MTB enthusiast? Close your eyes and imagine this: 4 different islands, breathtaking scenery, challenging terrain, and a huge adrenaline rush. You are competing against bikers who will leave their blood, sweat, and tears to claim their finisher medals. Goat paths are trails, and breathtaking views are almost on every turn. Sounds like a crazy experience, right? Open your eyes, and make this into a reality. Head over to Croatia, where the 4 Islands MTB Croatia race takes place, and experience it yourselves.

Unique Mountain Race Over 4 Croatian Islands

The race is a mix of authentic locations, stunning views over the Adriatic, and excellent organization, making it an exceptional event in the world of mountain biking. In five days, race participants will cover about 289 km on four Croatian islands: Krk, Rab, Cres, and Lošinj. Each island has its charm! Some boast flora and fauna diversity, while some are partly rugged and barren. Putting their beauty into words isn't easy, but we will try.

First, the Island of Krk, home to hundreds of kilometers of trails of untouched nature that run along the coast through forests, mountains, and valleys, is perfect for satisfying all appetites. Next, the Island of Cres! Legend says that this stunning island is created from the limbs of the Greek hero Apsyrts, which were thrown into the sea by his sister Medea. The island will delight you with its diverse flora and fauna, clear-blue sea, picturesque villages, peace, and the smells of the Mediterranean. Another island gem is Rab. Located south of Kvarner Bay, Rab will amaze you with its beauty. Romans called it Felix Arba or Happy Island, and we totally see why. With 30 breathtaking sandy beaches and tiny picturesque coves, Rab really is an oasis of happiness. And the last island on the race, the cherry on top – the Island of Lošinj. You'll find idyllic bays with beaches, lovely towns, and beautiful yet challenging trails here. From urban riding to rocky singletracks, steep climbs to twisting descents – a perfect way to end the race. Don't you think?

One of the best MTB Race in Europe

The race starts on April 18th on the island of Krk, where participants gather for the opening ceremony and prologue stage. From there, the riders cross over to the island of Rab, where they tackle a variety of trails and terrains. The third stage takes place on the island of Cres, and the final stage is on the island of Lošinj. Each island offers its own unique challenges and rewards, with breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences at every turn. What makes this MTB race unique is not only the Croatian islands but the fact that this is the only race where riders start the race from the deck of a boat. 

''The flawless initiative of the host, the warm welcome from the local population, and the enthusiasm of the organizing team have brought us to the eighth edition of this prestigious sports event. We are proud and happy to be able to promote mountain biking as well as the beauty of Kvarner. Our greatest praise and 'wind at our backs' are the competitors who return to us year after year, and we are now dangerously close to the set goal of positioning the 4 Islands MTB stage race as one of the most recognizable stage mountain-biking races in the world," - the organizer of the race, Tomislav Zobec.

The 4 Islands is an MTB stage race for teams of two riders. Both riders in the team must remain together throughout their time on the route. The event attracts both professional and amateur riders, with a range of prizes and awards on offer. However, the emphasis is on camaraderie and sportsmanship, with participants often forming close bonds and friendships throughout the race.

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So if you want to experience the best of Croatian mountain biking, the 4 Islands MTB Croatia race is an event not to be missed. With its stunning scenery, challenging terrain, and welcoming community, it's an adventure that will stay with you for a lifetime.