141-Through the ancient Podstrana hamlets
Protected in the embrace of the coastal massif of Perun hill, the picturesque coast of Podstrana stretches from the border of Split towards the capes of Dugi Rat, while it is protected from the impact of open space on the sea side by the islands of Brač, Šolta and Čiovo. It is a destination in the heart of central Dalmatia, safely anchored in the Kaštela Bay, which promises an enjoyable holiday full of fun experiences with its gentle coasts and beaches, but also with its adrenaline-pumping hinterland. The hill named after the Old Slavonic god Perun, the lord of lightning and thunder, preserves the rich remains of Illyrian culture, ancient remains and medieval churches. St. George on Vršina, the hill above the village of Podstrana, is the oldest local church built right next to the prehistoric fortress in the 11th century, from when the unexplored cemetery next to the church also dates. From St. George’s church on Perunski, mentioned in 1397, there is a spectacular view of the mouth of Žrnovnica, the Split field, the passes of Mosor, the sea and the islands, while St. Fabian and Sebastian’s church was built in the vineyards as a votive chapel due to the plague epidemic.
Podstrana
14,5km
2:30h
Technical characteristics
One long climb, a number of short climbs and descents along with one longer descent on the way back characterise this trail. The surface ranges from asphalt roads at the beginning to fine macadam, concrete roads and single stony and earth tracks. The climb, which beings at the very start of the route and extends to 4.6 km, is asphalted in the first part, but later changes to a combination of fine macadam and concrete. The average slope of the first part is over 12% with a maximum reaching to 22.1% over a length of 100 metres, which means that the climb is of medium to high physical demand. It is followed by a ride on undulating terrain with very frequent changes of surface – from fine to rougher macadam, narrow streets and concrete roads to more technically demanding single tracks. The last descent is the longest and is characterised by a macadam surface and pleasant slopes, and is often used by recreational cyclists. An MTB or E-MTB is recommended, but more skilled cyclists can also ride the track on gravel or trekking bikes, with special caution on single tracks that may be too rough for these types of bikes.