Slovenia & Italy Biking

Ljubljana

Described as one of Europe’s most livable cities, with pedestrian and bike-friendly streets, and  an active cultural scene. Surely one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, but without crowds (yet). We recommend arriving late afternoon in time to walk along the emerald green Ljubljanica River which is lined with vibrant cafes and then have dinner at the acclaimed Gostilna na Gradu, situated in the castle above town ; it will be the first of many memorable meals.

Bled

Bike lanes depart right from the center out of town  so if ever there was a city to ride from, this is it (no transfer needed). You will be soon be out in the countryside and enjoying the dramatic scenery of Slovenia. Lunch in the medieval village of Skofa Loka, with its castle and restored historical center. You will arrive to splendid Lake Bled along a little known bike path. The setting here is nothing short of spectacular. Take a dip, or take one of the pletnas out to the island to visit the monastery. We have several restaurants for you to choose between.
Distance: 40 km, elevation gain 620 m or 71 km, gain 1460 m.*

Bled

Ride through Triglav National Park to Lake Bohinj, quite possibly even more beautiful than Lake Bled. Optional hike to the Savica waterfall, which at 60 m is one of the most impressive sights in the Julian Alps. On your return ride circling Lake Bled, stop at one of the beaches or at the rowing center, where world-class rowers train. Visit the enchanting castle above town.
Distance: 43 up to 84 km, elevation gain 445 up to 1610 m.*

Bovec

Leaving Bled, you will ride to Kranska Gora where you can enjoy lunch at a recommended gostilna. If you wish a lift up and over Vrsic Pass (at 1611 m), we have a shuttle option for you and you can enjoy the long descent into  the Soca River valley. The afternoon ride to Bovec will surely rate as one of the most spectacular of your life. With the Julian Alps high above, the Soca River below, and Triglav National Park all around, this dramatically situated village is one of the adventure centers of the country. Rafting is possible, either on the afternoon you arrive or next morning.
Distance: 41 up to 81 km, elevation gain 480 up to 1700 m.*

Cividale

From Bovec, you ride south towards Italy, but not so fast. We recommend having lunch at Hiso Franko before continuing on to Cividale (or Cormons for the luxe trip). Arriving to Cividale, you will discover a beautifully intact Unesco World Heritage site. Its central plaza is one of the most beautiful of any Italian city and yet devoid of tourists.
Distance: 48 km, elevation gain 725 m or 91 km, gain 2005 m.*

Cividale

For your last day in Friuli, we have designed options that range from flat to hilly. Our favourite ride dips back into Slovenia to wine taste and enjoy those quiet roads that wind through vineyards, past castles and quiet roads, with street-side fruit stalls and wine tasting opportunities abound. Finish your trip with a well-deserved dinner at Enoteca de Feo, an intimate wine bar & restaurant where “the music is jazz, the service professional, and the food impeccable” (Frommers). As you wash this down with the local wines, toast your journey that will have given you memories to last a lifetime.
Distance: 47 km, elevation gain 350 m or 67 km, gain 980 m.*

Departure Day

Enjoy a last stroll in the village. Trains for Venice depart frequently. From Cividale you connect through Udine (travel time to Venice is 1h50).

*Distance and elevation gains may vary depending on hotels chosen for specific departure.

Post-trip Extension in Venice

Add 2 days/2 nights to Venice, staying at our favourite hotel in Venice, with a guided walking tour on day 2. US $395 per person (single supplement US $150).