Adriatic To Alps: A Motorcycle Odyssey From Trogir To Italy
Seventeen days of coast, high passes, and culture—ride the Adriatic edge from Dalmatia into Italy
The morning air off the Adriatic tastes like salt and diesel. Tires hum on cobblestones as a small group of riders convenes in Trogir’s shadow—an island town whose Romanesque facades and narrow alleys make time feel negotiable. Helmets click, boots scrape, and the first row of BMW GS engines growl into life: F 750 GS, F 850 GS, an R 1250 GS for the heavy-lifters. You feel, with each idle, the weight of what’s ahead—a nineteen-day route that will braid coastline and highland, ferry and fast sweepers, cultures as distinct as the languages you’ll hear between stops.
Trail Wisdom
Pre-ride briefing
Arrive at the pre-ride meeting with basic paperwork, a checked helmet, and fitted gloves—the operator runs new BMW GS bikes but familiarization is key.
Layer for microclimates
Bring a lightweight base, warm mid-layer, and a waterproof shell; coastal warmth can give way to alpine chill in a mountain pass.
Fuel and ferry planning
Top off before remote stretches and check ferry timetables in advance—some island crossings have limited daily sailings.
Rest and rotate riders
Expect long days—stretch every 90–120 minutes to stay focused and reduce fatigue.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Pelješac Peninsula wineries and sea-view terraces
- •Makarska Riviera switchbacks and secluded coves
Wildlife
Bottlenose dolphins in the Adriatic, Griffon vultures over karst cliffs
Conservation Note
Respect marine protected areas and national parks—stay on designated roads and trails, minimize single-use plastics, and support local businesses to keep communities resilient.
Trogir’s old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a history stretching back to ancient Greek and Roman settlements and later Venetian rule.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Mild temperatures, Fewer tourists, Blooming landscape
Challenges: Variable weather, Cool nights, Occasional roadworks
Spring (May departures are ideal) yields comfortable riding temperatures and quieter towns, but pack for quick temperature swings.
summer
Best for: Longest daylight, Warm sea swimming, Festivals
Challenges: Hot coastal heat, Higher tourist traffic, Limited lodging availability
Summer is vibrant and warm—expect busier roads and a higher probability of sold-out hotels along the coast.
fall
Best for: Harvest events, Clear air for views, Milder temperatures
Challenges: Shortening days, Unpredictable rain, Ferries reduced off-season
Autumn offers golden light and cooler rides but shorter daylight hours and sporadic ferry schedules.
winter
Best for: Low-season pricing, Snow-capped alpine vistas
Challenges: Closed roads and passes, Cold, wet conditions, Limited services
Winter riding is possible only with experienced riders and careful planning—many mountain passes and services may be closed.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Full-face or modular helmetEssential
Protects against wind, debris, and variable weather while touring at highway speeds.
Waterproof motorcycle jacket with thermal linerEssential
Layered protection keeps you comfortable from coastal warmth to alpine chill.
Dual-sport touring tires (or operator-fitted equivalent)Essential
Designed for mixed pavement and occasional rough shoulders common on regional roads.
Compact tool kit & tire repair kit
Useful for minor roadside fixes; operator support reduces the need but won’t replace basics.
Common Questions
Do I need my own motorcycle?
No—the tour uses the operator’s fleet of modern BMW GS motorcycles; riders book their machine class in advance.
What paperwork is required?
Bring your passport, national motorcycle license, and check if an International Driving Permit and green card insurance are needed for border crossings.
How physically demanding is the tour?
Expect long days in the saddle; riders should be comfortable with multi-hour stretches and variable road conditions.
Are passengers (pillions) accommodated?
Yes—each passenger must make their own booking and meet the same documentation and safety requirements as riders.
What is included in the price?
The operator typically includes motorcycle rental, planned route support, some transfers (e.g., from Split Airport), and accommodations—confirm specifics at booking.
What happens in bad weather?
The guide will adjust the route and pace for safety; expect flexible scheduling and occasional shorter riding days when necessary.
What to Pack
Helmet, waterproof layered jacket, compact tool/tire kit, passport/ID—safety, weather protection, roadside readiness, and legal documents are essential.
Did You Know
Trogir’s historic center was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1997 for its well-preserved medieval and Renaissance architecture.
Quick Travel Tips
Pack layers for variable microclimates; print key documents and keep digital backups; book accommodations early for May departures; confirm ferry schedules during planning.
Local Flavor
After a day’s ride, eat like a local: try dalmatian peka (slow-baked meat and vegetables) or fresh grilled fish in coastal konobas; for drinks, sample local Malvasia or Plavac Mali wines and small Croatian craft beers in Split.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Split (SPU); initial hotel: Trogir (short transfer from SPU); driving distance from Split Airport to Trogir: ~8 km; cell service: generally good along the coast, patchy in remote mountain passes; permits: passport, national motorcycle license, check for International Driving Permit and cross-border insurance (green card).
Sustainability Note
Support local economies by dining in family-run konobas, limit single-use plastics, and stay on established roads and ferry routes to protect sensitive coastal and karst habitats.