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Croatia is defined by its crystalline coastline and limestone mountains. The Adriatic highway is one of the world's great coastal drives.
Croatia offers some of the most diverse landscape experiences for travelers who believe that the journey is the destination. From the sharp mountain ridges to the coastal horizons, driving in this region is a meditative act. For those in vintage vans or heavy campers, the geography of Croatia presents both immense beauty and unique challenges.
The secondary road network here is more than just infrastructure; it is a portal to history. Many of the routes we have selected follow ancient trade paths or historic borders. Unlike the fast-paced motorways, these scenic drives allow you to stop in small villages where time seems to have slowed down.
In Croatia, the "Slow Road" philosophy is deeply rooted in local culture. Whether it is a wine-growing region with centuries-old cellars or a high-altitude mountain pass that is only open a few months a year, the pacing of the road dictates the pace of your discovery.
Many roads in this region feature gradients above 10%. If you are traveling in a classic vehicle with a smaller engine, ensure your cooling system is in top shape before attempting the climbs we have marked as "Steep".
Timing is everything in Croatia. The high passes are often snow-locked until late May, while the coastal routes shine brightest in the golden hours of early autumn. We recommend allowing at least 25% more time than GPS suggests—not because of traffic, but because you will want to stop for the view.
Our collection for Croatia includes 4 verified tracks. Each has been selected for its unique "slow" quality—minimal billboard interference, maximum horizon contact, and a road surface that speaks to the character of the land.
Many of these routes go deep into rural territory. Ensure you have enough fuel and fresh water, as services can be sparse on the secondary networks of this region.
The Jadranska Magistrala (D8) is one of the world's most beautiful coastal roads. Snaking along the rugged Croatian coastline from Rijeka to Dubrovnik, it offers crystal clear turquoise water on one side and dramatic karst mountains on the other. Hundreds of curves, hidden coves, and historic stone towns. Mostly flat with some coastal gradients, perfect for cruising with the windows down.
Explore the Roman and Venetian charm of the Istrian peninsula. This route loops along the coast from Pula with its massive Roman amphitheater to the romantic hill towns of Motovun and Grožnjan. It offers a mix of Italian-style landscapes, olive groves, and the crystal blue Adriatic. The roads are mostly gentle hills, perfect for a vintage VW.
The spectacular continuation of the Adriatic Highway. This southern stretch from Split to Dubrovnik takes you through the heart of Dalmatia. You'll drive along the Makarska Riviera, beneath the towering Biokovo mountains, and cross the impressive Pelješac Bridge. It's a journey of crystal water, olive groves, and historic harbor towns. The road is scenic and features some coastal climbs, but is generally comfortable for vintage vans. High reward for every kilometer driven.
A wild, rugged venture into Croatia's largest mountain range. This route leads through the North Velebit National Park and the Paklenica Gorges. It's a landscape of white limestone peaks, deep forests, and sudden views of the Adriatic islands. WARNING: The mountain roads are narrow and involve some steep sections. It's a raw, nature-focused experience away from the coastal crowds. Your van's brakes and cooling will be tested, but the solitude and views are incredible.
Open our interactive map to get elevation profiles, weather forecasts, and AI co-pilot insights for every single route.
Launch Interactive Map