The best cycling holidays in Europe.
Service Rating 4.7 from 898 reviews

Dalmatia South PLUS Bike & Boat

4.8
(13 reviews)

A deluxe bike and boat cycling holiday around the serene and beautiful islands of South Dalmatia. Live aboard a deluxe motor yacht exploring the timeless, evocative islands of Hvar, Vis, Korčula and Šolta. Each has it’s own unique character and flavour, providing a completely new cycling experience each day.

This is a truly magical cycling holiday, the sparsely populated islands of South Dalmatia provide the perfect environment for escaping the everyday hustle and bustle, allowing you to fall into an intoxicating rhythm of cycle, swim, eat, sleep, repeat.

The above video shows the sights and scenes along the route.

Your deluxe motor yacht, complete with friendly crew and cycle guides, offers comfortable, air-conditioned cabins and is the perfect vessel for exploring the Dalmatian Islands in style. Each day the boat will moor in a different but always idyllic harbour where you will disembark for the day’s ride. The bike guides remove the need for maps and route notes allowing you to relax and enjoy the rides without having to worry about navigation. While you are riding, the boat cruises around to the other side of the island and is waiting for you when you arrive.

Most afternoons the boat will cruise to a quiet bay for a swim stop. The bathing platform on the boat’s stern makes entering and leaving the water easy for all and there are also stand-up-paddle boards available as well.

The highlights of the week are many and varied but stand-out memories include the view over Hvar Town from the Spanish Fortress, cycling around Vis, the quietest and most remote of the Dalmatian Islands and swimming from the boat to cool off after a long ride. The ride from one end of Korčula to the other is very special and maybe you’ll agree with our opinion that it is the most beautiful of the Dalmatian Islands. The optional rafting excursion in Cetina Canyon on the mainland is very exhilarating and the opportunity to explore the ancient, winding alleyways of Split old town, complete with bohemian bars and an emperor’s palace should not be overlooked.

The final day’s ride on Šolta, where the scent of lavender and wild rosemary accompany your ride, is a fitting finale to a truly memorable cycling holiday

The cycle rides cover between 12 and 30 miles along on asphalted lanes and quiet roads. The terrain of these islands is always undulating and you will have climbs to contend with each day. State of the art e-bikes are a popular, pre-bookable option and are recommended for anyone concerned about the hills but regular hybrid bikes are of course available too.

Itinerary

The daily rides cover between 12 and 37 miles along mostly asphalted quiet lanes and minor roads. The terrain is always undulating and you will have some climbs to contend with each day. E-bikes are a the most popular bikes on this route

The captain reserves the right to make changes to the planned route due to changing wind, tide and weather conditions, and where required by organizational necessities.

The pretty port of Trogir is just a short 6 km taxi or bus ride from Split Airport. On arrival, check in on board your boat between 2pm and 2.30pm. At around 3pm the crew cast off and we enjoy an afternoon cruise to the small peaceful island of Vis where we moor for the night.

Vis is the outermost of the Dalmatian islands and until 1995 was closed to tourists due to it’s strategic location. You’ll really enjoy exploring this quiet and beautiful island by bike. The route leads us across the island on a gently ascending road that then descends quickly, via a series of exhilarating switchbacks, to the charming village of Komiza on the west coast.

After exploring the village and enjoying a refreshment at one of the relaxed quayside bars we mount up and leave the village, this time following a quiet coastal road with jaw-dropping sea views off to the right. The road then winds inland through a peaceful fertile valley covered in vineyards before descending back down to Vis where the boat and lunch are waiting for us.

In the afternoon we leave Vis and enjoy a leisurely cruise to the nearby island of Korčula. On route we’ll stop in a quiet bay for a swim, before mooring in the pleasant port town of Vela Luka on Korčula for the night.

Korčula is stunning – by common consent the jewel in the Dalmatian archipelago's crown – and today we will cycle from one end of it to the other. A gentle climb leads us inland through aromatic pine forests and after an exhilarating descent we begin to follow a quiet road alongside the island’s incredibly picturesque south coast. Hamlets of tiny houses, many covered in bougainvillea, enjoy million dollar views of a coral blue sea dotted with tiny islands. We may be tempted to stop for a swim as there are many small beaches along this lovely stretch of coast.

A stunning taverna provides us with a wonderful lunch (payable locally) and after refuelling we take on a gentle climb that is rewarded with fabulous views of picturesque Pupnat Bay.

Towards the end of the ride we cross to the north coast and enjoy a long, winding descent with more stunning views of an impossibly blue sea and the Pelješac peninsula across the strait. For the last few kilometres we follow the coastline eastwards. Windsurfers and kitesurfers flit backwards and forwards enjoying the wind funnel effect created by the narrow strait and adding even more colour to this incredibly vivid day.

Finally we round a corner and the stunning island capital comes into view. The fortified town of Korčula juts out into the Adriatic and looks like a large ship moored to the island. After dinner we highly recommend stepping ashore for a stroll through the narrow alleys of this atmospheric and bustling old town.

Today starts with a relaxing cruise to the bustling and picturesque port of Hvar Town on the island of Hvar. Take the time to explore this beautiful little place on foot before mounting up for today's ride. A steady climb leads us out of the town and up onto a ridge running the length of the island. The views get progressively more spectacular and aromatic lavender fields line the route attracting flights of brightly coloured butterflies. There is a small bar/restaurant at the summit to collect ourselves before enjoying an exhilarating descent to the picturesque artist's village of Stari Grad nestled in its own natural harbour. The Magellan is waiting for us and will remain moored here for the night.

This morning the Magellan crosses the narrow strait separating Hvar from its neighbour, Brač, the largest of the Dalmatian Islands. We moor in Milna, a pretty harbour town and disembark with our bikes. On today’s ride to Postira, on the northern coast, we’ll enjoy some marvellous panoramic views across the sea to the mainland, we'll also pass the quarries where the island's famous white marble comes from. This highly prized marble has been used to build some very famous buildings, including 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, Washington, D.C and the Reichstag in Berlin.

The Magellan is waiting for us in the pleasant little port of Postira – a lovely place to spend the night.

A morning cruise takes us across the strait to the city of Split on the mainland. We have a choice today of either biking around the Marjan forest and peninsula adjacent to the city, (stopping at a lovely beach for a dip along the way), or opting for a 4 hour rafting excursion on the Cetina river (not included and payable locally). If you opt for the rafting you’ll be picked up from the boat by a bus and driven down the coast to the town of Omis, the starting point. The rafting is great fun and each raft has a well trained instructor who ensures the trip is exhilarating but safe. The river and canyon are protected and the scenery and water clarity are amazing. The bus is waiting for you at the end of the rafting experience to take you back to Split

In the afternoon there is time to explore the fascinating and bustling old port town of Split. We highly recommend a tour of the famous palace of Roman Emperor Diocletian. The adjoining maze of streets that make up Split’s old town are also inviting, never more so than after dark when all the cool little bars, clubs and restaurants come alive.

The boat remains moored in Split overnight.

During breakfast we cruise to the pretty harbour of Rogač on the island of Šolta for our final cycle tour. The ride traverses the serene island, passing fragrant fields of lavender and wild rosemary. We re-board the boat in Maslinica and cruise slowly back across the sea to the boat’s home port of Trogir. The old-town is a warren of narrow winding alleys, lined with tiny restaurants, shops and cafes. Feel free to lose yourself – it’s not that big – and sooner or later you’ll wind up on the quayside once more.

The Captain’s farewell dinner is always an enjoyable affair, moored up on the bustling quayside adjacent to the lovely old town.

After breakfast its time to disembark, by 9am, and head for home or your next adventure.

Bikes

On this tour you can choose to rent either a gravel bike or an e-bike. Unless you are a regular cyclist, used to taking on regular climbs, we highly recommend opting for the e-bike which is the most popular option.

If the bike has a rack then panniers are included.

We suggest you bring your own helmet for safety and hygiene reasons. A very limited number of helmets are available on board and must be pre-booked at the time of booking. It is mandatory to wear a helmet.

Accommodation

Magellan (superior plus)

The Magellan is a very stylish motor yacht with modern, elegant cabins and public areas.

She has 19 spacious guest cabins, 11 above deck cabins and 8 lower deck cabins. Both decks features twin cabins, with separate single beds, and double cabins with a small double bed. All cabins are equipped with en-suite shower/wc and air conditioning. Above deck cabins feature a small window and the door opens out to the fresh air while the below deck cabins open to the inner galley and have a small porthole.

On the main deck there is an elegant dining/saloon area with bar as well as a covered quarterdeck. The spacious sun deck is the perfect spot from which to watch the gorgeous scenery drift by.

Meals

A buffet breakfast and one or two warm meals are provided daily. The meals are prepared by the on-board cook who uses locally sourced fresh ingredients. The catering consists of 2 days of full board (breakfast, lunch & dinner) and 5 days of half board (breakfast and lunch or dinner).

Dietary requirements: If you have special dietary requirements, it is important you indicate this when you book or enquire about it before you book. Vegetarian meals are available, but we need to know in advance. In all other cases we will need to check if it is possible. In most cases a fee for preparing special meals will be charged. This mainly applies to lactose, gluten-free or vegan meals and is €70 and is to be paid when you board. The kitchen galley space is compact and so it cannot accommodate coeliacs.

On-board payments: Cash only, no debit/credit cards.

The captain reserves the right to make changes to the planned route due to changing wind, tide and weather conditions, and where required by organizational necessities.

Getting There

Fly to Split airport and then transfer by taxi or public bus to Trogir, 6 kms away.

Research flights from the UK here.

Reviews

Victoria Franklin - July, 22 Jul 2023
Service
5
Absolutely first class service from Ally. She patiently answered all my quite detailed questions about this fabulous holiday.
Andy - July, 26 Jul 2023
Wonderful, so glad we helped you choose the right option Vicky.
Service
5
The perfect mix of relaxation, exercise and light culture. Loved the Magellan and her lovely crew, who made us so welcome. The bike guides were also excellent and the rides were incredibly scenic and nicely paced. Glad we took the e-bike option as we probably would have struggled a bit on regular bikes. The Dalmatian islands are gorgeous and we’ll definitely return to try one of the other routes soon.
Andy - July, 26 Jul 2023
Thank you so much for taking the time to write this lovely review Vicky, it really is appreciated.
Anonymous - October, 25 Oct 2019
Service
5
Helpful and efficient booking service - knowledgeable too
Andy - January, 02 Jan 2020
Thank you for the positive feedback.
Service
5
Fabulous views, well organised, great bikes too. We were so glad to have the E-bikes. If you are a regular cyclist then you would be fine but I would have found hills a killer without an E-bike! We enjoyed it so much that we want to go on another similar tour!
Andy - January, 02 Jan 2020
Thanks for the lovely review about this truly fabulous tour. Your advice regarding e-bikes is spot on and I wish I had read this review before I chose to struggle round on a regular bike a couple of years ago!
Sarah Jempson - October, 25 Oct 2019
Service
4
Didn't really have any pre tour service except for a couple ;of emails and a request for money.
Andy - January, 02 Jan 2020
Thanks for the feedback Sarah. We're glad that Ally was able to suggest a tour that matched your requirements and that she was able negotiate an extension of the option with the boat to allow you more time to discuss it with your party.
Service
5
Absolutely wonderful holiday
Andy - January, 02 Jan 2020
Thank you for the review, we are so glad you all enjoyed it so much.
Anonymous - June, 21 Jun 2019
Service
5
Croatia is more beautiful than I knew The guides were great The boats staff were lovely Marta our waitress was fantastic and although spoke little English always got it just right and we laughed everyday at our sign language The bikes were pristine and placed in the port for us every morning As for the boat - spotless and very ship shape - comfortable beds and clean towels I would say that the food was disappointing... not enough fresh fruit or vegetables ... I think also a snack after the bike rides would be a welcome addition too Overall I loved loved the trip and would highly recommend to anyone
Andy - September, 03 Sep 2019
Great, many thanks for taking the time to submit this comprehensive review. The crew are always trying to improve things so rest assured your food comments will be taken on board (pardon the pun) and acted upon.
Service
5
Fantastic trip would recommend to anyone
Tessa Horswell - June, 18 Jun 2019
Service
5
Aly was very friendly and helpful
Service
4
Bikes , routes and guides very good
Andy - September, 03 Sep 2019
Thanks Tessa, we're glad you enjoyed it!
Deborah Ireland - June, 17 Jun 2019
Service
4
Good information
Service
5
Excellent great guide - food not always so great
Andy - September, 03 Sep 2019
Thanks Deborah, we're glad you enjoyed it and are sorry to hear the food was not always to your liking.
Robina Quainton - June, 17 Jun 2019
Service
5
Plenty of really useful information before departure. Tour was just what I'd been told to expect. Super.
Andy - September, 03 Sep 2019
So glad all went well for you Robina - thank you for the feedback.
Service
5
Great guides. Fantastic boat. Super islands to cycle around with well planned routes. Lots of extras like guided tours and a visit to a beekeeper and wine tasting.
Andy - September, 03 Sep 2019
Thanks Robina, your succinct summation brings back fond memories of our own time on the Princeza Diana
Anonymous - September, 26 Sep 2018
Service
5
As always, Ally was extremely helpful with the selection of our trip ensuring we had all the information required regarding the boats etc. Her personal experience and recommendations are invaluable.
Andy - January, 23 Jan 2019
Thank you so much for the kind words - we really appreciate it!
Service
5
Our first guided cycling holiday which took a day or so to get used to but the benefits were traveling with a lovely mix of people made for great fun and our guides, Silvia and Matija, were excellent. The information we gained during the stops helped enormously. We were very comfortable on the Princeza Diana - all the crew were superb. Weather was great and using E bikes certainly helped with the hills! Highlights were the rafting, traveling into Korcula Town with stunning views and having dolphins accompany us on our voyage from Vis to Korcula.
Andy - January, 23 Jan 2019
Another convert it seems. The Princeza Diana has an ever growing fan base as we're glad you enjoyed the e-bikes - they are the perfect option, in our opinion, for tackling these rather undulating rides.
Mark Butler - July, 30 Jul 2018
Service
5
Very good description of holiday. Prompt delivery of holiday information. Helpful staff on telephone
Andy - January, 23 Jan 2019
Fantastic - many thanks Mark.
Service
5
Our boat was “Melody” which was well appointed. Excellent cabin, much bigger than expected. Friendly staff. Tour guides Kini & Matija were very friendly and helpful. My wife and I were involved in a little accident along with 2 other bikers. Dini very good and dealt with the situation. Beware roads can get slippery when there is only a little rain!! Tour itself was organised well and as expected from itenary. Disappointed not to get to Hvar. I think there was a problem getting a slot in busy harbour but I know the sister ship Romantica went there the same morning. If I was to criticise anything I would suggest not trying to get back for lunches on the boat but to stay out & stop at more places on the islands. Overall - a great holiday. Can’t wait for the next one
Andy - January, 23 Jan 2019
Thanks for the helpful feedback Mark. Because rain is quite a rare thing in the summer months it's true that when there is precipitation the roads can become quite slick. We'll bear the point about lunches on the road in mind but we're also aware that many customers like returning to the boat for a proper meal.
Jack Evanuk - May, 31 May 2018
Service
5
Friendly, quick and thorough response to any questions. Changes were handled quickly and cheerfully.
Andy - June, 12 Jun 2018
Thanks Jack, we really appreciate the review.
Service
5
Modern, roomy boat, great cycling, friendly guides. Lots of space and comfortable seats to spend time with friends or to have a few moments of solitude.
Andy - June, 12 Jun 2018
A good summation of this popular route, thanks Jack, we're glad you enjoyed it.
Anonymous - September, 25 Sep 2017
Service
5
I had a number of questions prior to the trip. They were always answered promptly and thoroughly.
Service
5
Boat - quite new with adequately sized room and very good washroom space. Boat layout was very functional. Food - more than adequate and very tasty. Excellent variety and choices. On board service - room and ship was kept very tidy. Re-locating the ship to different ports always kept the guests comfort in mind. Cycling - superb. First time on an e-bike which functioned perfectly. Don't know if I would have been able to do all 6 days without the e-bike. 2 guides on every ride and they were excellent at ensuring that everyone found their way. Loved the little extras during the trip - example - visited bee keeper on Solta. The Dalmatian islands are beautiful - much nicer than I anticipated.
Andy - October, 14 Oct 2017
We loved that bee-keeper on Solta too - so passionate about his bees! Glad you had a fantastic time and thanks for the lovely review.
Sarah Boross - May, 16 May 2017
Service
5
We would certainly recommend Flexitreks and would be happy to book other holidays with them again. We had great service from Ally at Flexitreks. She knew all the finer details of the various boats and was very helpful in selecting the perfect options for us. Her knowledge and friendly manner made the booking process a pleasure rather than a chore.
Service
5
Our holiday was fabulous from start to finish, we really loved our time aboard the Melody. The food was simple but locally sourced and freshly purchased each day. We have some wonderful memories from our trip! The cycling was very scenic and we loved exploring the the various islands. Some stages were quite hilly and we certainly appreciated the e-bikes which are a marvellous invention for us, slightly older, cyclists!
Andy - May, 19 May 2017
What a lovely review, thank you so much Sarah. We have got to know the boats used on these Croatian bike and boat holidays pretty well and for me personally, the Melody and the Princessa Diana are simply the best. E-bikes are definitely the way to go on these hilly routes and are fast overtaking regular bikes as the popular choice.
James Dalrymple - December, 09 Dec 2015
Service
5
We were well briefed
Ally - December, 10 Dec 2015
Your feedback is much appreciated, so thank you. The Flexitreks team
Service
5
Lovely boat Well organised beautiful countryside