The best traffic-free bike rides in Zagreb County

Zagreb County offers a wide selection of car-free touring cycling routes. There are over 50 routes specifically designed for touring cyclists looking to avoid traffic, with options ranging from easy to difficult.

The terrain in Zagreb County is quite diverse. You'll find routes through lowland areas like Turopolje and along river floodplains, offering easier rides. The western part, including the Žumberak and Samobor Hills, provides more varied elevations, suitable for those seeking a greater challenge. The Sveta Nedelja hills feature vineyards and fields with milder climbs.

Yes, there are several easy, car-free routes suitable for families. For instance, the Path Between Two Lakes – Rakitje Lakes (Camp Zagreb) loop from Rakitje is a short, easy ride perfect for a relaxed family outing. Many lowland routes also offer gentle gradients.

The best seasons for touring cycling in Zagreb County are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). During these months, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, with less extreme heat than summer and beautiful natural scenery. Summer can also be enjoyable, especially in the mornings or late afternoons, but be prepared for warmer temperatures.

Zagreb County's no traffic routes often pass by beautiful natural features and historic landmarks. You can explore areas near Rakitje Lakes, Lake Orešje, or the Sava River. Historic sites like the ruins of Samobor Castle are also accessible. For example, the Trail to Samobor Castle – Vratnik Samoborski loop from Samobor takes you past this impressive landmark.

While many routes focus on flatter, car-free paths, some areas in Zagreb County are known for waterfalls. You might find routes that lead near or offer detours to natural attractions like Brisalo Waterfall or Cerinski Vir Waterfall, particularly in the more hilly regions like Žumberak-Samoborsko Gorje Nature Park.

The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience in Zagreb County, with an average score of 4.36 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, car-free environment, the diverse landscapes ranging from serene lakes to rolling hills, and the charm of towns like Samobor. The developing cycling infrastructure, including projects like the Greenway along the Sava River, is also frequently highlighted.

Yes, many of the no traffic touring cycling routes in Zagreb County are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Sava-Odra Canal in Kušanac loop from Velika Gorica, which offers a moderate circular ride along the canal.

Absolutely. While focusing on no traffic, some routes in the hiller parts of Zagreb County offer rewarding views. For instance, the Ranch Cowboy Western – View of Zagreb and Medvednica loop from Velika Gorica provides panoramic vistas. Peaks like Japetić and Oštrc in Žumberak-Samoborsko Gorje Nature Park are known for stunning views, though routes to them might involve more challenging climbs.

Yes, several routes connect or pass through picturesque towns. Samobor, with its historic center and local delicacies, is a popular destination. Many rural estates and ethno farms throughout the county offer opportunities for rest and local cuisine, providing attractive stops during your cycling tours.

The 58 no traffic touring cycling routes in Zagreb County cater to all levels. There are 25 easy routes, perfect for beginners or relaxed rides, 15 moderate routes for those seeking a bit more challenge, and 18 difficult routes for experienced cyclists looking for significant climbs and longer distances. An example of a more challenging route is the Bridge over Krka – Kostanjevica na Krki loop from Osunja.