The GLR 49

The Primorje-Gorski Kotar County of western Croatia translates literally to Coastal-Hills County. The county comprises some larger regions like the highlands of the Gorski Kotar region and the Kvarner Gulf of the Croatian Littoral region. With a population of around 300k inhabitants, mostly located in the coastal towns, the Primorje-Gorski Kotar County feels like the Mediterranean, but without the tourists.

The Kvarner Gulf, sometimes referred to as the Kvarner Bay, is located in the Northern Adriatic Sea, just between the Istrian Peninsula and the Northern Littoral mainland. Its largest islands like Cres, Krk, Pag, Rab, and Lošinj are visible from the mainland. The bay is also the densely populated area of the region.

To the North, you’ll find the green lungs of Croatia. Sometimes referred to as Croatian Switzerland. This highland area is a dream for us as adventure riders. With its peaks rising above 1500m and 63% of its surface is forested, you’ll find yourself riding amongst the endless forest roads.

This region is best explored during the spring and autumn months due to its wet and sometimes stormy summers. Expect during the summer months temperatures above 35 degrees celsius.

The Inner Carniola region is the smallest and least populated region of Slovenia. This South-Western region is especially known for its dense forests. With its most famous natural landmarks the Postojna Cave and Lake Cerknica, it isn’t the most spectacular region to explore.

But why would you explore this region then? Well, it has an immense network of forest roads crossing through almost every forest. Combine this with an extremely low population density and almost no tourists, and you have yourself the perfect place to adventure ride.

One important side note, bears are living in the forests! So be aware when you’re planning to camp. Always hide your food outside the camp!

The statistical region of Southeast Slovenia is best known for its quietness. Far away from the large cities like Ljubljana and Maribor. Southeast Slovenia consists of 21 independent municipalities. The region has no other function than just a statistic.

Endless forests and rolling hills cover the landscape of this region. There’s no need to worry about crowded places with tourists strolling around. Southeast Slovenia attracts only 3% of Slovenia’s tourists, so that means there’s a lot left for us as adventurisers.

More than half of Slovenia is forested, and this region is no exception. It’s here where you’ll find endless forest roads, with even more opportunities to get lost. It is in the Kočevje municipality where you’ll find remnants of primeval forests. If you love to explore winding forest roads, this is the region for you!

Combine this with the Dinaric Alps of southern Slovenia, and you have adventure rider heaven. The Dinaric Alps are one of the most rugged mountainous areas of Europe besides the Alps, the Pyrenees, and the Scandinavian Mountains.

Connections in Kamenjak

On top of a hill near the Northern Croatian Town of Kamenjak, the GLR 49 comes to an end. But don’t be fooled! Here you’re able to continue your motorcycle adventure in two distinct directions. From your vantage point, you see the Istrian peninsula.

The GLR 48 will guide you through this beautiful region and eventually across the border into Slovenia. With a total length of 361 kilometers, be prepared to spend several days on this adventure route. With 113 kilometers of off-road sections, this GLR is an adventure worthy one!

Or look to the south. This region is explored by the GLR 51. With 167 kilometers of length, this adventure route leads you down south towards the Bosnian border. With 37.6 kilometers of off-road sections and many more unholy potholed roads, this is one of my personal favorites in the region.