Will I have a guide and who will they be?

On our self-guided tours, you don’t get a guide. You receive an extensive personalized handout with all the essential information. On our guided tours, a professional guide accompanies you on your way. He ensures everything runs smoothly, offers you his expert knowledge of cycling and Slovenia’s landscape, and makes your experience memorable.

Where will I be accommodated?

We are continually on the lookout for the ideal match for you. We select a few different accommodations that meet our criteria, but they are subject to availability, particularly during peak season. We may also modify the vacation based on your desires and budget, and we can always find a better acceptable alternative for your taste.

Do I have to book in advance?

We encourage making your reservation as soon as possible. Most of our trips cover popular tourist destinations with limited lodging options. Before spring, most of the top spots are fully booked for the summer.

What do I do if I have food restrictions?

It all depends on how severe your limitation is. Vegetarian alternatives are rather simple to acquire in Slovenia, while vegan foods are exceedingly challenging to find in rural areas and smaller towns. Please keep in mind that the restaurants where we stop for lunch are typically traditional and may have difficulty accommodating you if you choose something other than their standard menu. We recommend that you consider this.

Do I get any time for myself?

Sure, if you want to! We understand that some individuals like to travel in groups, while others prefer to spend more time alone. We wanted to provide you with the freedom to do things your way. After all, it is your holiday! Please feel free to adapt your schedule and make your trip memorable!

When is the best time for road cycling in Slovenia?

Depending on the tour, late spring (May) and early autumn (September) are often the ideal periods. But summer is always a good choice, and some of our holidays are even available during winter! Learn more about road cycling season in Slovenia .

What happens if the weather turns bad?

Most trips may be completed in mild rain if you dress appropriately. Afternoon thunderstorms are not uncommon in the summer, so getting an early start is advised. If the weather appears very lousy, we will attempt to modify the trip or skip a stage by shuttle.

How fit do I have to be?

Our tours are designed for recreational road cyclists that feel comfortable riding longer distances for many consecutive dates. On the self-guided tours, you set your own pace and on guided tours, we will adjust the pace for you. All of our tours can be adjusted to fit your level and the type of cyclist you are – from a beginner to a pro!

What kind of a bicycle is the best for these tours?

We design our tours for road bikes. Objectively, the most optimal bike you could use is an endurance road bike, but using a different one won’t be an issue for you either. Gravel bikes can be a great option, as they allow you to be more versatile and don’t affect your road performance. We can always adapt our tours to suit your bike. For example, we can include macadam roads if you are using a gravel bike. In any case, you can join our road cycling tours in Slovenia with any bike, as we will make the necessary changes to suit your choice.

How does luggage transfer work?

On cycling trips, luggage transfer allows you to ride without carrying heavy bags. Each morning, you leave your luggage at the designated spot—often the hotel reception—and it’s transported to your next overnight stop. Your bags are usually waiting for you when you arrive. Weight limits and pickup times can vary slightly depending on the service provider.

Do you transfer bikes too? How does it work?

Yes, bike transfers are often available when needed—such as before, after, or during your trip. Bikes are typically transported in secure vehicles or trailers designed for bicycles. You may need to notify the provider in advance, and some services require the bike to be clean or partially disassembled. Exact procedures vary depending on location and logistics.

Group of road cyclists riding on an asphalt road through green countryside under a blue sky.

Bronze Zlatorog statue on rock by alpine lake with snow-capped mountains and blue sky.

Group cycling on paved road through rolling hills near sunset in a rural area.

Wooden chapel with shingle siding and twin towers set against a dense forest with early autumn colors.

Coastal landscape in Slovenia with terraced hills, houses, and blue sea in the background.

Lake Bled island church surrounded by green trees on turquoise water with mountains in background.

Aerial view of Slovenian coast and Piran peninsula with terracotta roofs meeting turquoise sea.

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Road Cycling from Alps to Adriatic

8 days / 7 nights

Descend from the Alpine highlands in the north of Slovenia to the Mediterranean regions of the Adriatic while discovering the country’s hidden treasures.

Starting point

Bled

Fitness level

4/5

Season

From April to October

Descend from the Alpine highlands in the north of Slovenia to the Mediterranean regions of the Adriatic while discovering the country’s hidden treasures.

Starting point

Bled

Fitness level

4/5

Season

From April to October

Highlights

Diverse road cycling holidays covering ground from the Julian Alps to the Adriatic Sea
Visit Slovenia’s highlight locations like Bled, Kranjska Gora, Vršič Pass, Soča Valley, and Piran
Explore Slovenia’s interchangeable landscape on a bike
Enjoy moderately paced cycling with some modest challenges
Reward yourself with a jump in the Adriatic Sea upon completing the tour

Itinerary of the trip

When you arrive at Bled, the bikes will already be waiting for you at your accommodation. You will receive complete information regarding the itinerary beforehand, and we will address any questions you may have. If you arrive in Bled early and have spare time, you should visit the Bled castle, take a boat ride to the church island, or enjoy a stroll around Lake Bled. Rest up for an exciting week ahead of you.

Accommodation

Hotel in Bled

Gallery

Cream cake slice held on a plate overlooking Lake Bled island church and mountains in Slovenia.

Lake Bled island church reflected in water at sunrise with mountains and pink sky

Because the stage is relatively short, the first day of cycling will be more of a warm-up. The route from Bled gradually descends through the picturesque Radovna Valley and past Lake Kreda to Mojstrana. With the highest peaks of the Julian Alps on your left and the Austrian border ridge of the Karawanks on your right, you'll make your way up the Upper Sava Valley's well-maintained cycling road to the well-known alpine resort of Kranjska Gora.

Accommodation

Hotel in Kranjska Gora

Cycling

36 km (22,5 mi), 650 vertical meters (2100 feet)

Gallery

Green meadow with traditional wooden hayracks in Slovenia against backdrop of mountains.

Panoramic view of Lake Bled island church with Julian Alps and bright blue sky

Whitewater rapids on the turquoise Radovna River in Slovenia, surrounded by lush green forest.

After lighter cycling on the first day, the steep ascent over the majestic Vršič Pass awaits you on the second. We suggest taking a break at the top to admire the majestic mountain peaks surrounding you. Afterward, you will descend the hairpin curves to the other side and pedal next to the emerald Soča River in the Soča Valley. The road will take you past breathtaking sights like the Soča Gorges to the alpine village of Bovec. You'll rest up for the day there, surrounded by some of the highest peaks of the Julian Alps.

Accommodation

B&B in Bovec

Cycling

45 km (28 mi), 1100 vertical meters (3600 feet)

Gallery

Bronze Zlatorog statue on rock by alpine lake with snow-capped mountains in background.

Winding road through forested mountainsides below a massive, rocky peak at Vršič Pass, Slovenia.

You'll continue cycling down the Soča Valley on quiet side roads. From the historic town of Kobarid, you can ascend to the lovely Drežnica settlement, located on a small plateau beneath Mount Krn. If this WWI battleground was once a terrifying sight, it is now a must-see for anybody in the vicinity. If you get to Tolmin early, you can see the lovely Tolmin Gorges or call it a day.

Accommodation

B&B in Tolmin

Cycling

40 km (25 mi), 600 vertical meters (2000 feet)

Gallery

Waterfall plunging into a green pool inside a mossy, layered rock gorge, Kozjak.

As you go further south, you will soon enter a warmer Mediterranean environment with entirely different terrain. Soon, the steep mountains will be behind you, and you'll be in the wonderful wine-growing region of Goriška Brda. The grape slopes and beautiful villages on top will make you feel like you've reached another nation.

Accommodation

B&B in Goriška Brda

Cycling

39 km (24,5 mi), 750 vertical meters (2450 feet)

Gallery

Hilltop village with vineyards and winding road in Goriška Brda region.

Terraced vineyards and scattered houses on hillsides with mountains in misty background, Goriška Brda.

This day will take you through a relatively flat section of Italian Gorizia before a steep ascent to the Karst plateau, known for its trademark water-carved limestone topography. You will cycle past the scenic villages of Komen and Štanjel to Sežana, a town well near the coastal region. You'll almost hear the sea waves you'll soon see as you retire to your bed today.

Accommodation

B&B in Sežana

Cycling

70 km (43,5 mi), 1000 vertical meters (3200 feet)

Gallery

Village with church tower atop terraced green vineyards against hazy blue mountains

Cycling path under a canopy of green trees alongside a white fence in Lipica.

If you take a slight diversion to Lipica and visit the Lipizzaner stud farm, you will get a terrific start to the seventh day. The journey will then lead you to Socerb, where you will have a beautiful view of the shore and the day's route. You will next follow the green Rižana river until you reach the sea coast. A well-maintained bike route will then take you along the Adriatic coast to Piran, a town famed for its captivating Venetian architecture and narrow alleys constructed on top of a long pier.

Accommodation

Hotel in Piran or Portorose

Cycling

59 km (36,5 mi), 520 vertical meters (1700 feet)

Gallery

Aerial view of Piran peninsula, Slovenia, with terracotta roofs and clear blue Adriatic Sea.

Lipica horses with white halters lined up behind a weathered white fence with green trees in the background.

The last day is time for leisure activities. You can relax on the sunny beach and go for a swim in the Adriatic Sea. When you are well-rested, we will provide a transfer to Ljubljana or the airport upon your wish.

Gallery

White motor yacht docked in harbor with historic coastal town and bell tower background.

Sailboats anchored in bright blue water overlooking Portorose bay and coastal hills.

Piran coastline with colorful buildings and clear turquoise water under a bright blue sky.

If you wish to extend your road cycling experience, you can opt to continue across the Croatian border and down the western Istrian shore to Pula. You will ride on the empty asphalt roads, past the coastal towns of Poreč and Rovinj, before you reach Pula and the southernmost point of Istria, Cape Kamenjak. It lengthens your stay with us for 2-3 days, depending on how you want to pace your road cycling in Croatia.

Gallery

Hilltop village with stone houses and red roofs nestled in green trees under a bright blue sky.

Sailboats anchored in a blue cove surrounded by green, scrubby Mediterranean coastline under a clear sky.

Aerial view of Pula Arena amphitheater overlooking harbor with docked sailboats and city buildings.

FREE ITINERARY

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What’s included in the price?

Self-guided

Tour design and organization

Handout with detailed itinerary and route instructions

Service and support during your tour

GPS navigation with a user-friendly app

Accommodation as per itinerary

Luggage transfer along the route

NOT INCLUDED

Tourist tax

OPTIONAL EXTRAS

E-bike

E-road bike

Gravel bike

MTB

Regular bike

Road bike

Not many road cyclists can say they rode their bikes from the highlands of the Alps to the Adriatic Sea. In Slovenia, you can do it within a week!

After visiting the alpine highlights of Slovenia, such as Bled and Vršič Pass, you will descend through the Soča Valley toward the warm Mediterranean climate. Each stage will provide you with an enchanting landscape, not one day quite the same as the previous one.

Overcoming a challenge usually requires a reward, and a jump in the warm Adriatic Sea seems quite gratifying.

The roads are well-maintained along the whole route. While you will not be far from civilization at any point of this journey, you will be cycling well away from the urban areas. This journey allows you to let yourself go for its duration and recharge your batteries.

You will not have to worry about accommodation, meals, or baggage transportation along the way, as we take care of all that.

If you prefer to cycle under the watchful eye of an experienced guide, we can provide one for you. And there is also an option of a support van with a trained mechanic following you on your way.

With our self-guided option, on the other hand, you will receive an extensive personalized handout with a day-by-day itinerary and highlights along the way. Our support will also be available to you at any time.

Sounds exciting?

Our Bikes

To ensure the best possible experience on your cycling adventure, we offer top-quality bikes for rent. Our fleet features the latest models, meticulously maintained for both performance and comfort.

To match each rider with the right equipment, our team will also assist you in selecting the most suitable bike based on your physical profile, personal preferences, and the technical requirements of the tour.

Each bike rental includes:
✔ Transport of the bike to and from the tour start/end point
✔ Helmet for safety
✔ Phone holder mounted on the handlebars
✔ Basic tool kit for on-the-go adjustments

Black and red Wilier road bike isolated on a white background.

Close-up of black Wilier GTR road bicycle frame, handlebars, and wheels on white background.

Close-up of Wilier bicycle chainring and drivetrain components with Shimano Ultegra branding.

Close-up of Wilier road bike drivetrain with Shimano Ultegra components against white background.

Willier Garda

Or similar

Type: Road bike
Best for: Endurance road rides, long-distance cycling, and performance-focused recreational riders

The Wilier Garda combines a lightweight carbon frame and carbon wheels for the perfect balance of comfort, speed, and reliability. With internal cable routing, endurance geometry, and clearance for tires up to 32 mm, it’s ideal for smooth and efficient long-distance riding with a sleek, modern look.

Blue Specialized gravel bike with drop handlebars isolated on a white background

Close-up of a blue Specialized Diverge gravel bike frame, seat, and handlebars against white background.

Specialized Diverge E5

Or similar

Type: Gravel bike
Best for: Gravel roads, scenic trails, and adventure touring

The Diverge bike is built for comfortable, easy exploration on gravel roads, scenic trails, or new adventure routes. Its stable design and wide tires make it smooth on both paved and rough paths, giving you the confidence to explore freely. Equipped with versatile gears, it handles hills and flat terrain effortlessly, adapting to any landscape. With mounts for bags and racks, you can pack everything you need for a day trip or longer getaway. Ideal for discovering hidden paths or quiet roads, the Diverge is a reliable, comfortable companion for any journey.

Ratings & Reviews

+28

Anne West

Verified customer

Europe Cycling Holidays organized a customized, self-guided road cycling trip for my husband and I from Ljubljana to the Julian Alps and ending in Piran in Slovenia. At the beginning of the organizing process, I used their ZOOM mtg option to ask a lot of questions and determine what we wanted e.g. hotels, room upgrades, routes, etc. With follow-up emails over the next few weeks, and fixing a few glitches that arose, we were excited for our 10-day trip. And we were NOT disappointed! Our trip was amazing. The rental bikes, hotels, GPX files, scheduled luggage transfers, detailed itinerary in an app (including restaurant suggestions, GPS profiles, bike shops en route, luggage pickups), etc. were all amazing. The country of Slovenia is incredibly beautiful and we enjoyed the challenges of the routes in the Alps, the serenity of Lake Bled, the spectacular scenery of Goriška Brda wine region, and everything in between. We had quick responses via WhatsApp from Customer Service for any issues we had during our trip e.g. organizing a van transfer on a day we decided not to ride due to a fall and bad weather. Overall, we had a great experience in Slovenia and highly recommend Europe Cycling Holidays.

Cyclist riding on mountain road overlooking green valley and village with snow-capped peaks

Cyclist in neon jacket riding on winding road past cornfield and forested mountain.

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River with clear turquoise water flowing past forested slopes and a dark mountain peak.

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Susan Weissberg

Verified customer

The bike trip exceeded my expectations and was beyond fantastic. From Ljubljana to Bled with a guide through the Hidden Hills. Then my first solo self guided from the Alps in Bled to Piran in the Adriatic. I can’t say enough about the Slovenia Cycling Holidays crew who gave me guidance and confidence to take out on my own. Not to mention the extraordinary routes that they mapped out.

Alpine lake with clear water reflecting forested mountains under a blue sky

Cyclist leaning on stone wall overlooking calm lake surrounded by steep, forested mountains

Malcolm Hart

Verified customer

Had a fantastic cycling tour in Slovenia for our group of 12 organised by Slovenia Cycling Holidays covering Ljubljana, Lake Bled and Kranjska Gora over a week. Beautiful scenery, great road surface to ride, excellent ride guides who focussed on local aspects, riding safety and fitted in really well with our group. We experienced good organisation for the tailored tour which included local cultural and historical perspectives and arranged a good programme for two non-riders. Highly recommended place to cycle and certainly recommend Slovenia Cycling Holidays to assist with your trip.

Winding road through green valley floor surrounded by steep, forested mountains under a partly cloudy sky.

Mountain valley landscape with pine forest, parking lot, and rugged peaks under blue sky

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Ducks swimming on Lake Bled with the island church and forested mountains in the background.

Gary O'Loughlin

Verified customer

We recently completed the cycling tour from Bled to Piran with Slovenia Cycling Holidays. All the organising and running of the tour was excellent. We had excellent communication with Anna during the planning and also excellent and very helpful advice during the trip from Timotej We were unlucky on the final day to strike severe thunderstorms which made the day very difficult and less enjoyable. The weather stopped us enjoying the wonderful scenery into Piran. Timotej offered to transport us, but we wished to complete the ride. We can wholeheartedly recommend this Company if you wish a good cycling adventure with very good accommodation along the way. Thanks Anja and Timothy

Cyclist approaching EU border sign for Italija (Italy) on a paved country road.

Mountain biker photographing rocky dry riverbed in dense forest setting

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Turquoise river flowing through a narrow, rocky gorge with lush green vegetation.

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Greg Martin

Verified customer

So last minute holiday and the team at Slovenia Cycling managed to turn around a bespoke package really quickly in peak tourist season! The cycle routes are great and easy to follow whilst the trip app has all the details on hotels and transfers whilst the things to see and places to eat was invaluable. Team are super responsive when you have questions which are handled quickly on Whats App. Will definitely use them again.

Bicycle parked by bench overlooking Lake Bled with island church and mountains

Bicycle resting against tree with view of green valley and steep mountains

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Gravel bike parked in grassy meadow below rocky mountain and dense pine forest

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Jenny Wright

Verified customer

Our one week tour of Slovenia with these 3 young local guides surpassed all expectations! We travelled from Bled through the Sovenian Alps all the way to to coastal seaside Piran, through villages , on backroads ….it felt like riding through a story book….a delightful surprise around every turn . Our guides took care of our every need: charming accommodations, snacks every day at fantastic off beat locations, mid-ride. We covered 250 km over 5 riding days. The one day we were rained out, they quickly pivoted, and we were able to visit a wonderful historical national museum, which informed us so much in terms of the history in the Soča valley…So the day became not a write off but an educational experience! It was quite special to know the history of the Soča valley as we journeyed through the region, seeing the incredible geographical diversity of this beautiful country on excellent quality e-bikes. Highly recommend! Trip of a lifetime ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Turquoise lake reflecting forested mountains, viewed through foreground trees and brush.

Turquoise river winding through steep, densely forested mountains under a blue sky with white clouds.

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Lush green vineyard landscape with rolling hills, trees, and scattered houses under a cloudy sky.

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Anne West

Verified customer

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Malcolm Hart

Verified customer

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Greg Martin

Verified customer

Show all 27 photos

Susan Weissberg

Verified customer

Gary O'Loughlin

Verified customer

Show all 5 photos

Jenny Wright

Verified customer

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All available guidance options

Private Guided Group

The private guided bike tour is for those who want to enjoy their cycling holidays at their own pace, enjoying the flexibility of a small private group and not stressing about the details of everyday planning. The guide will be fully at your disposal to make this experience as personalized as possible, maximizing the enjoyment during and after the tour.

Self-guided

Those who like good adventure and limitless flexibility should go on a self-guided cycling holiday. It offers complete freedom, multiple detour opportunities, and exploration at your own pace without having to adapt to a group.

Local experts

Our professional cycling guides know the local terrain and are trained to make this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity both safe and enjoyable.

Hassle-Free

We take care of route planning, accommodations, luggage transfers, and all logistics, so you can focus purely on enjoying your ride.

Tried & Tested Adventures

Our cycling routes are hand-picked & tested, to ensure breathtaking landscapes, smooth roads, and maximum safety - giving you the perfect ride every day.

Unbeatable Support

Our 24/7 customer support is where we show our passion, ensuring your cycling holiday runs smoothly and your well-being is always our top priority.

Book with Confidence

We are a financially protected company, fully bonded and insured, keeping your money safe and allowing you to travel with confidence.

from 1.650 € /person

Road Cycling from Alps to Adriatic

Highlights

Itinerary of the trip

Day 1: Arrival at Bled

Day 2: Through the Alpine Valleys to Kranjska Gora

Day 3: Over the Vršič Pass

Day 4: Through the Soča Valley

Day 5: To the Wine Regions

Day 6: Crossing Karst

Day 7: Slovenian Coast

Day 8: Adriatic Sea and Departure

Extra Days

What’s included in the price?

Self-guided

Our Bikes

Ratings & Reviews

Anne West

Susan Weissberg

Malcolm Hart

Gary O'Loughlin

Greg Martin

Jenny Wright

Anne West

Malcolm Hart

Greg Martin

Susan Weissberg

Gary O'Loughlin

Jenny Wright

Similar Products

All available guidance options

Private Guided Group

Self-guided

Local experts

Hassle-Free

Tried & Tested Adventures

Unbeatable Support

Book with Confidence

Have questions? Talk to us.

Itinerary of the trip

Day 1: Arrival at Bled

Day 2: Through the Alpine Valleys to Kranjska Gora

Day 3: Over the Vršič Pass

Day 4: Through the Soča Valley

Day 5: To the Wine Regions

Day 6: Crossing Karst

Day 7: Slovenian Coast

Day 8: Adriatic Sea and Departure

Extra Days

Ratings & Reviews

Anne West

Susan Weissberg

Malcolm Hart

Gary O'Loughlin

Greg Martin

Jenny Wright

Anne West

Malcolm Hart

Greg Martin

Susan Weissberg

Gary O'Loughlin

Jenny Wright

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