Islandhopping Cycling Tours Mountains & National Parks of Northern Croatia – Hotel & Bike | Self-guided bike tours in Croatia
Route from Fužine / to Karlovac Duration 8 days / 7 nights Distance approx. 310 km Share via ... E-Mail Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Copy Link
Experience the mountains & national parks of Northern Croatia This Hotel & Bike tour leads through the beautiful low and high mountain regions of the Croatian inland. Only 12.5 mi/20 km away from the coast, which has been largely developed for tourism, Croatia shows her wilder side of deep forests and stone deserts, where the Bora wind has had a significant and visible impact on the landscape and where snowfall can be meters deep during the winter months. En route, we cycle through three national parks, where bear, wolf, and lynx can still be encountered in the wild. One of the highlights of the tour are the Plitvicer Lakes with their spectacular waterfalls, known far beyond Croatia’s borders. Luggage transport, map material and GPS device are included! IMPORTANT NOTE: This self-guided hotel and bike tour runs from May to September and can begin on any day of the week. Book Now Highlights Culture: An authentic experience of traditional Croatian rural lifestyle Nature: The Plitvice National Park with its spectacular lakes and waterfalls Activity: A visit to the limestone cave, Vrelo, in Fužine Culinary: The Croatian stew, Čobanac, is a north Croatian specialty Souvenir: Traditional handicrafts is still common in the Croatian highlands
Itinerary Accommodation Rental Bikes Dates & Prices Journey Extended Stay Things to note Itinerary image/svg+xml Rijeka Karlovac Slunj Otočac Fužine Grabovac Krk National ParkPlitvicer Lakes Croatia Bosnia and Hercegovina National ParkRisnjak MEDITERRANEAN Airport Rijeka Bosnia-Hercegovina Croatia Slovenia National ParkPlitvicer lakes Croatia Bosnia and Herzegovina National ParkRisnjak MEDITERRANEAN AirportRijeka Bosnia-Hercegovina Croatia Slovenia 1st Day Fužine (Arrival) Individual journey to Fužine by car, to Rijeka by train or to Zagreb or Rijeka Airport by plane. On request, we would gladly organize a fee-based transfer from Rijeka train station or Rijeka or Zagreb Airport to your hotel. Once you have arrived, you have the rest of the day to do as you like. Perhaps take the chance to enjoy a short introductory bike tour along the three lakes, located in the immediate vicinity of the village, or through the beautiful surroundings. If there is still time, there are several possibilities to extend the bike tour. A detour to the 300 m deep Vrelo Cave, located only a few kilometers away, is one of Fužine’s main attractions and a rewarding excursion. The first night is spent in a hotel in or near Fužine. 2nd Day Risnjak National Park (aprx. 54 km, 1.000 m of elevation) After a rich breakfast at the hotel, we begin our first cycling tour to Risnjak National Park. Ris is the Croatian word for lynx, thus Risnjak translates to something like “Place of the Lynx”. We reach the entrance to the park after about 16 mi./25 km. From here, we have the opportunity to explore the park either on foot or by bike. There is a special trail for nature enthusiasts, along which you can learn everything about the local fauna and flora. The park itself is home to many protected plant and animal species. Late in the afternoon, we return to the hotel for the night. 3rd Day Fužine – Otočac (aprx. 88 km, 1.170 m of elevation) Before leaving the hotel today, please prepare and pack your luggage for the transfer driver. After a hearty breakfast, we hop on our bikes and cycle past large fields before heading into a dense forest. Right in the middle of the deepest part of the woods lies the small, cosy restaurant Vagabundo. The friendly owners are experts at creating delicious snacks from what they are able to gather from the fields and forest. Though it may be a bit early for lunch, be sure not to miss out on sampling a few tasty treats with a cup of coffee. We then continue cycling through the dense mixed woodland, a natural beauty rarely found in Europe today, before reaching the Bora wind swept hills which slope down to the Adriatic. Here, we have breath-taking views over the islands of the Kvarner Bay. Far below, it is possible to recognize Krk and the moonscapes of Rab and Pag, and on clear days, it is possible to see as far as Dugi Otok. The destination of this leg of the tour is the small village of Otočac at the Gacka River, well known for its abundance of trout. We spend the night in a hotel in Otočac. 4th Day Otočac – Grabovac (aprx. 61 km, 850 m of elevation) From Otočac we continue our journey towards the Plitvice Lakes National Park. Riding through the hilly landscapes, we pass through quaint villages on the way to the Plitvicer Lakes district. Today’s tour is all about the wonderful natural of the northern Croatian mountain region. Our day’s destination is Grabovac, where we check into our accommodation for the next two days. 5th Day Plitvice Lakes National Park Today the whole day is yours for exploring the fascinating Plitvice Lakes National Park. You can either cycle the 12 km to the national park by bicycle or to take a taxi to the park and back. You can also choose whether to explore the park individually or to do so in the company of a professional, licensed guide (reservation required in advance). The Plitvice Lakes are the largest national park in Croatia and the oldest in Southeast Europe, and it has been a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site since 1979. Let yourself be fascinated by the variety of the lakes and lush greenery of the plants within the National Park. Walking along the wooden footbridges that lead deep into the reeds allows for a truly incredible experience of the spectacular, untouched nature. Admire the waterfalls cascading from one basin to the next. Discover the different fish swimming along the bottom of the clear lakes and marvel at the colourful dragonflies and butterflies that fill the air. In short, enjoy the wonderful day! 6th Day Grabovac – Slunj (aprx. 9 km, 470 m of elevation) After an abundant breakfast we begin our day. Today's bike tour takes us along the Bosnian border, through deep forests and small villages to Slunj, whose Rastoke district is known for its miniature Plitvice Lakes. Here the river Slunjčica branches into many smaller arms and flows down numerous cascades and smaller waterfalls into the Korana. Another special feature of the area is the numerous old water mills that line the river. We spend the night in a hotel beautifully situated in the middle of this romantic landscape. 7th Day Slunj – Karlovac (aprx. 68 km, 640 m of elevation) After breakfast, we leave Slunj which, just like the Plitvice Lakes, was used as a filming location in the movie adaptation of Winnetou. A Native American village and saloon were located in Slunj, and the medicine man was played by the still legendary Mile Štrk, a local villager. The day’s destination is Karlovac, one of the youngest cities in Croatia. Founded in 1579 at the confluence of four rivers, the fortress is considered an outstanding example of Renaissance architecture. The Baroque historical centre was heavily damaged in the war but has been largely restored in the last few years and now boasts some beautiful areas well worth visiting. Give yourself a little time in the evening to take a stroll through the city and taste a glass of the local Karlovacko beer. 8th Day Karlovac (Departure) - Return home or holiday extension After breakfast, it’s time to check out of the hotel and return home or prolong your holiday in Croatia. On request, we will organize a free return transfer to your first hotel in Fužine. Accommodation carefully selected mid-range hotels (3-4 stars) We offer good to very good mid-range hotels (3-4 stars) in Karlovac. All accommodation possibilities are carefully selected and offer the greatest possible comfort after a day full of activity. They are all very well-kept and are characterized by a peaceful and welcoming atmosphere, friendly and helpful staff, and delicious cuisine. Of course, all hotels have secure places to keep your bicycles.Accommodation is booked based on availability on your travel dates. You will receive a list of hotels as well as further detailed information about your tour before you begin your journey. … Rental Bikes Our Hybrid Bikes For our hybrid bike tours, we use reliable, low maintenance hybrid bikes with aluminum frames in various sizes. Twenty years of experience in bike tourism has given us the knowledge and confidence to select the right components for the requirements of an Islandhopping tour. Our bikes ensure a carefree riding experience for our cycling enthusiasts.… Read More Our E-Bikes All our e-bikes are high quality pedelecs, most of which are fitted with Bosch motors with extra battery range. They are characterized by their relatively light weight and great components. Some of our fleet are equipped with other motor systems. With an Islandhopping e-bike, you will be able to climb almost any hill with ease. They are a true set of wings for anyone who needs a little ‘tail wind’ to make their ride that little bit more enjoyable. … Read More Our Mountain Bikes On our mountain bike tours, we only use high-quality full-suspension rental bikes from GIANT and SCOTT, whose components are perfectly tailored to the demands of the Mediterranean terrain. For effortless climbing and ultimate trail fun, our lightweight fullys are usually equipped with 27.5 inch rims, 140 - 150 mm travel, suspension forks and shocks, Shimano or SRAM shifting and brake groups as well as dropper seat posts. In order to meet the highest material requirements, we will also be offering premium full suspension rental bikes from SANTA CRUZ…. Read More Our E-Mountain Bikes If you’re looking for an easy uphill ride with an epic downhill trail experience, then our e-mountain bikes are the perfect rental bike for you. Our full suspension e-MTBs are equipped with 27.5’’ wheels and robust tires ready for exploring fantastic trails. The powerful Bosch motor, large battery, 150 mm RockShox suspension, Shimano or SRAM gear and brake systems as well as hydraulic dropper posts make these e-MTBs a biker’s best friend during our tours in the Mediterranean. For fans of superlatives, from 2024 we will also be offering 29-inch E-MTB premium rental bikes in Croatia. … Read More Our Hybrid Bikes Our E-Bikes Our Mountain Bikes Our E-Mountain Bikes Prices, Dates and Services Basic tour price per person: 1190 euro This self-huided hotel & bike tour can only be booked for two or more people. It can begin on any day of the week between May and September. If you are interested, please fill in our booking form below with your preferred tour date. Booking Inquiry Included services 7 x overnight stays with breakfast in double room in good to very good mid-range (3-4 star) hotels 6 self-guided bicycle tours according to itinerary Luggage transfer between hotels plus roadside assistance Parking space at the first hotel and transfer from Karlovac back to the hotel in Fužine Not included in the basic tour price Journey to Fužine Entrance fees for the national parks: - Risnjak (subject to increase in price): 45 Kuna (approx. 6 euro/person) Plitvice Lakes (seasonal prices, subject to increase in price): April + May as well as Oct. 100 Kuna (approx. 14 euro/person) // June – Sept. 250 Kuna (approx. 35 euro/person), after 4 pm 150 Kuna (approx. 20 euro/person) Tips at the hotels and for the transfer drivers Lunch & dinner Special activities in Karlovac (payable on the spot) Additional Optional Services Surcharge for a single room 300 euro Transfers prices on request Rental bike with Ortlieb pannier hybrid bicycle: 80 euro/week e-bike: 180 euro/week (limited) full suspension MTB (fully): 180 euro/week e-MTB: 240 euro/week (limited) incl. Pump, lock and essential tools (essentials) Insurance against theft and damage of the rental bike (not insured: grossly negligent damages) hybrid bicycle: 10 euro/week e-bike or fully: 20 euro/week Taxi transfer from the hotel in Grabovac to the Plitvice National Park entrance and back 15 euro/wayAdditional fees may apply for the transfer of private bicycles Guided tour of the Plitvicer National Park (duration: 3 hrs) 70 euro Additional nights with breakfast in Fužine or Karlovac prices on request Discounts If this is your third or more Islandhopping tour booked directly with us, you will receive our SEA-YOU-AGAIN discount for your next tour in 2025. As this tour is operated by a third party partner, not all regular Islandhopping discount offers apply. Arrival - How to get there Starting point Fužine The hotel you stay in first on your self-guided cycle tour through the National Parks of Northern Croatia is located in Fužine, about 40 km away from Rijeka. You can either travel there by car or get a flight to Rijeka or Zagreb, the nearest airports to Fužine. We would be happy to arrange exclusive transfers between the mentioned airports and your hotel in Fužine for an additional charge. Arrival by car Address for navigaton system: Fužine, Croatia You will receive the exact address for the hotel where you will be staying in Fužine with your travel documents (which hotel you stay at depends on hotel availability on your desired travel date). The hotel staff will inform you about all the parking possibilities in the vicinity of the hotel. Any parking fees are to be paid directly on site. Arrival by plane The nearest airport is Rijeka Airport (RJK), located on the island of Krk. However, Zagreb Airport (ZAG) is the nearest to the last hotel of the tour. Therefore, if you are travelling by airplane, it is worthwhile to look for a multi-stop flight, with your arrival flight to Rijeka and your return flight from Zagreb. This allows you to minimize the travel time. Of course, a round-trip flight is also possible. Transfer Options We offer exclusive transfers from Rijeka or Zagreb Airport to your first hotel in Fužine (prices on request). For all transfers, please make a reservation with our office team, indicating your exact flight details. starting point by car by plane Transfer Options If you would like to extend your trip Extension program in Zagreb Are you intrigued to see more of Croatia? We recommend extending your stay with our 2-day extension program in the Croatian capital, Zagreb. The old town, built by the Imperial and Royal Monarchy, boasts many impressive buildings. The additional program includes transfers, hotel accommodation, a city tour and dinner in a typical konoba. Read More Additional nights in Fužine We would be happy to arrange additional nights in the small town of Fužine for you, which lies just 35 km away from the port of Rijeka. This charming town is situated in the middle of the picturesque mountainous region of northern Croatia, nestled amongst evergreen coniferous forests and beautiful lakes. Tourist attractions such as the Vrelo Cave and the western city of Roswell are waiting to be discovered. Read More Additional nights in Karlovac We would be happy to arrange additional nights in Karlovac for you. The city of four rivers in the north of Croatia captivates with its renaissance old town, Dubrovac Castle, and the many parks that gave the city its nickname “the city of many gardens”. Whether sightseeing, taking long walks, or rafting down the rivers Mrežnica and Dobra, the list of possible activities in Karlovac is a long one! Read More Extension program Zagreb Additional nights Fužine Additional nights Karlovac Important information How to book this trip This self-guided Hotel & Bike tour runs from May to September and can begin on any day of the week. If you would like to book this tour, please contact our office team with the following information at info@islandhopping.com: Preferred travel date Number of participants First name, surname, and date of birth of all participants If you would like to rent bikes, and which type If you are interested in bike insurance against theft and damage of the rental bike Billing address Requirements Level 2 - 3 The bicycle tours require a good basic level of fitness and stamina, which any regular cyclist should have obtained through daily cycling. The individual stretches of 24 – 55 mi./39 - 88 km cover elevations of up to 3,900 ft./1,200 m and lead through hilly and mountainous terrain. The bike tours are designed to span an entire day, so there is no reason for feel pressured or to rush yourself. Although most of the roads are asphalted and quiet with little traffic, MTBs are recommended. Requirement to wear a helmet Helmets are mandatory on our bike tours. It is advised to bring your own, well fitted, helmet with you as our rental helmet numbers are limited (reservation required). Bringing private bikes The tour which you have booked requires a bike with a fully functional set of gears. Islandhopping can offer you high quality, fully serviced rental bikes perfect for the terrain of this tour. Should you however wish to bring your own bicycle with you, please make sure to check the condition of your breaks, gears, and tires and don’t forget to bring along a puncture repair kit and the essential spare parts for your bike (e.g. brake pads and spare tubes). Your bike should be in prefect mechanical working order. We do not recommend bringing along private road bikes, as the thin tires are not suitable for some of the road surfaces encountered on the tours. Liability disclaimer: Radurlaub Zeitreisen GmbH. Will not be held liable for any damages caused to private bikes during loading, unloading or other logisitical handling thereof. Luggage service & emergency service While you are cycling your luggage will be transported by our reliable, friendly luggage service. In case of accidents our special emergency service is always at your disposal. Catering Breakfast is included in the basic tour price. In the evenings, you can dine à la carte at your hotel, and for lunch during the cycle tours we will give you with suggestions for restaurants, where you can try out the excellent local cuisine. Bringing children We believe that only children in a good physical condition and with a minimum age of 10 and previous bicycle tour experience will be able to master the bike tours with their own strength. Please note that the minimum height for a rental bike is 1.20 m.
