Cycling loop in Slovenia: Alps, rivers, lakes, cities and sea, 12 days
In summary
-
Sports
-
Duration12 days
-
LevelConfirmed
-
DestinationEurope / Slovenia
-
AgeFrom 15 - 80 years
-
CO₂-Emissions146.8 kg CO2
-
Type of stayIndependent traveler
In a few words
Explore Slovenia by bike , on a twelve-day loop route that reveals the full natural and cultural diversity of this Central European country. From the alpine lakes of Bled and Bohinj to the shores of the Adriatic , this journey takes you to the heart of contrasting landscapes , between majestic mountains , verdant valleys , crystal-clear rivers and historic cities .
You cycle along peaceful roads and dedicated cycle paths , following the Sava River and the legendary Soča River , then through vineyard-covered hills and charming, unspoiled villages. As you approach the coast, the atmosphere becomes gentler and more Mediterranean, culminating in your arrival at Piran , a coastal gem with a Venetian flair.
Designed for cyclists seeking an active escape , this route combines unspoiled nature , rich heritage , and local gastronomy . A balanced and accessible itinerary, ideal for discovering the many facets of Slovenia in an authentic and contemplative way.
The highlights
-
The most beautiful and unmissable sites in Slovenia.
-
Perfect for cyclists looking for adventure.
-
A diversity of landscapes and experiences.
Photos
Sport
Level
Leisure Cycling
For those wishing to cycle 50 km a day. The stages are sometimes hilly and follow cycle paths, greenways, and secondary roads. A trip suitable for anyone who cycles occasionally.
The expert's opinion
The stages vary in distance and elevation gain from day to day, with routes ranging from approximately 40 to 66 km. Some stages are more hilly, particularly in the alpine regions, while others offer gentler and more accessible routes.
The route alternates between cycle paths, secondary roads and local roads, through a great diversity of landscapes, from the majestic Julian Alps to the magnificent Adriatic coast.
The trip is self-guided, allowing everyone to enjoy the scenery, take breaks and discover local treasures at their own pace.
For even more comfort, renting an electric bike is also possible.
In figures
PRIVATE HIRE VEHICLE
- Average duration/day: 4h
- Average distance/day: 52 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 599 m
- Predominant type of terrain : Road
Management
Upon arrival at your accommodation, you will receive a road book with a description of all the activities, maps, and documents (1 per booking). 🗺️
Program
-
Arrival in Ljubljana
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Arrival in Ljubljana and check-in at your hotel.
If you are arriving by car, the documents you receive before your departure will tell you where you can leave your car (parking lots and garages in Ljubljana) during your stay. Parking is subject to a fee.
If you arrive by plane at one of the nearby airports, we can arrange your transfer to the first hotel (advance booking required for an additional fee).
Day 1 -
Ljubljana - Bled
- Activity PRIVATE HIRE VEHICLE
- Duration of the activity 4h
- Distance 55 km
- Positive elevation gain 570 m
- Predominant type of terrain Road
- Accommodation Staying with a local resident
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Breakfast at the hotel.
If you have chosen to rent a bicycle, it will be made available to you directly at your hotel in the morning, before your departure for the first stage.
The departure from Ljubljana is a leisurely ride along local roads, gradually leaving the urban bustle behind and entering the verdant countryside. The route passes through typical villages and open fields, with the first silhouettes of the Alps appearing in the background. As you approach Kranj, the road becomes hillier and offers beautiful views of the Sava Valley, with a possible stop in the historic center and its inviting cafes. After Kranj, the route follows quiet secondary roads, ideal for cycle touring, and the landscapes become cooler and higher in altitude, heralding the arrival in Bled. Entering Bled, dominated by its iconic lake and medieval castle perched on the cliff, is a highlight of the day. Bled is world-renowned, located near Triglav National Park, for its mild climate, healing properties, and thermal springs. You can explore the lake in a traditional "pletna" boat, visit the island and its small church, and discover the castle, the oldest in Slovenia, surrounded by majestic mountains. Dinner at your leisure. Overnight in Bled.
Day 2 -
Bled – Bohinj – Bled
- Activity PRIVATE HIRE VEHICLE
- Duration of the activity 4h
- Distance 56 km
- Positive elevation gain 460 m
- Predominant type of terrain Road
- Accommodation Staying with a local resident
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Breakfast at the hotel. A new cycle path connects Bled to Bohinj, offering a magnificent ride through alpine landscapes. Almost the entire route follows the Sava River. This route allows you to discover picturesque villages and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The path is well-marked and suitable for cyclists of all levels. Along the way, you can take a break by the Sava River at Lake Bohinj, known for its crystal-clear waters and tranquility. It's the perfect place for a swim in the summer or simply to relax. Nature lovers will appreciate the wild beauty of the region. Half of the lake lies within Triglav National Park. For the return journey, it is also possible to take the train from Bohinjska Bistrica to Bled (ticket not included). Dinner at your leisure. Overnight in Bled.
Day 3 -
Bled – Radovna Valley – Kranjska Gora
- Activity PRIVATE HIRE VEHICLE
- Duration of the activity 3h
- Distance 40 km
- Positive elevation gain 595 m
- Predominant type of terrain Road
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
After breakfast, you will head towards Kranjska Gora. The region is particularly charming for a bike ride. You will pass through the Radovna Valley on a secondary road, located in Triglav National Park, and will encounter several natural and cultural attractions along the way, as well as Mojstrana and Kranjska Gora, the town famous for hosting the Ski World Cup. The second part of the stage is a beautiful cycle path between Mojstrana and Kranjska Gora. Arrival in Kranjska Gora at the hotel. One of the great natural attractions near Kranjska Gora is the source of the Sava Dolinka River, called Zelenci, where you can enjoy the crystal-clear green water. In summer, it is possible to swim in the nearby Lake Jasna. Dinner at your leisure. Overnight in Kranjska Gora.
Day 4 -
Kranjska Gora – Predil Pass – Bovec
- Activity PRIVATE HIRE VEHICLE
- Duration of the activity 4h
- Distance 47 km
- Positive elevation gain 530 m
- Predominant type of terrain Road
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
After breakfast, you'll begin cycling along the old railway line from Kranjska Gora (806 m), passing through the protected area at the source of the Sava River. If you wish, you can take a 4 km detour to visit the Planica Nordic Centre, famous for hosting the World Ski Flying Championships and home to the world's longest ski jumps. The route then continues through Treviso and past the beautiful Lake Predil (a picnic stop is highly recommended by the lake), before climbing to the Predil Pass (1156 m). From there, you'll enjoy a scenic descent to Log pod Mangartom and then on to Bovec, admiring breathtaking landscapes. Along the way, you can even dip your toes in the Soča River, renowned for its unique emerald-green color as it flows for 138 km to the Adriatic Sea. Upon arrival in Bovec, check into your hotel and enjoy a free evening to relax in one of Slovenia's most sporty towns. For those arriving earlier, there's the option of rafting on the Soča River (reservations required). Overnight in Bovec.
Day 5 -
Bovec – Kobarid – Goriška Brda
- Transportation Minibus - 00h45 - 30km
- Activity PRIVATE HIRE VEHICLE
- Duration of the activity 3h30
- Distance 44 km
- Positive elevation gain 720 m
- Predominant type of terrain Road
- Accommodation Staying with a local resident
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
After breakfast, you leave Bovec by bicycle towards Kobarid. Along the way, you can admire Boka Waterfall, the highest waterfall in Slovenia.
The road follows the magnificent Soča River, famous for its emerald waters. You will arrive at the Napoleon Bridge, from where you can admire the mysterious gorges and turquoise pools.
In Kobarid, you'll have the opportunity to visit the renowned World War I museum. Located at the foot of the imposing Mount Krn, this small town marks another stop on your route. You'll then continue your cycling journey to Most na Soči.
In Most na Soči, an arranged transfer will take you directly to the beautiful wine region of Goriška Brda, often called the Slovenian Tuscany.
Its rolling hills, vineyards, orchards, charming villages, and churches create a unique Mediterranean landscape. You can explore this region at your own pace and enjoy its peaceful atmosphere.
Optional: tasting of renowned wines from the region, an excellent opportunity to discover local flavors.
Dinner at leisure. Overnight stay at a hotel in the Goriška Brda area.
Day 6 -
Goriška Brda – Vipava Valley - Sežana
- Activity PRIVATE HIRE VEHICLE
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Distance 66 km
- Positive elevation gain 930 m
- Predominant type of terrain Road
- Accommodation Staying with a local resident
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Breakfast. You'll begin with a beautiful loop in the Goriška Brda region, with a short foray into Italian territory. The route will take you to the center of Gorizia, ideal for a cappuccino and croissant break. Afterwards, you'll continue through the splendid Vipava Valley, a spectacular landscape framed by high mountains on one side and fertile vineyards and orchards on the other.
Visit the charming village of Štanjel, renowned for its typical karst architecture and well worth a visit. From Štanjel, the road crosses the Karst plateau, winding between vineyards and fields, ending near Sežana.
In the evening, you can enjoy local dishes and regional wines (reservations required). Dinner at your leisure. Overnight stay in the Karst region.
Day 7 -
Sežana – Lipica – Koper – Piran/Portorož
- Activity PRIVATE HIRE VEHICLE
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Distance 65 km
- Positive elevation gain 560 m
- Predominant type of terrain Road
- Accommodation 4-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Breakfast. Today you will pass by Lipica, famous worldwide for its magnificent Lipizzaner horses.
Next, you'll make a short detour into Italy along the cycle path, a former railway line traversing a valley inhabited since antiquity and a true artery leading to the sea. Several stops punctuate the route to admire the magnificent scenery and discover historical sites before reaching the Slovenian coast. You'll then pass through Koper, Izola, and Piran, three towns with a unique Venetian charm. Piran, which developed thanks to the salt trade, captivates visitors with its old houses, narrow streets, and sun-drenched squares. Dinner at your leisure. Overnight stay in a hotel in Piran or Portorož.
Day 8 -
Piran – Škocjan Caves - Kozina
- Activity PRIVATE HIRE VEHICLE
- Duration of the activity 4h
- Distance 40 km
- Positive elevation gain 500 m
- Predominant type of terrain Road
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
After breakfast at your hotel, you'll cycle back to Koper, then the route climbs inland, traversing the Istrian landscapes of the Karst plateau. Along the way, you can visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Škocjan Caves, famous for one of the world's largest underground canyons and their spectacular karst formations. The Mediterranean ambiance gives way to the rocky landscape of the Karst. The stage ends in a traditional karst village surrounded by unspoiled nature. Dinner at your leisure and overnight stay.
Day 9 -
Kozina – Postojna (Postojna Cave)
- Activity PRIVATE HIRE VEHICLE
- Duration of the activity 3h
- Distance 40 km
- Positive elevation gain 440 m
- Predominant type of terrain Road
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Breakfast at the hotel. You continue your journey through the Karst region along quiet roads and through forests. The route immerses you in a typical karst landscape, sculpted by limestone, valleys, and underground rivers. You arrive in Postojna, famous for Postojna Cave, one of the most visited karst caves in the world, known for its vast chambers, unique formations, and its small underground train. The Postojna train is special because it runs on a traditional railway inside the cave and is over a kilometer long, which is quite rare. The cave, over 24 kilometers long, is one of the largest caverns in Europe. It is home to the famous olm, or "proteus," a unique aquatic creature that lives in the underground waters. Dinner at your leisure. Overnight in Postojna.
Day 10 -
Postojna – Ljubljana
- Activity PRIVATE HIRE VEHICLE
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Distance 65 km
- Positive elevation gain 680 m
- Predominant type of terrain Road
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
From Postojna, you cycle northeast through the hills of Inner Carniola and along quiet country roads. Along the way, you can visit Predjama Castle, a spectacular Renaissance castle built into a cliff, famous for its secret passages and fascinating history. You can shorten the stage by 15 km if you don't wish to visit Predjama Castle. The route then continues through charming villages, farmland, and forests, offering a glimpse of Slovenia's inland landscapes. As you approach Ljubljana, the terrain becomes gentler and more urban. The stage ends in Ljubljana, Slovenia's vibrant capital, with its picturesque Old Town, riverside cafes, and lively cultural scene. Dinner at your leisure. Overnight in Ljubljana.
If you have rented a bike, we will pick it up from your hotel at the end of your stage.
Day 11 -
Ljubljana
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
After breakfast, your holiday comes to an end. Private transfers to the airport can be arranged (at an additional cost).
Day 12
Note
Distances are approximate, depend on the hotel's location and may change slightly.
The documents you will receive before your departure contain information on websites where you can check the weather forecast. If you anticipate that the weather conditions are unsuitable for cycling, we can arrange transport for you and your bicycles. Reservations must be made one day in advance. This service is subject to an additional charge.
Accommodation
Access
The trip begins in Ljubljana, where you will make your own way to your accommodation. The address and practical information for your first accommodation will be provided to you before departure.
This is a self-guided cycling trip: no fixed meeting time is required on the day of your arrival. Check-in at the accommodation is according to the establishment's check-in times.
If you have chosen to rent bicycles, they will be delivered directly to your accommodation on the morning of your departure by bike.
Airport transfers can be arranged in advance upon request, at an additional cost.
Go to the starting point
Ljubljana Airport (LJU) is located approximately 25 km from the city centre. Flights are not included in the price of the stay.
A transfer between the airport and your accommodation can be arranged in advance, upon request and at an additional cost.
Price details
The price includes
- Accommodation for 11 nights with breakfast (3*/4* hotels or guesthouses).
- Luggage transfers.
- Delivery of rental bikes directly to the hotel (if renting a bike).
- Organised transfer from Most na Soči to Goriška Brda, with bicycles.
- Maps and documents (travel diary in French).
- GPS tracks available.
- Telephone support 7 days a week.
The price does not include
- Travel insurance.
- Tourist tax (from 2 to 3.13 EUR / person per night, payable at the hotel).
- Additional drinks and meals.
- Plane tickets.
- Optional train tickets, to be booked and paid for directly by the travelers.
- Optional entry fees (optional).
- Airport transfer arrival/departure (optional).
Options
- Rental of a classic trekking bike : CHF301.88 / person
- Electric trekking bike rental : CHF503.14 / person
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Equipment to bring
- A bicycle helmet.
- Sunglasses and sunscreen.
- A water bottle or container of water.
- A mobile phone with charger or external battery, especially for checking GPS routes.
If you are travelling with your own bike, also remember to bring the necessary equipment for its maintenance and minor repairs.
If you choose to rent a bike from us, it will be delivered directly to your accommodation, along with a helmet, a bike bag, a phone holder, a lock and a basic repair kit.
Clothing to bring
Pack comfortable clothing suitable for cycling: cycling shorts or bib shorts, breathable jerseys, comfortable shoes and light clothing for sunny days.
As the route crosses alpine regions and reaches the Adriatic coast, we also advise you to bring a slightly warmer garment for the cooler mornings and evenings.
Don't forget your swimsuit to enjoy the lakes and the Adriatic Sea!