I’ve spent the past few days cycling in Croatia, near Dubrovnik. A couple of days were unpleasantly cold – zero degrees and a biting wind. However, there have also been quite a few mild days. The cycling is a big contrast to England. If you avoid the main coastal trunk road, you end up cycling on very quiet, mountain back-roads. It is incredibly hilly, but the views stunning and very little traffic. I haven’t seen anyone else cycling in this part of the world. I saw one category 2 climb had a total of 4 participants on Strava.
On leaving the hotel, my usual route involves climbing 140 metres in the first mile, including some nasty 20% gradients. So much for a gentle warm up. It’s like starting off every ride with a climb up Pea Royd Lane. It’s not the kind of training I usually do at this time of the year. But, despite tired legs, it is great fun. The other day I did 36 miles and managed 1,500 metres of climbing. It’s hillier than the Bristol South megahilly. As usual I’m left wishing for a compact chainset; it is my New Year Resolution to buy one and stop complaining.
But, apart from being slightly over-geared it is a real joy cycling here in Croatia.
I shall just add a few photos which say enough.
The sea
Another coastal road
A village with a few barking dogs, but fortunately well behaved.
Hairpin.
By a hairpin.
Mountain
The road going up.
Croatia.
A postcard in the making.
Near Slano
Looks lovely. We’ve just had the greyest day ever. Very envious. Hope the carbs and protein are as tasty as the climbs.
Not many pot holes by the looks of your photos.
I wonder if the other Strava participants are aware they’re in such exalted company.
Stunning photos! Very jealous here in drizzly Scotland!
Now I’m back in miserable, drizzly England, I’m jealous of myself.
Thanks for this Tejvan, I’m going to Dub. in a few weeks time, checking out the Strava segments has led me here. Sure it’s going to be roasting come August. Any advice to offer? Sounds like there’s not much of a cycling scene.
Hi Luke, Ii was very deserted and cold when I went in Dec/Jan. Don’t know about August.
Hi Tejvan, did you hire the bike over there? cheers
no, I took my own