Istra Land 2022 started with a simple idea: ride across Istria in two days, sleep once, and keep moving. Together with Žan Kuralt and Davor Remec, joined by Mitja Rošer at the very start, we set off after several days of heavy rain across the region. What was supposed to be a straightforward bikepacking route soon became a much wetter, slower, and more unpredictable adventure than expected.
Ride overview:
// Location
Istria, Croatia, Slovenia
Istria, Croatia, Slovenia
// Distance
430 km
430 km
// Elevation gain
6,650 m
6,650 m
// Total time
43 h 36 min
43 h 36 min
The plan sounded simple enough: get over Učka, the highest point in the first half of the route, then enjoy a faster and mostly flat section towards Kamenjak, take a short rest, and make our way back through Istria towards Motovun, Slovenia, and finally the finish.
// At least, that was the theory.
Soon after the descent from Učka, the story changed completely. The route, the weather, and the terrain had other plans. What was supposed to be a straightforward two-day bikepacking ride slowly turned into a proper adventure, wet, unpredictable, exhausting, and unforgettable.
// More of the story is in the film. You can also find extra images, small moments, and a more expanded view of the ride in my Instagram Highlights section: Istraland 2022.
Partners in crime:
Ignac Bakše
Žan Kuralt
Davor Remec
