Exploring the D27 Mountain Pass: Motorcycling Across Velebit and the Zrmanja Valley

The D27 state road is situated in Croatia, running through the Velebit mountain range and intersecting the Park prirode Velebit. The route connects several settlements, including Put Kruševa, Put Gračaca, Jadranska ulica, Prezid, and Ulica Ivane Brlić Mažuranić, with Obrovac located just 683 meters (2,241 ft) from the starting point. The road's alignment brings riders close to the Zrmanja River for a portion of the journey, and it is characterized by its passage through both inhabited and remote mountainous areas. An interactive map showing the D27 route is available at the end of this article.

The D27 extends for approximately 21.5 km (13.4 miles), with the majority of its length (about 96%) featuring two wide lanes (about 93%). The road surface is asphalt, and its quality is generally rated as very good, providing a reliable grip for motorcycles. The route is moderately curvy, offering a mix of gently winding sections and more straightforward stretches, making it suitable for riders who appreciate technical but not overly demanding roads. Elevation ranges from 5 m (16 ft) at its lowest point to 769 m (2,523 ft) at its highest, with the Prezid mountain pass reaching 766 m (2,513 ft). The D27 is not only a mountain pass road but also passes through the Velebit mountain range, offering a unique riding environment. Speed limits vary along the route, ranging from 30 km/h (19 mph) to 90 km/h (56 mph), depending on the specific section and proximity to settlements.

The D27 is notable for its proximity to several natural attractions. The road passes through Velebit, Croatia's largest mountain range, and traverses the Velebit Nature Park, a protected area known for its biodiversity and geological features. Riders will also encounter viewpoints along the route, offering expansive views of the surrounding landscape. The Zrmanja River, which runs adjacent to the road for a portion of its length, is renowned for its clear waters and dramatic canyons, making it a popular destination for kayaking and nature excursions. The town of Obrovac serves as a convenient access point to the D27 and provides amenities for travelers.

The D27 is generally open to motorcycles throughout the year. However, due to its elevation and exposure to mountain weather conditions, temporary closures can occur during winter months, particularly in the area of the Prezid pass, due to snow or adverse weather. Riders are advised to check local traffic updates before planning a trip, especially in winter. There are no permanent restrictions for motorcycles on this road. Event-related closures are rare but may occur during maintenance or local events. For up-to-date information on road conditions and closures, consult the Croatian Automobile Club (HAK) website.

Currently, there are no tolls or entrance fees required to ride the D27. The road passes through the Velebit Nature Park, but no separate fee is charged for transit. Riders should be aware that toll and fee policies may change in the future. For the latest information on road tolls and entrance fees in Croatia, refer to the HAK Toll Rates page.