Cycling
Malinska
The Heart of Dubašnica
Through a unique area of Adriatic flora and fauna
Karakteristike
The trail is intended for mountain bikers with moderate fitness and technical skills, and it will take you through the western part of Dubašnica. From Porat, across Fumak, and to the cove of Čavlena where you can refresh yourself during the summer months, this trail offers insight into the everyday life of the rural part of the island of Krk. Long gravel paths, along with some technically demanding sections, will simply disappear under your wheels as you enjoy views of olive groves, pastures and old oaks, after which this area is named.
The trail starts in the picturesque fishing village of Porat, located in a small port sheltered from the wind. It used to be the starting point for numerous fishermen who spent their nights fishing in ‘ladvas’, small boats carved from oak trunks. You can still taste fresh fish in many taverns in Porat. At the beginning of the tour, visit the Franciscan Monastery of St. Mary Magdalene from 1480, home to Glagolitic Franciscans. Within the monastery, there is a museum with sacral, ethnographic, and archaeological collections, an olive oil production facility (‘toš’), and a Glagolitic lapidarium in the courtyard. The trail leads through the shade of dense oak forest and winds among dry stone walls that enclose lush olive groves. The mosaic and spatial arrangement of forests and agricultural areas, connected by ancient paths and embraced by the sea, make the landscape so special. The evidence for the millennia-long continuity of life in this part of the island are its prehistoric settlements, the remains of Illyrian forts, and medieval abandoned villages, while the beneficial climate and environment confirm the unique biodiversity of Dubašnica.
The trail will then take you to the picturesque cove of Čavlena, a perfect spot for a short break and enjoying the view of the Kvarner Bay. If you are riding here in the spring months, your attention will surely be captured by orchids and wild asparagus, wild plants that simply thrive right before your eyes. Continue riding past old oaks and puddles, olive groves and pastures to Fumak. The Way of the Cross will lead you from the gravel path to the viewpoint, and at the top of the hill stands a huge votive cross. It was erected by Petar Trp as a vow for his recovery from an accident that happened to him while working in a forest in distant Australia. Take a deep breath and enjoy the view of the island of Cres, Rijeka, and the peaks of Gorski Kotar.
You return to Porat, riding from village to village, along fenced pastures where flocks of sheep graze peacefully.
