The best gravel rides around Stari Grad

The gravel bike trails around Stari Grad are generally considered difficult. All six routes listed in this guide feature significant climbs and varied terrain, suitable for experienced gravel bikers. For example, the View of Brač Island – View of Sveta Nedjelja loop from Stari Grad covers over 50 km with more than 1100 meters of elevation gain.

The routes highlighted in this guide are predominantly classified as difficult, featuring substantial distances and elevation changes. As such, they may not be ideal for beginners or young families. Riders should have a good level of fitness and gravel biking experience.

Gravel bike routes in the Stari Grad area typically range from approximately 30 km to over 50 km in distance. Durations can vary from around 2 hours 15 minutes to over 4 hours 30 minutes, depending on the specific route and your pace. For instance, the Beach Bar Jelsa – Vrboska Harbour loop from Stari Grad is about 31 km and takes roughly 2 hours 18 minutes, while the View of Brač Island – View of Sveta Nedjelja loop from Stari Grad is 50 km and takes around 4 hours 35 minutes.

Yes, all the gravel bike routes featured in this guide are circular loops, designed to start and end in the same general area. This includes routes like the View of Brač Island – Broom Fields Trail loop from Vrboska and the View of Sveta Nedjelja – View of Hvar Island loop from Zavala, offering convenient round trips.

You can expect diverse Mediterranean landscapes, including coastal paths, elevated viewpoints, and often extensive views of the Adriatic Sea and neighboring islands like Brač and Hvar. The terrain is a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces, with climbs leading to scenic overlooks. The Zlatni Rat Beach – Vidova Gora summit (778 m) loop from Bol, for example, offers panoramic vistas from the highest point on Brač.

While gravel biking, you'll be close to several historical and cultural sites. In Stari Grad itself, you can explore the Tvrdalj Castle and Gardens, wander through the Stari Grad Old Town, or discover the Historic Alleys of Stari Grad. Škor Square is another notable spot. Further afield, you might encounter the impressive St. Stephen's Square and Cathedral in Hvar.

The Mediterranean climate of Hvar and Brač islands makes spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) ideal for gravel biking. During these seasons, temperatures are milder, and the trails are less crowded than in the peak summer months. Summer can be very hot, making longer rides challenging.

Yes, the Zlatni Rat Beach – Vidova Gora summit (778 m) loop from Bol specifically takes you through varied terrain to the Vidova Gora summit, offering spectacular views, and passes by the famous Zlatni Rat Beach. Another route, the Zlatni Rat Beach – Panoramic Trail on Brač loop from Bol, also provides excellent views of the beach and surrounding panoramas.

The gravel biking experience around Stari Grad is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 10 reviews. Reviewers often praise the stunning coastal views, the challenging yet rewarding climbs, and the opportunity to explore the diverse island landscapes away from the main roads.

Yes, routes like the View of Brač Island – Broom Fields Trail loop from Vrboska are designed to explore both the interior and coastal areas. This particular route passes through open fields and offers beautiful sea vistas, providing a comprehensive experience of the island's varied terrain.

Given the often challenging terrain and potential for significant climbs, we recommend wearing appropriate cycling gear, including padded shorts, a moisture-wicking jersey, and sturdy cycling shoes. A helmet is essential. Depending on the season, layers are advisable, as temperatures can vary, especially at higher elevations or during longer rides.