Ugljan Bike Route

Ugljan Bike Route

Difficulty

Easy to moderate, depending on the route.

Elevation gain

302 meters

Distance

22 km

Route map

View Map

Island life & Amazing view

Ugljan Bike Route is a must-try for anyone looking to explore the stunning landscapes, charming villages, and crystal-clear waters of Ugljan Island. Whether you’re a casual cyclist or an experienced rider, this guide will help you discover the most popular routes and highlights of this beautiful island

From Gaženica ferry port, just a short ride from Zadar, you can easily reach Ugljan in under 20 minutes. I offer free bike delivery and pickup to Gaženica or directly to your apartment—whichever is more convenient for you.

Here, I present three of the most popular Ugljan bike routes, all starting near Preko, the island's main ferry port. These routes are perfect for casual and recreational cyclists, showcasing the best of Ugljan, from the historic St. Michael’s Fortress and the traditional fishing village of Kali to the breathtaking Ždrelac Bridge.

Looking for more adventure? For experienced riders, the Ugljan and Pašman Route takes you on an epic 50+ km journey across both islands. No matter your choice, the beauty of Ugljan awaits

Brown
Pink
Red

If you’re looking for a route that combines moderate physical challenge with incredible scenery, this is the main Ugljan bike route I recommend. Starting and ending in Preko, conveniently located at the ferry port, this route takes you through some of Ugljan Island’s most charming seaside towns like Preko, Poljana, and Kali – famous for their authentic island life and fishing traditions.

Unlike the pink route, the brown route continues to St. Michael’s Fortress, the highest peak on Ugljan Island at around 250 meters. From the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views of Zadar, the Zadar archipelago, and even the Kornati National Park. This Ugljan bike route offers one of the best ways to take in the island’s stunning beauty.

The entire route is approximately 16 km long and can be completed in under 2 hours, making it a great option for a half-day adventure. While it’s ideal for MTB riders, many of my customers have comfortably tackled it on trekking or cross bikes with front suspension. Much of the trail is paved or light gravel, making it suitable for a wide range of bikes. The thrilling descent takes you through olive groves and leads you directly back to the seaside.

This Ugljan bike route is more than just a ride; it’s a chance to immerse yourself in the culture and beauty of Ugljan Island. Whether you’re soaking in the views, exploring the fishing villages, or enjoying the peaceful olive groves, this journey will leave you with unforgettable memories.

The pink route is one of the easiest Ugljan bike routes, perfect for casual MTB and trekking riders looking to enjoy the island without too much effort. Starting right at the ferry port in Preko, this route is ideal if you want a mix of gentle riding and beautiful views.

It follows the main road towards the nearby fishing village of Kali, just like the brown route. From there, you’ll gradually climb into the island’s peaceful hinterland, where you’ll pass by countless olive groves. These groves are famous for producing some of the best olive oil on the island. Along the way, you’ll also enjoy amazing views of the small islets of Ošljak and Galevac, as well as the coastline stretching from Zadar to Biograd.

This Ugljan bike route is easier than the brown route and stays on paved roads for most of the ride. It also skips the climb to St. Michael’s Fortress, making it shorter and less challenging. At 11.5 km, it’s around 5 km shorter than the brown route, with the highest point reaching about 200 meters. Most riders finish this route in about an hour, making it a quick and enjoyable way to experience the island.

If you’re looking for a simple ride with great views and the chance to explore Ugljan’s charm, the pink route is a great choice. It’s a relaxed way to enjoy the island’s beauty without taking on too much of a challenge.

The red route is a straightforward and scenic Ugljan bike route starting in Preko, right next to the small chapel of St. John the Baptist from the 11th century. From there, the route takes you along the coast through the charming village of Kali before heading onto a gravel road surrounded by pine trees and offering beautiful views of the sea.

You’ll cross the main road briefly (take care here!) near Kostanj Bay and then ride downhill into the village of Kukljica. This peaceful spot is great to explore before you continue toward the famous Ždrelac Bridge, which links Ugljan and Pašman islands. Near the bridge, you’ll find the 17th-century Chapel of Our Lady of the Snow, which has a fascinating story about snowfall in August!

Even though the route is listed for MTB bikes, it’s quite flat and works well for trekking and cross bikes too. The total distance is 17 km, and the highest point is just 85 meters, making it an easy and relaxed ride.

Since the route isn’t circular, you’ll head back along the same path. But the journey is worth it, especially for the peaceful coastal views and the chance to see the stunning Ždrelac Bridge. It’s the perfect ride for those who want a laid-back trip with plenty of photo opportunities.

Book now

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.

Zdrelac Bridge

Ždrelac Bridge

Ždrelac Bridge is a 210-meter-long structure connecting Ugljan and Pašman's islands. It’s a busy route, as it is the quickest way to reach the Kornati Islands and the open sea from Zadar, Bibinje, and Sukošan. Additionally, one of the largest marinas in the Mediterranean, located between Bibinje and Sukošan, contributes to the heavy boat traffic passing beneath the bridge. With a clearance of 16 meters, the bridge is high enough for most vessels, but a few sailboats still manage to misjudge and collide every summer—an amusing yet frequent occurrence!

Route: Red

St Michael's Fortress

St. Michael’s Fortress is a stunning historical site located on the highest hill of Ugljan Island, about 250 meters above sea level. It was built in the 13th century and has amazing views of Zadar, the islands, and even Kornati National Park. Many visitors love coming here, not just for the history but also for the incredible scenery. It’s a great place to take photos and enjoy the beauty of the island.

Route: Brown
St Michael's fortress
Kali, Ugljan

Kali - Fisherman village

Kali is also famous for its rich fishing history. The village is home to skilled fishermen who have captained boats worldwide. As the locals proudly say, "No day in Kali passes without talking about fish." It's a must-visit spot for anyone exploring Ugljan Island.

Route: Brown, Pink, Red

Ugljan's Beaches

Visiting Ugljan Island without taking a swim is like going to Rome without seeing the Pope—it’s simply a must! The island offers many beautiful beaches, such as Jaz, Parapet, and Elektra. However, most of my customers prefer finding more secluded, private spots. With a bike, it’s easy to reach places that cars can’t, giving you the flexibility to explore hidden gems along the coast. So don’t forget to pack your swimsuit and maybe even some diving gear to enjoy the crystal-clear waters of Ugljan to the fullest!

Route: Brown, Pink, red
Beach Jaz on Ugljan

Included with every bike rental:

Helmet
Bike lock
Repair Kit
Bike Light

FAQ and Tips

Do you have an appropriate bike for these Ugljan 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 cross bike with front suspension is ideal for most Ugljan bike routes since they combine 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 do everything we can to help you avoid flat tires. All our bikes are equipped with anti-puncture tires, a repair kit, a pump, and an extra inner tube. In case of a flat tire, if you not sure how to fix it , we’ll guide you through the repair process via video call. While we can’t provide on-site assistance on the island, we’re here to support you remotely and can meet you at the Gaženica ferry port if needed.

How do we get to Ugljan?

Take the ferry from Gaženica Ferry Port in Zadar to Preko, the main port on Ugljan Island. There’s also a ferry from Zadar’s main station in the city center, but it runs less frequently than the one from Gaženica.

We can deliver bikes directly to your location so you can ride to the ferry, or we can meet you at the ferry port for delivery and pickup. The ferry goes to the "Preko" which is a small town on the Ugljan. The ferry ride itself is quick and easy, lasting about 20 minutes.

Can we take bikes on the ferry?

Yes, bikes are allowed on the ferry. It’s a common and convenient way to explore the island.

Do we need to pay for the bike on the ferry?

Yes, there is a small additional fee for taking a bike on the ferry. It’s usually around 3 euros per bike. But please check the exact price on the Jadrolinija website. 

What is the ferry schedule?

Ferries run frequently, almost every hour during the working day. Weekends less frequently. Check the Jadrolinija website or timetable at the port for the most up-to-date schedule..

How much does the ferry ticket cost?

The ferry ticket costs approximately 3 euros per person, with an additional fee for bikes.

Are the routes family-friendly?

Yes, most routes are suitable for families, especially the pink route, which is easier and mostly on paved roads.

Are there water refill stations or cafes along the routes?

Yes, you’ll find cafes and shops in towns like Preko, Kali, and Kukljica where you can refill water or grab a snack.

What should we bring for the ride

Pack your swimsuit, sunscreen, water, snacks, and maybe a light jacket. If you enjoy snorkeling, bring diving gear to explore Ugljan’s clear waters.

Can we visit multiple routes in one day?

Yes, the pink and brown routes can be combined for a longer day of cycling. If you’re looking for a challenge, you can add the red route to your itinerary.

Is it safe to cycle on Ugljan?

Although Ugljan and the Zadar area don’t have many dedicated bike lanes, Ugljan is generally bike-friendly. Drivers on the island are accustomed to sharing the road with cyclists. However, be cautious when crossing main roads and stay alert for traffic, especially near Ždrelac Bridge during the busy summer months.

See prices

Similar bike routes

Pašman Bike route

Dugi otok bike routes promo

Dugi otok - Sali Bike route