Mountain Biking

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Pedal through pristine coastal trails, lush Mediterranean forests, and rugged island peaks on this MTB sailing expedition from Italy’s Gargano Peninsula to Croatia’s remote archipelagos. Designed for beginners to seasoned mountain bikers, the route blends daily rides with island-hopping aboard a luxury catamaran. From ancient forests and vineyard-lined hills to rocky singletracks and seafront paths, every ride is matched with crystal-clear swims, sunset sails, and laid-back local culture.

Adventure Insights

Location:

Island hop in Gargano National Park (Italy), Lastovo, Korčula, Hvar, and Vis (Croatia)

Difficulty:

Beginner to Advanced - 30 to 60 km with 600 to 1,300 m elevation.

Duration:

8

Itinerary

Ride point-to-point across two countries - Italy and Croatia - on trails shaped by nature and tradition. Each day presents a new landscape and terrain, from the shaded tracks of Foresta Umbra to the dramatic ridgelines of Korčula and Hvar. Routes vary in length, surface, and elevation, making them adaptable to the group’s skill level and energy. Crew ensure every ride ends with a well-earned rest in a quiet bay, local harbor, or scenic anchorage.
Day 1:
Welcome and Sail to Vieste
Excess 14 catamaran sailing on open water with a scenic coastal landscape in the background

Arrival at Rodi Garganico by 15:00. Welcome aboard your private yacht, meet the crew, and set sail for Vieste. Enjoy a relaxing 2-2.5 hour sail along Puglia’s scenic coastline, arriving in the historic seaside town of Vieste. Walk its narrow streets, admire Pizzomunno rock, and take in the vibrant marina atmosphere before dinner on board.

Meals: Snacks & Dinner
Accommodation: Private Sailboat
Day 2:
Foresta Umbra Loop – Gargano National Park
Mountain biker navigating off-trail paths through the dense woods of Foresta Umbra in Italy’s Gargano National Park

From Vieste, embark on a forested MTB adventure through the ancient beech woods of the Foresta Umbra in Gargano National Park. Ride a mix of flowing trails and technical forest paths, with views of Lake Otri and a visit to the Sfilzi spring. Return to the marina for dinner and a well-earned rest.

Distance: 60 km / Elevation Gain: 1,300 m
Meals: Breakfast/brunch, snacks, and dinner

Day 3:
Sail to Lastovo
Excess 14 catamaran sailing on open water, photographed from a nearby boat, surrounded by waves and wind.

Full sailing day across the Adriatic. Depart early and enjoy 7–8 hours of open-water sailing, with opportunities to relax, swim, and enjoy onboard meals. Arrive at Lastovo in the late afternoon and prepare for the riding ahead. Anchor in a quiet bay surrounded by pine forests and stargaze from the deck.


Meals: Breakfast/Brunch, Snacks and Dinner
Day 4:
Lastovo MTB Tour and Sail to Korčula
Mountain biker riding along a coastal trail with rocky cliffs on the right and a panoramic blue sea view descending downhill.

Ride from Lastovo village through pine forests and rocky trails, with stops in quiet coastal hamlets like Zaklopatica. Explore hidden coves and scenic viewpoints before returning for lunch. In the afternoon, sail to Korčula (4 hours) and dock in Vela Luka.

Distance: 40 km / 24 miles (elevation 900 m)
Meals: Breakfast/brunch, snacks and dinner

Day 5:
Korčula MTB Loop and Sail to Hvar
Uphill grind through pine-scented trails - mountain biker pushing toward the summit with sea views behind.

Set off on a thrilling loop from Vela Luka through olive groves and quiet coastal roads. Stop in fishing villages and crest ridgelines with panoramic sea views. Return for lunch and sail to Hvar, anchoring in Sveta Nedjelja.

Distance: 51 km / Elevation Gain: 1,100 m

Meals: Breakfast/brunch, snacks and dinner

Day 6:
MTB Adventure on Hvar and Sail to Vis
High above the waves - mountain biker rides a rugged cliffside trail with endless blue sea views.

Today’s loop starts in Sveta Nedjelja and climbs to St. Nicholas, Hvar’s highest point. Ride through lavender fields and vineyard terraces before descending to the sea. In the afternoon, enjoy a 3-4 hour sail to Vis.

Distance: 40 km / Elevation Gain: 850 m
Meals: Breakfast/brunch, snacks and dinner

Day 7:
MTB on Vis and Night Sail to Rodi Garganico
Tight trail, big views—mountain biker hugging the coastline with the sea shimmering just below

Explore Vis island with a morning ride from the town to Mount Hum, passing vineyards, coastal cliffs, and remnants of WWII tunnels. Return in the afternoon and prepare for a night crossing back to Italy.

Distance: 42 km / Elevation Gain: 1,150 m
Meals: Breakfast/brunch, snacks and dinner

Day 8:
Disembark in Rodi Garganico
Catamaran drifting into golden hour - bathed in red hues of a perfect sea sunset, Maca serenity on the water.

Wake up to a calm Adriatic morning and enjoy breakfast onboard before disembarking by 9:00. Farewell to crew and fellow adventurers.

Meals: Breakfast

Meet your guides

Robert riding a mountain bike along a coastal trail with panoramic sea views in the background.
Robert - Chief Guide

Robert, a seasoned mountain biker, explores Europe's challenging trails. His passion and deep knowledge of diverse terrains make him an excellent guide for your unforgettable Gargano MTB adventure.

Skipper Carlo at the helm of the Excess 14 catamaran during a Maca sailing adventure
Carlo - Chief Skipper

Carlo, our Chief Skipper, is the backbone of every sailing adventure. With years navigating the Adriatic, he ensures safety, smooth sailing, and the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.

Explore the Boats

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Matì - Catamaran

Sail with Maca’s Excess 14, where unmatched comfort meets top-tier performance. Perfect for unforgettable adventures on the open sea.

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Don Carlo - Sailing Yacht

Explore the Adriatic aboard the Sun Odyssey 490 - spacious, comfortable, built for adventure.

Matì - Catamaran

Sail with Maca’s Excess 14, where unmatched comfort meets top-tier performance. Perfect for unforgettable adventures on the open sea.

Don Carlo - Sailing Yacht

Explore the Adriatic aboard the Sun Odyssey 490 - spacious, comfortable, and built for adventure.

8

Days

€3,000
/Person
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Things to Know

What’s Included in Your Maca Adventure?

Your 8-day MTB and sailing journey covers:

  • 8-day guided and supported MTB adventure across Italy’s Gargano National Park and Croatia’s Lastovo, Korčula, Hvar, and Vis islands.
  • Accommodation aboard a private yacht or catamaran (Excess 14 or equivalent).
  • Certified MTB guide and technical support crew.
  • Tender boat support for access to trail start points.
  • Bed linen and bath towels provided.
  • All meals as listed in the itinerary (mix of onboard meals and select local trattoria experiences).
  • Full onboard comfort: Wi-Fi, AC, generator, watermaker, SUP, and snorkel gear.
  • Fuel and onboard utilities included.
  • Technical briefings and daily itinerary support from the adventure team.
  • Shuttle service to/from Bari or Pescara available on request.
  • Port fees outside Marina di Rodi Garganico included.
  • Onboard Cash Fund: €300 per person (payable at boarding) for food, pantry service, bedsheets, towels, and communal onboard expenses.

If you have dietary preferences or restrictions, let us know at booking, and we’ll accommodate them.

Add-Ons and Fees:

  • Onboard Cash Fund (€300): Payable upon arrival to cover communal costs; this is a required contribution.
  • Optional Mountain Bike Rental: Available for those who prefer to rent a mountain bike rather than bring their own. Please contact us in advance to arrange.

What’s Not Included?

  • Flights to/from Italy.
  • Personal mountain bike and helmet (rental available on request).
  • Personal expenses and souvenirs.
  • Meals on land (where not listed).
  • Travel and medical insurance (mandatory).
  • Alcoholic beverages (optional shared fund).
  • Transfers from Bari or Pescara (available on request at a special price).
  • Anything not explicitly listed under “What’s Included.”

How fit do I need to be?

This adventure is designed for riders of all levels. Daily rides range from 30 to 60 km, with 600–1,300 m of elevation gain, covering a mix of technical singletracks, rolling forest trails, and smoother options.

A solid fitness level is recommended: aim for 2–3 sessions per week (30 minutes each) incorporating high-intensity intervals and strength training. The e-MTB setup allows flexible pacing, and you’ll have two batteries per day to manage effort.

Our experienced guide and support crew will tailor routes to group abilities and provide coaching and assistance throughout. If fatigue sets in, a support vehicle is available for transfers.

What if I’ve never mountain biked before?

Previous MTB experience is recommended. Riders should feel confident on gentle singletracks, rocky terrain, and occasional exposed paths. We’ll tailor trails to suit beginner through advanced levels, but participants should be comfortable riding up to 40 km daily with up to 1,300 m of climbing.

Safety and enjoyment are top priorities - your guide will provide coaching, technical support, and transfer assistance if needed. Increasing your riding frequency before the trip will help you get the most from the adventure.

What do I need to bring?

Personal Gear

  • MTB helmet & cycling shoes
  • Bike gloves & protective eyewear
  • Knee and elbow pads (recommended)
  • Waterproof jacket & windbreaker
  • MTB shorts (2 pairs minimum)
  • Breathable base layers & tops
  • Socks & neck gaiter
  • Warm jacket, hat, gloves for cooler evenings
  • Sunscreen & SPF lip balm
  • Hydration system (Camelback or bottles)
  • 20L+ daypack with rain cover
  • Swimwear, towel, personal toiletries

Bike Essentials (if bringing your own)

  • Repair kit: multi-tool, spare tubes, pump, tire levers
  • Spare brake pads (x2 sets)
  • Tubeless repair kit (if applicable)
  • Quick link & derailleur hanger
  • Extra e-bike battery & charger
  • Full service before the trip (including suspension check)

General Gear for All Maca Adventures

  • Flip flops or sandals (for the boat)
  • Clean, non-marking shoes (for the deck)
  • Beach towel & personal towel
  • Waterproof windbreaker
  • Swimwear, sunscreen, after-sun lotion
  • Personal medications, power bank, small daypack
  • Pack for warm days and cool evenings, with layers for variable weather

Group Sizes, age Requirements, Meals and Accommodations

  • Group size: 5-10 participants (one guide per group).
  • Private adventures: groups of 5-11 with customizable itineraries.
Age requirements:
  • 18+ welcome without restrictions.
  • 60+: please contact us to discuss suitability.
  • 14+: welcome with parent/guardian if able to handle sustained climbs and rough terrain (e-bikes can weigh up to 24kg).
Meals and Accommodations
  • Onboard breakfast/brunch and dinners plus select local trattoria experiences.
  • Shared cabins on a spacious yacht/catamaran with bed linens and towels.
  • Full onboard comfort: Wi-Fi, AC, generator, watermaker, SUP, snorkel gear.

How do I get there?

Your adventure starts at Marina di Rodi Garganico, a charming marina surrounded by beaches and citrus groves, offering direct access to the Adriatic.

Getting There:

  • By Train: Direct regional trains from Foggia, Bari, and Rome.
  • By Car: Via A14 and SS693, with secure long-term parking at the marina.
  • By Shuttle (on request): Transfers from Bari or Pescara airports/train stations.
  • By Air: Bari (BRI) or Pescara (PSR) airports are both about 2 hours away.

Optional pre-departure accommodation is available in or near Rodi Garganico for those arriving a day early.

Safety Measures and Insurance

Travel and medical insurance are mandatory, covering trip cancellations, medical emergencies, evacuation, and unforeseen travel disruptions. Adventure travel insurance can be arranged after booking. We’re happy to help you find the right coverage.

Payment Policies, Cancellations, and Notes

Full payment due at booking to secure your spot.

Cancellation Policy:

  • More than 45 days before departure: full refund.
  • 45-30 days: 50% refund.
  • Less than 30 days: no refund.

Important:

  • All cancellation requests via email.
  • Onboard extras payable in cash at boarding.
  • If Maca cancels: full refund or transfer to another trip (Maca is not responsible for flights/accommodations booked).

Force Majeure: refunds not possible for events beyond our control, but we’ll help transfer your booking whenever possible.

Ready to hit the trails?

Pack smarter, travel lighter. Discover the must-have essentials for your journey and make every trip unforgettable!