Along the Mountains and the Sea
Daily miles: 42.71 | Total miles: 12,942.64
I got up early because I knew I wanted to go a long way today. Coffee from the capsule machine, packing my things, and a quick look outside to check the light and the weather. It was foggy and mildly cool—perfect running conditions. I felt ready.
I left the property and ran downhill back toward town and the main road, passing through Posedarje as students were heading to school. Soon after leaving town, the road turned windy and uphill, but I felt strong and ran steadily all the way up toward the bridge. During the season it’s a bungee jumping spot, which reminded me of my own jump 18 years ago in New Zealand—fun at the time, but definitely something I wouldn’t do again.
The road climbed a little more before leading me toward the mountains. The sun slowly pushed through the fog, and then the route dropped down toward the sea. From that moment on, I knew it was going to be a special day. The scenery opened wide, and I found myself smiling without even noticing.
At mile 11, I met Andrea Toffeli, an Italian cyclist traveling from Italy to Japan. I was so happy to meet him, and we shared a wonderful conversation about the road and the journey ahead. Shortly after, I stopped at a grocery store to stock up on food since many places are closed during the off-season. Having limited food or water always makes me a bit uneasy—it’s better to carry a little extra.
Not long after meeting Andrea, a camping van stopped. Eric from France asked about my run, and after a brief chat I continued on, aware that I still had a long way to go.
The landscape became one of my favorite combinations—blooming trees in front of the deep blue sea under a clear sky. The colors, the bees, the gentle movement of spring—it all filled me with awe.
Around mile 20, I was cruising downhill with great momentum when I passed a few men sitting outside talking. Just as I was about to continue, one man holding a beer called me over. Of course, I stopped.
I introduced myself to Carlo and stepped into the small market nearby since I was thirsty and in need of some caffeine. I picked up a cold espresso, a small chocolate milk, and some cereal cookies. Just as I was about to pay, Carlo walked in and paid for everything. We understood each other without many words. On the photo, even if his face doesn’t fully show it, his heart definitely smiles.
I waved goodbye and continued, feeling energized—not only by the sugar and caffeine, but by kindness.
The day kept unfolding with small encounters: a local woman along the road, later Nikola and Yvan, two hikers, and an older woman who could hardly believe someone was running past her house like this.
About five miles before Karlobag, I saw a sign reading “KGB Photo,” and a man standing with a camera. I shouted, “Take a picture!” as I flew downhill. Kevin, originally from Belgium, captured a few shots and we chatted for a moment before I continued along the beautiful coastal stretch.
When I arrived in Karlobag, I took a side road uphill to the apartment I had booked with Mladen—number 7. Warm, with a heater. Perfect. I cooked pasta with pesto, and now it’s time to shower and rest.
What a great day!
Thanks for being with me, Andrea