Cetina Gorge Road
Category 320 km
Distance
680 m
Elevation Gain
3.4%
Average Gradient
11%
Max Gradient
The Cetina river cuts a dramatic canyon through the Dinaric karst inland from Omiš, and the road that follows its northern bank provides some of the most spectacular and unusual cycling in Dalmatia. The route climbs gradually from sea level alongside a turquoise river that disappears and reappears from underground springs — a classic karst phenomenon — through walls of sheer limestone rising 200m on either side. The road is paved but narrow, carrying local traffic only, and the gorge provides natural shade through the hottest hours. Several small konoba restaurants serve fresh river trout alongside the road. The gradient averages just 3.4% but the constant small climbs and descents mean there is no pure recovery riding.
Pro Tip
The Cetina Gorge road terminates at the inland town of Sinj — either organise a car shuttle from Sinj back to Omiš or return on the same road, which looks completely different in the opposite direction. The canyon is most atmospheric in morning light when the river colour is at its most brilliant. Avoid the rafting launch points near Omiš on weekend mornings in summer — they bring the most road traffic the gorge ever sees.
Part of
Cycling in Dalmatian Coast