The best road cycling routes around Grad Makarska

Road cycling around Grad Makarska offers a dramatic mix of towering Biokovo Mountains and the Adriatic coastline. You'll find challenging climbs through karst formations and along paved mountain roads, featuring significant elevation changes. Coastal routes provide scenic rides with views of the sea and islands, often on well-paved surfaces. The region caters to cyclists seeking both demanding ascents and picturesque seaside paths.

Yes, Grad Makarska is renowned for its challenging road cycling. The majority of routes, 13 out of 14, are rated as difficult. A prime example is the Biokovo Skywalk – Sveti Jure Peak (1,762 m) loop from Makarska, which includes a demanding ascent to Sveti Jure Peak with over 1,700 meters of elevation gain. Another challenging option is the Biokovo Skywalk – Sea to Sky loop from Makarska, combining a significant climb into the Biokovo Mountains with expansive sea views.

While most routes are challenging, there is a moderate option for road cyclists. The View of Slime loop from Makarska is a 54.6 km route with over 800 meters of elevation gain, offering a less intense but still rewarding experience compared to the more difficult mountain ascents.

The routes often pass through or offer views of stunning natural features. You can experience the dramatic karst formations of the Biokovo Mountains, enjoy panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and islands, and even encounter lakes. For instance, the View of the Sea – Baćina Lakes loop from Makarska offers views of both the sea and the Baćina Lakes. The View of Zadvarje Waterfall – Zadvarje loop from Makarska takes you towards a notable waterfall.

Absolutely. Many routes offer breathtaking scenic viewpoints and pass by interesting landmarks. You can cycle towards Vošac Peak for incredible vistas or pass by the Sv. Jure Ascent Road, which is a landmark in itself. Other highlights include the View of Makarska from the 900m Terrace. For more information on the region's natural beauty, you can explore the Makarska nature page on VisitDalmatia.

The road cycling routes in Grad Makarska are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an impressive average rating of 4.9 stars from over 40 reviews. More than 1,300 road cyclists have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the challenging climbs, the stunning coastal views, and the unique blend of mountain and sea experiences.

Yes, Grad Makarska offers several long-distance road cycling loops. For instance, the Sumartin Coastal Road – Ložišća Bell Tower loop from Makarska is a substantial 144 km route. Another extensive option is the View of the Omiš Riviera – Cetina River Canyon Road loop from Ratac, covering over 138 km.

Many routes in Grad Makarska offer a blend of coastal scenery and other diverse landscapes. The Sumartin Coastal Road – Bol Waterfront Promenade loop from Makarska provides extensive coastal riding. You can also find routes that transition from the coast into the foothills of the Biokovo Mountains or towards inland features like lakes, such as the Lori Beach Bar – View of the Sea loop from Makarska.

Given the proximity to the Biokovo Mountains, road cycling in Grad Makarska typically involves significant elevation gains. Most difficult routes feature climbs well over 1,000 meters, with some exceeding 2,000 meters of ascent. Even the moderate routes include substantial climbing, ensuring a good workout and rewarding views.

While the primary focus is on natural beauty and challenging terrain, some routes may pass near historical or cultural points of interest. For example, you can find routes that offer views of Makarska Old Town or the Kačić Square. The region also has historical roads like the 19th-century Rodić road within Biokovo Nature Park, though not all are fully paved for modern road cycling.