    • Once our guides publish new tour dates, we’ll reach out to you so you’ll be the first one to choose from newly released dates.
    • When you pick your date, you’ll confirm your booking by paying another 20% of the total trip amount (amounting to the standard 30% deposit).
    • Once the trip has been confirmed, the regular cancellation policy (found above) applies.
    • The remaining balance is due 90 days before the trip.
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