Croatia's Dalmatian coast is littered with over a thousand islands and has some of the best cruising and cycling in the Mediterranean. Using a chartered "Oldtimer" we'll set off from historic Dubrovnik to explore - each day we both cruise and cycle, so rides range from a couple of hours to longer excursions, each with its own interest. In the evening enjoy local cuisine either on board or in one of the many excellent local restaurants. Remember, if you feel like a day off, stay on board!

Discover Dubrovnik
An orientation walk of old Dubrovnik will introduce you to the city's main sights - historic monasteries and palaces huddled beneath the famous terracotta roofs. Next enjoy an optional ride the short distance to Copacabana beach before, next day, cruising to delightful Mljet island. Here we jump on our bikes and explore Mljet National Park - a beautiful reserve of Aleppo pine, Holm oak and two beautiful lakes.

Korcula - Venetian gem
Mooring at Korcula town, famous for its associations with Marco Polo, we set off down the west coast to Racisce, a sleepy village with a deep-water harbour and many typically Dalmatian houses. Here we can enjoy a swim before cycling back to Korcula and on to Lumbarda for a taste of the local grk wine. Next day further rides, including a more challenging one on the Napoleonic Road, are available as well as, of course, a free afternoon to explore the winding streets that lay beneath Korcula's terracotta roofs.

Elafiti Islands & Cavtat
Heading towards Dubrovnik again we moor at Sudurad on Sipan, one of the justly famous Elafiti Islands, from where we cycle through vineyards and orchards to the little harbour at Sipanska Luka. Lastly we head to Cavtat to explore the hinterland. Here life continues much as it has in past centuries and our ride reveals bubbling streams, tiny hamlets and ancient watermills - a great way to finish our look at this beautiful country.

Itinerary:

Day 1 Join Dubrovnik; board Oldtimer. 2 Explore Dubrovnik on foot; ride to Copacabana Beach (optional). 3 Cruise to Mljet Island; cycle around National Park lakes. 4 Cruise to Korcula Island; cycle to Racisce and Lumbarda for winetasting. 5 Ride from Korcula to Zrnovo; optional harder ride along the Napoleonic Trail; PM free in Korcula Town. 6 Cruise to Sudurad on Sipan Island; cycle to Sipanska Luka. 7 Cruise to Cavtat; cycle from Cavtat to the Konavle valley; overnight Dubrovnik. 8 End Dubrovnik.

Accommodation: 7nts shared cabin on Oldtimer. 7 breakfasts, 4 lunches & 3 dinners included. Our boat is traditional in layout with cabins below decks and shared facilities. As with most sailing vessels cabin space is very restricted, so please adjust expectations and pack accordingly. Cabins are equipped with wash basins and there are several showers (with a mix of hot and unheated water) and WCs on deck. A sun deck and restaurant/bar provide further space to relax.
Transport: 21 and 24-gear mountain bikes with front suspension, waterbottle holder, lock, handlebar rack/bag.
Comment: Grade A, easy - 100km/5 days with most day's cycling less than 20km and with 2 days of around 35km. Cycling is generally on surfaced roads, most of which are quiet though there are some sections on busier roads. There are inevitably some ascents/descents, however these should provide little difficulty for the active cyclist. 70% on tarmac and 30% on gravel.
Group: Approx. 16 to 20.
Staff: Explore Tour Leader, Captain and boat crew. Explore leader cycles with the group - there is no support vehicle on this trip.
Trip Reference: CDC