The Istrian Peninsula by Electric Bike
Guided from EUR € 1690
Bike and Boat Tour aboard Andela Lora
Countries: Croatia
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Explore Croatia’s Scenic Coastline, Historic Harbor Towns, and Medieval Villages on an Electric Bike and Boat Adventure
Croatia is known for its incredible beaches, historical cities, and picturesque islands. On this guided e-bike and boat tour, you'll discover Croatia's largest peninsula and some of its most scenic locations.
Istria, sitting between Kvarner Bay and the Gulf of Triest, is an oasis with over 300 miles of coastline and is home to fascinating harbor towns like Pula and Porec. Cycling inland, you'll find medieval hilltop villages and delightful olive groves and vineyards, evocative of the Italian countryside.
While the terrain undulates, you'll conquer the ascents with ease on electric-assisted bicycles, returning to your comfortable floating hotel each day.
Highlights
- The amphitheater in Pula
- White truffles of Istria
- The Baredine Cave with its underground lake
- The artists' village of Grožnjan
- Guided cycling excursions on electric bike
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Daily program
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Day 1: Arrival in Omisalj, cruise to Cres
You'll arrive on the island of Krk to Omišalj, a pirate's nest. If you arrive by car, a secure parking space will be provided, and if you arrive from Zagreb, a transfer to the harbor of Omišalj will be arranged. Check-in is at 2:00 pm. After settling in, your first cruise will begin. You may have the chance to stop for a nice swim in the Adriatic Sea. The destination for today is the island Cres's capital, also named Cres, where you will spend the night. This town is marked by its Venetian heritage, with winding alleyways and numerous churches, enticing us to explore on foot. The evening can be enjoyed in one of the cozy seaside bars, where you can relax while listening to the soothing sounds of seabirds as dusk settles in.Day 2: Cres - Pula (11 miles/19 km)
After breakfast on board, you will meet with a staff member to have your bike fitted and start the first bike tour through the idyllic harbor and to the lighthouse. Reboard the boat for another journey as you leave port and start a longer cruise to the historical city of Pula. The unofficial capital of Istria is characterized by decades of Roman rule. There is plenty of time to explore the city on foot, taking time to appreciate the ancient monuments such as the Grand Roman Amphitheater, the Augustus Temple, and the Golden Gate. The night is spent in Pula.Day 3: Pula - Vrsar (23 miles/38 km)
After breakfast, you will explore Pula before cycling on to the fishing village of Fazana by way of Galizana and Vodnjan. After visiting these quaint and historic villages, return to Pula where you will meet the boat to cruise for Vrsar. As the boat makes its way, there will be a chance for a swing in the Limski Fjord. The famous heart-breaker, Casanova, is said to have taken refuge from the enraged husbands of his many lovers in Vrsar. Overnight in Vrsar.Day 4: Vrsar - Poreč (18 miles/29 km)
Today's bike tour begins along the Limski Channel towards Klostar in the rural hinterlands. You'll take a break here before you continue towards Poreč, where you will spend the night. You'll have the opportunity to explore the rich history of Poreč with a city tour guide on a delightful afternoon walk through the town. A visit to the Euphrasius-Basilica, with its intricate pre-Christian mosaics, is a must! There is a shopping opportunity here as well.Day 5: Poreč - Novigrad - Rovinj (36 miles/59 km)
In the morning begin cycling, you'll follow a decommissioned railway line—the "Parenzana"—towards an artist town—Grožnjan—with numerous galleries in charming stone houses. This quaint village is considered a medieval jewel of the Istrian hinterland. Continue through rural Istria by way of Buje to Novigrad, where you return to the boat and sail to Rovinj. On the way, you may be able to stop for a refreshing swim!Day 6: Rovinj - Fazana - Rabac (25 miles/41 km)
Today's bike tour takes us along the coast, primarily on natural paths and through forests, leading to Fažana with its charming harbor and a splendid promenade adorned with colorful facades of local houses. Continue cycling to Pula where the ship awaits us for a crossing to the island of Rabac. On arrival, marvel at the view across the bay of Rabac. Located on the east coast of Istria, Rabac boasts white pebble beaches, crystalline waters, and a picturesque harbor. Spend some time this evening exploring the local dives for a cocktail or dessert.Day 7: Rabac - Njivice - Omišalj (23 miles/38 km)
In the early morning, the boat departs for the island of Krk, where we embark on the final bike ride of the week, starting from Njivice and continuing to Omišalj. Krk, the largest of the Croatian islands and renowned for its delightful white wine, Zlahtina, offers a remarkable diversity that will surely leave a lasting impression. Make sure not to miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the mineral-rich mud of the Soline Bay – not only will it rejuvenate your appearance, but it will also create wonderful memories of your holiday. As we return to the harbor of Omišalj, the boat awaits us with a delightful last evening meal on board. This is a perfect time to enjoy the company of fellow travelers, as well as the crew and guides, in a spirit of great cheer.Day 8: Omišalj
Enjoy one last breakfast on board before departing the boat by 9 am. Transfers are possible back to the airport.All distances are approximate. If you do not want to cycle one day, you can skip the bike tour and relax on board while cruising to the next harbor. We reserve the right to make changes to the planned itinerary due to changing wind and weather conditions as well as organizational requirements.
Extension (2024 only)
Zagreb
This extension is available before or after your bike and boat tour.
Enjoy an additional 2 days in the town of Zagreb, exploring the capital of Croatia. This extension program is designed to provide you with the free time to discover the area at your own pace while also providing you with a guided walking tour of the historic town center. You also have the option to add guided activities during your liesure time.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Zagreb*
After checking into your hotel, set out on a city tour with a local guide. As you explore the secrets of this thriving metropolis, you will have the opportunity to visit many sites and hear the history of the city. In the evening enjoy a special dinner with traditional dishes from the local cuisine.*If booking the extension prior to the bike and boat tour, you will have a transfer from the Zagreb airport to the hotel. If booking the extension after the tour, you will have a transfer from the boat to the hotel.
Day 2: Departure
If booking the extension prior to the bike and boat tour, you will have a transfer to the boat. If booking the extension after the tour, you will have a transfer to the Zagreb Airport.Included Services
- 1 night of accommodation with breakfast (in selected hotel category)
- Dinner in a traditional restaurant
- Guided city tour of Zagreb (entrance fees to sites not included)
- Transfer from Zagreb airport to the hotel in Zagreb (if booked before the bike and boat tour) or from the hotel in Zagreb to the Zagreb airport (if booked after the bike and boat tour).
- Transfer from the hotel in Zagreb to the ship in Omišalj (if booked before the bike and boat tour) or from the ship in Omišalj to the hotel in Zagreb (if booked after the bike and boat tour.
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Day 1: Embarkation in Omišalj - Cruise to Cres
Arrive in Omišalj, a historic town on the island of Krk with a rich maritime past. Boarding begins at 2 pm, and after you’ve settled into your cabin, the boat will embark on its initial journey to Cres. Weather permitting, a stop will be made in a scenic bay for a swim in the clear Adriatic waters. The day’s destination is Cres, the island’s capital. Its old town, shaped by Venetian architecture, offers picturesque alleys and historic churches, perfect for an evening exploration.Day 2: Cres - Pula (17 mi. / 28 km)
Begin the day with a relaxed breakfast onboard as the boat heads toward Pula. In the afternoon, explore the surrounding area, starting with Galižana, a village celebrated for its traditional winemaking. Next, visit Vodnjan, known for its historic olive oil production and well-preserved medieval buildings. Continue to Fažana, a picturesque fishing village offering views of the Brijuni Islands National Park. Return to Pula for a guided tour, featuring landmarks like the Roman amphitheater and the Temple of Augustus. Spend the evening discovering Pula’s streets and local culture before staying overnight in the city.Day 3: Pula - Vrsar - Porec (25 mi. / 40 km)
Begin the morning with breakfast aboard as the boat makes its way to Vrsar, a town linked to the legendary Casanova, who reputedly sought refuge here. From Vrsar, embark on a bike ride along the scenic Limski Canal, passing through the tranquil rural landscape until you reach Kloštar and then Poreč. Poreč is lively with its bustling promenade and vibrant shopping streets. Be sure to visit the Euphrasius Basilica, famous for its early Christian mosaics. Spend the afternoon swimming and unwinding before enjoying an overnight stay in Poreč.Day 4: Poreč - Novigrad - Rovinj (36 mi. / 59 km)
Start the day cycling along the "Parenzana," an old railway route that once connected Istrian towns. This scenic ride leads to Grožnjan, a medieval village celebrated for its vibrant arts community. Known for its flower-filled squares and galleries in traditional stone buildings, Grožnjan has been a haven for artists and musicians for decades. In the afternoon, continue through the picturesque Istrian landscape, making a stop in Buje, a town famed for its wine production. Proceed to Novigrad, where the coastline offers beautiful views and a rich maritime history. The evening is perfect for exploring Novigrad’s charming waterfront and enjoying an overnight stay in this coastal town.Day 5: Rovinj (12 mi. / 20 km)
Breakfast is served on board as the boat approaches Rovinj, the gateway to today’s biking excursion. From Rovinj, the route leads to a local park with scenic trails that wind past picturesque bays, ideal for a swim. After some time at the beach, return to the boat and explore Rovinj’s winding streets and historic sites. In the evening, a guided city tour reveals the town’s rich history and lesser-known highlights. The night is spent in Rovinj, allowing for an immersive experience of its vibrant atmosphere.Day 6: Rovinj - Fažana - Rabac (22 mi. / 37 km)
In the morning, bike along scenic coastal forest trails leading to Fažana, a village with a charming harbor and a promenade lined with colorful buildings. After boarding the boat, continue with a coastal cruise to Rabac. Located in a picturesque bay on Istria’s eastern shore, Rabac is known for its striking white pebble beaches and transparent waters. Consider ending the day with a cocktail at a local bar, a great way to relax and take in the evening atmosphere.Day 7: Rabac - Njivice - Omišalj (26 mi. / 43 km)
Early in the morning, the journey moves to the island of Krk for the final cycling leg. This stage traverses from Njivice to Omišalj on Croatia’s largest island, noted for its diverse landscapes and the acclaimed Zlahtina white wine. Pause to explore Soline Bay, where the mineral-rich mud is renowned for its therapeutic benefits and adds a memorable touch to the holiday experience. After returning to Omišalj’s harbor, a farewell dinner aboard the boat offers a chance to celebrate with fellow travelers, the crew, and guides.Day 8: Omisalj (Disembarkation)
After breakfast disembarkation by 9 am.All distances are approximate. If you do not want to cycle one day, you can skip the bike tour and relax on board while cruising to the next harbor. We reserve the right to make changes to the planned itinerary due to changing wind and weather conditions as well as organizational requirements.
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Accommodation
Boats
- 17 cabins (12 - 14 square meters)
- Quiet generator
- Swimming platform at the stern, sunbeds and mats on the sundeck
- Tables and chairs on deck out of the sun
- Cargo hold for E-bikes
- Wifi available in the salon and deck areas
Andela Lora
The Andela Lora is a motor yacht, launched in June 2012, and is an elegant steel ship. The attentive and helpful crew is ready to do anything for a light-hearted journey through the wonderful island world of Croatia. Read more
Overview
Hotels
Extra Nights will be accommodated in one of the following hotels depending on availability.
Krk, 4-star: Hotel Miramare or similar. Pricing available upon request.
Extension overnights will be accommodated in one of the following hotels depending on availability.
Zagreb, 4-star: Hotel Manda Heritage, Hotel Dubrovnik, or similar
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Bikes
Bikes available to be rented (in advance at the time of booking) include:
- Electrically assisted bike (CUBE, Orbea Optima Asphalt, or similar)*
- Road bike
- Gravel bike
*More about electrically-assisted bikes >. Please note, the majority if not all participants on this tour will be riding electric bikes. Anyone opting for a regular standard bike should be aware of the increased difficulty keeping up with electric bike riders.
All above bike rentals will be equipped with the following at no additional charge:
- Ortlieb pannier
Additional specifications on the Standard touring bikes:
- 21-gear derailleur, Alivio
- Shimano V-brakes
- Comfortable Selle Royal saddles
Please note that the bikes are deliberately not equipped with water bottle holders. There is room in the saddle bag to carry a bottle of water, along with everything else you need for the daily rides.
Please note: Guests are more than welcome to bring their own bike along. However, be aware that we are not insured for the private bikes on board and that all maintenance of private bikes are the responsibility of the owner. Additionally, it is important for us to know if the private bikes are standard models, MTBs or e-bikes. Onboard of our boats we have a weight restriction of 22 kg for all private bikes (excluding batteries) for health and safety reasons. Bikes above this weight will not be accepted on board for daily use!
Bike Protection:
Bike protection can be purchased at the time of booking. You can read more about that HERE.Pedals:
The bikes will have flat pedals. If you want to bring your own pedals, please bring your own shoes and also the necessary equipment to change the pedals. The guide on board the boat can assist you in attaching them to your rental bike.Helmets:
It is required to wear helmets on this tour. In order to guarantee optimum protection, we request that you bring your own helmet and - for your own safety - wear it on all bike tours. A limited number of helmets are available on board to rent, at the time of booking, though it is highly recommended to bring your own helmet.Dates
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Season 1: May 3, 2024 - May 10, 2024
Season 2: Jun 28, 2024 - Aug 16, 2024; Oct 4, 2024 - Oct 11, 2024
Season 3: May 17, 2024 - Jun 21, 2024
Season 4: Aug 23, 2024 - Sep 13, 2024 -
Season 1: April 25, July 18, August 1, & October 24, 2025
Season 2: May 9, May 23, August 15, & October 10, 2025
Season 3: June 6, June 20, July 4, August 29, September 12, & September 26, 2025
Prices
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Andela Lora
Per person, double occupancy Season 1 Season 2 Season 3 Season 4 Lower deck cabin €1690 €1790 €1890 €1990 Main(Upper) deck cabin €1940 €2040 €2140 €2240 Single use cabin (1 person/1 cabin) Lower deck cabin €2290 €2390 €2490 €2590 Main(Upper) deck cabin €2490 €2590 €2690 €2790 Bike Rentals
Gravel bike €180 Road bike €180 Electrically assisted bike €225 Additional Services
Group transfers to/from Zagreb and Omisalj (on arrival and departure days only)
€60 per person/way
*Private transfers available on request.
Extensions (2024 only)
Please see details under Program tab.
Zagreb
Per person, double occupancy €425 Single use room (1 person/1 room) €510 -
Andela Lora
Per person, double occupancy Season 1 Season 2 Season 3 Lower deck cabin € 1799 € 1999 € 2199 Main(Upper) deck cabin € 2049 € 2249 € 2449 Single-use cabin (1 person/1 cabin) Lower deck cabin € 2699 € 2999 € 3299 Main(Upper) deck cabin € 3074 € 3374 € 3674 Bike Rentals
Gravel bike €200 Electrically assisted bike €245 Discounts
Triple cabin (limited availability), per person discount € 200 Quad cabin (limited availability), per person discount € 400 Children's discount, 16 years and younger € 200 Additional Services
Group transfers to/from Zagreb and Omisalj (on arrival and departure days only)
€65 per person/way
*Private transfers available on request.
Extra Nights
Krk Island on request Meals
Dietary restrictions (ex. gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan) € 70 *must be requested in advance with payment made on board the ship.
Included services
- 7 x nights accommodation in cabin with private bathroom
- 2 x full board and 5 x half board
- English-speaking tour guide
- Guided cycling tours and sightseeing as described in the itinerary
- Guided tours in Pula and Rovijn
- Maps for the daily cycling tours on board
- Bed linen and towels
Please note a required visitor's tax and bottle water flat rate of approximately €60 per adult and €30 per child is not included in this tour package. These fees are paid directly to the captain upon arrival. Credit and debit cards are not accepted on board; ATMs are available at stops along the tour route.
Map
Maps are for information purposes only and reflect typical routes between overnight locations. They may not reflect your actual route.
Surface and terrain
This guided tour can be comfortably tackled with an e-bike, covering distances of 12 - 38 miles (20 - 60 km) and elevations of 656 - 3280 feet (200 - 1000 meters) per day. Participants should have a basic level of fitness and prior bike riding experience. It is important to note that approximately 30% of the routes are on natural paths and gravel roads.
How to get there
Tour start and end
Port in Omišalj
The following group transfers are offered for a fee with advanced reservation (on arrival and departure days only at the indicated times):
Airport of Zagreb (ZAG) - Port of Embarkation
ZAG to Omišalj: 12:15 pm
Zagreb City Center to Omišalj: 11:30 am
Departure times from Omišalj to Zagreb on disembarkation day: 8:00 am. Please make sure, that your return flight does not depart from Zagreb before 12:00 pm!Airport of Rijeka (RJK) – Port of Embarkation
On request, flight information is required to reserve.Railway Station Rijeka - Port of Embarkation
Rijeka Station to Omišalj: 9:30 am
Departure times from Omišalj to Rijeka on disembarkation day: 8:00 am (45 minutes approx.)Tips on getting to and from your tour.
Reviews
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★★★★★ Elaine Kubicki 4 months ago
Charming Coratia
This was my second bike trip with Bike Tours. My first was the Albania tour, which was fabulous! Overall, the Croatia trip was very satisfying, i.e. the yacht was very accommodating, the staff was very attentive and informative including the email personnel who answered questions before the trip, the new chef was great, the e-bikes worked well, the other vacationers made for pleasant exchanges, and the small ports and villages were charming to visit and the staff tours were interesting. On the other hand, there were things that kept this tour from being a 5 rating. My biggest concern was the additional costs, i.e., expected tips and bar/water bills that were not mentioned in the initial cost of the tour and were only made aware a few weeks before the tour and after the initial commitment and payment for the tour was made. Also, along with those concerns, I am curious as to why there was an extra charge for an e-bike when the trip is advertised as “The Istrian Peninsula by Electric Bike” and everyone rode an e-bike except two people who brought their own bikes? We also had problems mid-week with sewer gases in the bathrooms, which did get repaired within a day or two, and the air conditioning in the cabins worked well only one night out of 7, which made the cabin quite warm and damp. There were 34 bikers riding at the same time and on many more rocky gravel trails and busy highway/roads then I had expected and, at times, felt rather dangerous. However, as you noticed I still gave this tour a rating of 4, so, enough good outweighed to make it a satisfying trip.
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★★★★★ Elaine Kubicki 4 months ago
Charming Coratia
This was my second bike trip with Bike Tours. My first was the Albania tour, which was fabulous! Overall, the Croatia trip was very satisfying, i.e. the yacht was very accommodating, the staff was very attentive and informative including the email personnel who answered questions before the trip, the new chef was great, the e-bikes worked well, the other vacationers made for pleasant exchanges, and the small ports and villages were charming to visit and the staff tours were interesting. On the other hand, there were things that kept this tour from being a 5 rating. My biggest concern was the additional costs, i.e., expected tips and bar/water bills that were not mentioned in the initial cost of the tour and were only made aware a few weeks before the tour and after the initial commitment and payment for the tour was made. Also, along with those concerns, I am curious as to why there was an extra charge for an e-bike when the trip is advertised as “The Istrian Peninsula by Electric Bike” and everyone rode an e-bike except two people who brought their own bikes? We also had problems mid-week with sewer gases in the bathrooms, which did get repaired within a day or two, and the air conditioning in the cabins worked well only one night out of 7, which made the cabin quite warm and damp. There were 34 bikers riding at the same time and on many more rocky gravel trails and busy highway/roads then I had expected and, at times, felt rather dangerous. However, as you noticed I still gave this tour a rating of 4, so, enough good outweighed to make it a satisfying trip.
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★★★★★ Mary Lou Taylor 4 months ago
More than I could have hoped for.
This was my first bike tour, and I was a little apprehensive. But it was great! The boat was first-rate, with a wonderful, accommodating crew and excellent chef. The tour guides were fun, responsible, and caring. And Croatia is beautiful. I would definitely recommend this adventure.
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★★★★★ Bob VG 12 months ago
Wonderful trip!
Explored the Istrian Peninsula by day while relaxing on the wonderful Andela Lora at night. Pro tip: Don't book a lesser boat! Staff was very attentive. Guide Yana was a delight with her bubbly enthusiasm. Appreciated many costal ports as well as old historic inland villages. Would have appreciated the opportunity to for upgraded bikes and more food variety. The booking process was smooth and we would defiantly go with BikeTours.com again!
- What was the date of your tour?
- September 2023
- How many tours have you completed?
- one
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- As expected
- Who is this tour suitable for?
- First-time bike tourists, Solo travelers
- Do you recommend this tour?
- Yes
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★★★★★ Emma Broadfield August 25, 2023
An excellent way to explore the Istrian Peninsula
This is a fabulous way to explore the Istrian Peninsula, as you have the opportunity to see the coast and also explore inland. The boat is very comfortable and it is great to be able to get away from the crowds at the end of the day! The towns and villages that you get to explore are gorgeous and the coastline spectacular. Being able to swim off the back of the boat and cool off is an added bonus!
- What was the date of your tour?
- August 2023
- How many tours have you completed?
- One
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- Somewhat easier
- Who is this tour suitable for?
- First-time bike tourists
- Do you recommend this tour?
- Yes
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