Konavle Valley Bike Tour: Watermills, Monastery & Wine Tasting

Summary

Dubrovnik Countryside Cycling: Watermills, Monasteries & Local Life

If you want to swap city crowds for real countryside life near Dubrovnik, this biking tour through Konavle valley is hard to beat. You’ll cycle past vineyards, visit an old working watermill, meet locals who still make things by hand, explore a centuries-old monastery, and finish with wine on a tree terrace. It’s relaxed but full of those little moments you remember long after.

What’s the experience like?

The air in Cadmos Village always smells a bit like wild herbs and earth, especially in the early morning when we started pedaling. Our guide, Marko, waved us on as we rolled past sleepy goats and a couple of old stone houses with red-tiled roofs. The bikes felt sturdy—nothing fancy, but perfect for the bumpy tracks between the vineyards and olive groves. You’ll notice the silence out here is different from Dubrovnik’s busy streets; it’s broken only by birds or the occasional tractor rumbling in the distance.

We stopped at the Đivanović watermill on the Ljuta River, which is still grinding grain just like it did centuries ago. Inside, you can hear the steady thump of the stamp mill—honestly, it’s louder than you’d expect. There’s a faint smell of damp stone and flour in the air. One of the locals showed us how they process wool by hand, dipping it in cold river water and beating it on wooden boards. It’s not something you see every day, and I found myself wishing I could try it just once.

After a quick snack break (homemade cheese, figs, and some strong coffee), we cycled along a shaded road to the Franciscan Monastery and Church of St. Blaise. The place feels frozen in time—carved stone lions at the entrance, faded frescoes inside, and a peaceful courtyard where you can actually hear your own footsteps echo. Marko shared stories about monks hiding precious books during wars; he even pointed out a spot where you can still see musket marks on the old walls.

We finished back at Cadmos Village, climbing up to their tree terrace—about seven meters up—and just sat there with glasses of local wine, looking out over the valley as the sun dipped low. My legs were tired but honestly, I didn’t want to leave that view or that quiet for a while.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Konavle Valley Biking Tour

• Start at Cadmos Village Adventure Park
• Cycle through countryside and farms
• Visit Đivanović watermill and learn history
• See restored stamp mill and wool processing
• Snack break with provided drinks
• Bike to Franciscan Monastery and Church of St. Blaise
• Explore historic monastery and local culture

Top questions

How difficult is the cycling route?

The route is mostly flat with some gentle hills—I'd say it's suitable if you're moderately fit. The pace is relaxed and there are plenty of stops along the way.

What should I wear or bring?

Comfortable walking shoes and light clothing work best. Bring sunscreen and maybe a light jacket if it's early or late in the season—the valley can be cool in the mornings.

Is hotel pickup included?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are both included for your convenience.

Can I join if I'm traveling solo?

A minimum of 4 people is required per booking, so solo travelers might need to join an existing group or bring friends along.

What’s included

Your bike and helmet are provided, plus snacks (think local cheese and fruit), wine tasting at Cadmos Village, hotel transfers, and a friendly local guide who knows all the best stories from Konavle valley.