If you’re looking to explore Croatia’s Pag Island beyond the typical beach resorts, this bike tour offers a wonderful mix of nature, local flavor, and stunning coastal views. It’s a well-balanced outing that combines birdwatching, scenic cycling, and a taste of local craftsmanship—all for a reasonable price.
Two things we really appreciate about this tour are its small-group setting, which makes the experience more intimate and flexible, and the chance to visit the Kolanjsko Blato ornithological reserve, a haven for bird lovers and nature enthusiasts. A potential consideration? The 70% unpaved route might be a challenge for some, especially if you’re not used to riding on macadam roads. But overall, this tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy gentle cycling, nature, and authentic local experiences.
If you’re after a manageable, enriching excursion that gives you a new perspective on Pag Island—and you don’t mind a few bumps—the Kolanjsko Blato Bike Tour could be just the thing. It’s especially ideal for those with a moderate fitness level who want to see a different side of Croatia.
Key Points
- Accessible route: 20 km with only 30% asphalt, making it suitable for most riders.
- Birdwatching focus: Up to 163 bird species at Kolanjsko Blato, including endemics.
- Local flavor: Visit to Gligora cheese factory offers a taste of authentic Pag cheese.
- Scenic coastal stops: Girenica beach provides a perfect spot for photos and a break.
- Small group tour: Limited to 15 participants, ensuring personalized attention.
- Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
An In-Depth Look at the Tour
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Novalja.
Starting Point: Novalja and Sunturist Agency
The tour kicks off in Novalja, a lively town famed for Zrće Beach’s party scene. However, this experience takes you away from the raucous crowds into quieter, more natural scenery. Meeting at the Sunturist Tourist Agency, you’ll find your bike waiting, ready for a 3-hour ride filled with diverse highlights.
The Ride to Kolanjsko Blato
We loved the way the route starts gently, passing through the Slatina area towards Kolanjsko Blato, a wetland that’s a magnet for birdlife. Covering approximately 20 km, the ride is mostly on macadam (70%), with only about 30% asphalt, which means you’ll want to be comfortable on unpaved surfaces but it’s generally manageable for most riders.
This area is a designated ornithological reserve, home to a staggering 163 bird species, including several that are endemic to the region. The guide’s commentary is likely to highlight the ecological importance of this wetland, and we’ve read that many visitors find it enchanting to see so much bird activity in their natural habitat.
Guided Tour in Kolan
After riding through the wetlands, you’ll stop in the town of Kolan for a 45-minute guided tour. This will give you a chance to learn about the local environment and perhaps spot more wildlife. The tour is a great way to deepen your understanding of the landscape and its inhabitants, especially if you’re interested in birdwatching or nature photography.
More Great Tours NearbyBreak at Girenica Beach
Next, you’ll pedal to Girenica beach, a scenic stretch of coast perfect for a leisurely break. Here, you can take photos of the rugged shoreline or dip your toes in the sea if the weather allows. This stop lasts about an hour, giving you plenty of time to soak in the views, snap some pictures, and enjoy a well-earned rest.
Return to Novalja via Kolan and Mandre
The return route takes you through the charming villages of Kolan and Mandre. These small towns give a glimpse of local life away from the tourist crowds and are a reminder of the island’s laid-back charm.
Final Stop: Gligora Cheese Factory
The tour concludes with a visit to the Gligora cheese factory, a highlight for food lovers. Here, you’ll get to taste authentic Pag cheese—famous for its distinctive flavor due to the island’s unique sheep’s milk. It’s an excellent opportunity to learn about traditional cheese-making processes and pick up some souvenirs.
What’s Included and Practical Info
The price of $54 per person is quite reasonable considering the variety of experiences packed into this 3-hour tour. The package includes a bike, which means you don’t need to bring your own, making it convenient for travelers coming from different places.
The meeting point is in front of the Sunturist agency in Novalja, with the tour ending back at the same spot. The activity is available in both Croatian and English, ensuring clarity and comfort for international visitors. Since the tour involves cycling, it’s not suitable for those unable to ride a bike, but for most, it’s a gentle ride with a difficulty level rated at 2/5.
Timing and Flexibility
Check the schedule for available start times; these can vary, and booking in advance is recommended. If plans change, you can cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund, offering peace of mind.
What to Bring
To make the most of the trip, pack comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, sunscreen, and water. Croatia’s sunny weather can be deceptive, so gear up accordingly.
Why This Tour Offers Great Value
This bike tour isn’t just about pedaling around; it’s designed to give you a taste of Croatian nature, local industry, and scenic beauty. For those interested in birdlife and wetlands, Kolanjsko Blato is a real highlight, especially given the diversity of species present. The addition of a cheese tasting at Gligora adds an extra layer of local flavor, making it a well-rounded experience for food and culture enthusiasts.
The small-group format ensures you’re not just another face in a crowd. It allows for more interaction with the guide and a more relaxed experience—ideal for travelers who prefer intimate outings over large tours.
Considering the price point, the tour offers excellent value: you get a 20 km ride through some of the most scenic parts of Pag, guided commentary, and the chance to see wildlife and taste local produce—all in just three hours.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is perfect for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and those curious about local Croatian life. It’s also suited for casual cyclists who want a gentle ride that doesn’t require advanced skills or fitness. Families with children who can handle short distances on unpaved roads might enjoy it, provided everyone’s comfortable on bikes.
If you’re after a relaxing, scenic journey that takes you off the beaten track and into authentic surroundings, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s especially recommended for those who appreciate a combination of outdoor activity, cultural insights, and local food.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s best suited for those who can comfortably ride a bike on unpaved paths. Children who can handle this should be fine, but check with the provider if you have younger kids.
Do I need my own bike?
No, the tour includes a bike, so you just need to show up prepared.
What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection gear (sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen), and water are recommended.
How long is the bike ride?
The route covers approximately 20 km with a gentle difficulty rating of 2/5, making it manageable for most riders.
What’s the highlight of the tour?
Many say the Kolanjsko Blato wetland is the star, especially for birdwatchers, but the cheese tasting at Gligora is also a memorable treat.
Is the route difficult?
It’s mostly on macadam (70%) with some asphalt (30%), so expect a few bumps but nothing too strenuous.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
What is included in the price?
A bike rental, guided tour, and visit to the cheese factory are included.
What languages are the guides speaking?
Guides provide commentary in both Croatian and English.
What if I don’t want to do the whole tour?
You can choose to participate in the parts you’re most interested in; just inform the guide beforehand.
Final Thoughts
This Kolanjsko Blato Bike Tour offers a well-curated experience for those interested in exploring a quieter, more natural side of Pag Island. It prizes authenticity—whether through birdwatching, tasting local cheese, or enjoying the coastal scenery—and provides a pleasant, low-key adventure that’s accessible to most.
Ideal for travelers who value small-group intimacy, cultural insights, and gentle physical activity, this tour stands out as a charming way to connect with Croatia’s natural environment. Whether you’re a bird enthusiast, a foodie, or simply someone craving a scenic break from the busy seaside resorts, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.
If you’re after a relaxed, informative, and scenic cycling trip that showcases the best of Pag’s wetlands, beaches, and local industry, this tour is a smart choice. It’s a chance to slow down, breathe in the fresh air, and appreciate the small but meaningful sights that make this island special.
You can check availability for your dates here: