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14–18 Apr, 2026See Race Details4Islands Epic
The 2025 4Islands Epic was more than a race it was a journey. A journey across stunning Croatian islands, through rocky climbs, challenging trails, and vibrant coastal towns. But perhaps the most remarkable part of this Epic was the people.
The 2025 4Islands Epic was more than a race it was a journey. A journey across stunning Croatian islands, through rocky climbs, challenging trails, and vibrant coastal towns. But perhaps the most remarkable part of this Epic was the people: riders from all over the world, united by a love for mountain biking, adventure, and shared experiences.
Thanks to our survey, we’ve collected the voices of the riders themselves, giving us a window into what worked, what challenged them, and what made this year’s 4Islands Epic unforgettable.
Rider Satisfaction & Overall Impressions
• Overall satisfaction: 90% (up from 85% in 2024)
• Net Promoter Score: 55 (slightly higher than last year)
• Planning to attend next year: 29%
The numbers speak volumes, but the comments tell the real story. Riders celebrated the perfect mix of organization, challenge, and scenery, while also giving honest feedback on areas for improvement.
“A perfect blend of adventure and organization, challenging trails, breathtaking islands, and a vibe that unites riders from around the world.”
“From ferry starts to rocky climbs, every moment was pure mountain biking magic surrounded by Croatia’s stunning landscapes.”
Training & Preparation
Participants dedicated serious preparation for the race:
• 41% trained specifically for 3–4 months
• Tools used included:
o Power meters: 71%
o Professional coaches: 48%
o Training platforms: 47%
o Nutrition coaches: 21%
This shows riders are not just here for the fun they come prepared, seeking a challenge that tests both skill and endurance.
Stages & Route Highlights
The 4Islands Epic is known for its scenic and technical routes, and 2025 did not disappoint:
• Favorite stage: Stage 3
• Satisfaction with stage aspects:
o Scenery: 98.75%
o Start line experience: 97.5%
o Route markings: 95%
o Finish line experience: 90%
o Route marshals: 88.75%
Riders loved the variety of terrain, ferry starts, cobblestone climbs, and rocky trails, all set against the backdrop of stunning Adriatic islands. Highlights from rider feedback:
“The riding. Great courses this year. The new Stage 3 was fabulous fun and despite length, not too taxing after the queen stage.”
“Ferry starts, sea views, and world-class trails nowhere else like it.”
“The route delivers what mountain bikers crave stunning scenery, tough climbs, and raw rocky terrain that makes it truly unique.”
Event Services & On-Stage Support
• Service station experience: 93.24%
• Medical support: 84.62%
• Optional pre-event accommodations: 86.27%
Riders appreciated the well-stocked water stops, attentive support teams, and overall event logistics, which helped keep the focus on the ride and the adventure.
Accommodation & Packages: Hotels vs Boats
Accommodation is part of the adventure, and riders’ choices reflected personal priorities:
• Hotel package: 91.18% satisfaction
• Supporter package upgrade: 77.78%
Why riders chose the boat package:
• Full immersion in the 4Islands spirit
• Meeting other riders and forming community
• Convenience of moving between islands without unpacking
Why some preferred hotels:
• Better sleep quality and privacy
• Protection from seasickness and weather
• Larger rooms and more predictable service
Rider feedback highlighted:
“Many riders chose the boat to live the full 4Islands spirit—sailing between stages, meeting new people, and feeling part of something unique.”
“Hotels felt safer, more spacious, and better for recovery after long days on the bike.”
Why Riders Keep Coming Back
Survey results highlighted the factors that make 4Islands truly special:
1. Being with friends and meeting like-minded riders
2. Destination and natural scenery
3. The physical challenge of the stages
4. Adventure and variety in the course
Riders also emphasized the unique atmosphere from ferry starts to island trails, shared meals, and social moments. “It’s not just a race it’s an epic journey through islands, friendships, and the joy of shared adventure.”
“The spirit of the 4Islands is the people: riders, crew, and locals creating one unforgettable experience on land and sea.”
Key Takeaways for the 4Islands Epic 2025
• Epic scenery and routes: Riders loved the mix of climbs, descents, and technical trails.
• More marshals and marking would make the course even better.
• Community and vibe: The people, atmosphere, and sense of shared adventure are what make 4Islands unique.
• Accommodation matters: Comfort, service, and logistics all impact the overall experience.
• Preparation pays off: Riders who trained for months felt rewarded by the challenge.
“The 4Islands course is wild, authentic, and beautiful. With small tweaks to rideability and communication, it can be truly world-class.”
Final Thoughts
The 4Islands Epic 2025 reminded us why this event has such a loyal following. It’s more than a race it’s a community, an adventure, and a chance to create memories that last a lifetime. Riders returned home exhilarated, tired, and inspired, already dreaming about next year’s edition.
Whether it’s the ferry rides, rocky trails, epic climbs, or simply sharing a coffee at the finish line with friends, 4Islands remains a race that delivers challenge, beauty, and unforgettable moments the perfect combination for any mountain biker seeking an adventure of a lifetime.
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