The route starts at 17 m and finishes at 84 m. It climbs 1917 m and descends 1849 m, ranging from 16 m to 967 m above sea level.
Total ascent
1917 m
Total descent
1849 m
Lowest point
16 m
Highest point
967 m
Elevation sampled in GPX track order, from start to finish.
Editorial overview
This paved crossing leaves the Kvarner coast at Opatija, climbs through the wooded slopes of Učka Nature Park and passes Poklon before descending across the Istrian side to Buzet. Poklon lies at 922 metres between Učka and Ćićarija. The park describes this road as the old regional route that linked Istria with the rest of Croatia before the Učka Tunnel opened in 1980.
The route’s character comes from the contrast within a short distance: coastal streets give way to forest, repeated bends and a sustained mountain ascent, followed by an open descent into northern Istria. Poklon is a useful stopping point with parking, public toilets, a rest area and the park visitor centre. The pass name refers to the old custom of Istrian pilgrims bowing toward the Church of Our Lady of Trsat when they first saw Kvarner Bay from here.
Practical riding information
Allow about two hours for the recorded 50 km route without a long visit at Poklon. The surface is asphalt throughout, but the many bends, elevation change, shade and possible debris require a steady pace. Fuel before the climb in Opatija or on the Istrian side; Poklon is best treated as a rest and visitor stop rather than a fuel stop.
The season shown is a conservative riding recommendation, not a fixed annual closure. Check HAK immediately before departure for snow, ice, wind, works or temporary restrictions. Temperatures at the pass can be much lower than on the coast. Within the nature park, keep to roads and designated parking, minimize noise and do not continue from Poklon onto the restricted Poklon–Vojak asphalt road.
Before you ride
Warnings and restrictions
SeasonalCaution
Mountain weather can change quickly
Poklon is more than 900 metres above sea level, and conditions can differ sharply from the coast. Check the current HAK road and weather report before departure, especially outside the main riding season.
Učka Nature Park prohibits driving or parking away from designated surfaces. The separate asphalt road from Poklon toward Vojak is closed to general private and public traffic; remain on the recorded pass route and follow posted signs.
/media/routes/ucka-mountain-pass-cover.svgOriginal material · Moto Routes editorialOriginal site artwork derived from the supplied GPX track
/media/routes/ucka-mountain-pass-social.jpgOriginal material · Moto Routes editorialRaster export of original site artwork derived from the supplied GPX track
