Slovenia · April 2025 - October 2025

Bled to Piran: Western Slovenia Traverse

From Alps to the Adriatic: Cycle Slovenia's Julian Alps, along the Soča River & Karst to Piran.

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Overview

Experience Slovenia's diverse beauty on two wheels, cycling from the heart of the Julian Alps to the Adriatic coast. This unforgettable journey begins amidst soaring peaks and turquoise lakes near Bled, crosses the dramatic Vršič Pass, and descends into the emerald Soča Valley. Ride alongside the pristine river, explore the unique Karst region with its underground caves and charming villages, and finally arrive at the picturesque coastal town of Piran. This tour offers a mix of invigorating rides and rewarding scenery, with time to savor local culture and cuisine. The distances are manageable, averaging around 50 km per day, with elevation gains ranging from 600 to 800 meters, making it suitable for e-bikes and gravel bikes. One day includes a climb with around 1000m of elevation gain. Each day brings a completely different landscape and climate, from alpine vistas to karst plateaus and coastal beauty. The route follows scenic side roads and dedicated cycling infrastructure, avoiding heavy traffic. The tour is mostly paved, with some gravel sections, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable riding experience. Along the way, you'll discover picturesque towns, charming villages, and hidden gems. Immerse yourself in the local culture, try traditional Slovenian cuisine, and relax in cozy accommodations. This is a fantastic opportunity to explore Slovenia's diverse beauty and create lasting memories.

Highlights

Alpine Beauty of Slovenia

Alpine Beauty of Slovenia

Discover Slovenia’s most iconic attractions, from the pristine waters of Lake Bled to the tranquil beauty of Lake Bohinj, with ample time to unwind and explore at your own pace.

Piran and Slovenian Coast

Piran and Slovenian Coast

Discover Slovenia’s stunning coastline, where the charming town of Piran awaits with its Venetian-style architecture, winding seaside streets, and breathtaking Adriatic views. Stroll along the picturesque promenade, savor fresh seafood, and soak in the Mediterranean atmosphere.

Cycling along the Soča River

Cycling along the Soča River

Hop aboard a scenic train to Slovenia’s Mediterranean side, then cycle along the breathtaking Soča River, where you can soak in its emerald beauty while embracing the excitement of the ride.

Explore the magic of Slovenian Karst

Explore the magic of Slovenian Karst

Explore the captivating Karst region, where underground wonders and rolling limestone landscapes await. Visit the mesmerizing Škocjan Caves, marvel at the dramatic cliffs of the Karst Plateau, and savor world-renowned Teran wine and local delicacies.

Scenic Rides on the Alpe Adria Trail

Scenic Rides on the Alpe Adria Trail

Pedal along a scenic former railway path with stunning views of the Julian Alps, stopping at highlights like Lake Jasna, Laghi di Fusine, and the picturesque alpine valleys surrounding Kranjska Gora.

Flexible Itinerary & Premium Accommodation

Flexible Itinerary & Premium Accommodation

Adapt your days with options to shorten or extend your rides. Enjoy upgraded accommodations, from luxury boutique hotels in the alpine regions to the stunning Gredič Castle or La Subida in Goriška Brda.

Itinerary

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Day 1: Arrival to Bled

Welcome to Bled! Upon arrival, our team will be there to greet you and walk you through everything you need to know for your adventure-packed week. We’ll go over the itinerary in detail, answer any questions, and make sure you're fully prepared for the journey ahead.

If you arrive early and have some extra time, immerse yourself in Bled’s enchanting beauty—explore the medieval Bled Castle perched high above the lake, glide across the shimmering waters on a traditional pletna boat to the iconic church island, or take a leisurely stroll along the scenic lakeshore. With thrilling experiences awaiting you in the coming days, take this time to relax and soak in the magic of your surroundings.

Overnight in Bled

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Day 2: Cycling Along the Alpine Valleys Past the Giants of the Julian Alps

Your cycling adventure kicks off with a gentle warm-up ride through some of Slovenia’s most breathtaking landscapes. The relatively flat terrain allows you to ease into the journey while soaking in the stunning scenery.

Departing from Bled, you’ll glide through the serene Radovna Valley, passing by the tranquil waters of Lake Kreda before gradually descending into Mojstrana. Flanked by towering peaks—the majestic Julian Alps on one side and the rugged Karawanks marking the Austrian border on the other—you’ll pedal along the pristine cycling path of the Upper Sava Valley. The route leads you to the iconic alpine resort of Kranjska Gora, a charming mountain town surrounded by dramatic peaks and rich in outdoor adventure.

Cycling: 35km, +650m elevation gain

Overnight in Kranjska Gora

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Day 3: Across Vršič to Soča Valley

After easing into your cycling journey on the first day, it’s time to take on a real challenge—the legendary Vršič Pass. This dramatic ascent winds through breathtaking alpine scenery, rewarding you with panoramic views at the summit. Be sure to pause at the top to admire the rugged peaks surrounding you—this is one of the most spectacular vantage points in the Julian Alps.

From here, the adventure continues with an exhilarating descent down the famous hairpin turns, leading you into the heart of the Soča Valley. As you follow the course of the emerald-green Soča River, you’ll pass natural wonders like the Soča Gorges, where crystal-clear waters carve through dramatic rock formations. The ride ends in the charming alpine town of Bovec, nestled among some of the highest peaks of the Julian Alps. Here, you’ll have the chance to rest and recharge, preparing for the adventures that await in this outdoor paradise.

Cycling: 45km, +1000m elevation gain

Overnight in Bovec

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Day 4: Exploring Rich History of the Area Along the Soča River

Your journey continues along the picturesque Soča River Valley, following quiet side roads and scenic macadam trails that weave through lush greenery and dramatic landscapes. The ride brings you to the historic town of Kobarid, a place steeped in World War I history, where you’ll have the chance to ascend to Drežnica, a charming village perched on a plateau beneath the imposing Mount Krn. Once a battleground, this serene spot is now a must-visit for its breathtaking views and peaceful atmosphere.

From there, you’ll continue towards Tolmin, where the adventure doesn’t have to end just yet. If time allows, take a short detour to the stunning Tolmin Gorges, a natural wonder of narrow rock formations and turquoise waters. Or, if you prefer, simply unwind and soak in the beauty of your surroundings before the next leg of your journey.

Cycling: 40km, +600m elevation gain

Overnight in Tolmin

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Day 5: From the Alpine to the Mediterranean

As you pedal further south, you’ll feel the landscape transform before your eyes. The towering alpine peaks fade into the distance, and a warm Mediterranean breeze welcomes you into a completely different world. The crisp mountain air gives way to the sun-soaked hills of Goriška Brda, Slovenia’s enchanting wine country.

Here, rolling vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see, dotted with charming hilltop villages that feel like a scene from a Tuscan postcard. The shift in atmosphere is unmistakable—rustic stone houses, cypress-lined roads, and the scent of ripe grapes in the air. You’ve officially left the high mountains behind and entered a region where life slows down, and every turn of the road offers a new breathtaking vista.

Cycling: 40km, +750m elevation gain

Overnight in Goriška Brda


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Day 6: Along the Vineyards to the Karst

Today’s ride takes you through a fascinating blend of landscapes, starting with a smooth journey across the relatively flat plains of Italian Gorizia before climbing into the rugged beauty of the Karst Plateau. As you ascend, the scenery transforms into a striking limestone terrain, shaped by centuries of underground rivers and natural erosion.

Cycling through this unique region, you’ll pass through charming Karst villages like Komen and Štanjel, where traditional stone houses, winding streets, and terraced vineyards create a postcard-perfect setting. Your route then leads you to Sežana, a town perched at the edge of the coastal region, marking your final stop before reaching the Adriatic.

As you settle in for the night, the salty sea breeze drifts inland, and if you listen closely, you might even imagine the sound of the waves you’ll soon see for yourself.

Cycling: 60km, +780m elevation gain

Overnight in Goriška Brda

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Day 7: Through Val Rosandra and Along the Slovenian Coast to Piran

Start your seventh day with a detour to Lipica, the historic home of the Lipizzaner horses, before continuing toward Socerb, where you’ll be rewarded with a stunning panoramic view of the Adriatic coast.

From there, descend into the Val Rosandra Nature Reserve, a dramatic canyon that marks the transition from the Karst plateau to the Mediterranean. The route then takes you to the Adriatic, where a scenic cycling path hugs the coastline, leading you to Piran. With its Venetian-style architecture, narrow streets, and seaside charm, this picturesque town is the perfect finale to your journey.

Cycling: 55km, +400m elevation gain

Overnight in Piran

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Day 8: Free day in Piran

Spend your final day soaking in the coastal charm of Piran, a town where Venetian architecture, winding alleys, and seaside views create a perfect Mediterranean escape. Enjoy a leisurely morning exploring Tartini Square, walking along the old town walls, or taking a refreshing dip in the Adriatic.

Savor one last taste of local seafood or a glass of wine by the waterfront before your journey comes to an end. Whether you choose to relax by the sea or wander through Piran’s historic streets, it’s the perfect way to wrap up your adventure in Slovenia.

What's included

What's Included

Tour design and organisation

A booklet with detailed itinerary and route instructions

Service and support during your tour

GPS navigation with an easy-to-use app

Accommodation with breakfast as per itinerary

High-performance e-bike (or regular) rental

Luggage transfers

Dinners (we encourage a visit to local restaurants and are happy to include a list of recommendations for every taste in our booklet)

Experiences (we can arrange wine tastings or similar experiences)

Airport transfers (we are happy to arrange those to fit your travel plans)

Extra days (we are happy to customise those to your wishes)

Bled to Piran: Western Slovenia Traverse

Slovenia · 7 nights

FROM$2,057.78/pp $2,166.37/pp

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