Active Travel in Slavonia: A Cycling Weekend Through Brod-Posavina County
When it comes to active travel and active tourism, few regions in Croatia surprise as much as Slavonia, the country’s eastern heartland. As a part of Slavonia region and a Bikademy Study, Brod-Posavina County offers diverse cycling routes, cultural landmarks, and authentic Slavonian hospitality, all perfect for travelers who want to experience destinations on two wheels.
Recently, we spent a weekend with travel journalists and active travel influencers to explore Brod-Posavina by bike. With certified cycling guide Bero leading the way, we rode along several routes of Slavonia Bike, the county’s cycling tourism concept. We also visited some of the Bikademy Exams, such as the picturesque Petnja lake and Brod Fortress, proving that this region is tailor-made for active tourists.
Day One: Lakes, Ranches, and a Story Around the World
Our first ride took us to Ljeskove vode, a small but stunning lake that doubles as a popular fishing spot. We cycled over macadam roads, through old Slavonian villages, and shady forest paths before reaching the peaceful lake. Surrounded by unspoiled nature, it set the tone for a weekend of discovery.
We cycled back to Ramarin Ranch, where traditional Slavonian food was served in a modern way, the perfect energy boost after a morning on the bike.
In the evening, we attended a lecture titled “Around the World by Bike – and What After?“ by our friend and Bikademy Ambassador Hrvoje Jurić. Known for cycling the globe in his most challenging project yet, Hrvoje inspired us with stories of endurance, dedication, and the limitless possibilities of life on two wheels. Held in the inspiring setting of the Muzej Brodskog Posavlja, the lecture combined adventure with culture in the best way possible.
Day Two: From Fortress Walls to Vineyards
Saturday was dedicated to exploring Slavonski Brod itself. We began at the Bikademy Exam Brod Fortress (Festung), the most important historical building in Brod-Posavina County. It was built by the Austrian Habsburgs between 1715 and 1780 on the north bank of the Sava River.
From the fortress, we followed the Sava River along beautiful cycling lanes to Poloj, a vast river beach loved by locals during summer months. The ride showed just how seamlessly urban heritage and natural landscapes connect in Slavonski Brod.
The second route showcased the essence of cycling tourism in Slavonia. Starting from Petnja Lake, we rode through traditional villages, quiet forests, and open fields, eventually reaching the eco-ethno village Lovčić, a place so authentic it feels as though time has stopped there. Our final stop was the elegant Stupnički Dvori, a vineyard estate surrounded by rolling hills that resembled the landscapes of Tuscany. Over local wine and authentic food, we agreed: this is active tourism at its finest.
Why Choose Active Tourism in Slavonia?
Cycling through Brod-Posavina shows why active travel is one of the best ways to truly experience a destination. Each route offers more than just kilometers, it tells the story of local life, landscapes, and heritage.
Whether it’s lakes like Petnja and Ljeskove vode, historic sites like Brod Fortress, or the charm of Slavonian villages and vineyards, Brod-Posavina County in Slavonia is an underrated tourism gem waiting to be discovered.
So next time you plan a trip, don’t just pass through eastern Croatia. Be active. Take a bike. Because there’s no better way to explore than on two wheels… and no better place to start with than Brod-Posavina, proudly part of the Bikademy Studies.
