The best gravel rides around Biokovo

There are 7 gravel bike trails available in Biokovo, offering a range of experiences from easy coastal paths to challenging mountain ascents.

Gravel biking in Biokovo features a diverse mix of terrain. You'll encounter dramatic coastal rises, extensive karst formations with sinkholes and hollows, and high mountain peaks. Routes often combine paved sections with unpaved fire roads and dedicated gravel paths, providing significant elevation changes and rugged beauty.

Yes, Biokovo offers options for various skill levels. There are 2 easy gravel bike routes, such as the Pathway with Leaning Trees – Makarska Harbor loop from Krvavica, which is 14.4 km long with minimal elevation gain, making it suitable for those looking for a less strenuous ride or families.

For experienced gravel bikers seeking a challenge, Biokovo offers 3 difficult routes. The most prominent is the Biokovo Skywalk – Sveti Jure Peak (1,762 m) loop from Podgora, a 58.3 km trail that ascends to the park's highest peak, Sveti Jure, with over 1,700 meters of elevation gain.

Yes, all the gravel bike routes listed in this guide are circular loops. This allows you to start and finish at the same point, making logistics easier. Examples include the Makarska Harbor – Podgora Marina loop from Veliko Brdo and the Pathway with Leaning Trees – Coastal Gravel Path loop from Makarska.

Many trails offer breathtaking views. You can expect panoramic vistas of the Adriatic Sea and nearby islands. A highlight is the Skywalk Biokovo, a horseshoe-shaped glass platform offering unparalleled views. Other notable viewpoints include Vošac Peak and the View of the Adriatic Sea from Biokovo.

Biokovo is unique for its dramatic coastal rise, where mountains meet the sea, offering stunning contrasts. The region is also characterized by extensive karst formations, including sinkholes, grottos, and ice pits, showcasing a fascinating geological history. You'll ride through areas with diverse vegetation, from barren rock faces to lush valleys with beech and pine trees.

While specific parking details vary by trailhead, general parking is available at the entrance to Biokovo Nature Park and in towns like Makarska and Podgora, which serve as common starting points for many routes. It's advisable to check local signage for parking regulations and fees.

Public transport options to the Biokovo Nature Park are limited. While buses connect coastal towns like Makarska, direct public transport to many trailheads within the park is not widely available. Most visitors rely on private vehicles or organized tours to reach the starting points of gravel bike routes.

The best time for gravel biking in Biokovo is typically during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) months. During these periods, the weather is generally milder, and the trails are less crowded. Summers can be very hot, especially at lower elevations, while winters can bring snow and challenging conditions to higher peaks.

The gravel biking experience in Biokovo is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the unparalleled panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and islands, the challenging yet rewarding ascents, and the unique combination of coastal and mountainous landscapes.

Yes, there are several mountain huts and lodges in the Biokovo area that can serve as resting points or overnight stays. Notable options include Pod Vošac Mountain Lodge, Slobodan Ravlić Mountain Hut – Lokva, and Lovačka Kuća (Hunting Lodge) in Biokovo Nature Park.