This shorter trip along the stunning Adriatic coast is book-ended by two of the most incredible cities Southern Europe has to offer. The azure Adriatic is dotted with over 1300 islands, mostly along the Croatian coast, and we will see many from our mainland vantage point.
Those who have never seen Venice may wish to arrive a day or two early to explore but the group will assemble on the Sunday and we will overnight on, or very near, Venice island. Sadly, cycling is not permitted on the island itself.
Our first day offers a gentle warm-up across the Italian flatlands around the head of the Adriatic and our second is spent traversing Trieste then crossing the Istrian peninsula, briefly passing through Slovenia, before arriving in Croatia where we will spend the remaining 5 days.
Our route hugs the coast but we cross to Pag, one of the larger islands, for some fascinatingly different scenery, then on through Split before arriving in magnificent Dubrovnik (now known by all teenagers as the location for much of Game of Thrones).
This is a moderately challenging route with daily mileages of between 60 and 80 miles. As with all coastal routes, the terrain is mixed with plenty of hills but no especially demanding climbs. We spend our last night in Dubrovnik and, again, people may wish to extend their stay to see more of the incredible old walled city.
NB – On previous trips, on certain days/times, we have experienced high volumes of traffic. If you are uncomfortable cycling near traffic please be aware that this MAY occur.
For those looking for a truly epic challenge London to Venice connects with this route, creating the possibility for a 1600 mile trip of a lifetime!