Bike Slovenia Green: Wellness and Wine Country Bike Tour

The Bike Slovenia Green Wellness cycling holiday starts in the Slovenian capital, Ljubljana, situated in the heart of Slovenia.

Explore Ljubljana by bike or on foot

Get to know the bike-friendly or walkable capital of Ljubljana by taking a stroll or ride along the Ljubljanica River, which runs through the city. Ljubljana has a wonderful atmosphere with a relaxed feel reminiscent of the Mediterranean.

Experience Ljubljana’s culinary scene

If you visit the city on a Friday, you’ll be able to see chefs from some of the country’s best restaurants demonstrating their skills and dishes at Odprta Kuhna (Open Kitchen). Travelers who are looking to relax while mingling and enjoying the scenery will also love the abundance of outdoor cafés, restaurants, and boutique shops, especially near the banks of the Ljubljanica.

Transfer to Moravske Toplice Spa Town

In the afternoon we will organise your transfer to the spa town of Moravske Toplice in the far Northeast of Slovenia.

Explore the healing waters of Pomurje region

The first stage starts with pedaling through the Pomurje Region, also known as the land of healing waters and the most beautiful paths to well-being. This Slovenia bike tour takes us south past Lake Soboško jezero, where you can cool off with a swim, sail, or a stand-up paddleboard. In the Expano Pavilion, which sits right by the beach, take a moment to appreciate the variety of interesting things on offer. The art, and concentration activities, as well as the VR experience, will occupy you for an hour, maybe two.

Just a little to the south, before reaching Ljutomer, bikers can choose to cross the Mura River the traditional, “old fashioned way,” with an old wooden ferry. 

Pedal among vineyards on your Slovenia bike tour

Continue pedaling until you reach Jeruzalem, which is situated among idyllic vineyards and hills. This renowned wine-producing area will quickly capture your heart. After a whole day of easy cycling, overcome that last hill and stop at the tourism center with its excellent wine shop to figure out the best plan for visiting vineyards. Then walk inside the Church of Our Lady of Sorrow before letting the panoramas and miles of farmland filled with fields of vines enthrall you.

In Jeruzalem, where your day ends, you may take in the area’s rich cultural mosaic, which includes wineries, gastronomy, and kept-alive traditional trades. All while being greeted by the stunning scenery of the area. This is truly one of the highlights of cycling in Slovenia and showcases why this region is considered among the best cycling destinations in Europe. 

After an initial descent, the route continues along the Gajševsko Lake to Mala Nedelja. The central part is a bit more demanding, with an ascent to the lookout tower on Gomila, followed by a steep and mainly flat continuation. The route finishes on cycling paths through the city of Ptuj, across the Drava River.

Discover the historic charm of Ptuj

Ptuj, Slovenia’s oldest town, is renowned for its magical lake, cobblestone streets, art, food, and wine festivals. A full calendar of events makes this a premier stop for cyclists along the Wellness cycling tour. 

Visit one of Slovenia’s most majestic castles while you’re in town to see the Regional Museum’s remarkable exhibits, which range from instruments and weapons to striking tapestries and traditional masks. The Ptuj Castle also provides a stunning view of the oldest Slovenian city’s cobblestone streets and tiled roofs.

Cycle and enjoy a wine tasting

Be sure not to overlook the wine here. When visiting this great region, a stop at the Ptujska Klet wine cellar is a must. Thousands of rare bottles of cataloged vintages are on display in the cellar, with the oldest bottle even dating back to 1917, so make sure to stay for a tasting. To cap off a fantastic day of exploring, visit Terme Ptuj to revitalize yourself before your next cycling day.

Cycling along the Croatian border

The longest stage of the tour travels south and west, not far from the Croatian border. Along the journey, there are lots of activities as well as outstanding wine and mouthwatering food. Pedal south to reach the settlement of Rogaška Slatina. This Slovenia Green gold-stamped location houses one of the country’s oldest spa facilities.

People have been coming here for centuries — the springs here were first mentioned in 1141 — to recover and unwind. The mineral water that yields the renowned Donat Mg water has the greatest magnesium level in the entire world. 

Relax and rejuvenate at one of the best spas in Slovenia

Following this lengthy (though not particularly steep) rise, you will continue riding over the smoother cycling paths through the Sotla Valley all the way to Podčetrtek. There are many places to take a break and sample great food and wine at this Slovenia Green destination, surrounded by nature, spas, and gourmet experiences.

Prepare your body for the next day at the Terme Olimia Resort, where spas, dining options, and lodging are all in one location.

Cycle along the Croatian border to Slovenia’s southeast

This morning you’ll cycle along the Croatian border, following its ridges and divots to Slovenia’s southeast corner before making a sharp turn at the village of Dobova. Following this stage, the cycling tour will traverse flat terrain along the Sava and Krka Rivers, giving it a strong river motif. But before getting to the Brežice area, you still have some very remote and steep hills to climb, making it a true test of cycling Slovenia’s diverse landscape. 

An easier version of the route will spare you some of the steepest ascents. But if you prefer to work up a sweat, take the harder route, but make sure to stop at Repnica Najger in the settlement of Brezovica near Bizeljsko. In order to keep their remarkable wines, which are grown on the neighboring acres, Aljoka Najger Runtas and his family converted a cave, which was formerly used to store crops like turnips.

Explore the historic town of Brežice

Continue pedaling on to the town of Brežice where visiting the old town center is a must. The stunning Brežice Castle, which also houses the Posavje Museum Brežice, is the centerpiece of the show. Finish your exploration of the area by dining at the world-class restaurant Ošterija Debeluh.

Unwind at Terme Paradiso after a day of cycling Slovenia’s Hills

After a long day of cycling Slovenia‘s rolling hills, relax at Terme Paradiso with a refreshing swim in one of the thermal pools and a massage to ease your strain.

Discover the charm of the smallest town in Slovenia

As your Slovenia bike tour continues along the Sava and Kirka rivers, you will reach Kostanjevica na Krki, Slovenia’s smallest town and one of the most picturesque stops on this tour. This incredibly photogenic town dates back nearly 1.000 years and sits on an island in the middle of the Krka River, making it the only Slovenian town with that distinction. It is also known for its festivals and wine country and is a great place to just unwind and taste some local wines.

Explore cultural and natural wonder of Slovenia

No Slovenia bike tour is complete without visiting the Božidar Jakac Art Museum, which is housed in a 13th-century Cistercian monastery. The museum features both domestic and international artists. Another “must-see” attraction nearby is the Kostanjevica cave, a karst cave, that can be explored carefree since it has well-organized trails and electric lighting. 

The Slovenia cycling route continues along the Krka River to Otočec, a popular destination for travelers who prioritize nature, delicious food, history, and stunning scenery. This little island is waiting for you amidst the lush greenery of the Lower Carniola region, just a stone’s throw from a regional center, Novo Mesto.  

Visit castles and enjoy culinary delights

Once you’ve replenished your mind, visit the Otočec Castle, a member of the prestige Relais & Châteaux association, sitting on an island in the Krka River, to experience the magic of the past subtly interwoven with all the modern comforts. After taking it all in, treat your taste senses at The Castle Restaurant, winner of the Michelin Plate Award.

Relax at a cozy tourist farm to end your day

You will finish your day at a friendly Tourist Farm in the nearby village of Sela pri Ratežu.

Final stage of your Bike Slovenia Green bike tour

The final stage of the tour takes you along the banks of the Krka, following its meanders and visiting the historical towns on your way. Rolling cycling ways take you from the hills above Otočec Castle to Novo Mesto. The regional capital of Slovenia’s southeast has a rich history and a magnificent setting above the river. A coffee break on the main square and a climb to the top of the cathedral bell tower will add to your city experience.

Cycle through the tranquility of Slovenia’s countryside

Immediately to the west of the city, you will find yourself encircled by greenery. A fairytale valley, vineyards on its slopes, well-maintained little villages, and surrounding hills make your ride a pure pleasure.

End the day with relaxing at Dolenjske Toplice

The stage (and the tour) ends at Dolenjske Toplice – one of those enjoyable spa towns Slovenia has to offer. Set at the foot of the large Rog forests, where the brown bears roar around in their kingdom, you can take the waters or simply enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of the countryside.

The Bike Slovenia Green Wellness Route South bike tour ends with breakfast in Dolenjske Toplice. After that, a transfer is organized to the tour’s starting point. You will reach Ljubljana by noon; please plan your departure accordingly.