Self-Guided Cycling From Alps to Adriatic

Strolling around the pretty town of Bled with its renowned alpine lake and preparing for the tour ahead.

Lake Bled castle

The first leg of your journey is relatively flat. It takes you through the beautiful Radovna Valley, past Lake Kreda, gradually descending down to Mojstrana. You travel along the picturesque Upper Sava Valley down the superb cycle path to the famous alpine resort of Kranjska Gora. All the way accompanied by the majestic backdrops of the Julian Alps.

From Kranjska Gora you tackle the steeper ascent over the Vršič Pass with its jaw-dropping views, stop off at Lake Jasna, and descend towards Bovec, the stunning sports hub of the area in the heart of the Julian Alps. You can also visit the spring of the emerald Soča River. The place is like something straight out of a fairy-tale.

Scenic Lake Jasna

Mangart Saddle

Soča Valley around Bovec

The route runs along the Soča River, down side roads and macadam trails, which afford a tranquil ride and an incredible experience of the scenic Soča Valley. At Kobarid, the route also ascends to Drežnica, an idyllic village perched above the Soča River on a small plateau under Mount Krn.

Kozjak Waterfall

Continuing along the banks of the Soča River –deep in the ravine or high above the valley – you slowly approach the Mediterranean climate. The day ends with a short ascent before reaching a completely different landscape of the rustic winegrowing region of Goriška Brda.

From Brda, the route takes you to Italian Gorizia. After traversing across a relatively flat area, you ascend to the windswept Karst Plateau. A stark contrast to the Alps, this place is dotted with its typical karst phenomena. You’ll ride through the gorgeous villages of Komen and Štanjel, all the way to Sežana, a town bordering the coastal area.

Before leaving the Karst, you can stop off at Lipica, home of the famous Lipizzaner horses.  The route then takes you to the beautiful village of Socerb with its incredible views. Following the pretty Rižana River, you’ll gradually arrive at the coast. Then it’s a short stretch all the way to Piran, the Venetian-style seaside jewel.

Piran sunset

Spend a day of well-deserved rest and swimming in the Adriatic sea. In the afternoon, a transfer to Ljubljana or elsewhere upon request will be organized.

Why not spend a few more days in Slovenia? Extend your holidays with a pre- or post-holiday extension. Accommodation, sightseeing and activities can be arranged. Add as many extra days to your holiday as you wish.