Krk at the Center of the 4Islands Epic

The Island of Krk is once again at the heart of one of the world’s most exciting mountain biking events this spring – 4Islands Epic. Alongside the Kvarner islands of Cres, Unije, and Lošinj, Krk once again becomes a key stage for this unique five-day stage race, which continues to attract an increasing number of competitors from around the world each year.

This year’s edition will bring together 400 riders from 39 countries at the start line, further confirming the race’s international reputation and recognition. 4Islands Epic not only promotes top-level sport, but also an active lifestyle and an authentic experience of the destination through movement and exploration.

Known as the “Golden Island,” Krk stands out for its rich cultural and historical heritage and diverse landscapes, offering ideal conditions for a top-tier MTB experience. The combination of sea views, rocky plateaus, vineyards, and technically demanding terrain makes it a perfect setting for a race of this caliber.

As part of this year’s race, Krk plays an important role at the very beginning of the competition, with Baška hosting the first two stages on the Island, both starting at 9:30 am. The organizers and local tourist boards invite all visitors and residents to come to Baška for the старт and finish, support the competitors, and experience the atmosphere of an international sporting event. During the race, traffic will be temporarily regulated on certain sections, and everyone is kindly asked to be patient.

The first stage begins in Baška and immediately opens the race with a dynamic and demanding loop that showcases the diversity of Krk’s terrain. The route leads toward the Moon Plateau, crossing the Baška–Krk main road, then continues to Vrbnik, Kampelje, Garica, and Kras. The trail proceeds through Dolovo and Risika, returns toward Vrbnik, and then via the Moon Plateau and Draga Bašćanska finishes back in Baška. The approximately 68-kilometer route, with over 1,500 meters of elevation gain, combines urban sections, gravel climbs, technical singletracks, and fast descents, creating an exceptionally demanding and selective course right from the start.

The second stage, also the longest of the race, offers a complete island experience. From Baška, the route climbs through Draga Bašćanska and the area above Mošune toward the Moon Plateau, then continues to Vrbnik, Garica, and Kampelje, reaching Ponikve, where vineyards, forest trails, and open karst landscapes alternate. After crossing the main road near the City of Krk, the route continues toward Vrh and the City of Krk (Ježevac), then via Lokva/Kimpi and Lakmartin (Muraj), returning toward Vrbnik and the Moon Plateau before heading back to Baška. This stage is approximately 85 kilometers long with more than 1,850 meters of elevation gain, featuring constant changes in rhythm and impressive views of both the sea and the island’s interior.

4Islands Epic is not just a sporting competition, but a unique concept that, through its stage format, enables a deep and immersive experience of the destination. Over five days of racing, participants cover more than 300 kilometers of trails with approximately 6,500 meters of elevation gain, placing the event among the most demanding MTB stage races in the world. Each stage reveals a different character of the islands – from rugged rocky landscapes to hidden trails and panoramic viewpoints.

The entire Island of Krk is continuously developing its sports and tourism offer, positioning itself as a destination that provides a wide range of activities – from cycling and hiking to climbing, water sports, and other outdoor experiences. Across seven main destinations on the Island, visitors can find activities suited to all levels, from recreational enthusiasts to professional athletes.