STAGE 4 – TIME TRIAL – UNIJE

SMALL GAPS MEANS BIG CHANGES

Friday, 17 April 2026

Distance 23km
Climbing 350m

Max Stage Time 2h

Start Location
Unije – Island of Unije

Finish Location
Unije – Island of Unije

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Small gaps can mean big changes in the overall standings.

Unije | Team Time Trial.

Short, fast and deceptive, the Unije time trial is all about power and precision. Riders climb from sea level to scenic high points before sweeping descents and fast island tracks take over. Passing cliffs, a historic lighthouse and the island’s tiny airport, this stage is a unique contrast to the longer marathon days.

 “HOT SEAT” AWARD CEREMONY

After crossing the finish line, if you place in the top three, head straight to the Winners’ Lounge and take a seat on the legendary Hot Seat.

This is where the suspense begins. Stay seated while the clock keeps ticking and challengers roll in. If your time holds, the podium is yours — congratulations, you’ve earned it. If a faster rider arrives, we’ll kindly ask you to give up your seat and pass the spotlight on to the new leader. That’s racing — every second counts, until the very last rider finishes.

The award ceremony for each category will take place immediately after all riders in that category have crossed the finish line. No long waits, no delays — just instant celebration, big moments, and well‑deserved applause.

For Stage 4 (Time Trial), a designated warm-up loop is available directly from the shoreline. The loop is approximately 3 km long, and riders are strongly encouraged to use this opportunity to warm up and prepare for their start.

Please take extra care not to interfere with the official time trial course or riders currently racing. It is essential that you strictly follow the marked signage during warm-up ride.

Warm-up route signage is clearly marked with white signs and red arrows, and differs from the standard race route signage and GPX file is available for download on this page (profile).


TIMEACTIVITYLOCATIONHOTELBOAT
07:00-08:30BreakfastRace Hotel & Boat oo
08:30-09:00Shuttle to Race Ferry (Transfer to Stage 4)Race hotel - MAIN entranceo
08:00-20:00Bike Service / Bike Park / Bike WashRace Ferry o o
08:30-20:00Race Office / CIOVITA & USWE MerchandiseRace Ferry o o
09:30Start of Transfer to Unije by Race Ferry (ETA 11:00)Mali Lošinj Ferry Port – Island of Lošinjo
09:30-11:00Available Snacks and Drinks - Race BarRace Ferry - Race Baro
08:30-20:00Race OfficeRace Ferry – Race Village, Unijeoo
11:00-16:00Warm Up Track availableUnije, Island of Unije o o
12:00-16:30Post Stage Recovery MealRace Village – Unije, Island of Unije o o
12:00Supporter go to Spectator Points on the Trails by footRace Village – Unije, Island of Unijeoo
12:30Start Stage 4 - Amateur Team Time Trial startRace Village – Unije, Island of Unije o o
14:00-15:00Finish Line Awards AmateursRace Village – Unije, Island of Unije o o
15:30Available Boat Transfer to Race Hotel - LošinjRace Village – Unije, Island of Unije o
14:05Start Stage 4 - Elite Riders Team Time Trial startRace Village – Unije, Island of Unije o o
15:00-15:30Finish Line Awards Elite RidersRace Village – Unije, Island of Unije00
After the Winners’ CeremonyStart of Transfer to Lošinj by Race FerryRace Village – Unije, Island of Unijeoo
On Arrival in LošinjShuttle to Race HotelMali Lošinj - Ferry Porto
19:00-21:00DinnerRace Hotel & Boato o
20:00Online Rider BriefingAvailable on the Epic Series Appoo

Today we travel to the remote island of Unije for the Team Time Trial. After the race, all riders will return to Lošinj in preparation for the final stage.

If not already noted, please be aware that the Time Trial introduces a new “Hot Seat” award ceremony procedure, which is explained on this page. We recommend reviewing it if you are GC contender.

Riders staying in hotel accommodation will use the official Race Ferry for transport to and from Unije, while riders staying in boat accommodation will travel using their own boats.

An early return option is available for hotel riders who have already completed Stage 4 or who wish to return as soon as possible.

TEAM TIME TRIAL – SCHEDULE

Amateurs Categories
Amateurs categories will start first by following sequence:
Amateur riders will start at 30-second intervals, from slower to faster riders.

Men Categories
The start begins with Open Men, followed by Master Men, Grand Master, and Great Grand Master.

Women Categories
After the men’s categories, the start continues with Open Women, Master Women, Great Master Women, and Great Grand Master Women.

Mixed Category
The Mixed category will start after all men’s and women’s age group categories.

Elite Riders
Elite riders will start at the end, with Elite Women starting first, followed by Elite Men.

Elite riders will start at 1 to 2-minute intervals, also from slower to faster riders.

Start times will be published on www.epic-series.com/4islands as well as the Epic Series App. Please check in at the designated call-up area 15 minutes before your allocated start time. If a team misses their start time, they will have to start at the back of the field, and their time will be taken from their allocated start time

Your logistics for today are simple and relaxed, as your accommodation (boat) will take you directly to the start of the Team Time Trial on the island of Unije.

The journey will take approximately 1.5 hours. Sit back, enjoy the views, and take in the sailing experience—it’s all part of the 4Islands adventure. Upon arrival, the crew will guide you through the disembarkation process. Depending on conditions, you may step off directly or take a short shuttle boat ride to the shore.

Your bike will be waiting for you in the bike park on the race ferry. Please make sure to collect it before your start. A clearly marked warm-up loop will be available so you can get ready at your own pace.

After you finish, as a first priority, please place your bike back in the bike park on the race ferry. Have your recovery meal and some time to relax. Your boat accommodation will be nearby and easy to access, and you’ll return the same way you arrived.

That’s it—simple, smooth, and ready for you to enjoy the day.

Your day starts with a shuttle transfer from your hotel to the ferry port, where the race ferry will be waiting for you. From there, you’ll hop on and enjoy the journey towards the Team Time Trial on the island of Unije.

Bring a light jacket or some warm clothes in your sling bag. It can get a bit breezy on the ferry deck, and you might appreciate an extra layer while enjoying the cruise.

During the ride, snacks and drinks will be available at the race bar—perfect chance to relax, refuel, and arrive fresh and ready.

Your bike will be waiting in the bike park on the race ferry, so just make sure to pick it up before your start. There will also be a clearly marked warm-up loop to help you get ready at your own pace.

After you finish, as a first priority, please place your bike back in the bike park on the race ferry. Have your recovery meal and some time to relax.

If you’d like to head back a bit earlier, there’s an optional boat transfer starting at 15:30 for riders who have already finished.

For everyone else, the race ferry will take you back as planned. Upon arrival in Mali Lošinj, shuttle transfers will be waiting to bring you comfortably back to your hotel.

Easy, smooth, and all taken care of—just focus on your race and enjoy the day.