Touring
Bike Slovenia Green: Alps to Adriatic Cycling Tour
Description
The Bike Slovenia Green cycling tour connects destinations that have been awarded the Slovenia Green certificate by sustainably developing their tourism. Be a responsible traveler and discover the most beautiful parts of Slovenia on a bike!
This bike tour starts in Kranjska Gora and runs by the famous Alpine lakes of Bled and Bohinj after passing through the beautiful Radovna valley and across the densely forested Pokljuka Plateau. Hopping aboard one of the world’s most scenic railways, easy cycling continues along the emerald green Soča river.
A land of rolling hills and friendly locals is next on the list. Towering trees give way to vineyards and olive trees in Goriška Brda, famous for high-quality wines. Comfortable cycling continues through the fascinating karstic topography, before the road joins the abandoned Parenzana railway track, slowly descending towards the town of Koper on the Adriatic coast. Here, the invitation to plunge into the sea and indulge in a local seafood feast marks a delightful finale to your cycling holiday.
On our Bike Slovenia Green cycling tours every pedal push enriches your journey, not just through the landscape, but also through the practices that preserve it, setting the stage for an unforgettable adventure in one of Europe’s best cycling destinations.
Highlights
- Cycling holidays in sustainable tourist destinations
- Lakes Bled & Bohinj
- Soča Valley
- Wine tasting in Goriška Brda & Karst
- Alpine, Karst & Istrian cuisine
- Swimming in the Adriatic Sea
Online presentation of our cycling tours:
Gallery
Itinerary
Arrival to Kranjska Gora
The cycling holiday starts with an overnight in the beautiful mountain resort of Kranjska Gora at the foot of the Julian Alps. Time permitting, a visit to the crystal clear Jasna Lake is a great idea. Another recommended option is visiting the Planica Nordic Center with the once-highest ski jumping hill in the world, or a stroll around the Zelenci Natural Reserve, a moorland famous for its amazing colors and views.
With its green and unspoiled nature, Kranjska Gora offers plenty of opportunities for an authentic, healthy, and active holiday in all seasons. Its tourism offer is based on sustainable development, natural and cultural heritage, and a healthy climate.
Kranjska Gora - Bled: ADMIRE THE POSTCARD IMAGE
From Kranjska Gora, a pleasantly quiet cycling road leads to another Alpine village of Mojstrana, where it enters one of the prettiest alpine valleys in Slovenia, the Radovna River Valley. Since the area is a part of the Triglav National Park, mass tourism is limited here. The Valley is well-known due to its pristine nature and a dramatic 1.6-kilometer-long Vintgar Gorge. Easy cycling is accompanied by views of mountain tops and horses grazing on the surrounding meadows.
Reaching the final destination of the day, the famously beautiful Bled, it would be a pity not to visit the tiny island in the middle of the lake, climb the impressive Bled Castle overlooking the town, or taste the famous Bled cake called “Kremšnita”.
Bled is a proud recipient of the Slovenia Green certificate and a member of the Alpine Pearls group, the objective of which is to promote sustainable mobility. Local residents are sustainability-oriented and invite visitors to follow their example.
Bled - Bohinj: FROM ONE LAKE TO ANOTHER
The next day your bike tour unfolds with friendly valley cycling along the Sava Bohinjka, all the way from Bled to its source in Lake Bohinj! The initial typical Gorenjska villages are followed by a short section through a narrow gorge along the main road, and then remote and picturesque macadams right next to the river, enriched with the interesting natural and cultural heritage of these places. Crossing suspension bridges, side tributaries, blooming meadows, and a stop at the beautiful Grmečica natural waterfall with a deep green pool pleasantly enrich the otherwise short and moderately demanding cycling of this day.
For those eager for some challenging uphill cycling, the day can begin with a steep climb to the Pokljuka Plateau, which rest at an altitude of 1300 meters and serves as a starting point for many hikes. The forested plateau is dotted with shingle-covered wooden cottages, which are typical for Slovenian mountain pastures and a testament to the rich cultural tapestry that cycling tours in Slovenia offer. Back in the old days, they were used as homes for shepherds or dairy production facilities. The highlight of the day is the Zajamniki mountain pasture in the central area of Pokljuka, known for its beautiful cottages and a perfect view over Lake Bohinj.
Using mostly asphalt and some forest roads, the track slowly descends towards Bohinj and eventually reaches Lake Bohinj, the largest natural lake in Slovenia. Many visitors to Slovenia say they have never seen a lake more beautiful than Lake Bled – until they come to Bohinj.
In Bohinj, sustainable tourism incentives are fulfilled through careful preservation of cultural heritage, visitor flow regulation, and soft mobility. This fairytale destination invites visitors to try out their high-quality local products with the “From Bohinj” label.
Bohinj - Brda: THE EMERALD SOČA VALLEY
From Bohinjska Bistrica railway station, a panoramic train ride is organized to travel from the heart of the Alps to the Soča Valley. Built at the beginning of the 20th century, this historic railway was used to connect Austria and Germany with the port of Trieste.
Upon arrival to the tranquil town of Most na Soči, one can admire the emerald waters of the Soča River, considered to be one of the most beautiful rivers in Europe. The Soča Valley was the first destination in Slovenia to earn the title of the European Destination of Excellence due to its sustainable development in tourism. Heading out of town, the cycling tour passes the magnificent old railroad bridge in Solkan, featuring the longest stone arch in the world.
The tour then follows the river flow and briefly enters Italy before turning back to Slovenia’s Goriška brda region. A land of gentle, rolling hills reminds of Tuscany. The wineries here are famous across the world for their high-quality vintages and hospitality. The bike tour passes the view tower in Gonjače, the visit of which is highly recommended. As home to some of the most prominent wine growers in the region and the final destination of the day, the village of Šmartno offers the chance to end the day with some excellent wine tasting and a hearty local meal.
Goriška brda is another Slovenia Green destination, which is actively developing its sustainable tourism offer all year round, reducing pressure on the environment and promoting soft mobility.
Brda - Štanjel: CYCLING THROUGH VINEYARDS
On the fifth day of the Bike Slovenia Green tour, cycling continues through the typical hilly landscape of Goriška brda full of winding vineyards. Short ascents and descents lead to the romantic Italian town of Gorizia. Upon the return to the Slovenian side, the route crosses and follows the Vipava and Branica rivers, taking a short final climb towards the magical world of Karst.
Taking the harder route, one can admire the Peace Memorial in Cerje, or climb the lookout tower for the best views of the area. An exciting ascent on a gravel road leads to Kostanjevica na Krasu, a typical karst village. Slovenian Karst is also a wine-growing region, as shown by 100 wine cellars included in the Karst Wine Route. Easy cycling continues to the town of Komen, known for some of the most beautiful wineries in the region. This sustainable destination speaks to responsible visitors through its warm hospitality, authentic cuisine, calming walking and cycling paths, and many cultural features shaped by the locals.
Either route chosen, cycling day comes to an end in the tiny hilltop village of Štanjel, one of the oldest settlements in the region, known for its castle and the beautiful Ferrari Garden. Featuring traditional houses built in stone, Štanjel is a real showpiece of Karst architecture and culture.
Štanjel - Lipica: THE UNIQUE WORLD OF KARST
Leaving Štanjel behind, cycling continues across the fascinating karstic landscape full of typical natural phenomena. Speleologists discover new caves in Slovenia every year, and the number of recorded ones now amounts to more than 14,000 with 20 of them being show caves. The appearance and soul of the Karst are characterized by stone, which has been shaped both by water and local inhabitants for centuries.
When cycling further towards Pliskovica, a stop in Prosciuterria Ščuka is a must. In the boutique family-owned prosciutto drying facility they use a classical seasoning process, which results in high-quality and aromatic authentic products.
After Pliskovica, a dynamic cycling road leads to the town of Sežana, another Slovenia Green destination. The day ends at the famous Lipica Stud Farm, which has been home to the noble Lipizzaner horses since 1580.
Lipica - Koper: REACHING THE COAST
The last cycling day truly wraps up the diversity of Slovenia and of the tour itself. Nearby Divača, which has also successfully obtained the Slovenia Green certificate, one can visit the amazing UNESCO site Škocjan caves.
After a relaxing walk through the cool and fascinating underground world, cycling continues over the vast Karst area, characterized by typical dry vegetation and numerous small villages. Steeper descent over the edge of the Karst plateau is followed by easy cycling along the river Rižana and along the Parenzana railway track, a now-defunct narrow gauge railway that was in operation in the early 1900s, connecting Trieste and Poreč.
The Bike Slovenia Green cycling tour ends in Koper, the capital of the Slovenian coast, awarded with the Slovenia Green certificate. Here, the historical coastal town meets the green Istrian countryside, revealing the incredible history and authentic experiences. The nearby Škocjanski Zatok Nature Reserve is the largest brackish wetland in Slovenia, as well as a true oasis of peace both for people and animals. Make sure not to leave Koper without trying delicious seafood and having a swim in the sea.
Departure day
The Bike Slovenia Green bike tour ends with breakfast in Koper. After breakfast, a transfer is organized to the tour starting point or the Ljubljana airport.
Download a copy of this tour’s
online brochure:
It includes more details about the tour and its route, including different variations of every stage, elevation profiles, types of surface and extra tips to make your holidays even more memorable
Why are our Bike Slovenia Green tours special?
Because they connect only destinations that have been awarded the Slovenia Green certificate by committing to a green future and developing their tourism in a sustainable manner.
Pre-scheduled dates
- Aug 26 - Sep 2, 2024 GUIDED FULL
- Sep 8 - 15, 2024 GUIDED FULL
- May 25 - Jun 1, 2025 GUIDED FULL
- June 8 - 15, 2025 GUIDED FULL
- August 24 - 31, 2025 GUIDED
- Sep 7 - 14, 2025 GUIDED
- May - October *SELF-GUIDED, TAILOR MADE
*In season, tour can be organised on any date. Please contact us for individual offer.
Prices
GUIDEDfrom 2.410 €What’s included?
We recommend guided cycling tours to everybody who seeks complete relaxation and wants to have only one thing on their mind – great cycling. Our guides will take care of everything else – navigation, interesting local insights and technical support. Guided tours are also perfect for meeting other enthusiastic cyclers from around the globe and creating life-long friendships.
This cycling tour is designed for cyclists who are comfortable with riding on consecutive days and can manage the indicated average daily distance and elevation. E-bike rentals are available, which can help with climbs but require more handling skills due to their increased weight. Participants must be able to cycle independently from the starting point to the endpoint each day. Although the tour is less demanding compared to our other cycling programs, it is not suitable for non-cyclists, people who rarely ride a bike, those who are not confident in their biking skills, or those without experience riding in traffic when needed. Please be sure to review the age restriction information.
Price for the guided BIKE SLOVENIA GREEN tour includes:
- 7-night accommodation in 3/ 4-star hotels or guest houses.
- 7 breakfasts and 7 dinners; all meals include typical local food.
- 6 cycling days.
- Fully qualified and experienced cycling guide for the entire trip.
- Train from Bohinj to Soča Valley.
- Cheese tasting in Bohinj.
- Wine tasting in Brda.
- Prosciutto tasting in Kobjeglava.
- Stone cutter visit in Karst.
- Entrance fee to Škocjan Caves.
- Baggage transfer between tour stages.
- Extensive Tour Booklet.
- Arrival transfer from Ljubljana Airport to Kranjska Gora.
- Departure transfer from Koper to Ljubljana Airport or to the tour starting point.
Rates are valid per person, based on double occupancy on pre-scheduled departures. For individual departures feel free to contact us for the offer.
Optional:
- Supplement for single room 350 €.
- Bike, e-bike and other accessories rental.
Price excludes:
- Travel and activity insurance.
- Personal safety and cycling equipment.
- Lunches.
- Any beverages consumed with meals that are included in the package.
- Any other items not mentioned as included.
SELF-GUIDEDfrom 1.840 €What’s included?
If you are considering a self-guided cycling tour, you should take the following into consideration to make sure this type of trip is the right fit for you. Our self-guided tours are ideal for individuals who have prior experience in self-guiding tours and have successfully navigated with a GPS device. Having a basic understanding of bikes is essential, this includes being comfortable with basic bike maintenance tasks such as fixing flat tires or making minor adjustments.
Individuals must be independent and can navigate and orient themselves using the information provided. E-bike can be helpful for the climbs, but require more bike handling skills due to their increased weight and demanding terrain.
If you think you don’t fit in this description, maybe a guided cycling tour would be a more enjoyable option for you. Please be sure to review the age restriction information.
The price of a self-guided tour depends on the number of people in the group, the touring dates and the time of booking/availability. Please contact us for the offer.
See starting prices per person based on double occupancy below.
# | 2 | 4 | 6 | 8 |
price | 1.840 € | 1.610 € | 1.530 € | 1.490 € |
The price for the self-guided BIKE SLOVENIA GREEN tour includes:
- 7-night accommodation in 3/ 4-star hotels or guest houses.
- 7 breakfasts.
- 6 cycling days.
- Baggage transfer between tour stages.
- Navigation pack: Ride with GPS Tour Experience. Package, including detailed Guide and complete off-line navigation data (tracks, maps, POI), Online briefing.
- Arrival transfer from Ljubljana Airport to Kranjska Gora.
- Departure transfer from Koper to Ljubljana Airport or to the tour starting point.
- Helpline for emergency situations during the tour.
Optional:
- Supplement for single room 350 €.
- Bike, e-bike and other accessories rental.
Price excludes:
- Travel and activity insurance.
- Personal safety and cycling equipment.
- Lunches and dinners.
- Any beverages consumed with meals that are included in the package.
- Any other items not mentioned as included.
TAILOR-MADEWould you like to customize this tour?
Would you like to customize this tour? Are you worried you are not prepared enough physically? Would you like to select a different starting or ending point, or perhaps have a day off before, after or during the tour? Send an e-mail to [email protected].
Logistics
The cycling adventure starts at the alpine village of Kranjska Gora and ends in the town of Koper on the Slovenian coast.
GETTING TO SLOVENIA
Ljubljana has its own international airport which is 20 min drive away from the center of the city. Ljubljana is also surrounded by 6 international airports, those of Venice, Trieste, Klagenfurt, Treviso, Graz, and Zagreb, each of them within a 2-3-hour driving distance.
OTHER INFORMATION
- One group for a guided cycling tour can include a maximum of 10 people.
- On guided tours, a briefing session is organized every evening. During the briefing, the guide(s) reveal details about the next day’s cycling stage, including the altitude, length, difficulty, etc.
- On most cycling stages alternative trail variations can be chosen according to the specific requirements of the group.
- The meeting instructions and final trip arrangements are sent to participants two weeks before the tour start date.
FAQ
You can find answers to frequently asked questions here: FAQ.
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