Dugi Otok bike route - Around the Sali

Dugi otok bike tour- Cover image

Difficulty

Moderate to difficult, depending on the route.

Ascent

339 meters

Distance

35 km

*distance calculated for all 3 routes

Route map

View Map

Sali and Nature park Telašćica

Embarking on the Dugi Otok bike route offers a unique adventure through one of Croatia's most stunning and secluded islands. Starting in the village of Sali, this 20 km route features a 300 m ascent and can be completed in about 2 hours.

Important: To fully experience the Dugi Otok bike route, note that the ferry from Zadar docks in Brbinj -  20 km from Sali. To reach Sali directly, take the fast boat (catamaran) from Zadar's city center. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes.

Unlike the more accessible islands of Ugljan and Pašman, the Dugi Otok bike route requires thorough preparation. The island's remote nature means that once you leave Sali, you'll encounter long stretches without any settlements. Carrying sufficient water, sun protection, and swimming gear is essential. Our bikes are fully equipped, but ensure you know how to handle minor repairs, such as fixing a flat tire.

The main route provides breathtaking views of Nature Park Telašćica and the Kornati National Park. But I made two more lines/extensions:

  1. Blue- Nature Park Telašćica Extension: Visit the Salt Lake and the renowned cliffs, immersing yourself in the park's natural beauty. This will add a total of 12km to your brown route but I think it is worth it. Also, you can swim in Salt Lake 🙂
  2. Red - Fort Grpašćak Extension: Ascend to the fort for panoramic vistas of the surrounding islands. This will add around 8km to the Brown route,

Including these extensions will extend your Dugi Otok bike route journey to approximately 35-40 km, making for a fulfilling day trip. You can also cut half of the original brown route in favor of these two extensions.

If this seems daunting, explore our Ugljan or Pašman bike tours, which offer similar experiences closer to Zadar.

 

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Included with every bike rental:

Helmet
Bike lock
Repair Kit
Bike Light
What to do

Things
To See!

Wake up and ride at your own pace.
Let the chalk arrows lead the way.
Taste Local Culture.

Sali Dugi otok

Sali and Saljsko Polje

Sali is the largest village on Dugi Otok and the starting point for your bike tour. It’s a charming place with everything you need, including shops, cafes, and even a small port where boats dock. Sali is famous for its rich fishing history that goes back over a thousand years.

For those interested in culture, you can visit the Church of the Assumption, with its beautiful wooden altar from the 17th century, or explore the old olive groves surrounding the village. Some of the olive trees are over 700 years old, and the area is often called the "olive forest."

Sali is also close to Telašćica Nature Park, making it the perfect base for exploring this amazing spot. Whether you want to cycle, relax by the sea, or dive into the local history, Sali has a little bit of everything to offer.

Route: Brown

Nature Park Telašćica

Telašćica Nature Park is a must-visit on Dugi Otok bike route. The park features stunning cliffs, some reaching up to 160 meters high, offering breathtaking sea views. A highlight is the Salt Lake, a unique saltwater lake about 900 meters long, perfect for a refreshing swim. The park is also home to diverse wildlife, including dolphins and rare bird species. Cycling through Telašćica provides a unique opportunity to experience its natural beauty and tranquility. Remember to bring swimming equipment, water, and sun protection, as the area is exposed to the sun.

Route: Blue
Telascica and Salt lake
Grapašćak center

Grpašćak educational centre

Grpašćak, located within Telašćica Nature Park on Dugi Otok, is a must-visit spot on your bike tour. This former Austro-Hungarian military fortress, perched 161 meters above sea level, has been transformed into a modern interpretation and education center.

Cycling an additional 8 kilometers from the main route brings you to Grpašćak, where you'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the Kornati archipelago and Telašćica Bay.

Route: Red

Cliffs

The cliffs of Telašćica Nature Park are among the most stunning features of Dugi Otok. These impressive formations rise up to 161 meters above the Adriatic Sea, offering breathtaking views and a unique natural spectacle.

The cliffs are a haven for diverse flora and fauna, making them a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. Whether you're an avid photographer or simply seeking a serene spot to appreciate nature's grandeur, the cliffs provide an unforgettable experience.

Route: Blue and Red
Cliffs Nature park telascica
Book now

Included with every bike rental:

Helmet
Bike lock
Repair Kit
Bike Light

FAQ and Tips

Do you have an appropriate bike for these Island bike routes?

Yes, I offer a range of bikes suitable for these routes, including mountain bikes, trekking bikes, and cross bikes with front suspension.

Which bike is the most appropriate?

A trekking or crossbike with front suspension is ideal for most bike routes since they combines comfort on paved roads and light gravel. For more off-road terrain, a mountain bike is the best choice.

What happens if we have a flat tire on the island?

We equip all our bikes with anti-puncture tires, repair kits, pumps, and spare inner tubes to minimize the risk of flats. However, Dugi Otok is quite remote, and certain areas lack nearby services. Therefore, it's essential to know how to perform minor repairs, such as fixing a flat tire, as we may not be able to provide immediate assistance on the island.

For guidance on repairing a flat tire, you might find this video helpful:
https://youtu.be/58STtUM-Wow

How do I get to Sali?

From Zadar, you can reach Sali by ferry or catamaran. The ferry ride takes about 45 minutes and operates twice daily.

Can I bring my bike on the catamaran?

Yes, bicycles are allowed on certain catamarans. However, some foot-passenger-only catamarans do not permit bikes. Most operators can take up to 10 bikes. It's advisable to check with the operator beforehand.

How much is the ticket?

Ticket prices vary depending on the season and operator. As of the latest information, fares range from €3 to €6 per person. The additional fee for the bike is around 3-4€. 

Is this tour family-friendly?

The main route is suitable for riders of moderate physical condition. However, some sections have rougher terrain. Families with younger children might find certain parts challenging. It's recommended to assess each family member's cycling ability before embarking.

What should I bring for the tour?

Ensure you have sufficient water, sun protection, a hat, and comfortable cycling attire. It is also a great idea to bring swimming and snorkeling equipment to explore crystal clear waters. 

Is there mobile network coverage throughout the route?

Most areas have decent mobile coverage, but some remote sections might have limited signal.

What is the best time of year to undertake the tour?

Spring and early autumn offer pleasant weather conditions, making them ideal for cycling on Dugi Otok.

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