4.9
(5)
47
riders
7
rides
Mountain biking around Martijanec offers diverse terrain, from the flat river lowlands of the Drava and Plitvica rivers to the rolling hills of the Central Hilly Area. The region's southern part borders the Kalnik Mountain Range, providing more challenging routes with steeper ascents and technical descents through forest trails. This varied landscape supports a range of mountain biking experiences, from scenic riverside paths to demanding mountain routes.
Last updated: October 8, 2026
19
riders
77.1km
06:20
1,280m
1,280m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
5.0
(1)
13
riders
58.3km
04:36
750m
750m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

4.8
(4)
6
riders
47.6km
04:28
1,040m
1,040m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
5
riders
38.0km
03:06
670m
670m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
4
riders
38.8km
03:15
530m
530m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
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The steep part is actually very short, so it is not as hard as it looks. Beautiful scenery all around, with a well-maintained gravel road.
0
0
Very nice and cosy mountain hut. Good food and accommodation. In summer there are various evening/night activities (e.g. outdoor cinema, workshops, outdoor escape room...). Recommended.
0
0
Nino has already copied a very valuable text about the old town, I would only add that it looks impressive in all seasons and is worth a look. There are signs prohibiting entry on the driveways.
1
0
It looks nice and I hope the food is good too
3
2
Good food and generous portions
2
0
Thanks Nino for the detailed description
2
1
OLD TOWN VELIKI KALNIK The most impressive part of the Kalnik mountain is the area below the highest peak of Vranilec, where bare limestone rocks from the Mesozoic period erupt on the surface in the upper part of the Kalnik oak. There is also the complex of the old town of Veliki Kalnik, from which one of the most beautiful views of the rolling landscape of Prigorje opens to the south and southeast. The view of the excursionists is still captivated by the remains of the towers that merged with the steep rocks of St. Catalina. These are the same towers that became the first obstacle to the Mongol campaign of 1241, their conquest of this part of the world. "And when the view turns down the slope", as Kukuljević wrote, "the villages of Kalnik nobles have been scattered since time immemorial, who, according to Croatian custom for over six hundred years as free, independent parishioners, ruled themselves under their special Kalnik prefect". An old legend about Kalnik plum growers encouraged Šenou to write the work "Šljivari" and Mayer to write his historical novel "Mongols in Croatia". History records that the Mongols came under Veliki Kalnik in the autumn of 1241. Unable to win it on the assault, they decided to starve the defenders, led by the heroic prince Filip Bebek, through a long siege. Hunger and constant attacks exhausted them more and more. In the most critical moments, the local wisdom and courage come to the fore. This is how the legend is created, which reads as follows: “In the darkness of the night, when the Mongol guards dozed off and thus reduced their attention, some human shadows with branches on their backs approached the city walls. To the general surprise of the defenders, who were watching all this from the high towers, expecting some new Tatar hoax, they flew towards the walls of a plum branch rich in fruit. Then they realized that the people feed, support and help them. This was repeated several times. Juicy plums gave them strength and to the astonishment of the Mongols, the famine did not exhaust the defenders of the city. Therefore, the Tatars gave up further siege and moved on to the Adriatic in pursuit of King Bela IV. When the Mongols were defeated on the Grobnik field, King Bela IV, according to legend, declared the inhabitants of the Kalnik region - nobles, who were soon mockingly called - nobles - plums by their seducers, especially the purgers of Križevci.
3
0
Martijanec offers a diverse range of terrain for mountain biking. You'll find scenic, less challenging routes in the northern lowlands along the Drava and Plitvica rivers, ideal for gravel biking or relaxed cycling. The central hilly area provides rolling hills with moderate climbs and descents, while the southern part, bordering the Kalnik Mountain Range, offers more challenging routes with steeper ascents, technical descents, and forest trails, often with panoramic views.
Yes, Martijanec offers options for various skill levels. While many routes feature moderate to difficult sections, there is at least one easy mountain bike trail available. These easier routes typically traverse the flatter river lowlands, providing a gentler introduction to mountain biking in the region.
Several routes incorporate historical and cultural landmarks. For instance, the difficult route Kalnik Old Town Ruins – Kalnik Mountain Hut loop from Ludbreg connects historical sites with demanding mountain terrain. Another route, Ludbreg – Center of the World – Gabrinovec Partisan Hospital loop from Ludbreg, explores cultural landmarks like the 'Center of the World' and the Gabrinovec Partisan Hospital. You can also find scenic viewpoints, such as on the Viewpoint Near Ludbreg loop from Zbelava.
The mountain biking routes around Martijanec are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from more than 4 reviews. Reviewers often praise the varied terrain, which offers everything from scenic riverside paths to demanding mountain routes, and the opportunity to explore both natural beauty and historical landmarks.
The best time for mountain biking in Martijanec is generally during the spring, summer, and early autumn months. During these seasons, the weather is typically mild and favorable, with trails being dry and accessible. The varied landscape, from river lowlands to the Kalnik mountain range, offers pleasant riding conditions before winter snows or heavy rains.
While many routes include moderate to difficult sections, the flatter areas of the northern lowlands along the Drava and Plitvica rivers can offer more relaxed and family-friendly cycling experiences. Look for routes described as 'easy' to find paths suitable for families or those seeking a less strenuous ride.
Generally, dogs are welcome on most public trails in Croatia, especially in natural areas. However, it's always recommended to keep your dog on a leash, especially in areas with wildlife or other trail users, and to clean up after them. Check local signage for any specific restrictions on individual trails or protected areas.
Specific parking information for individual trailheads is best found on the detailed route pages on komoot. However, as Martijanec is part of a region developing its outdoor tourism, you can often find parking in or near the starting points of popular routes, particularly in towns like Ludbreg or Varaždinske Toplice, which serve as common access points for the wider area.
While Martijanec is a smaller municipality, the broader Varaždin County has a developing public transport network. For specific routes, especially those starting from larger towns like Ludbreg or Varaždinske Toplice, there may be bus connections. It's advisable to check local bus schedules and routes in advance, and confirm if bicycles are permitted on board, especially for longer journeys.
As you explore the Martijanec area, particularly when passing through or near local villages and towns like Ludbreg or Varaždinske Toplice, you will find cafes and restaurants. These establishments offer opportunities to refuel and relax during or after your ride. It's a good idea to plan your route to include these stops if you wish to take a break.
The duration of mountain bike tours around Martijanec varies significantly based on the route's length and difficulty. For example, a difficult route like the Kalnik Old Town Ruins – Kalnik Mountain Hut loop from Ludbreg, which is 78.7 km, typically takes around 6 hours and 32 minutes. Moderate routes, such as the Ludbreg – Center of the World loop from Ludbreg (38.6 km), can be completed in about 3 hours and 14 minutes.
Varaždin County actively promotes cyclotourism. For broader information about cycling and outdoor activities in the region, you can visit the official tourism website for Varaždin County: visitvarazdin.hr. This resource can provide additional context and details about the wider cycling infrastructure.


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