Hopped on a rental bike from the local shop in Split ( Toto Bike Tours ) and cycled to Marjan Hill, a hilly nature reserve that offers trails through fragrant pine forests, scenic lookouts and ancient chapels.

It turned out to be more than the biking adventure I’d anticipated, being an active roadie. I couldn’t help but brake down the rocky trails, slowing down every time I spotted a large rock.  This was serious mountain biking for a carbon fiber riding road cyclist who fears even the smallest of potholes.

But it was well worth the hilly and bumpy ride, and I made sure to reward myself with water and ice cream afterwards.