400 Riders, 39 Countries: Why Baska Is Putting Krk on the World MTB Map

For two days in mid-April, Baska was the centre of the mountain biking world. The 11th edition of 4Islands Epic — one of the most prestigious multi-stage MTB races on the planet — began right here, on the seafront of this small harbour town on the southern tip of Krk island.

More than 400 riders from 39 countries. Two stages starting and finishing in Baška. Then onward by ferry to Cres, Unije and Lošinj — over 300 kilometres of trails and nearly 6,500 metres of climbing across five days.

Why Baska?

Because very few places offer what Baška does: wild, technical terrain five minutes from the harbour, a landscape that rewards every climb with a view worth the effort, and a community that genuinely embraces visiting athletes. Stage 1 sent riders up towards the iconic Moon Plateau, through Vrbnik and along the dramatic Dolovo descent before returning to Baška. Stage 2 — the Queen Stage — was even more demanding, combining the James Bond coastal trail with back-to-back technical climbs.

Ivana Topić, Director of the Baška Tourist Board, captured it perfectly: "This isn't just a race. It's a powerful showcase of Baška and Krk as a world-class MTB destination. Many participants arrived days early to explore the island."

Trails for Everyone

The trails ridden by elite athletes don't disappear after the race ends. The same routes — the Moon Plateau, the coastal singletracks, the vineyard paths above Vrbnik — are open to every visitor, every day of the season. Kvarner recently ranked among Europe's top three cycling tourism destinations according to the Cycle Tourism Index 2026. Baška's trails are a big reason why.

Your Active Holiday Base

Whether you're planning a full cycling tour or just a day ride, Baška makes the perfect base — direct access to the Moon Plateau, views of the Adriatic at every turn, and a harbour full of excellent restaurants to refuel. Find your apartment at splendido.hr and explore Krk on two wheels.

Photo: www.visitbaska.hr