Eight days of adventure. One day sea-kayaking, two days hiking, and three days cycling. Start and finish in Dubrovnik. Explore the hilly enchanted coastlines of Korcula, the Peljesac Peninsula and the island of Mljet. Rest in well appointed coastal villas with stunning views over the Adriatic. Enjoy delicious cuisine inspired by many cultures and fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast boasts an abundance of lush forested islands and mysterious coves. The seaside ports developed centuries ago are fantastically beautiful, as exemplified by its crowning jewel, the walled city of Dubrovnik. In recent history, civil war kept Croatia isolated, but since declaring independence and joining the EU, it has rapidly become a wonderful place to visit, and you are encouraged to do so now, before its coast becomes an extension of the nearby Rivieras of France and Italy.
This part of Croatia is warm and inviting. The region’s colorful red roofs complement the surrounding tropical green waters, and the views are beautifully photogenic. The warmth of the Mediterranean atmosphere and the joyful hospitality of the locals will stimulate you as you revel in tastes including scrumptious olives, unique cheeses, fresh seafood and excellent wines.
You will start and end in Dubrovnik, known as ‘the Pearl of the Adriatic’. Severely damaged in 1667, Dubrovnik managed to preserve its beautiful Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque churches, monasteries, palaces and fountains. Damaged again in the 1990s by armed conflict, it is now the focus of a major restoration program coordinated by UNESCO. Leaving this amazing city, you will first spend three days kayaking, hiking and cycling around Korcula Island, the home of the notable Marco Polo. Korcula is graced with rolling hills, vineyards, olive groves and small villages. You will climb Mt. Ilija for some stunning views over the Adriatic, and at the end of the week take a ferry to the island of Mljet to cycle along cliffs, wild beaches and pristine coves. Freewheeling Adventures hopes this exquisite destination retains its charm for many years to come, but urges you to join them now to see why they’re so excited!
“I just wanted to tell you how much I enjoyed my recent trip along the Dalmatian Coast. Our guides were wonderful, accommodating and interesting. We were very pleased with the bikes as well as the routes and of course the scenery and food was so good. Thanks for a wonderfully organized and most enjoyable experience.” - Sue U., Croatia
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Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Meet in Dubrovnik at noon This famous city of the Adriatic once rivaled Venice as the capital of the old Mediterranean Republic and is home to the legendary sailors of mythology. A scenic transfer along the Dalmatian coastline takes you to the peninsula of Peljesac, often called the garden of Dubrovnik. A short ferry then takes you to the island of Korcula, the home of Marco Polo and your home base for the next few days. D
Lodging: Villa Castello, Korcula
Day 2: Sea-kayaking: 5 hours 8-10km Sea-kayaking among amazing islets, private coves and pristine waters. The paddling is relatively easy, staying within sheltered waters near the coast. You will have the ample opportunities to stop throughout the day on the many uninhabited islands. Diversions include sublime swimming, snorkeling, and short hiking explorations along coastal trails. Return to your villa to admire the setting sun before dinner. BLD
Lodging: same as last night.
Day 3: Hiking: 4-5 hours from sea level to 480m Today’s hike takes you through forests of pine, cypress and oak trees to some of the most beautiful bays on the island. You will meet local people intent on their daily routines, and will have opportunities to taste Korcula’s virgin olive oil and the local white wine. BL
Lodging: same as last night.
Day 4: Cycling: 55km Cycle along a series of quiet paths and tracks among olive groves, vineyards and peaceful historical churches. Stop for lunch in one of the many small villages along the route. It is recommended that you ride with a swimsuit; you will likely take advantage of many opportunities to dip into the clear refreshing water. You will board a ferry in the late afternoon for the short crossing to the Peljesac Peninsula and your villa for the next two nights. BD
Lodging: Villa Antonio, Orebic
Day 5: Cycling: 35 to 55km Today is a day of hilly cycling across the vineyards of Peljesac. Stop by in tiny little bay of Podobuce and continue along the blue sea shore. For a boost of energy, stop in the rustic ambience of a local restaurant "Konoba" that offers some of the areas best home made prosciutto. BLD
Lodging: same as last night.
Day 6: Hiking: 4-5 hours Spend the day trekking in the midst of Mt. Ilija. You will pass through the hidden archaeological site of Nakovanje, dating back to 6000BC. Breathtaking views of the mainland and an archipelago of small islands scattered below precede the rewards of the descent. 42 km of independent self-guided cycling is available today for those not interested in hiking. BL
Lodging: same as last night.
Day 7: Cycling: 50km A two-hour early morning boat trip takes you to the true pearl of Dalmatia, the island of Mljet. This is the place where lush and verdant forest grows all the way to the rough coastline. Cycle along cliffs and through villages, and descend to the wild beaches and pristine coves, once shelters to the Greek hero Odysseus. In the late afternoon, take the ferry back to Peljesac. Visit the old walls of Ston, which shelters one of the best restaurants in Dalmatia. The black risotto is a must. BLD
Lodging: Hotel Ostrea, Mali Ston
Day 8: End of trip This morning you will be transferred to Dubrovnik, full of tiny cobbled streets, squares, and antique shops. B
Notes
Route Notes: Designed to please multisport adventurers, this trip does include some hilly hikes and rides, but the distances are short enough to make them moderate and manageable.
Reservation Policy
Pricing is in Canadian dollars. Payments can be made in US dollars, based on exchange rates at time of payment. US$ pricing is shown as a guide. Reservations can be made with VISA or MasterCard by fax, mail, email, or phone, or with a cheque or money order by mail. A deposit of 30% is required to reserve your space, and the balance is due 30 days before the adventure begins.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations received in writing at least 60 days in advance of start date will receive a 50% refund of any deposit paid. Cancellations received between 60 and 30 days ahead will forfeit deposit. Cancellations within 30 days require full payment of the tour cost.
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