Novi Vinodolski, a town rich in history, cultural heritage and natural beauty, will bring all these treasures closer to its visitors this November with a series of exciting events.

This year, Saturday morning, 7 November, is once again reserved for the 2nd Autumn Cycling Tour “Oči Vinodola”, organised by the VINO-dol Cycling Club. The club invites cyclists to get their bikes ready, test their fitness at the very end of the season and round off the cycling year in the best possible way. The ride offers a genuine sporting challenge along an attractive route between the sea and the hills.

Registration takes place from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m., with the start at 10:00 a.m. The meeting point is Obala kneza Branimira, at Novi Vinodolski Harbour. The route covers 45 km with a total elevation gain of 800 metres and is suitable for both sport-oriented and recreational cyclists riding mountain bikes (MTBs) or gravel bikes.

Participants can look forward to a dynamic route that is technically and physically demanding, designed for those who enjoy speed, steep climbs and breathtaking panoramic views of the Vinodol coastal area in a late-autumn setting. It is the perfect combination of sporting spirit, competitive excitement and pure adrenaline.

The route follows the beaches, promenades and roads of Novi Vinodolski, continuing through Povile and Žrnovnica Cove, Croatia’s largest natural fjord, the fishing village of Klenovica, Krmpote Field, the old town of Ledenice and Donji Zagon. The final stretch passes through vineyards growing the indigenous Žlahtina grape, offering a perfect introduction to the afternoon’s Martinje celebrations.

A fully roadworthy mountain bike (MTB) or gravel bike is required, and all participants must wear a cycling helmet throughout the ride. The entry fee is €15 and includes guided cycling, refreshments along the route, lunch and a gift from the organiser. Advance registration is available by email at biciklistickiklubvinodol@gmail.com or by phone on +385 99 388 7589.

Later that afternoon, from 5:00 p.m. at Trg Vinodolskog zakona, Novi Vinodolski will celebrate a tradition it proudly preserves: Martinje, the traditional wine festival. The celebration brings together delicious food, music, socialising and the customs of the Vinodol region, while showcasing the age-old folk tradition of symbolically “promoting” grape must to young wine.

On this day, the square will become the heart of the autumn festivities. The sounds of Klapa Kampanel, the aromas of homemade dishes and a glass of good wine will create a warm and welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.

Visitors can look forward to a large exhibition of wines produced by amateur winemakers, offering the opportunity to sample a variety of wines and discover the region’s winemaking traditions. By purchasing a commemorative Martinje wine glass for €7.00, visitors will be entitled to free wine tastings at the exhibition.

No Martinje celebration would be complete without delicious food. A special menu of traditional Martinje dishes will therefore be available, featuring game stew and homemade sausage with cabbage, each priced at €8.00. The combination of traditional cuisine, autumn aromas and a glass of wine will make this much-loved folk celebration even more memorable.

The Martinje weekend continues on Sunday, 8 November 2026, with the 2nd Nordic Walking Festival, starting at 9:30 a.m. Last year’s inaugural festival attracted just under 750 walkers, with the favourable weather undoubtedly helping to boost attendance. A similarly strong turnout is expected this year.

The entry fee is €10 and includes professional guidance, lunch and a welcome drink. Registration is open until 4 November via email at ksr.gorovo@gmail.com.

Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts will have the opportunity to enjoy walks through the beautiful landscapes of Novi Vinodolski and its surroundings, discovering the area’s natural beauty from a different perspective. Participants can choose from four scenic routes, one of which – the most distinctive – leads through the Valley of Wine.

After the walk, the festivities will continue with an entertainment programme at Trg Ivana Mažuranića, featuring a fair showcasing a variety of products and handicrafts, as well as Tonka’s delicious fritule, traditional Croatian sweet fritters. The programme will be hosted by Dražen Turina Šajeta, while DJ Tommy will keep the atmosphere lively before and after the walk.

During the weekend, visitors can also enjoy a special wine-tasting offer at Pavlomir Wine House for €15. Lišanj Family Hotel is also offering a special accommodation discount in connection with the Nordic Walking Festival, for stays of at least two nights between 6 and 9 November (Friday to Monday).

We invite all lovers of wine, good food, music and outdoor activities to join us for the Martinje weekend in Novi Vinodolski – a town of Žlahtina wine, tradition and warm hospitality.