Did you know that the Zadar Region has 86 standardized bike trails totaling more than 3,000km? This cycling paradise has emerged as one of Europe’s most captivating destinations, drawing enthusiasts from across the continent to explore its sun-drenched coastline and historic landscapes on two wheels.
With over 300 sunny days per year, the region’s Mediterranean climate creates perfect conditions for cycling adventures throughout most of the year.
Here’s our guide to cycling islands in the Zadar region.
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Beautiful Cycle Routes In Zadar
If you’ve ever visited the Zadar area, you’ve undoubtedly noticed the stunning islands just across the water. The nearby islands of Ugljan and Pašman offer particularly enchanting cycling experiences. Connected by the Ždrelac bridge, these islands present a mesmerizing tapestry of traditional Dalmatian life, where ancient olive groves stretch toward the horizon, their gnarled trunks telling stories of centuries past.
Looking for a hassle-free start to your cycling adventure around Zadar and nearby islands? Zadar Bike offers high-quality bike rentals and even delivers them to your accommodation or the ferry port.
But first, let’s explore why Ugljan and Pašman should be at the top of your list for your next Croatian cycling adventure!
Why Explore Ugljan And Pašman By Bike?
Ugljan and Pašman, with their lush greenery and charming villages, seem almost close enough to touch from Zadar’s shore. Many visitors don’t realize how easy it is to bring a bike on the ferry and explore these Adriatic gems, but it’s hands-down the best way to experience their natural beauty and serenity.
These two green gems are just a short ferry ride from Zadar, making them perfect for day trips or extended cycling holidays. Cycling is undoubtedly the best way to discover these hidden treasures – you can stop whenever you want, discover secluded beaches, and truly soak in the laid-back island life.
You’ll also see parts of the islands that most tourists miss. This flexibility transforms ordinary sightseeing into intimate encounters with Dalmatian culture, creating memories that go far beyond typical tourist experiences.
Getting Started On Your Croatia Cycling Trip
Getting To Ugljan And Pašman
Reaching these islands from Zadar is simple and stress-free. A short ferry ride from Zadar’s port takes you to Preko, the main entry point to Ugljan Island. With ferries running almost every hour, organizing your trip is straightforward.
At the time of writing, ferry tickets cost €2.80 per person plus the same amount for a bike. You can purchase tickets at the ferry port or online through the official Jadrolinija website, where you’ll also find the current timetable.
Important Note: You might find confusing information online about the city center ferry port, which was the main departure point until the Gaženica ferry port was built. Always use Gaženica for Ugljan/Pašman trips.
The ferries are bike-friendly, making it easy to bring your rental or personal bike along.
Once you arrive in Preko, you’re at the gateway to both islands, thanks to the Ždrelac Bridge connecting Ugljan and Pašman. This 210-meter bridge not only provides spectacular views but also makes it incredibly convenient to craft routes that span both islands. The bridge has become something of a landmark for cyclists, with many stopping to capture photos of the turquoise channel waters below.
Choosing The Right Bike And Equipment
Having the right bike can make or break your trip. You want something comfortable and reliable, especially if you’re planning to cover a significant distance. We’ll cover both routes with combined asphalt and light gravel, making a trekking/cross bike or MTB Hardtail ideal.
Summer Essentials
Most visitors cycle during the warmer months, so staying prepared for the heat is crucial. Our bikes come equipped with water bottle holders to keep hydration within easy reach. We strongly recommend bringing:
- Plenty of water
- Sunscreen
- A hat for sun protection
- Swimming gear and snorkeling equipment for refreshing breaks
Safety First: Helmets And Bike Locks
Safety is our top priority. Every bike rental includes a helmet for your protection. Since you’ll likely want to explore or swim, we provide sturdy bike locks for peace of mind when your bike is unattended.
Be Ready For Island Roads
While cycling on the islands is a joy, the roads can sometimes be less maintained than city streets. There’s a higher chance of encountering dirt, small rocks, or debris that could lead to a flat tire. To keep your adventure stress-free, we provide:
- A small pump
- A repair kit
- Essential tools for minor fixes
Hassle-Free Rentals With Zadar Bike
At Zadar Bike, we’ve thought of everything to make your cycling adventure worry-free. Our comprehensive rental package includes:
- High-quality bikes tailored to your needs
- Helmets
- Locks
- Water bottle holders
- Phone holders
- Repair kits
- Small pump
- Inner tube
All are included at no extra cost – pick up your bike and start exploring!
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Must-Explore Cycling Routes On Ugljan And Pašman
Ugljan Island: Authentic Island Life And Amazing Views
Ugljan, often called the “Green Island,” truly lives up to its name as a cyclist’s paradise. If you’re a casual rider, who prefers to savor each moment rather than rush from site to site, exploring Ugljan alone offers more than enough adventure. And that’s exactly what I recommend – cycling here isn’t just about covering distance; it’s about connecting with the island’s soul and embracing its slower pace of life.
We’ve mapped out three distinct routes totaling 22km, ranging from easy to moderately challenging. Each offers its unique blend of paved roads and light gravel paths, showcasing the perfect mix of natural beauty, rich history, and authentic Dalmatian culture.
Let’s explore each one in detail.
1. Pink Route: A Gentle Introduction To Island Life
The pink route is an excellent option for casual mountain and trekking bike riders seeking a relaxed experience. Beginning right at the ferry port in Preko, it perfectly balances easy riding with stunning scenery.
Starting your journey, you’ll follow the main road toward the quaint fishing village of Kali. As you pedal along, the path gradually ascends into the serene countryside, where you’ll find yourself surrounded by endless olive groves famous for producing some of the island’s finest olive oil.
Don’t rush through Kali—this village is the beating heart of the island’s fishing and maritime traditions. Famous for its fishermen and sailors, Kali offers an authentic glimpse into Mediterranean life with its charming stone houses, narrow winding streets, and bustling waterfront. Traditional ways of life are not just preserved here; they’re still very much alive, making it a must-visit spot for experiencing the true spirit of the Dalmatian islands.
Throughout your ride, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of nearby islets like Ošljak and Galevac while the picturesque coastline stretches from Zadar to Biograd. At 11.5 kilometers with a maximum elevation of about 200 meters, this route is less demanding than the brown route. It primarily follows paved roads, skipping the climb to St. Michael’s Fortress.
Most riders complete it in about an hour, making it a perfect introduction to island cycling.
2. Red Route: Coastal Charm And Historic Sites
This scenic journey begins in Preko near the historic St. John the Baptist Chapel, an architectural gem dating back to the 11th century. Following the coastline, you’ll first pass through the picturesque village of Kali before transitioning onto a gravel road shaded by fragrant pine trees. You’ll enjoy constant sea views that make every pedal stroke worthwhile.
After a brief crossing of the main road (stay alert here!), you’ll descend toward the tranquil village of Kukljica. This charming spot provides the perfect opportunity for a short break – maybe grab a coffee at a local café or take a quick dip in the crystal-clear waters.
The route continues to the iconic Ždrelac Bridge, connecting Ugljan and Pašman Islands. Near the bridge, make time to visit the Chapel of Our Lady of the Snow, a 17th-century landmark with a fascinating history involving an unusual August snowfall.
While we recommend mountain bikes for this route, its relatively flat terrain makes it suitable for trekking and crossbike as well. The trail spans 17 kilometers, with the highest point reaching just 85 meters, creating an easy and enjoyable ride for cyclists of all levels. Although it’s not a circular route, the peaceful coastal scenery, pine-covered trails, and the striking Ždrelac Bridge make the return journey just as enjoyable as the outward one.
Here, you can find detailed information and a GPX map of Ugljan Bike routes.
3. Brown Route: Challenge And Reward
For those seeking a ride that perfectly balances moderate physical effort with breathtaking scenery, the brown route delivers in spades. Starting and ending in Preko at the ferry port, this 16-kilometer journey takes you through some of Ugljan’s most picturesque seaside villages, including Preko, Poljana, and Kali.
What sets this route apart is the exhilarating climb to St. Michael’s Fortress, the island’s crown jewel at about 250 meters above sea level. While the ascent demands some effort, the panoramic views at the top are nothing short of spectacular – stretching over Zadar, the entire archipelago, and the stunning Kornati National Park. It’s the kind of view that makes every drop of sweat worthwhile.
Most cyclists complete this route in under two hours, making it perfect for a morning or afternoon adventure. While designed with mountain bikes in mind, many visitors have successfully tackled it on trekking or cross bikes with front suspension. After soaking in the magnificent views at the fortress, you’ll descend through ancient olive groves back toward the coast, adding a peaceful and scenic finale to your journey.
Pašman Cycling Route: Serenity On Two Wheels
No,w let’s venture onto Pašman, where an entirely new set of adventures awaits. This trail showcases some of the most breathtaking views in the entire archipelago, including the highest peaks – Bokolj on Pašman and St. Michael’s Fortress on Ugljan – offering unparalleled panoramas of Zadar and its surrounding islands.
Ultimate Island-Hopping Adventure
The Transverse Route across Pašman and Ugljan spans approximately 46 kilometers, perfect for cyclists with moderate fitness levels who enjoy varied terrain. You can start your journey in Tkon on Pašman (taking the ferry from Biograd) or begin in Preko on Ugljan (via the ferry from Zadar’s Gaženica port).
If you’ve already explored Ugljan, consider focusing on the Pašman section, running from Tkon to the Ždrelac Bridge. For the best experience on the mixed terrain, I strongly recommend using a mountain bike or hardtail MTB.
Here are the major points of interest you will pass on the trail:
Straža Viewpoint: A Gateway To Paradise
Starting from Tkon, your first major challenge is the climb to Straža Viewpoint, sitting proudly at 172 meters above sea level. This vantage point rewards cyclists and hikers alike with panoramic views that showcase the diverse beauty of the Adriatic coast. From here, you can marvel at:
- The Kornati Archipelago: A stunning collection of 89 islands, islets, and reefs
- Vransko jezero (Lake Vrana): Croatia’s largest natural lake
- Ravni kotari: A fertile plain known for its agricultural importance
- The Velebit mountain range: Croatia’s largest mountain range, part of the Dinaric Alps
Take time to rest on the benches provided and study the informative boards featuring photographs and details about the surrounding islets. It’s not just a rest stop – it’s an education in the region’s geography and natural beauty.
Conquering Veliki Bokolj
But Straža is just the beginning. Veliki Bokolj, standing proud at 274 meters, represents Pašman’s highest point and your next challenge.
The road connecting Straža Viewpoint to Veliki Bokolj mixes gravel and rocky terrain, characteristic of Pašman’s rugged landscape. While challenging, it’s manageable for moderately experienced cyclists.
At the summit, you’ll find a circular stone viewpoint offering breathtaking 360-degree views of the Adriatic Sea, the Zadar archipelago, the Kornati Islands, and the mainland, including the majestic Velebit mountain range and Lake Vrana. Don’t forget your camera – these views are truly once-in-a-lifetime.
Winding Down In Ždrelac
After conquering Veliki Bokolj, the trail descends toward the charming village of Ždrelac on Pašman’s southeastern tip. This section offers welcome relief, being mostly downhill or flat, allowing you to relax and soak in the journey’s final leg.
In Ždrelac, you have several options to conclude your adventure:
- Relax at local cafes and konobas (taverns), savoring traditional Dalmatian dishes
- Take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters of secluded beaches and coves
- Photograph the iconic Ždrelac Bridge connecting the two islands
- Either return to Tkon for a circular route or continue to Preko on Ugljan Island
Important Safety Note: If you are cycling back to Zadar or Biograd, exercise extra caution, as the main road lacks dedicated bike lanes. Defensive cycling is essential for your safety.
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Your Island Adventure Awaits
Cycling through Ugljan and Pašman offers more than just exercise – it’s a journey into the heart of Dalmatian island life. Every pedal stroke reveals new vistas, every village tells a different story, and every moment brings you closer to understanding the authentic charm of these Mediterranean gems.
These islands genuinely offer something for everyone, from casual riders seeking easy coastal paths to adventurous cyclists ready to tackle the climbs to Straža or Veliki Bokolj. Their proximity to Zadar and bike-friendly ferry connections make them the perfect addition to any Croatian adventure.
Ready to explore the best of the Zadar region on two wheels? At Zadar Bike, we’re here to make your cycling dreams a reality. With our high-quality bikes, essential accessories, and hassle-free service, you can focus on what matters most – creating unforgettable memories. Visit www.zadar-bike.com to start planning your cycling getaway today.
Don’t just visit the Zadar region – immerse yourself in its beauty, culture, and charm one pedal stroke at a time. Your perfect island adventure awaits!