Current as of: August 28, 2026 - 11:25
Hike, Bike & Paddle Croatia Trip Notes
- Ways to Travel: Self-Guided Holidays
- Destination: Croatia
- Programmes: Multi-Activity
-
Activity Level:
1 out of 7 - Easy
- 8 Days: Land Only
- Ages: 12+
- Trip Code: M07CR
- Carbon Footprint: 13kg CO2e
Trip Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey along Croatia’s stunning Dalmatian Coast. Venture through the enchanting landscapes of Krka & Paklenica National Parks with their iconic waterfalls, wander the charming streets of Trogir on Ciovo Island and uncover the warmth of Croatia’s welcoming locals; just as inviting as the shimmering Adriatic Sea.
Your adventure begins in the waterside village of Starigrad where dramatic mountains blend seamlessly into the shimmering Adriatic waters. Here you’ll find the gateway to Paklenica – one of Croatia’s eight National Parks. Breath-takingly beautiful and boasting over 150km of trails, Paklenica is a walkers paradise and home to some impressive flora and fauna.
With plenty of swimming opportunities along the way, your first guided sea kayaking tour takes place in the clear waters around Paklenica with striking views across the great Velebit Mountain. Enjoy a rest day in Skradin, the gateway to Krka; here you can explore the beautiful coastline and old town centre with plenty of waterside eateries to choose from.
Journey through the enchanting landscapes of Krka National Park, where lush woodlands and ancient Roman ruins surround you as cascading waterfalls flow in mesmerising tiers above. One of the most popular spots in Krka is Skradinski Buk, a large pool of extremely clear water with a collection of 17 falls flowing into it – truly a sight to behold!
Your last stop is Trogir City, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled within the island of Ciovo. Along your leisurely bike ride around the island, you’re spoilt with spectacular coastal views and secluded beaches where you can stop for a refreshing dip. Uncover even more swimming opportunities on your second guided sea kayaking tour along the Split coastline. Paddle along rocky inlets below the Marjan Hills and enjoy a beach break before exploring Split on foot.
Is This Trip for You?
This self-guided multi-activity holiday is ideal for independent travellers who enjoy exploring at their own pace, with the reassurance of pre-arranged accommodation and activities.
Activity Level: 1 (Easy)
For more information on our trip gradings please visit our Activity Level Guidelines page. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip please do not hesitate to contact us.
Route & Terrain: The terrain on this holiday is varied but generally gentle, combining easy walking, relaxed cycling and calm coastal paddling. Walks follow a mix of well-marked forest trails, riverside paths and limestone canyon routes, with some uneven and rocky sections in national park areas. Cycling takes place mainly on quiet, well-surfaced coastal roads with modest gradients, while kayaking is on sheltered coastal waters with pebble or rocky shorelines for landing.
Helmets: Cycling helmets are a legal requirement in Croatia for children under 16 when riding on roads.
Navigation: Headwater Navigation App
How Your Self-Guided Holiday Works
This self-guided trip is operated by our sister company, Headwater. You’ll travel independently using the Headwater Navigation App, which provides expertly curated routes and directions, along with a 24-hour emergency assistance number should you need support. As there is no tour leader or organised group, you’ll enjoy the flexibility to travel at your own pace while following the planned itinerary. Headwater are specialists in self-guided active holidays with more than 40 years of experience.
Cycling safety: Your safety is our number one priority. The Exodus Safe Cycling Guide explains how we will keep you safe throughout your trip. We also ask for your support by following the guidance and recommendations outlined in the guide.
Adult min age: 12
Min group size: 1
Itinerary
Land Only
- Start City: Starigrad Paklenica
- End City: Trogir
Land Only Itinerary
Arrive Starigrad Paklenica
Arrive in the small port village of Starigrad Paklenica. Built on the foundations of an ancient city, Starigrad is where the mountains meet the sea at the gateway to Paklenica National Park. Nestled in a unique panorama consisting of up to 1,700m high rock walls and flatly sloping into the sea beaches, Starigrad promises a fantastic start to your active holiday in Dalmatia.
Accommodation: Villa Vicko
Paklenica National Park (13km/8.1mi)
One of Croatia’s eight National Parks, Paklenica is breath-takingly beautiful. With two dolomite limestone canyons named Velika (big) and Mala (small), this is Croatia’s largest mountain range and part of the Dinaric Alps which run from Slovenia through Albania, culminating at it’s highest point in Bosnia-Herzegovina. The mountains rise sharply from the sea, and while the park initially looks very rocky, you’ll be surprised to find out that 75% of the National Park is primarily beech and black pine forest.
Paklenica is a walkers paradise with over 150km of trails take you from rocky canyons to lush green meadows and mountain peaks. On the well signposted hiking trails, you can experience the impressive flora and fauna, which is home to Griffon vultures, brown bears and lynx.
Our chosen walk takes you deeper into the canyon, ending at Ramica Dvori Hut. Owned by a local family for generations, Dvori Hut offers options for lunch alongside their homemade ‘rakija’ drink. You can also incorporate the slightly more challenging ascent to Manita Cave*; here, you can discover the ‘secrets’ of the underground world of Dinaric Karst.
*Among 115 speleological objects so far known in the Paklenica National Park, Manita is the most famous among the visitors, as it is the only cave made accessible to the public through guided visits. Open limited days and hours each season – details provided in our customer documentation.
Accommodation: Villa Vicko
Guided Sea Kayaking Paklenica (10km/6.2mi)
Your first of two wonderful sea kayaking tours! Today you”ll paddle the clear waters of the Velebit channel with stunning views across the great Velebit mountain.
Setting off from Jaz Beach in Starigrad, you’ll paddle to a small town called Vinjerac where we recommend stopping for a pleasant walk or leisurely lunch. From here, you’ll head towards a small beach before going back towards Seline; there are plenty of swimming opportunities throughout the day. Total duration is approx. 4 – 6 hours.
Accommodation: Villa Vicko
Explore Skradin / Rest Day
Transfer from Starigrad Paklenica to your next destination (approx. 1hr), the picturesque riverside village of Skradin. Famous for being the gateway to Krka National Park, Skradin is surrounded by vineyards and wineries including the highly acclaimed Bibich Winery in nearby Plastovo village.
Explore the quaint town centre with its 18th and 19th century pastel-coloured homes alongside the charming Marina dotted with waterside eateries – perfect for a leisurely stroll. The Skradin Clock Tower, dating to 1872, is the towns most iconic sight and is easily visible when viewing Skradin from afar. Unusually, it is built into the base of the nearby hill instead of right beside the church.
A few minutes’ walk east of Skradin town centre, you’ll find a lovely stretch of pebbled beach along the river. The water is very clear here, making it the most relaxing place to lounge in the summer sun.
Accommodation: Hotel Skradinksi Buk
Krka National Park (8km/5.0mi)
The most popular attractions in Krka National Park include Skradinski Buk, a large pool of extremely clear water with a collection of 17 waterfalls flowing into it. Similar to the Plitvice Lakes National Park, the waterfalls found in Krka are karstic with cascading waterfalls weaving their way between ponds, vegetation, mini-islands, and even a tiny village.
Our chosen walk here takes you from your hotel to this wonderful area of waterfall networks, bridges and watermills. Circle these extraordinary waterfalls, taking your time to appreciate the natural beauty of this spectacle with magnificent views around every corner! Return by boat to Skradin (included).
Accommodation: Hotel Skradinksi Buk
Cycling Around Ciovo Island (28km/17.4mi)
Transfer from Skradin to Trogir on Ciovo Island (approx. 1hr). The largest of the Trogir archipelago, Ciovo Island is home to some beautiful beaches and quiet villages, all with a rich cultural heritage. Inhabited since prehistoric times, Ciovo has a big squid fishing community, celebrated in style each year with a popular festival.
Today’s bike ride follows the islands pristine coastline, heading slightly inland through lush vegetation with incredible far-reaching views. Stop to explore secluded beaches and enjoy some fabulous restaurants before admiring one of Ciovo’s spectacular sunsets.
Accommodation: Villa Sikaa
Guided Sea Kayaking Split (7km/4.3mi)
A morning transfer takes you to Split to join a sea kayaking excursion along the coastline beneath Marjan Hill. You’ll have spectacular views of islands and the mountains and a break on a beach before returning to Split. Total duration is approximately 4 hours.
On returning to Split spend time exploring the city, visit Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where ancient Roman architecture meets lively cafes and hidden courtyards. A transfer takes you back to Trogir.
Accommodation: Villa Sika
Depart Trogir
Wave goodbye to Trogir with fond memories of your Croatian adventure.
Accommodation
Villa Vicko, Starigrad Paklenica (4-star)
Perched on the shores of the beautiful Velebit Channel in the town of Starigrad Paklenica, Villa Vicko is a hidden oasis between the sea and mountains. Sun loungers and shimmering waters await you on the pristine beach located just below Villa Vicko. You can also relax in the private garden with more loungers scattered around. A generous breakfast buffet is served at their restaurant, providing an extensive range of dishes prepared from fresh produce on a daily basis.
Hotel Skradinksi Buk , Skradin (3-star)
Close to the stunning Krka National Park and famous Plitvice Lakes, Hotel Skradinski Buk features a lovely terrace and garden for guests to relax in. The hotel terrace welcomes guests to enjoy the Dalmatian atmosphere, live music and regional specialties, such as wine, and fruit (žižule), rose and walnut brandies; the hotel also has a smaller terrace on the third floor, with a breath-taking view of the canyon and the Krka River. Typical Dalmatian specialties are served in the restaurant, accompanied by fine wines.
Heritage Hotel Villa Sikaa, Trogir (Ciovo Island)
A small, family-run hotel located within a 300-year-old building offering breath-taking views of the historical centre of the old town of Trogir. Preserving its original charm while providing modern comforts, Hotel Vila Sikaa resides in a building dating back to the 19th century and is listed in the UNESCO World Heritage register. Begin your day with a delightful continental breakfast served in the bright dining room, offering mesmerising views of the town centre.
If you would like to book any extra nights before or after your adventure, please contact us for details.
Single supplement from USD 333
Food & Drink
All breakfasts included.
Croatian food is an amalgamation of flavours and influence, from inland to coastal and from former rulers from Italy and Austria. On the coast pasta, risotto and pizza dishes frequent the menus – a favourite is cuttlefish risotto where the rice is dyed black by the fish ink. In Istria they fish a lot of shellfish and crustaceans, so oysters, crab and prawns feature in many dishes. Sardines are also one of the mainstays of the local diet and are usually served grilled and drizzled with lemon juice on a bed of crunchy salad.
Pork and lamb are by far the most popular meats, and you will also find lots of cured meats, usually served with olives. Desserts are often quite heavy and sticky, but there also tends to be a good display of ice-cream on offer thanks to the Italian influence.
Transport
Your luggage will be transported between the hotels by our local representative.
Weather & Seasonality
Croatia boasts one of the sunniest climates in Europe, and some regions are notoriously free from rain. We travel throughout the season, so you should expect some variation depending on when you travel. In the late spring and early autumn dates the temperatures will be cooler, ranging from the high-teens to mid-twenties (Celsius) during the day and dropping to the mid-teens at night, enough to want a jumper. In late August and early September there is also more chance of thunderstorms in the afternoon and at night time, but these are generally intense and short lived. In the summer temperatures can be high, particularly in July and August where they can reach the mid to high 30s.
Weather & Seasonality
Croatia has one of the sunniest climates in Europe, and some regions are well known to be free from rain. Our trips from April to June and September to October, so you should expect some variation in temperature and possibly some rainfall.
Joining Instructions
Your trip normally starts at our hotel in Starigrad Paklenica on the afternoon of Day 1 of the itinerary. Hotel check-in times are normally from around 4pm.
Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers will be sent to you as part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent.
Location start: Starigrad Paklenica
Location end: Trogir
What To Take
Recommended Cycling Clothing
Padded cycling shorts (with loose ‘over-shorts’ where recommended), breathable clothing, and a lightweight waterproof/windproof top. Shoes with relatively stiff soles are better for biking, but are not essential unless you are cycling long distances. Most people want to carry certain items with them during the day while cycling, for this we recommend a large bum bag (fanny pack) or small close-fitting daysack.
Exodus Policy on Cycling Helmets
Wearing a helmet is mandatory for anyone taking part in any guided Exodus cycling holiday. Group members must bring their own helmets, as they are not available for hire, even if they are hiring a bike from Exodus.
For self-guided cycling holidays wearing a helmet is highly recommended. Customers who choose to ignore our advice do so entirely at their own risk and on the understanding that it may affect the validity of their travel insurance. It should also be noted that in some countries, wearing a helmet is a legal requirement.
Cycling of all kinds has its dangers and accidents can happen from time to time. Please ensure that you are properly prepared for the riding you are going to undertake.
Local Bike Details
A quality local hire bike is included in the overall price of our cycling holidays. At the time of booking we will take your height in order to reserve equipment. There may on occasions be insufficient bikes available in the correct size; we will endeavour to find suitable alternative equipment but this cannot be guaranteed. We will tell you before you book whether suitably sized bikes are available.
Conditions
1. The equipment remains the property of the supplier and you may not sell, hire out or part possession with the equipment.
2. You must not misuse the equipment and must return it in the same condition as when received (ordinary wear and tear excepted). The supplier is entitled to charge for any damage caused to the equipment during the period of hire.
3. You must ensure that the equipment is adequately secured when not in use. In the event of the equipment being lost or stolen, you may be liable for the replacement value of the equipment
4. You must not use the equipment whilst under the influence of drink or drugs and should immediately notify the Supplier in the event of breakdown or loss.
Practical Info & Visa
Visa
Croatia
Travellers from the UK, US and EU normally do not need a visa to enter Croatia. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.
Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.
• Australia: www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/europe/croatia
• Canada: www.travel.gc.ca/destinations/croatia
• United Kingdom: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/croatia/entry-requirements
• USA: www.travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Croatia.html
Vaccinations and Health
Croatia
There are no required vaccinations. However, you may want to consider vaccinations for hepatitis A, hepatitis B, tetanus, rabies and tick-borne encephalitis. Please confirm with your doctor or travel clinic.
Local Time
Croatia's time zone: Europe/Zagreb (UTC +02:00)
Electricity
In Croatia they use the two-pin Type C (Europlug) electrical plug. Voltage is 220-240 Volts. You will be able to charge a phone/camera etc on every night during this trip.
Money
Croatia's currency: Euros (EUR)
ATM Availability
ATMs are widely available, however, you may wish to arrange getting some euros before you depart to have these with you.
Extra Expenses & Spending Money
Lunches are relatively inexpensive, especially if you buy produce from local shops, so expect to pay between €5.30-€17.50 depending on whether you eat at a café or not. Dinners will be more expensive, but there are plenty of reasonable, inexpensive options, particularly if you have things like pizza or pasta. A meal, including drinks will start at around €20 (for something simple such as a pizza or pasta dish with wine and a pudding), but expect to pay more depending on what you select.
Sustainability and Impact
As a certified B Corp, we’re on a mission to improve our social and environmental impact across all our adventures.
We do this through our innovative Thriving Nature, Thriving People plan.
This ‘nature positive’ approach is designed to help nature and communities thrive in harmony through practical solutions, such as reducing carbon and waste on our trips, supporting conservation projects through the Exodus Adventure Travels Foundation, and rewilding 100 square metres for every Exodus traveller.