Perun or Poljicka Planina is a mountain dividing its bigger brother, Mosor from the sea. Highest peak is Zahod, steeply rising above sea for 600 meters. Although it had very important rule in history, that is evidenced by numerous churches on its ridge, in modern times it's seldom visited, as people choose other, bigger mountains to spend their time. Sure it doesn't mean this small mountain is less impressive or ugly, it is as beautiful and somehow unique, merging coastal mountain characteristics with northern slopes reminding of some mountain in the hinterland.
The trail I've chosen is unique way to climb over this mountain, touring from Split city to village Srinjine, then climbing up the hill to Sv. Jure (St George) church and down through panoramic road back to Split city. Trail is technically about the hardest that still fits into XC category. Can be done in the opposite direction as well, might be even easier that way, but I've made it this way as consider more interesting.

Trail Description

From the center of Split city come to the yacht marine "Zenta". Descent to the sea and follow the promenade which after few kilometers turns into the road. Just follow it as it climbs up and when almost came into freeway take "Put Orisca" and you will descend to Stobrec town. In center of Stobrec proceed north, to the freeway and take right turn, drive few hundred meters before turning left to Zrnovnica. Continue straight to Srinjine and on the first asphalt turning right you will see ramp.
It is the entrance of former quarry, whose road you will use to the end. It is wide macadam, which is pretty ruined by water, so think of it like a better cart track. Use the diagram to get your way through numerous roads around quarry, although you can't miss. Some 100 meters after last serpentine note old carriageway on the left side. Now, as not used, it's overgrown with brambles and other weed, so hardly passable single track. On few places you would simply have to step over bramble bushes. When you see the church on the horizon you have to lay yourself out just for a bit, mostly on even or slightly ascending terrain. Then, you will find yourself on the edge of the mountain, steep falling down to the sea offering exquisite view to the sea and the islands. Road down is an old steep pilgrimage track, but not hard at all. You will find yourself in the village of Gornja Podstrana in a moment.
Wow, asphalt descending road to take a break and get some refreshing air, but don't go down on a crossing, continue sharp right, to the west, enjoying fast ride on good macadam. When you pass the last house, road becomes worser, but still good. Then a steep descend on a singletrack again, and a long plain part ending with descent through small cute gully perfect for mini downhill feeling. Paved road again, very steep descent to freeway and same way back as you pass the crossing to Zrnovnica and the bridge.

Getting There

Route is described starting from center of Split city, near bus, ferry and train terminal.

When to Bike

Winters are fine is you don't choose extremely cold day or with snow on Perun. Early Spring is fine, while after gets too hot to pedal up on the sun. Falls are good as well, road is mostly dry so even if was raining recently trail will be in good condition.

Images