Exploring the Cres–Porozina Road: A Motorcyclist’s Guide to the Island of Cres

The Cres–Porozina road runs entirely on the island of Cres, located in the northern Adriatic Sea, Croatia. The route connects the town of Cres in the south with the village of Porozina in the north, serving as the main thoroughfare for both local traffic and visitors arriving via the ferry from the mainland. The road’s position makes it a vital link for exploring the island’s interior and accessing its coastal viewpoints. An interactive map showing the full extent of the Cres–Porozina road can be found at the end of this article.

The Cres–Porozina road stretches for approximately 25.3 km (15.7 miles), with elevations ranging from 5 m (16 ft) near the coast to a maximum of 452 m (1,483 ft) as it crosses the island’s central ridge. The road is surfaced with asphalt of high quality, generally rated as excellent, providing a smooth and predictable riding experience. The route is gently curved, making it suitable for riders seeking a relaxed journey rather than a highly technical ride. The majority of the road is wide (about 50%), with the remainder split between middle and narrow sections. Two-lane segments are predominant (about 48%), while single-lane stretches account for a slightly smaller proportion. Inhabited areas are sparse along the route, with only about 6.5% of the road passing through settlements, contributing to a largely uninterrupted ride.

The Cres–Porozina road is notable for its proximity to several viewpoints that offer expansive vistas of the Adriatic and the island’s rugged terrain. While the road itself does not pass directly through major tourist sites, it provides access to the town of Cres, known for its medieval architecture and marina, and the village of Porozina, the island’s northern ferry port. Riders can also explore the island’s natural attractions, such as the nearby Lake Vrana, a freshwater lake located inland, and various coastal viewpoints that are accessible from lay-bys along the road. The island of Cres itself is recognized for its biodiversity and traditional Mediterranean landscapes, making the journey as rewarding as the destinations.

The Cres–Porozina road is open to motorcycles year-round, with no regular seasonal closures. Temporary closures may occur due to roadworks or local events, but these are infrequent and typically well-signposted. Riders should be aware of variable speed limits along the route, ranging from 30 km/h (19 mph) in village areas to 90 km/h (56 mph) on open stretches. Weather conditions can affect riding comfort, particularly during the summer when the island experiences high temperatures and increased tourist traffic. It is advisable to check local traffic updates before setting out, especially during peak holiday periods.

There are currently no tolls or entrance fees required to use the Cres–Porozina road. However, toll conditions may change in the future, and riders are encouraged to verify the latest information through official sources such as the Croatian Automobile Club (HAK). Ferry crossings to and from the island, such as the Porozina–Brestova route, are subject to separate charges, and schedules can be found on the respective ferry operator’s website. For up-to-date information on road conditions and tolls in Croatia, consult the HAK website linked above.