(Photo: HTZ)
A new cross-border cycling route following the River Sava is set to become one of Europe’s most scenic long-distance cycling trails.
The Sava Cycle Route, the future EuroVelo 18, is a joint initiative between Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Serbia, connecting the river’s source to its confluence with the Danube.
Stretching over 1,136 kilometres, the route will link the European capitals of Ljubljana, Zagreb, and Belgrade by bike, offering a sustainable and adventurous way to explore the region’s landscapes, heritage, and culture.
EuroVelo, managed by the European Cyclists’ Federation (ECF), is a network of long-distance cycling routes designed to promote sustainable travel and quality cycling infrastructure across the continent.
In Croatia, the project is coordinated by the Ministry of Tourism and Sport, and the Sava Cycle Route is expected to become a certified part of the EuroVelo network by 2029, marking it as the 19th official route, and the first to pass through Bosnia and Herzegovina.
(Photo: HTZ)
The future EuroVelo 18 will take cyclists on a journey from the Alpine landscapes of Slovenia through the Pannonian plains, passing a series of charming towns, villages, and protected areas rich in natural and cultural heritage.
The route begins at the source of the Sava in Slovenia, passing through Triglav National Park, Bled, and Ljubljana before crossing into Croatia. Cyclists will then travel through Zagreb, Sisak, and Lonjsko Polje Nature Park, known for its stork village of Čigoč and traditional wooden architecture.
(Photo: HTZ)
In Bosnia and Herzegovina, the route includes Brčko and the wetlands of Bardača, while in Serbia it passes Sremska Mitrovica and Obedska Bara, ending in Belgrade, where it connects with EuroVelo routes 6, 11, and 13.
Exploring Croatia by Bike
The Croatian section of the route showcases a diverse mix of landscapes, culture, and history. Cyclists can enjoy lakes and forests near Samobor, explore historic Zagreb, and follow the Sava promenade to the Old Town of Sisak.
Further along, the route passes through Lonjsko Polje Nature Park, the Jasenovac Memorial Site, and on to Slavonski Brod, home to the impressive Brod Fortress and the house of renowned writer Ivana Brlić-Mažuranić.
From there, it continues through Županja, known for its Šokac folk traditions, and the Spačva forest basin—Europe’s largest oak forest complex.
Croatia already hosts four EuroVelo routes—EV6 (Danube Route), EV8 (Mediterranean Route), EV9 (Amber Route), and EV13 (Iron Curtain Trail)—but the Sava Cycle Route will be the first to pass through Zagreb, placing the capital firmly on the European cycling map.
(Photo: HTZ)
Beyond connecting four countries and three capitals, the project represents a major step forward for sustainable mobility and cycle tourism in the region. It aims to enhance transport connectivity, promote natural and cultural heritage, and strengthen local communities through the development of cycling infrastructure and tourism services.
