Between mountains and sea - the most beautiful corners of Slovenia by bike, 8 days
In summary
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Sports
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Duration8 days
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LevelConfirmed
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DestinationEurope / Slovenia
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AgeFrom 15 - 90 years
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CO₂-Emissions99.1 kg CO2
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Type of stayIndependent traveler
In a few words
Discover Slovenia by bike on an exceptional route linking the Julian Alps to the Adriatic Sea . In 8 days , this carefully designed trip traverses an incredible diversity of natural landscapes , from glacial lakes with crystal-clear waters , verdant valleys , emerald-colored rivers , terraced vineyards and karst plateaus sculpted by time, to coastal towns with Mediterranean charm.
The high-quality cycle paths , often built on former railway lines , guarantee a smooth and safe ride. The well-balanced stages make this route accessible to any active cyclist wishing to combine the pleasure of cycling , cultural discovery , and moments of relaxation .
Each day brings its share of spectacular panoramas , authentic encounters and special moments between refreshing swims , local tastings and contemplative breaks.
Between unspoiled nature , historical heritage and the art of living , this cycling trip across Slovenia is a true invitation to travel differently , at the pace of the landscape , for an immersive and profoundly unforgettable experience.
The highlights
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Varied landscapes: alpine lakes, green valleys and the Adriatic coast.
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An accessible and comfortable cycling trip
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Iconic sites
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 routes mainly follow cycle paths or secondary roads. However, some sections run alongside the main road to connect the different stages. If you wish to use transport on these sections, it is available for an additional fee, but advance booking is required.
In figures
PRIVATE HIRE VEHICLE
- Average duration/day: 3h30
- Average distance/day: 49 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 575 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
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Arrival in Bled
- Accommodation Staying with a local resident
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Arrival in Bled. Free day and evening.
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).
Bled is among the most beautiful alpine destinations in Europe, renowned for its picturesque lake and spectacular castle perched on a cliff. You can spend the first few hours exploring Lake Bled. A boat trip to the island is a popular activity, aboard a traditional rowboat called a "pletna." The lake and its islet with its small church, along with Slovenia's oldest castle, situated 130 meters above the lake and surrounded by mountains, offer breathtaking views. Dinner at your leisure and overnight stay.
Day 1 -
Bled – Lake Bohinj – Bled
- Transportation TER / Metro / Tram - 00h25 - 20km
- Activity PRIVATE HIRE VEHICLE
- Duration of the activity 3h
- Distance 40 km
- Positive elevation gain 430 m
- Predominant type of terrain Road
- Accommodation Staying with a local resident
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
The new cycle path connecting Bled to Lake Bohinj offers cyclists a safe and well-maintained route. After leaving Bled, the route winds through verdant countryside, wooded areas, and typical small Alpine villages. The route follows the Sava River and meanders through a picturesque valley offering spectacular views of the Julian Alps. Upon arrival at Lake Bohinj, you'll discover an even wilder and more peaceful natural setting; the lake's surroundings are ideal for a break or a refreshing swim.
Return via the cycle path to Bohinjska Bistrica. Board the train with your bicycles and return to Bled by train. Dinner and overnight stay.
Day 2 -
Bled - Kranjska Gora – Bled
- Transportation Car - 00h40 - 45km
- Activity PRIVATE HIRE VEHICLE
- Duration of the activity 3h
- Distance 44 km
- Positive elevation gain 390 m
- Predominant type of terrain Road
- Accommodation Staying with a local resident
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Breakfast. Transfer by van to Rateče. The cycling tour begins in Planica, renowned for its ski jumps, some of the largest in the world. Every winter, Planica attracts top athletes and numerous spectators who come to watch spectacular competitions. In summer, it becomes a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers, offering magnificent views of the Julian Alps.
The route continues along the old railway line, now a cycle path, to Kranjska Gora (806 m), a beautiful alpine village famous for hosting World Cup ski races. Lake Jasna and the Zelenci Nature Reserve form one of the sources of the Sava River, with crystal-clear green waters perfect for swimming in the summer.
The cycle path continues to Mojstrana, before climbing into the Radovna Valley, part of Triglav National Park. This peaceful and picturesque valley is traversed by the Radovna River, known for its crystal-clear waters and pristine environment. The descent ends at Lake Bled. The day concludes with the return to Bled, dinner, and overnight stay.
Day 3 -
Bled – Most na Soči (by train) – Kobrid – Nova Gorica (by train)
- Transportation TER / Metro / Tram - 01h40 - 80km
- Activity PRIVATE HIRE VEHICLE
- Duration of the activity 3h
- Distance 45 km
- Positive elevation gain 530 m
- Predominant type of terrain Road
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Breakfast. Today, a train takes you to Most na Soči along the famous Bohinj Railway, a scenic route connecting Jesenice to Nova Gorica, passing through alpine valleys, tunnels, and over bridges. Built in the early 20th century, it includes 28 tunnels, among them the renowned 6.3 km Bohinj Tunnel, offering magnificent views of the mountains, the Soča River, and the surrounding landscape.
In Most na Soči, the cycling route begins amidst a landscape of calm waters from the artificial lake, wooded hills, and sweeping panoramas of the Soča Valley. The route follows the emerald waters of the river, passing through gorges and mountains, and winds through the area around Tolmin and its traditional villages. The route then leads to Kobarid, a historic village renowned for its World War I museum, its Italian ossuary, and the Napoleon Bridge, where you can also enjoy a swim in the Soča River.
Optional + 15km: Beyond Kobarid, a flat cycle path follows the Nadiža River, known for its warm, clear waters, natural beaches, and verdant banks, offering swimming and relaxation before returning via the same route. The return journey follows the same route .
In Most na Soči, you'll take the train to Nova Gorica, European Capital of Culture in 2025. A short transfer to your accommodation will follow. Dinner and overnight stay in Nova Gorica.
Day 4 -
Nova Gorica - Goriška Brda – Nova Gorica
- Activity PRIVATE HIRE VEHICLE
- Duration of the activity 4h
- Distance 45 km
- Positive elevation gain 830 m
- Predominant type of terrain Road
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
The day is dedicated to exploring the magnificent Goriška Brda wine region by bicycle. Located in western Slovenia, near the Italian border, this region is renowned for its rolling landscapes, terraced vineyards, and charming villages, often reminiscent of Tuscany.
This region is renowned for producing high-quality wines, including rebula, a traditional Slovenian white wine. The area offers exceptional views of the Alps and the Adriatic Sea. Picturesque villages, such as Šmartno and Dobrovo, are home to historic buildings, churches, and art galleries. Šmartno, a medieval village, occupies a strategic position, offering a glimpse into the region's rich local heritage.
The route then leads to the Gonjače Tower, from where the views of the Julian Alps and the Adriatic Sea are simply magnificent. The day concludes with the return to Nova Gorica, dinner, and overnight stay.
Day 5 -
Nova Gorica - Vipava valley - Karst
- Activity PRIVATE HIRE VEHICLE
- Duration of the activity 4h
- Distance 50 km
- Positive elevation gain 710 m
- Predominant type of terrain Road
- Accommodation Staying with a local resident
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
The cycling tour begins in Nova Gorica, a verdant town on the Italian border. There, you can visit the Franciscan monastery of Kostanjevica, home to the tomb of Charles X, the last French king of the House of Bourbon. In 2025, Nova Gorica and its Italian neighbor, Gorizia, will be united as a European Capital of Culture. Leaving Nova Gorica, the route enters the Vipava Valley, renowned for its vineyards, regional cuisine, and lifestyle. The route winds through an open landscape of vine-covered hills, rural church steeples, and authentic villages. Passing through Črniče and Preserje, you'll appreciate the tranquility of the back roads and the unspoiled nature that characterize this region. The route then leads to Branik, dominated by its impressive medieval castle, a major landmark of the area's defensive history. Continuing the climb out of the valley, the landscape gradually becomes more karst and Mediterranean, with vineyards, olive groves, and increasingly expansive panoramas. Arriving in Štanjel marks one of the highlights of the day. This historic village, perched above the vineyards, charms visitors with its cobbled streets, its castle, and the famous Ferrari Garden. From Štanjel, magnificent views open up across the karst plateau, the Vipava Valley, and, on a clear day, all the way to the Adriatic Sea. End of the cycling tour. Accommodation in a tourist farm located in the karst region.
Day 6 -
Karst – Piran
- Activity PRIVATE HIRE VEHICLE
- Duration of the activity 4h30
- Distance 65 km
- Positive elevation gain 560 m
- Accommodation 4-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Breakfast. Before joining the Val Rosandra cycle path, you can visit Lipica, famous for its stud farm and magnificent Lipizzaner horses. A visit to Lipica offers the chance to discover an exceptional equestrian heritage and enjoy rides in an elegant and peaceful natural setting.
You continue towards Italy, where you join the Val Rosandra cycle path, a former railway line converted into a greenway. This valley, inhabited since antiquity, has long been a strategic artery leading to the sea. The route invites several stops to enjoy the splendid panoramas and discover the historical points of interest along the way.
Upon reaching the Slovenian coast, you'll discover the charming towns of Koper, Izola, and Piran, each imbued with a unique Venetian charm. Piran, in particular, flourished thanks to the salt trade and captivates visitors with its historic houses, narrow streets, and sun-drenched squares. The blend of history and vibrant colors makes this town unforgettable. The day concludes with accommodation in a comfortable hotel in Piran or Portorož, where you can savor local cuisine and enjoy the evening sea breeze.
Arrival at the hotel, on the coast, where you can swim and enjoy the Adriatic Sea.
Day 7 -
Piran
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
After breakfast, your holiday comes to an end. A private transfer to Ljubljana, Trieste or Venice airports can be arranged according to your needs (at an additional cost).
Day 8
Note
Distances are approximate and depend on the hotel's location. They may vary 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
Go to the starting point
Price details
The price includes
- Accommodation for 7 nights in 3 and 4 star hotels / guest houses / tourist farms.
- 7 breakfasts.
- 2 x train tickets (the bike package is paid for on board the train - 1.5 EUR for a classic bike and 3 EUR for an E-bike).
- Travel diary, GPS tracks available.
- Luggage transfers.
- Transfer to the starting point of the J3 cycling tour.
- 24/7 assistance.
The price does not include
- Additional drinks and meals.
- Plane tickets.
- Tourist tax (from 2 to 3.13 EUR / person per night, payable at the hotel).
- Optional entry fees (optional).
- Airport transfer on arrival/departure (optional).
Options
- Classic bicycle – Hybrid bike : CHF182.96 / person
- Electric bike (e-bike) : CHF292.74 / 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.