For the majority of mountain bikers, travelling to a mountain bike race is about more than just the time you complete the event in, or your position. It is also about the event itself, the atmosphere, the destination, the people… everything that makes up the total experience.
A new mountain bike stage race has started in Croatia, and it is built on the mountain biking, and the experience. While a race based in one location can be a lot easier to run, and even compete in, the new 4 Islands MTB Stage Race does exactly what it says on the tin. You race on four islands: Krk, Rab, Cres and Lošinj. The four days of racing covers 270km and 5000m of climbing. Not nearly as much climbing as races like the Beskidy MTB Challenge or Bike 4 Peaks – but perfect for April.
The race takes racers through technical terrain, centuries old villages, and up steep climbs over mountain tops. Acccommodation can be booked in hotels, a camp, on boats and in mobile homes.
Racing starts on 15th April 2015, and finishes on 18th April 2015. If racing in Croatia is sounding good, head to the event website for further details.