Big Bike Adventures in Dubrovnik-Neretva County: Ride Beyond the Walls
Here’s the thing about Dubrovnik — most people never look past the Old Town. They come, they walk the walls, they snap a few photos, and then they leave. But if you’re sitting on a BMW GS1000 or KTM Adventure, Dubrovnik is just the starting line.
Within the county itself — no borders, no customs, no passport stamps — you can ride through winding mountain passes, cruise along open valleys, and find quiet coastal villages that most tourists never hear about. And the best part? You’ll have the power and comfort of a big adventure bike to eat up those kilometers like they’re nothing.
So, let me show you some of the best rides you can take without ever leaving Dubrovnik-Neretva County.
Why Ride Big Bikes in Dubrovnik’s Region
Scooters are perfect for short hops, but big bikes shine when you want:
- Distance – This county stretches long and thin, meaning lots of variety.
- Terrain – You’ve got mountains, valleys, and coastlines — sometimes all in one ride.
- Freedom – With luggage capacity, you can do multi-day loops without hassle.
And let’s be honest, carving through Adriatic roads on a GS1000? That’s a memory you’ll talk about for years.
Route 1: The Pelješac Peninsula – Wine Roads & Coastal Curves
If there’s one ride you absolutely can’t skip, it’s Pelješac.
Leaving Dubrovnik, head toward Ston (famous for its massive stone walls — second only to the Great Wall of China). From there, the peninsula stretches like a biker’s dream: twisting coastal roads, sweeping vineyards, and seafood villages.
Highlights:
- Ston Walls & Salt Pans – A quick stop for history and photos.
- Orebić – A coastal town where you can park your bike and hop on a ferry to Korčula (even just for lunch).
- Vineyards – Dingač and Postup wine roads cut right through the hills. On a big bike, those steep climbs feel effortless.
Route 2: Konavle Valley – Rivers, Villages, and Mountains
South of Dubrovnik, near the airport, lies Konavle, one of the county’s hidden gems.
Here, the ride is a mix of open valley roads, traditional stone villages, and forest-covered hills. With a big bike, you can easily explore every corner, from riverside trails to quiet mountain passes.
Highlights:
- Cavtat – A seaside town that feels like a relaxed mini-Dubrovnik.
- Ljuta River – Stop by the old watermills for a taste of local history.
- Velji Do – Winding roads take you up to panoramic viewpoints over the valley.
Route 3: Coastal Ride to Slano & Beyond
Sometimes the simple rides are the most rewarding. Head north from Dubrovnik along the Adriatic Highway toward Slano.
This road hugs the sea, offering constant views of cliffs, coves, and the open Adriatic. With the GS1000 or KTM, the smooth curves feel like they were made for big bikes.
Highlights:
- Zaton – A quiet bay town perfect for a coffee stop.
- Slano – Great for a seafood lunch by the water.
- Hidden Bays – Just pull off where the road allows and you’ll find your own private slice of coastline.
Route 4: Inland Villages & The Dubrovnik Highlands
If you want to escape the coast completely, ride inland into the Dubrovnik Highlands. Few tourists make it here, which makes it even better for riders.
The roads are quieter, the air cooler, and the scenery shifts from olive groves to rugged hills. Big bikes handle the climbs and longer stretches effortlessly.
Highlights:
- Dubravka – A tiny village with incredible views over Konavle.
- Topolo – Traditional stone houses surrounded by untouched landscapes.
- Mount Snježnica – The highest peak in the county, with challenging roads leading up.
Route 5: Neretva Delta – Wetlands, Villages, and Open Roads
For a complete change of pace, head north toward the Neretva Delta. This area feels nothing like Dubrovnik — it’s flat, green, and filled with rivers and wetlands.
It’s famous for citrus orchards, birdwatching, and long straight roads that let you stretch the bike’s legs. Perfect if you want a relaxed ride after days of curvy coastal routes.
Highlights:
- Metković – A lively town at the heart of the valley.
- Vid – Ancient Roman ruins tucked by the river.
- Delta Wetlands – A peaceful ride through a completely different landscape.
Multi-Day Loop Idea (Within Dubrovnik-Neretva)
Want to make a mini-adventure out of it? Here’s a loop that stays fully inside the county:
- Day 1: Dubrovnik → Konavle Valley → Overnight in Cavtat.
- Day 2: Cavtat → Pelješac Peninsula → Overnight in Orebić.
- Day 3: Orebić → Neretva Delta → Return to Dubrovnik.
That’s coast, valley, vineyards, and wetlands in just three days — no border crossings required.
Tips for a Smooth Ride
- Fuel Up Early – Stations are limited in the highlands and Pelješac.
- Watch the Wind – Coastal roads can get windy, especially in spring.
- Plan Lunch Stops – Tiny villages are perfect for local food, but not every place has restaurants open all year.
- Ride Steady – Goats, sheep, and tractors sometimes share the inland roads.
Why Rent Your Big Bike with Us
At Ragusa, we know riders. That’s why we’ve stocked up on big adventure machines like the BMW GS1000 and KTM Adventure — bikes that thrive in this kind of landscape.
We keep them well-maintained, fully equipped with side panniers and helmets, and we’re always just a phone call away if you need support. Whether you’re heading into Montenegro’s mountains or Croatia’s wild north, we’ve got your back.
With us, you’ll get:
- Well-maintained bikes, ready for long rides.
- Side panniers for your gear.
- 24/7 support if you need it.
- Pick-up at Dubrovnik airport, port, or city.
Basically, everything you need to ride stress-free.
Conclusion
Dubrovnik-Neretva County is more than a postcard city on the sea. It’s winding wine roads, quiet valleys, mountain passes, and open coastal highways — and the best way to experience all of it is on a big bike.
Whether you’re sipping wine in Pelješac, carving through Konavle’s hills, or cruising the Neretva wetlands, every ride brings something new. And the beauty? You don’t even need to leave the county to find it.
So if you’re ready to see Dubrovnik beyond the walls, grab a BMW GS1000 or KTM Adventure and hit the road. Trust me — the real Dubrovnik starts where the city ends.