Dalmatinska Zagora – Split Hinterland

The beauty of the central Dalmatian coast and islands is famous far and wide. But Dalmatia is more than an enchanting coastline. Behind the steep mountains that tower over the beaches and resorts of central Dalmatia lies the Dalmatian interior: spacious, unspoilt, just as beautiful and still largely undiscovered, offering a much-needed contrast to the bustle of the coast and the summer crowds.

The vast inland area to the north-west, north and north-east of Split is part of Dalmatinska Zagora, a somewhat broader term. “Split Hinterland” is therefore the most accurate and concise name for the region that stretches from Vrlika and Lake Peruća in the north-west, through Sinj, Dugopolje and Klis in the centre, to Trilj in the east. Framed by the Dinara, Kamešnica and Svilaja mountains inland and by Kozjak and Mosor to the south, and tied together by the lovely landscapes of the Cetina region, this whole area is a natural paradise within easy reach of the coastal resorts.

It is still Dalmatia, full of sunshine and Mediterranean scents and flavours, but complemented by wide, green and fertile karst fields ringed by mountains, creating a dynamic, varied and challenging landscape that seems made for exploring by bike. The Split Hinterland builds its identity as a destination on being “close, yet far enough” from the busy coastal resorts.

A whole network of road, trekking and mountain-bike routes has been created here for riders of every profile, whether you are after a gentle family ride, a bigger recreational challenge or serious cycling tests. The routes take you through the most beautiful parts of the destination, to valuable cultural and historical sights and to the best food and wine of the region.