Cycling is one of those sports that’s both exhilarating and deeply painful. One moment, you’re flying down an open road, the wind in your face, the Adriatic shimmering to your right. The next, you’re halfway up a soul-crushing climb, wondering why you voluntarily signed up for this.
And yet, you love it.
That’s why you’re here. Because UCI Istria Gran Fondo isn’t just another ride—it’s a spectacular, brutal, unmissable cycling event that will test your endurance, thrill your senses, and give you an excuse to eat an ungodly amount of pasta afterward.
Event Details – When and Where the Madness Begins
Date: April 11 – April 12, 2025
Location: Umag & Novigrad, Croatia
Race Options:
- Gran Fondo (136 km) – The full experience, for those who believe pain is temporary but glory is forever.
- Medio Fondo (94 km) – Slightly less intense, but still demanding enough to make you reconsider your life choices at least once.
Both routes take you through coastal roads, medieval villages, rolling vineyards, and hills that will make your legs beg for mercy.
Why Ride the UCI Istria Gran Fondo?
This isn’t just a race. It’s a journey through some of the most breathtaking and leg-destroying terrain in Europe. Here’s why you should absolutely sign up:
🌊 Scenic Coastal Routes – If you’re going to suffer, you might as well do it with the Adriatic Sea sparkling beside you.
🚵 Varied Terrain – Smooth, fast sections where you’ll feel like a Tour de France pro, followed by climbs that will humble you completely.
🍷 The Post-Race Reward – Cross the finish line and recover with fresh seafood, local wine, and the satisfaction of having survived.
🏁 Start and Finish in Umag – No need to deal with complicated logistics. Just show up, ride hard, and collapse into a chair afterward.
Where to Stay – Petite Miranda, Because You’ll Need a Comfortable Bed
After 136 kilometers of sweat, determination, and possibly shouting at your legs to keep moving, you’ll need a place to recover and recharge. That’s where Petite Miranda in Umag comes in.
✔ Bike-friendly accommodation – Easy access to race areas, and no one will judge you for walking funny after the race.
✔ Perfect location – Close to race check-ins, restaurants, and the coastline for a post-ride swim.
✔ Peaceful retreat – Because you’ll want somewhere quiet when your legs feel like they’ve been through a war.
Book Direct & Save
Skip the booking fees and reserve your stay directly. More money saved = more post-race pizza and wine.
Tips for Surviving UCI Istria Gran Fondo
✅ Train for the Climbs – They’re not Alps-level brutal, but they’ll still make you regret not doing more hill repeats.
✅ Arrive Early – Get to Umag a day or two before to shake off the travel fatigue and explore.
✅ Refuel Like a Pro – Post-race, get yourself a plate of Istrian truffle pasta, grilled fish, or anything involving olive oil and wine. You’ve earned it.
Final Thought – Just Sign Up Already
The UCI Istria Gran Fondo is the perfect mix of scenic riding, endurance-testing climbs, and rewarding descents. It’s an event where you’ll push your limits, take in some of the best cycling roads in Croatia, and leave with stories to tell for years.
So, whether you’re here to chase a personal best, enjoy a stunning ride, or simply survive to the finish line, one thing is certain: you won’t forget this experience.
Book your stay at Petite Miranda, sign up for the race, and get ready for one hell of a ride.
