241 - From Zero to Hero

From sea level (literally) all the way to the third highest peak in Croatia, a unique, thrilling, and demanding route named "From Zero to Hero" leads you. This route, about thirty kilometers long, consists of a physically demanding ascent and an equally long, technically demanding descent, taking you to an altitude of 1762 meters and bringing you back to the Makarska beach. It makes this route the main cycling attraction of the destination and one of the most attractive in this part of Europe.

Indeed, such a configuration, with a high mountain rising directly above a very popular tourist summer destination, and with an asphalt road leading to its peak, is not easy to find anywhere in Europe. It is especially important to mention that favorable climatic conditions, even on the temperamental Biokovo, allow you to ride "From Zero to Hero" from early spring to late autumn.

The first seven kilometers of the ascent, all the way to the entrance of the Biokovo Nature Park, follow the D512 state road, which connects the Makarska Riviera with Zabiokovlje. Upon entering the Nature Park, you switch to the Biokovo road, the highest road in Croatia, which ascends to the top through numerous switchbacks in a pine forest. After passing the Vrata Biokova restaurant, the pine trees are replaced by mountain meadows, where you can even see wild horses or free-roaming cattle.

At the 18th kilometer of the ascent and an altitude of 1128 meters, you'll find the Skywalk Biokovo, after which the final part of the ascent begins. It's worth noting that the last 4 kilometers are the most demanding, with gradients reaching up to 20%.