Exploring Državna cesta D116: The Main Artery of Hvar Island for Motorcyclists

Državna cesta D116 is situated entirely on Hvar Island, Croatia’s sunniest and one of its most renowned Adriatic islands. The road runs from the eastern to the western end of the island, serving as the main thoroughfare for both local traffic and visitors. Hvar is celebrated for its Mediterranean climate, lavender fields, and historic towns, making D116 a vital link for exploring the island’s attractions. An interactive map showing the full route of D116 can be found at the end of this article.

D116 extends for approximately 38.3 km (23.8 miles), running the full length of Hvar Island. The road surface is asphalt and is generally rated as excellent, providing a smooth ride for motorcycles. The route is moderately curvy, offering a mix of gently winding sections and straighter stretches, suitable for riders of all experience levels. Most of the road is two lanes (about 83%), with the remainder being narrower sections. The width varies, with wide segments making up the largest proportion (about 44%), ensuring comfortable passage for vehicles and motorcycles alike. The elevation ranges from 9 m (30 ft) near the coast to a maximum of 351 m (1,152 ft), offering occasional panoramic views over the Adriatic Sea and the island’s interior.

While riding D116, motorcyclists will encounter several points of interest unique to Hvar. The road passes near notable viewpoints that provide expansive vistas of the island and surrounding sea. The town of Stari Grad, one of the oldest towns in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage site, is located near the western end of the route. The road also provides access to the town of Hvar, known for its historic architecture and vibrant harbor. Along the way, riders can detour to lavender fields, vineyards, and coastal viewpoints, making D116 a practical base for exploring the island’s cultural and natural highlights.

D116 is open to motorcycles year-round and is not subject to regular seasonal closures. However, as with many island roads, occasional short-term closures may occur due to local events or maintenance, particularly during the peak summer tourist season. Riders are advised to check local traffic updates before traveling. The maximum speed limit on most sections is 40 km/h (25 mph), reflecting the road’s curves and the presence of inhabited areas (about 19.8% of the route). There are no known restrictions specific to motorcycles on this road.

There is currently no toll or entrance fee for using Državna cesta D116. However, toll conditions may change in the future, and riders should verify the latest information before their trip. For up-to-date details on road tolls and entrance fees in Croatia, consult the official resource at HAK (Croatian Automobile Club). Note that while the road itself is free to use, ferry transport to Hvar Island is subject to separate charges, which can be checked on the respective ferry operator’s website.