It was completed just in time for Croatia's accession to the EU: the new cycle path on the former railway line of the Parenzana railway from Trieste to Porec. Highlights include the artists' village of Grožnjan and the truffle centre of Livade. The route winds its way along the Mirna valley, always with bearable gradients over viaducts, through tunnels and many of the former railway stations. Information boards tell the exciting stories of the Parenzana railway. However, a sturdy touring bike with wide tyres is recommended for the 110 kilometres. The route still leads over very bumpy, stony sections in places. However, the marvellous views of the bays of the Croatian Adriatic make up for the exertions. The interior of Croatia is also very attractive. Many national parks can be explored by bike. In the Plitvice Lakes National Park, probably best known from the Karl May films, the route leads through forests and along cool watercourses to the crystal-clear lakes. The Medulin Riviera coastal region offers six cycle routes between 40 and 60 kilometres in length on its website www.medulinriviera.info. Fantastic bays and picturesque coastal towns such as Pula with its ancient monuments can be easily explored with GPS guidance. If you want to explore the Croatian islands by bike, a combination of bike and boat is ideal. All important information about cycling in Croatia, cycle paths and tour descriptions, as well as hire stations and cyclist-friendly accommodation can be found at
Barbara Merz-Weigandt
Editor-in-Chief
