Active Autumn: Croatia’s Best Hiking and Cycling Trails

With its deep forests and fresh mountain air, Gorski kotar is perfect for peaceful autumn walks. The Leska Educational Trail, near Crni Lug in Risnjak National Park, is a gentle 4.5 km loop that winds through spruce woods, meadows and glades. Designed as a family-friendly route, it includes info panels about local wildlife and geology, making it both scenic and educational. The path is well-maintained and mostly flat, ideal for all ages and fitness levels.

● Trail length: 4.5 km loop

● Duration: approx. 2 hours

Croatia’s largest mountain range, Velebit, is a true autumn gem for more experienced hikers. The Premužić Trail, especially the section through Northern Velebit National Park, offers panoramic views over the sea and islands while passing through dramatic karst landscapes. Though the trail is technically not difficult, it’s long, so good fitness and sturdy hiking boots are essential. Be prepared for cooler winds at higher altitudes, and don’t forget a map or GPS.

● Trail length: 16 km (Zavižan to Alan)

● Duration: 5–6 hours (one way)

Rising just above Zagreb, Medvednica is ideal for an autumn day trip. A scenic route leads from Šestine to Sljeme, passing the historic Medvedgrad fortress and the cosy Grafičar Mountain Lodge. The trail is moderate and well-marked, offering forest views, warm meals along the way, and a real sense of escape from the city. For a relaxing return, take the modern Sljeme cable car; its glass cabins provide stunning views over Zagreb in full autumn glow. Dress in layers and wear sturdy shoes, especially after rain.

● Trail length: 9 km (Šestine to Sljeme)

● Duration: approx. 2.5 hours one way + 30 min cable car ride

Known for its wine, olive oil, and hilltop villages, Istria is perfect for leisurely autumn cycling. The Parenzana Trail, a former railway route, connects charming towns like Grožnjan, Motovun, and Vižinada, passing through tunnels, bridges and endless vineyards. It’s a gravel trail suitable for trekking bikes, and ideal for a slow ride with frequent stops for wine tasting and local meals.

● Route length: 80 km total; 25–30 km ideal for a day ride

Far from the crowds, Slavonia offers flat terrain, peaceful surroundings, and rich rural scenery. In Papuk Nature Park, cycling routes wind through forests, past waterfalls, and near historical sites like the ruins of medieval fortresses. The area around Kutjevo, one of Croatia’s oldest wine regions, is particularly beautiful in autumn, when the vineyards turn shades of amber and red. Most routes are suitable for recreational cyclists, with clearly marked paths and small villages for rest stops.

● Route length: 15–40 km, depending on the chosen loop

While Dalmatia is famous for its summer coastline, autumn opens up opportunities to explore its inland trails. On Brač, cycling from Supetar to Vidova Gora (the highest island peak in the Adriatic) rewards you with sweeping sea views and cool air. Near Split, Mosor Mountain offers more challenging terrain for experienced riders. A popular uphill route leads to the Mosor Observatory, perched at 700 metres above sea level, where both the effort and the panoramic views are worth it. As the summer heat fades, cycling here becomes more enjoyable and far less crowded.

● Route length (Supetar – Vidova Gora): 18 km

● Route length (Split – Mosor observatory): 20 km