MTB Tour of Rab Island

Welcome to Rab, a captivating island known for its rich history, stunning sandy beaches, and lush Mediterranean landscapes. Upon your arrival, take some time to settle into your accommodation and acclimate to the serene atmosphere of this Adriatic gem. Rab, with its enchanting old town encased in ancient walls, offers a perfect blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty.Begin your exploration by wandering through the narrow, cobblestone streets of Rab Town. Marvel at the four iconic bell towers that define its skyline, each belonging to a church or monastery with centuries-old stories to tell. The town's mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Romanesque architecture serves as a testament to Rab's storied past, inviting you to delve deeper into its rich history.

Energize your morning with a hearty breakfast, gearing up for today's warm-up ride along Rab's scenic coastline to the enchanting peninsula of Frkanj and back. This ride is designed to introduce you to the island's diverse natural beauty while providing a gentle start to your mountain biking adventure.The route is relatively flat and smooth, making it an ideal warm-up as you pedal through aromatic pine forests and beside the crystal-clear waters. As you approach Frkanj, known for its secluded beaches and lush vegetation, take the opportunity to explore its hidden coves and natural beauty.

Today’s route introduces a more demanding mountain biking stage with a loop from Rab to Lopar. The ride quickly leaves main roads and follows off-road trails that climb toward elevated viewpoints overlooking the Adriatic Sea and nearby islands. The ascent is physically challenging but consistently rewarding, with panoramic views unfolding along the way. At higher elevations, the trail continues through open sheep pastures, offering a quieter, more rural side of the island. This section combines varied terrain with technical riding and wide-open landscapes, providing a full mountain biking experience that highlights Rab’s natural diversity.

Prepare for an exhilarating ride to Kamenjak, the highest point on the island of Rab, offering not only a significant physical challenge but also the reward of unparalleled panoramic views. As you climb, the Mediterranean scrub gives way to dense forests, providing shade and a sense of solitude amidst the natural splendour of Rab.At 408 meters above sea level, Kamenjak offers breathtaking 360-degree views of Rab, the surrounding islands, and the vast Adriatic Sea. This is a moment of triumph and awe, a perfect opportunity to rest, reflect, and capture the beauty of the landscape with your camera.

Today’s ride follows a loop of the Kalifront Peninsula, a forested area known for its dense holm oak woods and quiet trails. The route leads into the Dundo Forest, one of the best-preserved holm oak forests in the Mediterranean, offering a calm riding environment away from traffic. The terrain combines gravel paths and smoother tracks, suitable for varied riding abilities and a steady pace. Along the way, secluded beaches accessible from the trail provide opportunities for a swim in the Adriatic, making this stage a balanced mix of riding and relaxation.

Today's adventure takes you on a captivating loop of Barbat, a picturesque area on the southern part of Rab known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and the striking contrast of arid landscapes against the backdrop of the Adriatic Sea. The loop around Barbat takes you through a variety of landscapes, from rocky paths that hug the coastline, offering expansive views of the sea, to more arid, hilly terrains that challenge your climbing abilities. As you navigate the loop, you'll also have the chance to witness the traditional lifestyle of the Barbat area. Pass through small villages and alongside fields and olive groves, where the local way of life remains deeply connected to the land and the sea.

Your departure from Rab is not just a farewell to its landscapes but a promise to carry the spirit of the island with you. The memories of pedalling through its diverse terrains, the panoramic views that took your breath away, and the sense of accomplishment that filled your days will linger long after you've left its shores.