The Trail That Captures Croatia’s Soul
The Via Adriatica Trail is the ultimate adventure for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and those seeking a challenge. Spanning an incredible 1,100 kilometers from Istria to Dubrovnik, this is Croatia’s first long-distance hiking trail. It takes you through lush forests, rugged mountains, hidden springs, and offers breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea. Along the way, you’ll traverse national parks, nature reserves, charming villages, and untouched wilderness, discovering stories of nature, history, and the people of this unique region.
The beauty of the Via Adriatica Trail lies in its flexibility: you don’t have to tackle the entire route at once. You can choose your favorite section or commit to a multi-day journey that just might transform your perspective on life. That’s exactly what I did, embarking on the first segment from Cape Kamenjak to Poklon on Mount Učka.
A Personal Dream Realized
Ever since I first heard about the Via Adriatica Trail and interviewed its early hikers, I’ve dreamt of experiencing it myself. For a long time, though, multi-day hiking seemed like a challenge I wasn’t ready for. That changed when I completed the Highlander Velebit event and fell in love with long-distance trekking.
There’s something intoxicating about multi-day hikes that strip away the demands of everyday life. On the trail, your world narrows to a simple rhythm: wake, walk, eat, sleep. This minimalist routine becomes liberating. Despite tough sections or challenging weather, you adapt, merging with your backpack as your legs move almost instinctively. Stepping out of your comfort zone feels like hitting a mental and physical reset button. Eventually, you stop overthinking and simply exist in the moment—a rare luxury in today’s world.
A Trail Born from Passion
The visionaries behind this extraordinary trail, Bruno Mezić and Srećko Vukov, are passionate hikers and nature lovers. They conceptualized the Via Adriatica in 2015, aiming to create a 1,100-kilometer route connecting Croatia’s mountains and coastlines. The trail begins at Cape Kamenjak near Pula and ends at the Prevlaka Peninsula in Konavle, Croatia’s southernmost point.
The trail is divided into 13 stages, each starting and ending at a road crossing to simplify logistics for hikers. It links major mountain ranges, including Učka, Risnjak, Velebit, Dinara, Kozjak, Biokovo, and the Sniježnica above Konavle.
Bruno and Srećko spent years mapping out the trail. Initially, they hiked with friends to record GPS tracks and capture photos and videos to promote the project. The mountaineering community embraced their idea, with volunteers, hikers, and even the Croatian Mountain Rescue Service (HGSS) contributing to the effort.
A Journey of Discovery
When I learned that Bruno and Srećko would guide sections of the trail through their Go Wild Adventure agency starting in 2025, I knew I had to join. Typically, I prefer independent travel, but the opportunity to hike with the creators of the trail was irresistible.
Our six-day, 115-kilometer journey from Cape Kamenjak to Poklon on Mount Učka was as daunting as it was rewarding. Each day began at the previous day’s endpoint, with transportation arranged for both hikers and supplies. Nights were spent in comfort, ensuring a warm shower after hours of trekking.
Our group consisted of diverse individuals, each with unique stories, forming a tight-knit “hiking family.” We shared laughter, challenges, and even braved the fierce winter bora winds together. These are the moments that forge lifelong bonds and create memories to cherish.
The Path to Učka
We began our adventure at Cape Kamenjak, the trail’s starting point, with Mount Učka’s peak, Vojak, looming in the distance. Over the days, what initially seemed an unattainable goal grew closer, becoming tangible as we neared Plomin.
We were blessed with favorable weather. While rain had soaked the region days earlier, clear skies returned. However, winter brought strong bora winds, which chilled us to the bone but added a raw beauty to the experience.
The trail led us through Medulin, Ližnjan, Raša, Labin, and Plomin, across streams, cliffs, and fields, culminating at the icy summit of Vojak. Despite the lack of a view due to fog, the wintery conditions added a special charm to our trek.
A Test of Resilience
Over six days, we hiked 123 kilometers, gained 4,337 meters of elevation, and faced diverse conditions—from sunshine to biting winds and snow. Each step taught us the power of perseverance and the joy of simple living.
More than a physical achievement, this journey connected us deeply with our fellow hikers and the trail itself. It’s an experience that few can fully understand, yet it’s one we’ll carry with us forever.
As we completed the trail and looked back at Mount Učka, we realized the journey wasn’t just about reaching a destination. It was about embracing the challenge, finding inner peace, and forming unbreakable bonds.
Would I do it again? Absolutely. Plans are already in the works for the next adventure
