Although every region has at least some bike routes, we bring you the ones with a higher level of cyclotourism
Bicycle, the transportation device with a rising popularity, is not reserved just for cities. The attractiveness of Croatia, existing tourism infrastructure, beauty of nature, good position and wealth of local roads are beneficial to the development of a new form of tourism – cyclotourism. Although still in development, there are already around 420 bike routes in Croatia with a total of 13,000 kilometres, writes Poslovni Dnevnik on June 23, 2016. Who are cyclotourists? A cyclotourist is a person whose motive is relaxation, healthy lifestyle and visit to nature. These can be persons renting bikes at a destination (usually for day tours) or persons who use bikes on journeys as a main transportation vehicle.
Međimurje
Međimurje is known as a region with a high degree of orderly bike routes marked with traffic signals, bike rest stops and info boards.
Paths are mostly mellow and stretch right alongside rivers, passing through the Međimurje wine road, next to wineries, historical attractions (churches, castles), wellness oasis, but also numerous restaurants where after pedalling you will dig your teeth into local delicacies.
Zagreb County
When riding your bike through Zagreb County, you will come across hospitable locals who will serve you the best local specialties. You will have the opportunity to explore natural riches of rivers, lakes and streams, but also learn something about the cultural heritage. The City of Samobor, for example is a favourite weekend destination for Zagreb residents, while near the nature park Žumberak are bike paths with maps and field markings. Close by is the City of Zaprešić, also with a good tourism offer, good bike routes and plentiful destinations.
Istria
Istria is one of the most popular destinations for cycling lovers. Partly due to bike routes over 500 kilometres long, partly due to the fact north-western Istria is the place where many successful international cycling events have been held. Annually the area sees a large number of cycling events, while one of the most known is Parenzana – professional mountain bike event, established 15 years ago and part of the International Cycling Federation program. The very race is held for the most part on the line of the former rail line of the same name, turned into a bike route, along which are old tunnels, overpasses and bridges. Winding and romantic, Parenzana is a symbol of the step forward of north-western Istria into a new era of cycling.
Gorski Kotar
If you take a journey to Istria with your bike, before you reach your destination, you have to pass through the mountain region of Gorski Kotar where a new bike route was formed to connect all towns and municipalities. Nature and mountain biking lovers will be thrilled with the route composed of seven sections ranging from 28 to 43 kilometres, totalling 260 kilometres. It guides you on existing forest and local roads with little traffic and is meant firstly for nature and mountain biking lovers.
