This option features a comfortable charter boat Linda. For more information about it, scroll down to the Things to know section.
Fast, secure, risk-free booking guaranteed.
August through October
Zagreb, Croatia is 3 hours away
8 days
Intermediate
Ever been to Istria? Dubbed Terra Magica by the locals, this captivating Croatian peninsula will take your breath away from the get-go. With its thousands of years of history and its bucolic charm, Istria has it all. Pedal through blissful trails winding through serene forests and picture vineyards that lead to medieval hilltop gems. Sail and explore the coastline with its secluded bays and ancient olive groves, visit Istria’s historic towns adorned with Venetian churches and Roman temples. Let yourself stop for a minute, and feel the pulse of the Mediterranean as it once was, as it should forever be enjoyed.
Combine sailing and mountain biking, explore the coast and the interior and get a complete picture of Istria
Marvel at a Roman arena and Byzantine mosaics, visit medieval hilltop villages, soak up the atmosphere of quaint coastal towns
Experience comfort and elegance aboard the Linda or Andela Lora, enhancing your Istrian odyssey
Embark on an unforgettable guided MTB and boat trip through Istria, where each day unveils thrilling adventures and discoveries. Begin at Omišalj's pirate nest and cruise to the lively Rabac. Explore Rabac Bike Skills Park's trails, unearth Pula's rich Roman history, and pedal through picturesque landscapes adorned with forests, river valleys, vineyards, and olive groves, winding between dreamy hilltop villages and historic coastal towns. Venture along the dramatic coastline and idyllic bays and savor catered meals aboard the cozy Linda yacht, your haven of comfort. Combine sailing and MTB for an ultimate experience of this magical peninsula.
This option features a comfortable charter boat Linda. For more information about it, scroll down to the Things to know section.
Individual arrival to Omišalj, a charming pirate’s nest on the island of Krk. If you decide to arrive by car, a secure parking space for your car for the week can be organized. If you are arriving from Zagreb, a transfer can also be arranged for you to the harbor of Omišalj. Check-in on board is possible from around 2 pm. Once you have made yourself comfortable in your cabin, you can enjoy the first cruise to Rabac. With the weather on your side, you can enjoy the first swim stop directly from the boat along the way. On arrival in the idyllic harbor of Rabac on the east coast of the Istrian peninsula, the bikes can be adjusted correctly and will be ready for the first tour the next day. The night is spent in Rabac.
Enjoy a dynamic morning of biking in the Rabac Bike Skills Park. More than eleven kilometers of trails, all at varying levels of difficulty and technicality, from shaped flow trails to rugged rock gardens, stand at your disposal during your visit. The hillside location provides incredible views across the Kvarner Bay and the neighboring islands. After a fun-fueled morning on your bikes, you return to the port of Rabac where the boat awaits you with a delicious lunch as you start a longer cruise to the historical city of Pula. There is plenty of time to explore the city on foot, taking time to appreciate the 1st-century monuments such as the amphitheater, the Temple of Augustus, and the Arch of the Sergii. The night is spent in Pula.
Cycling: 16 mi/26 km
Elevation gain: 3,215 ft/980 m
Before breakfast, the boat will depart Pula and bring you to Vrsar. It is rumored that the famous heart-breaker, Casanova, took refuge here from the furious husbands of his lovers. From Vrsar, your bike tour will take you off-road along the Limski Fjord and into the Kontija Forest. After a strengthening afternoon break and lunch, you continue by bike through local villages to Poreč. Along the way, a short detour to the St. Benčić trail is well worth the effort. You will have a chance to indulge in the multifaceted history of Poreč in the company of your city tour guide in the afternoon on a walk through this enchanting town. The shopping streets are vibrant with life. A visit to the Euphrasian Basilica, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its 6th-century Byzantine art and architecture. The night is spent in Poreč.
Cycling: 18 mi/30 km
Elevation gain: 1,410 ft/430 m
During breakfast, cruise to Novigrad, where you will start today’s ride. At first, you bike through the scenic Mirna Valley before climbing to 300 m above sea level to reach the dreamy town of Grožnjan. After a tasty lunch, you continue on a fast-paced enduro trail back into the valley, with the alternative to take a more relaxed descent if preferred. You cycle through Vižinada and onto the Parenzana, a decommissioned railway line which now acts as a wonderful cycling path. Following the Parenzana, you make your way to Poreč where the ship awaits your arrival for a cruise to Vrsar where you spend the night.
Cycling: 32 mi/55 km
Elevation gain: 2,230 ft./680 m
After a short crossing by boat to Rovinj, you set out through the forests south of the Limski Fjord. After returning to Rovinj, you enjoy a guided city tour through this picture-perfect town squeezed on a small peninsula surrounded by the blue sea, one of the symbols of entire Croatia. This night is spent in Rovinj.
Cycling: 20 mi/32 km
Elevation gain: 1,740 ft/530 m
Today’s bike tour takes you along the coast mainly on natural paths and through forests to Fažana with its delightful harbor and splendid promenade lined with the colorful facades of the local houses. The ship awaits you here for a crossing to the island of Cres. Your destination is the eponymous town, where you will spend the night. The town is characterized by its Venetian past with winding alleyways and many churches making it impossible to resist further exploration on foot. The evening can be spent comfortably in one of the seaside bars, listening to the sound of the sea birds as dusk settles.
Cycling: 25 mi/41 km
Elevation gain: 950 ft/290 m
In the early morning, the boat departs for the island of Krk where you will set out on your last bike ride of the week, from Njivice via Malinska to Omišalj. The largest of the Croatian islands and home to the delicious white wine, Žlahtina, the island of Krk leaves a memorable impression with its great diversity. This can also be reflected in the diversity of today’s tour. Don’t miss the opportunity to cover yourself in the mineral-rich mud in the bay of Soline – it will not only leave you looking ten years younger, but also makes for a wonderful holiday memory! Back in the harbor of Omišalj, your boat awaits you with a delicious last evening meal on board which can be spent in great cheer in the company of your fellow travelers, crew, and guides.
Cycling: 29 mi/48 km
Elevation gain: 1,739 ft/530 m
Enjoy your last breakfast and disembark before 9 am. Say goodbye to fellow bikers, crew, your guide, and to Croatia—or explore further during the extended stay.
Indulge in a deluxe guided MTB and boat expedition through Istria, where each day unveils thrilling adventures and discoveries. Anchored by the opulent Andela Lora yacht, the same captivating itinerary unfolds, now laced with a dash of lavish comfort. Explore Omišalj's pirate nest and cruise to vibrant Rabac. Shred Rabac Bike Skills Park's trails, unearth Pula's Roman heritage, and pedal through picturesque landscapes adorned with forests, vineyards, and olive groves, winding between dreamy hilltop villages and historic coastal towns. Merge sailing and MTB for the ultimate Istrian odyssey, as the Andela Lora elevates your experience to an exquisite level.
This option follows the same itinerary as the previous one, but features a luxurious yacht. Scroll down to the Things to know section for more information about it!
Individual arrival to Omišalj, a charming pirate’s nest on the island of Krk. If you decide to arrive by car, a secure parking space for your car for the week can be organized. If you are arriving from Zagreb, a transfer can also be arranged for you to the harbor of Omišalj. Check-in on board is possible from around 2 pm. Once you have made yourself comfortable in your cabin, you can enjoy the first cruise to Rabac. With the weather on your side, you can enjoy the first swim stop directly from the boat along the way. On arrival in the idyllic harbor of Rabac on the east coast of the Istrian peninsula, the bikes can be adjusted correctly and will be ready for the first tour the next day. The night is spent in Rabac.
Enjoy a dynamic morning of biking in the Rabac Bike Skills Park. More than eleven kilometers of trails, all at varying levels of difficulty and technicality, from shaped flow trails to rugged rock gardens, stand at your disposal during your visit. The hillside location provides incredible views across the Kvarner Bay and the neighboring islands. After a fun-fueled morning on your bikes, you return to the port of Rabac where the boat awaits you with a delicious lunch as you start a longer cruise to the historical city of Pula. There is plenty of time to explore the city on foot, taking time to appreciate the 1st-century monuments such as the amphitheater, the Temple of Augustus, and the Arch of the Sergii. The night is spent in Pula.
Cycling: 16 mi/26 km
Elevation gain: 3,215 ft/980 m
Before breakfast, the boat will depart Pula and bring you to Vrsar. It is rumored that the famous heart-breaker, Casanova, took refuge here from the furious husbands of his lovers. From Vrsar, your bike tour will take you off-road along the Limski Fjord and into the Kontija Forest. After a strengthening afternoon break and lunch, you continue by bike through local villages to Poreč. Along the way, a short detour to the St. Benčić trail is well worth the effort. You will have a chance to indulge in the multifaceted history of Poreč in the company of your city tour guide in the afternoon on a walk through this enchanting town. The shopping streets are vibrant with life. A visit to the Euphrasian Basilica, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its 6th-century Byzantine art and architecture. The night is spent in Poreč.
Cycling: 18 mi/30 km
Elevation gain: 1,410 ft/430 m
During breakfast, cruise to Novigrad, where you will start today’s ride. At first, you bike through the scenic Mirna Valley before climbing to 300 m above sea level to reach the dreamy town of Grožnjan. After a tasty lunch, you continue on a fast-paced enduro trail back into the valley, with the alternative to take a more relaxed descent if preferred. You cycle through Vižinada and onto the Parenzana, a decommissioned railway line which now acts as a wonderful cycling path. Following the Parenzana, you make your way to Poreč where the ship awaits your arrival for a cruise to Vrsar where you spend the night.
Cycling: 32 mi/55 km
Elevation gain: 2,230 ft./680 m
After a short crossing by boat to Rovinj, you set out through the forests south of the Limski Fjord. After returning to Rovinj, you enjoy a guided city tour through this picture-perfect town squeezed on a small peninsula surrounded by the blue sea, one of the symbols of entire Croatia. This night is spent in Rovinj.
Cycling: 20 mi/32 km
Elevation gain: 1,740 ft/530 m
Today’s bike tour takes you along the coast mainly on natural paths and through forests to Fažana with its delightful harbor and splendid promenade lined with the colorful facades of the local houses. The ship awaits you here for a crossing to the island of Cres. Your destination is the eponymous town, where you will spend the night. The town is characterized by its Venetian past with winding alleyways and many churches making it impossible to resist further exploration on foot. The evening can be spent comfortably in one of the seaside bars, listening to the sound of the sea birds as dusk settles.
Cycling: 25 mi/41 km
Elevation gain: 950 ft/290 m
In the early morning, the boat departs for the island of Krk where you will set out on your last bike ride of the week, from Njivice via Malinska to Omišalj. The largest of the Croatian islands and home to the delicious white wine, Žlahtina, the island of Krk leaves a memorable impression with its great diversity. This can also be reflected in the diversity of today’s tour. Don’t miss the opportunity to cover yourself in the mineral-rich mud in the bay of Soline – it will not only leave you looking ten years younger, but also makes for a wonderful holiday memory! Back in the harbor of Omišalj, your boat awaits you with a delicious last evening meal on board which can be spent in great cheer in the company of your fellow travelers, crew, and guides.
Cycling: 29 mi/48 km
Elevation gain: 1,739 ft/530 m
Enjoy your last breakfast and disembark before 9 am. Say goodbye to fellow bikers, crew, your guide, and to Croatia—or explore further during the extended stay.
What you get on this adventure:
Full suspension mountain bike, premium full suspension mountain bike, and e-MTB rentals are available for an added fee of $220, $385 and $330, respectively.
What’s not included:
To participate in this guided MTB adventure in Istria, Croatia, you should have a moderate level of fitness. The daily tours are designed to be easy to moderate, with stages ranging from 15 to 31 mi/25 to 50 km and elevation gains of 980 to 2,952 ft/300 to 900 m. The region offers a variety of trails suitable for mountain biking, with options ranging from easy to moderate.
During the tours, you will be riding on mainly unblocked flow trails, wide natural paths, and quiet asphalt roads. It is not expected that you will need to carry your bike over any blocked paths. However, being able to skillfully brake and shift your weight while riding on small obstacles such as roots, stones, and tight corners is important. For the more medium difficulty trails, you should be prepared for loose surfaces, larger obstacles like stones and roots, and light hairpin turns. Constant readiness to brake, shift your center of weight to overcome obstacles, and maintaining consistent body tension are required for these sections.
Keep in mind that your guide will always be by your side to observe your technique, encourage you, and even change the route if riding gets too strenuous. There will often be a chance to take a break during rides. You will also be able to skip a half day or even a full day of riding if you decide to get some rest and spend some more time on the beaches or in towns.
Wearing a protective bike helmet is mandatory during the tours, and it is recommended that you bring your own helmet with you. In case you need a rental helmet, make sure to reserve one in advance as they are available in limited numbers on board.
If you feel that the moderate fitness level matches your abilities and you are comfortable with the skill requirements for the respective trail difficulties, then you are well-prepared to embark on this exciting MTB adventure in Istria, Croatia.
Here’s what you’ll need:
Bring comfortable clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Summer months are usually sunny and hot, but there is always a chance for an occasional summer storm or rainy day. Weather is more unpredictable in late spring and early fall, with a possibility for cooler windy days, so it is instrumental that you are informed about the weather forecasts and prepared for different conditions.
If you want to bring your own bike on the trip, bring a mountain bike that meets the technical requirements. In addition, your bike will need to have good tires (e.g. Gravel Bike or Cyclocross Bike). Before traveling, please check the condition of brakes, gears, and tires as well as bringing repair kits and essential spare parts (e.g. inner tube). Your bike must be in top technical condition. Please keep in mind that transporting your own bike will result in additional costs when flying.
Due to safety regulations on ship, it is not allowed to bring your own e-bike. By renting it from your guides, you will get high-quality, fully serviced rental bikes perfect for the terrain of this tour.
You can bring your own bike seat and pedals — guides will be happy to assist you in attaching these to your rental bikes.
Helmet wearing is mandatory and it’s recommended you bring your own, well-fitted helmet. Rental helmets are available, but in a limited capacity, so reservation is required should you need it.
This meticulously reconstructed wooden motor yacht offers you a delightful escape into a world where relaxation and adventure harmoniously coexist. The Linda’s wooden-clad cabins, designed with your comfort in mind, provide a cozy retreat where you can unwind and recharge. With both below-deck and above-deck cabins, you’ll find your haven adorned with modern amenities, including air conditioning, tiled bathrooms, and all-in-one showers, ensuring your comfort throughout your voyage.
The heart of the Linda lies in its spacious and inviting saloon. Here, you’ll gather with fellow travelers on cushioned benches around wooden tables, sharing stories and forming new connections. The attentive crew, a well-practiced team, wear smiles that mirror the serene atmosphere on board, enhancing every moment of your journey.
Venturing outside, the Linda beckons you to its various decks, each offering a unique perspective of the stunning surroundings. Bask in the golden sun on the sundeck, where plush sunning mats invite you to recline and soak in the breathtaking panoramas. For al fresco dining, the outside table is set to perfection, creating a charming backdrop for enjoying delectable meals in the open air.
Indulge in a voyage of luxury and convenience aboard the Andela Lora, an exquisite steel ship that promises an unforgettable Croatian sojourn. Immerse yourself in the spacious guest cabins, adorned with top-notch furnishings, air conditioning, and private bathrooms. The elegantly furnished top-deck salon, complemented by inviting sunbathing areas, offers the perfect setting for relaxation. A swimming platform at the stern allows you to easily access the sea for refreshing dips in secluded bays. The attentive crew and onboard amenities ensure a carefree sailing experience.
Built to the highest standards and adorned with contemporary decor, your comfort is of paramount importance. A saltwater pool and numerous sun mats on the sundeck provide ultimate relaxation. Impeccable design ensures that polished decks and elegant public areas feel airy and spacious, adorned with warm woods and cool fabrics. Unwind in well-appointed outside cabins featuring luxurious double or twin beds, stylish wood flooring, and modern bathroom fittings. The ship offers various cabin options, including doubles, twins, triples, and quads. Individually controlled air conditioning, LCD TV, a safe, hairdryer, and a table and chair are among the thoughtful amenities.
There are several options available for those wishing to extend their stay in Croatia. You can extend your stay by adding one, two, or three days before or after the Istria MTB adventure.
The one-day extension module is simply adding one night on the island of Krk. You could use an extra day to explore beautiful locations on or close to the island, such as Baška, Krk, Malinska, the island of Košljun, Vrbnik, etc. The island is home to a wealth of sites, some of which are significant for medieval Croatian history.
The two-day extension program is for those who wish to explore the Croatian capital, Zagreb. Here you can explore the lively arts, culture, and culinary scene. You can visit some of the city’s museums and enjoy its Central European flair, somewhat of a contrast to what you’ll find in the coastal parts of Croatia.
On that note, the three-day extension module takes you even further north—to the baroque town of Varaždin (at one point the capital of Croatia) and the romantic Trakošćan castle, the most famous castle in Croatia perched on top of a hill overlooking a lake. This extension in continental Croatia will give you a more complete idea of this incredibly diverse country.
Prices of these extensions are available upon request. Contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
Group sizes and prices:
MTB and Boat adventures in Istria can be arranged for private groups. Contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
Min. age requirements:
If your group has riders under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
A 20% deposit to secure your place is due upon booking. The remaining amount is paid 2 months (60 days) prior to departure. Once the trip is confirmed by the guide, the cancellation policy stated below applies. If the Client cancels…
If two people have booked a double cabin together, and no replacement can be found to fill the space of the withdrawing client, your guides maintain the right to charge the remaining participant the corresponding accommodation surcharge, or if possible, to relocate them otherwise.
Changing to a new departure date is handled the same way as a cancellation. There will be a €50 administration fee for changes made 28 days or more before the beginning of the trip. This also includes changes of minor relevance like hotel stays, transfers, bike hire etc. Any later changes (if possible) will need to be handled as a cancellation and new registration. Cancellation and reservation change fees are due immediately.
To get to Omišalj, most people fly into Zagreb International Airport, which is 2 hours away. The easiest way to get to Omišalj is first to take a bus from the airport to the Central Bus Station in Zagreb, followed by a direct bus to Omišalj. Alternatively, take a bus from Zagreb to Rijeka, followed by a short bus ride from Rijeka to Omišalj. You can also fly directly into Rijeka International Airport, which is located in Omišalj.
If you prefer to keep things as simple and fuss-free as possible, direct transfers from Zagreb and Rijeka (either from airports or bus/train stations) can be arranged with your guide for an additional fee (for a minimum of 2 people).
Once you and your guide agree on the details of your itinerary, your guide will suggest the best place to meet, usually somewhere in Omišalj close to the docks.
We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with both emergency medical and travel insurance. With medical insurance, if you have an accident or medical emergency on or off the mountain, you’ll avoid paying out of pocket for costly expenses. This covers everything from hospital treatments to emergency air transportation and more.
Travel insurance covers canceled flights, natural disasters and other scenarios that may interrupt your travel plans.
We also expect you to respect local regulations and take measures to protect yourselves, your guides, and the communities you’re traveling to. For more information on travel recommendations and restrictions in Croatia, please refer to Croatia’s foreign travel advice.
If you need assistance selecting the right insurance for your group, let us know and we will be happy to help!