Redesigned

Adriatic Escapes

Destinations3
Tour MeetsCavtat, Croatia
Tour EndsDubrovnik, Croatia
Fly in toDubrovnik Ruder Boskovic Airport (DBV)
Fly out ofDubrovnik Ruder Boskovic Airport (DBV)
Group Size4-14 riders
Minimum Age18 (on scheduled departures)
485kmTotal cycling distance
82kmAvg distance / day
1378mAvg climbing / day

Trip Profile

We ride a total of 485 km with 8000 m of elevation gain in 6 days of riding. The climbing is nicely distributed throughout the tour, so we have time each day to enjoy the natural beauty and distinctive cultures along the way, while still completing substantial rides and working up the requisite appetites! On the evening of Day 1, we meet our guides for dinner and a preview of the journey ahead. Our first ride (Day 2) is a 75 km coastal ride that begins south along the Croatian coast with a series of climbs. As we enter Montenegro’s Bay of Kotor in the second half, the ride flattens out, leaving a total gain of 1000 m for the day, an ideal introductory ride. Day 3 is a much more vigorous loop through scenic Lovcen National Park, with total climbing of almost 2000 m over an 80 km distance. The Day 4 route begins flat along the bay for the first 25 km, then climbs more than 800 m steadily over about 25 km, culminating in a long descent for a daily total of 66 km and +1200 m. Riding the valley from Trebinje to coastal Neum on Day 5 gives us long flatter sections with occasional undulations, taking us 1000 m of climbing distributed over the 91 km distance. Expect some steeper climbs on Peljesac Peninsula on Day 6, adding up to 85 km and +1200 m. Korcula Island delivers a nice challenge on the last day of cycling, with +1500 m and a distance of 90 km before we transfer back into Dubrovnik for the final night dinner. Day 7 is departure day, when you may choose to head to the airport, or continue your stay in Dubrovnik.

The trip is fully supported, and your guide’s expert knowledge of the area and terrain means that you always know what is coming up in terms of distance and difficulty. This makes a tremendous difference, as does the constant supply of water and refreshments along the way.

Suitability: This is a tour for cyclists with a high level of physical fitness, who are at ease on a road bike and looking for iconic climbs to conquer. Fitness will be a huge asset on those long days and challenging climbs. Bike handling skills are also essential for the long descents with some sharp turns along the way.

Biking Conditions: The roads are 100% tarmac and overall in good condition. We’ve chosen dates in the optimal seasons for riding comfort, but we may encounter hot weather along the way, along with strong gusts of wind. It’s also advisable to bring rain gear. Though there will not be heavy traffic along much of the route, there may be more crowded sections, especially as we pass through urban areas and busier coastal regions.

What's Included

  • SpiceRoads jersey
  • Water bottle
  • Support vehicle
  • Guide(s)
  • Meals (as indicated)
  • Accommodation
  • Snacks and drinks
  • Entrance fees

What's Excluded

  • International flights
  • Domestic flights
  • Visa fees
  • Alcohol

Nuts & Bolts

Bikes

Because some people can't imagine going on a trip without their own beloved bicycle, we do not provide them as part of this tour. However, you can hire bikes locally for the price listed in the tour pricing section.

If you bring your own road bike, please make sure it is in good mechanical order.

Bike Repairs

Basic spares and tools are carried by the guide and on the support vehicle, though we cannot guarantee having spares for every conceivable problem. Carrying a basic tool kit, a spare tube and a pump while riding is recommended.

Safety

Wearing a helmet is required on all our biking adventures and is non negotiable. If you do not wear a helmet you will not be allowed to cycle. Your tour leader is trained in first aid and emergency rescue, but to a large degree you must be responsible for your own safety while riding. It is therefore compulsory that you take out travel insurance that will cover you for a mountain biking tour.

Guides

You will be led by a local English-speaking guide and if the group is 9 people or more we will add another guide to the tour. All our guides are well informed in the history, culture and religions of the area where you are biking and are skilled at passing that knowledge on to you. Your guide is also medically trained and an experienced cyclist, able to handle most minor repairs en route.

The Nitty Gritty

Bosnia & Herzegovina

Passports and Visas

Bosnia & Herzegovina is not a member of the Schengen Area, though it maintains a liberal entry policy. Citizens of the UK, US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand do not require a visa for short-term tourism. These travellers are permitted to stay for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. While ETIAS is required for entry into the neighbouring Schengen zone (such as Croatia), it is not a requirement for entry into Bosnia & Herzegovina itself. Please ensure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your intended date of departure.

Health & Insurance

No specific vaccinations are mandatory for entry, though it is advisable to be current on standard boosters such as Tetanus and Hepatitis A/B. Comprehensive travel insurance is essential and must specifically cover cycling activities and medical evacuation. This is particularly important when riding in remote mountain regions. While major cities like Sarajevo and Mostar have modern medical facilities, rural areas are more isolated. As a precaution in forested regions, check for ticks during the spring and autumn months.

Weather

The prime window for cycling in Bosnia & Herzegovina is from May to June and September to October.

  • The Best Window: Late spring and early autumn offer mild temperatures and clear mountain views, typically ranging between 18°C and 25°C.
  • Summer Heat: In July and August, temperatures in the valleys and in Mostar can frequently exceed 35°C. During this time, the high mountain passes offer a necessary and refreshing escape from the heat.
  • Mountain Conditions: Weather at altitude can be unpredictable. We recommend carrying a high-quality waterproof shell and a warm mid-layer for long descents or sudden shifts in mountain conditions.

Food

Bosnian cuisine is a hearty reflection of its Ottoman and Balkan heritage. You should try the national staple, Ćevapi (grilled minced meat served in flatbread), and the various types of Pita, such as Burek (meat) or Sirnica (cheese). Other highlights include Begova Čorba (Bey's soup) and Dolma (stuffed vegetables). Most meals are served family-style with fresh local breads and cheeses. We cater to all dietary needs; please notify us of any requirements at the time of booking.

Drink

Coffee is the soul of Bosnian social life, traditionally served in small copper pots with a side of Turkish delight. It is a slow, methodical ritual that is best enjoyed after a morning in the saddle. Hydration is key during mountain climbs, and we provide ample water and snacks on all rides. Tap water is generally safe to drink in urban areas. For a local post-ride drink, sample a glass of Rakija (fruit brandy) or the local Sarajevsko beer. Please note that alcohol during meals is not included in the tour price.

Solo Travellers

SpiceRoads does not charge a mandatory single supplement for solo adventurers. We will arrange for you to share a room with another traveller of the same gender. If no match is available, you will receive a single room at no additional cost. If you prefer to guarantee your own private room for the duration of the trip, a single supplement is available at the rate listed in the tour pricing.

Extra Expenses

Bosnia & Herzegovina remains one of the most affordable destinations in Europe. You should budget for personal incidentals such as traditional copperware from Sarajevo’s Baščaršija, local handicrafts, or extra coffee stops. Tipping is not mandatory but is a common gesture of appreciation for excellent service in restaurants and for your support crew.

Money

The currency is the Convertible Mark (BAM), which is pegged to the Euro.

  • Card Acceptance: Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, larger shops, and restaurants in Sarajevo and Mostar.
  • ATMs: Cash machines are plentiful in urban centres and accept most international cards.
  • Cash: It is essential to carry cash for use in small village tavernas, remote mountain guesthouses, and for small purchases at local markets where card terminals are rarely available.

Croatia

Passports and Visas

Croatia is a member of the Schengen Area. Citizens of the UK, US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand do not require a visa for short-term tourism and are permitted to stay for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. All visa-exempt travellers are required to obtain a valid ETIAS approval prior to arrival. This digital registration is linked to your passport and remains valid for three years. Additionally, the Entry/Exit System (EES) is operational at all borders. This involves a biometric registration of facial images and fingerprints upon your first entry into the Schengen zone. For citizens of the EU, Switzerland, and Norway, entry is permitted with a valid National ID card or passport. Please ensure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your intended date of departure.

Health & Insurance

No specific vaccinations are mandatory for entry, though it is advisable to be current on standard boosters such as Tetanus and Hepatitis A/B. Comprehensive travel insurance is essential and should specifically cover cycling activities and medical evacuation. If you are an EU citizen, ensure you carry a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). UK citizens should carry a Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) to access reciprocal state-provided healthcare for necessary medical treatments during their stay.

Weather

The prime window for cycling in Croatia is during the spring and autumn.

  • The Best Window: April to June and September to October offer the most comfortable riding temperatures and quieter roads.
  • Summer Heat: In July and August, temperatures frequently exceed 30°C. While coastal breezes provide some relief, the high humidity and intense Mediterranean sun make inland climbing more challenging.
  • Variable Conditions: The Adriatic coast can experience the Bura, a strong, cool wind from the mountains. We recommend carrying a light, windproof layer for long descents or early morning departures.

Food

Croatian cuisine is a diverse fusion of Mediterranean and Central European influences. Along the coast, you should sample fresh seafood such as Buzara mussels or Crni rižot (black risotto coloured with squid ink). In the interior, the food becomes heartier, featuring dishes like Pašticada (slow-cooked beef in a rich wine sauce) or spit-roasted lamb from the island of Pag. Truffles are a speciality of the Istrian forests and are often served with traditional handmade pasta known as Fuži. Most meals are served family-style, and we cater to all dietary needs.

Drink

Hydration is vital, particularly when tackling the limestone ridges of the coast. We provide ample water and local snacks during every ride. Croatia has a world-class winemaking tradition, featuring unique local varieties such as Plavac Mali and Malvazija. For a traditional digestif, try a glass of Rakija (fruit brandy) or the herbal liqueur Pelinkovac. Tap water is safe and of high quality across the country. Please note that alcohol during meals is not included in the tour price.

Solo Travellers

SpiceRoads welcomes solo adventurers and does not charge a mandatory single supplement. We will arrange for you to share a room with another traveller of the same gender. If no match is available, you will receive a single room at no additional cost. If you prefer to guarantee your own private room for the duration of the trip, a single supplement is available at the rate listed in the tour pricing.

Extra Expenses

Croatia offers good value, though prices in popular coastal hubs like Dubrovnik or Split are higher than in the rural interior. You should budget for personal incidentals such as artisanal lavender products, local olive oils, or entrance fees to national parks like Plitvice Lakes. Tipping is appreciated for exceptional service in restaurants and for your support crew.

Money

The currency is the Euro (€).

  • Card Acceptance: Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, larger restaurants, and shops in urban areas.
  • ATMs: Cash machines are plentiful in all towns and major ports, accepting most international cards.
  • Cash: While card usage is growing, it is essential to carry a small amount of cash for use in small village tavernas, local markets, or for smaller purchases in remote island locations where card terminals may be unavailable.

Montenegro

Passports and Visas

Montenegro is not a member of the European Union or the Schengen Area, but it maintains a liberal entry policy. Citizens of the UK, US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand do not require a visa for tourism and are permitted to stay for up to 90 days. If you are entering Montenegro from a neighbouring Schengen country like Croatia, please be aware that you will pass through a full border control. The Entry/Exit System (EES) is operational at these borders, involving a biometric registration of facial images and fingerprints. Please ensure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your intended date of departure.

Health & Insurance

No specific vaccinations are mandatory for entry. It is advisable to be current on standard boosters such as Tetanus and Hepatitis A/B. Comprehensive travel insurance is essential and must specifically cover cycling activities and medical evacuation, particularly given the remote nature of the Durmitor and Lovćen mountain regions. While coastal towns have good medical facilities, infrastructure in the high-altitude interior is more basic.

Weather

The prime window for cycling in Montenegro is from May to June and September to October.

  • The Best Window: Late spring and early autumn offer mild temperatures and clear visibility in the mountains, typically ranging between 18°C and 25°C.
  • Summer Extremes: In July and August, the coast can be exceptionally hot, with temperatures often exceeding 35°C, while the high mountains remain significantly cooler.
  • Mountain Shifts: Weather in the highlands can change rapidly. We recommend carrying a high-quality waterproof shell and a warm mid-layer for long descents from the karst plateaus.

Food

Montenegrin cuisine is a hearty reflection of its rugged landscape. In the mountains, you should try Njeguški pršut (dry-cured ham) and Kačamak (a rich porridge made of potatoes and cornmeal with local cheese). Along the coast, the focus shifts to fresh Adriatic seafood and olive-oil based Mediterranean dishes. Most meals are served family-style with fresh, crusty bread and robust local cheeses. We cater to all dietary needs; please notify us of any requirements at the time of booking.

Drink

Hydration is vital on the long climbs out of the Bay of Kotor, and we provide ample water and snacks during every ride. Montenegro has a proud winemaking tradition, most notably the dark and powerful Vranac red wine. For a local post-ride digestif, try a small glass of Loza (grape brandy). Tap water is generally safe to drink in urban areas and mountain springs, though we provide filtered water throughout the tour. Please note that alcohol during meals is not included in the tour price.

Solo Travellers

SpiceRoads does not charge a mandatory single supplement for solo adventurers. We will arrange for you to share a room with another traveller of the same gender in twin-share accommodation. If no match is available, you will receive a single room at no additional cost. If you prefer to guarantee your own private room for the duration of the trip, a single supplement is available at the rate listed in the tour pricing.

Extra Expenses

Montenegro offers excellent value, though prices in the Bay of Kotor and Budva are significantly higher than in the mountain interior. You should budget for personal incidentals such as café stops, local olive oil, or entrance fees to national parks. Tipping is not mandatory but is a common gesture of appreciation for excellent service in restaurants and for your support crew.

Money

Surprisingly, the official currency of Montenegro is the Euro (€), even though the country is not a member of the Eurozone.

  • Card Acceptance: Credit and debit cards are accepted in major hotels, restaurants, and shops in coastal areas.
  • ATMs: Cash machines are available in all towns and major tourist hubs.
  • Cash for the Interior: In the mountain regions and smaller villages, Montenegro remains a cash-heavy society. It is essential to carry Euro notes for use in small tavernas, rural guesthouses, and for small purchases at local markets.

General booking info

If this is the tour for you here's what you need to do to confirm your place:

FLEXIBLE BOOKING CONDITIONS

Booking a SpiceRoads cycling adventure is easy and we try to do everything possible to make sure you have full flexibility and peace of mind. We do not require a deposit to hold your place on a tour and once full payment has been made your money is protected in our client account and you have the flexibility to cancel or change your booking if needed.

CONFIRMING YOUR BOOKING

Just complete our online booking form or send your booking details offline (email or post), and we will confirm your participation. No deposit is needed to confirm your place on a SpiceRoads tour.

You are advised to read our Booking Conditions in full before you make your payment and should you require further clarifications of any of the conditions below, please email us or call our office.

TRIP STATUS

There is a minimum number of participants (usually 2) required to enable the trip to go ahead. Once the minimum number is reached, the trip status will change from 'Available' to 'Guaranteed to Depart'. Once a trip is guaranteed to depart you are free to book your flights and make other travel arrangements. If the trip status is ‘Limited’ will mean we have only a small number of spaces available for booking. If you are unsure about the trip status, please email us or call our office.

BOOKING ONLINE

From the tour page, click the 'Book Now' link. All departures for this tour will appear, just select the date you'd like to travel. For the next steps, you'll need to know the names of the people travelling. If you wish you can also provide extra details such as passport numbers, height (for bike hire), or you can add that later by logging into Manage My Trip (we'll set up an account for you automatically if you don't already have one). Our system will contact you from time to time to fill in the missing information, as it will be required before departure. However, if the trip that you are booking offers a child discount, you will have to fill out the date of birth of each rider (so we can calculate the appropriate discount).

If you are having any problems please send us an email, or give us a call (+66 026 3295) and one of our travel specialists will assist you with your booking.

BOOKING OFFLINE

Just call us or send an email indicating which trip you want to join and we will happily send you a list of questions and process your booking for you.

DEPOSITS AND PAYMENTS

We do not require a deposit or full payment to book a place for you on a tour.

The balance of the tour’s cost (final invoice) will need to be paid 60 days before the departure date with fees for any bicycle rental(s), single supplement(s) and extra hotel nights.

In the case where a booking is made when there are less than 60 days until the tour departure date, the tour’s cost should be paid in full within 72 hours of receiving an invoice from SpiceRoads. Payment can be made by credit card using our online payment gateway or by bank transfer. When making payment online you will need to confirm that you have read these booking conditions during the "checkout" process, which equates to agreeing to the terms of services and stipulations as indicated in this document.

In all cases, tour fees need to be paid “in full” before participation in a tour. No person(s) will be allowed to join a tour without fully settling their invoice and receiving a confirmation number from SpiceRoads.

The exception can be made for last-minute miscellaneous fees that can be paid locally (visas, additional local hotel bookings, etc.) can be settled on the day of arrival.

FULL FLEXIBILITY FOR TOUR CANCELATIONS

If the tour is cancelled or postponed by SpiceRoads because we didn't make the trip numbers and the tour can’t run, we will make a full cash refund (by bank transfer or on your credit card).

If the tour is cancelled for any other reason, including due to Covid related travel restrictions, we will give you a full credit (with no deductions for admin or any other small-print item) to use on any SpiceRoads tour with no time limit. (Exceptions being flights, special permits and other non-refundable items and these will be advised when booking the trip).

Before paying for your tour, you can cancel your booking with no charge and up until 40 days before departure, you can change your booking to another travel date or move your booking onto another SpiceRoads tour with no charges.

If you need to cancel after you have made full payment, please see our cancellation policy.

Loyalty Riders Club

For those who have been on several long tours with us, we reward customer loyalty by offering repeat customers a special discount off the tour price (excludes single supplement and bike rental). If this is your fourth scheduled tour or more you will receive a 5% discount. If this is your eighth scheduled tour or more we will extend a 10% discount. The discount will be reflected in your online booking, but please contact us if any questions. Loyalty discounts cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Note: Only tours of 7 days or more will be applicable for a loyalty discount.

International Flights

International flights, to and from the start and finish points are not included in the tour price. Once your tour is Guaranteed to Depart you can book your flight. Please contact us for advice before arranging flights for the best arrival and departure times. We would only cancel a trip for an extreme circumstance, but in that case, where we cancel your trip, we cannot be liable for losses incurred relating to any flight booking you have made. Please claim any losses from your travel insurance that you acquired when you booked your holiday.

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