How do cycling categories compare one to another?

We offer road cycling, trekking cycling and mountain biking holidays. Our road cycling holidays are suitable for avid road cycling enthusiasts whose endurance is high enough to withstand multiple long cycling days in a row. Our trekking cycling holidays are suitable for anyone, as the stages are short enough for most people, and the terrain is not technical — mostly tarmac and gravel. They will still be enjoyed most by people who cycle occasionally and feel comfortable with multiple days in a row on the saddle and some moderate climbing. For those looking for more leisurely cycling holidays, we offer an e-bike option. Our e-MTB holidays are suitable for most people comfortable on a mountain bike who are fine with some rougher gravel roads and steeper hills, made easier with electric assistance. However, the single trails MTB holidays are suitable mostly for avid mountain bikers, as they tackle technical trails and fast descents, but are very adjustable to your skills and style of riding.

Who will be our guide?

On our guided tours , you will have professional local guides . Our guides will make sure that you will have expert guidance combined with great fun and a memorable experience.

Why is the accommodation not specified?

We are always looking for the perfect fit for you . We use a few different accommodation providers that fit our standards but they are subjected to availability , especially in the high season. We can also adjust the holiday, keeping in mind your preferences and budget and can always find a more suitable solution for your taste.

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

Our tours can be adapted to any bike type , whether road, gravel, or mountain bike. We are in constant communication with you to find the optimal conditions for your cycling holidays in Slovenia. The most versatile option is a gravel bike , even if you are coming on a road cycling holiday. It does not really affect your road performance while allowing you to take some scenic backroads that can be in a slightly worse state than the main ones. A gravel bike is usually more comfortable as well. In any way, Slovenia is a very diverse country and there is something for every cyclist . Whichever bike you choose, we will find the perfect route for you to take on your cycling holidays.

Do you offer bike rentals?

If you are not bringing your own bike and equipment, we can certainly arrange that for you. We have a wide selection of bikes at our disposal and we will choose the ones that best fit your tour. All we need from you is your usual bike size and any other relevant information or preferences so we can make sure you will be comfortable throughout your trip.

What is included with bike rental?

Bike rentals include the bike that has been agreed upon, delivery prior to and pickup after your tour. Additional equipment is also included : helmet, an extra chain, basic repair kit and pedals if necessary.

How much in advance should I book?

We recommend booking as early as possible. Most of our tours run through very touristy places where accommodation is limited. Most of the great places start getting booked for summer before spring.

I have food restrictions

It really depends on the level of your restriction. Vegetarian options are fairly easy to fin d in Slovenia, but vegan dishes, on the other hand, are extremely hard to come by in rural areas of the country and in smaller towns. Please note that the places where we stop for lunch are often traditional and may have difficulties accommodating you outside of their standard menu. We suggest you keep this in mind.

Will I have some time to myself?

If you want to, sure! We are well aware that some people love to stay in groups while others prefer some more alone time on their trip. We wanted to give you the opportunity to do things your way . It is your holiday, after all! As long as you respect the group timings and locations designated by your guide, please feel free to customize your itinerary and create your own adventure!

What is the best season for cycling in Slovenia?

Depending on the tour, generally late spring ( May ) and early autumn ( September ) are the best times, summer is of course also always great and some of our holidays are also possible in winter! Read more about cycling seasons in Slovenia.

What if the weather forecast is bad?

Most of the tours can be done even in light rain , as long as you dress accordingly. It is not unusual in the summer that there are afternoon thunderstorms, so early starts are advisable. If the weather looks really bad, we will try to adjust the tour or skip a stage with a shuttle.

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.

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Cycling from Alps to Adriatic

8 days / 7 nights

Cycle your way through the diverse regions of Slovenia, discovering the country’s diversity on this self-guided cycling journey from the mountains to the sea.

Starting point

Bled

Finish point

Piran

Season

From April to October

Fitness level

4/5

Cycle your way through the diverse regions of Slovenia, discovering the country’s diversity on this self-guided cycling journey from the mountains to the sea.

Starting point

Bled

Finish point

Piran

Season

From April to October

Fitness level

4/5

Highlights

The ultimate cycling holiday from the Alps to the Adriatic Sea
Visit Slovenia’s top highlights like Bled, Kranjska Gora, Vršič Pass, Soča Valley, Goriška Brda, and Piran, on the way
Explore the diverse landscapes of Slovenia at your own pace
Get a prepared itinerary and enjoy our full support while retaining the freedom of self-guiding
After 6 days of cycling around 40-50 kilometers per day, reward yourself with a dip into the sea

Itinerary of the trip

After you arrive at Bled, a member of our team will greet you to give you the rundown of your trip. You will get detailed information about the itinerary, and we will answer any questions you'll have for us. If you arrive at Bled early and have extra time, you should visit the Bled castle, take a boat ride to the church island, or take a casual stroll around the lake. There is an adventurous week ahead of you, so rest up.

Accommodation

Hotel in Bled

Gallery

This first day of cycling will be more of a warm-up since the terrain will be relatively flat. The road from Bled will take you through the idyllic Radovna Valley and past Lake Kreda while slowly descending to Mojstrana. With the constant presence of 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 well-maintained cycling path of the Upper Sava Valley to the famous alpine resort of Kranjska Gora.

Accommodation

Hotel in Kranjska Gora

Cycling

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

Gallery

After the easy cycling of the first day, you will tackle the steep ascent over the panoramic Vršič Pass in the second. You should stop at the top and check out the awesome mountain peaks surrounding you. Descend down the hairpin turns to the other side, and you’ll reach the Soča Valley, where you’ll be cycling right next to the emerald Soča River. The road will take you past magnificent attractions like the Soča gorges to the alpine town of Bovec. There, surrounded by some of the highest peaks of the Julian Alps, you’ll rest up for the day ahead.

Accommodation

Hotel in Bovec

Cycling

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

Gallery

You’ll continue your way down the valley of the Soča River, cycling on peaceful side roads and macadam trails. At the historical town of Kobarid, you’ll be able to ascend to the idyllic Drežnica village, situated on a small plateau under Mount Krn. If this WW1 battleground was once a scary sight, it’s now a destination one should not miss when around the area. If you arrive at the town of Tolmin early, you can also go check out the beautiful Tolmin Gorges, or just call it a day.

Accommodation

Hotel in Tolmin

Cycling

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

Gallery

As you continue your journey further down south, you’ll soon enter a warmer Mediterranean climate with a completely different landscape. Soon, the high mountains will be behind you, and you’ll reach the magical wine-growing region of Goriška Brda. The vineyard hills and the cute villages on top will make you feel like you entered another country.

Accommodation

B&B in Goriška Brda

Cycling

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

Gallery

This day will see you traverse a relatively flat area of Italian Gorizia and then ascend to the Karst plateau with its signature water-carved limestone terrain. There you will cycle your way through picturesque villages of Komen and Štanjel, right to Sežana, a town bordering the coastal area. When going to sleep this day, you will almost hear the sea waves you’ll soon see.

Accommodation

B&B in Sežana

Cycling

59 km (36,5 mi), 780 vertical meters (2500 feet)

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For a great start to the seventh day, you can take a quick detour to Lipica and check out the Lipizzaner stud farm. The route will then take you to Socerb, where you’ll get a stunning view of the coast and the route of the day. You’ll then follow the green Rižana river and soon arrive at the sea coast. A well-maintained cycling path will then lead you along the Adriatic seacoast to Piran, a town known for its mesmerizing Venetian architecture and narrow streets, built on top of a long pier.

Accommodation

Hotel in Piran or Portorose

Cycling

53 km (33 mi), 450 vertical meters (1500 feet)

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Spend the last day by resting on the sunny coast and swimming in the Adriatic sea. In the afternoon, we'll organize a transfer to Ljubljana or the airport upon your request.

Gallery

FREE ITINERARY

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What’s included in the price?

Self-guided

Tour design and organization

Booklet with detailed itinerary and route instructions

Service and support during your tour

GPS navigation with an easy-to-use app

7 nights in a 3* hotels with breakfast

Luggage transfer

NOT INCLUDED

Tourist tax

OPTIONAL EXTRAS

Airport transfer

E-bike

E-road bike

Gravel bike

Hotel upgrades

MTB

Pannier bags

Road bike

Single supplement

Are you a traveler who likes to experience the country you’re in up close but still explore a lot in a week? Do you prefer to organize your own day while traveling but not take so much time doing all the needed research? If you resonate with both of these questions, then you’re gonna love our self-guided cycling holiday in Slovenia.

If walking is too slow and driving around with a car is not immersive enough, cycling is just the right compromise between the two. It allows you to breathe clean air like walking and be fast enough so you can see quite a lot in a week of turning the pedals. And of course, this fun physical activity also makes you healthier!

The self-guided aspect is also a key component of our tour. Guided tours are all about schedules, timetables, and other restrictions. But going on a self-guided cycling holiday allows you to explore Slovenia’s top attractions and beautiful landscapes at your own pace. And don't worry, you don't have to do any all-night research sessions about the places you're going to visit. We take care of all that.

But you might be wondering, why Slovenia?

Slovenia is perfect for such a holiday. It’s small in size, but vast in its diversity, making cycling the optimal speed at which to explore it. Because the country is also super safe and easy to find your way around, you don’t need to be an experienced adventurer to avoid the pitfalls of traveling without a local guide.

In just a week, you’ll discover diverse landscapes, cycling your way through the ever-changing countryside, from the mountains to the sea. You’ll start your journey at the famous Lake Bled, on the doorstep of the Julian Alps. From there, you’ll delve deeper into the surroundings of the Triglav National Park, exploring the scenic alpine valleys, mountain passes, and the mesmerizing emerald river of Soča Valley. The many cycling paths, gravel tracks, and asphalt roads will take you over pastures, forests, and villages, leading you south into the Mediterranean climate. The romantic roads through the sunny vineyards will take you over the Karst Plateau, from which you’ll descend and eventually arrive at the Adriatic Sea, just begging you to take a swim.

The roads and cycle paths in Slovenia are well-maintained, and the traffic is relatively low, especially on the ones you’ll be cycling on. You’ll have our team’s 24/7 support during the trip, remotely guiding you through the week and making you remember this journey for years to come.

Top Places You'll See

From natural wonders to authentic local culture, the route is packed with memorable sights—these are our absolute favorites.

Lake Bled

Lake Bled is Slovenia’s most famous sight and for good reason. The lake was formed by glacial activity, and in its center sits the only natural island in Slovenia. A church has stood on that island since the 9th century, and today visitors still ring its “wishing bell.” Getting to the island is done the traditional way—by pletna, a wooden boat rowed standing up, a method unique to this area.

Bled Castle

Perched on a cliff 130 m above the emerald waters of Lake Bled, this is Slovenia’s oldest castle, first mentioned in 1011. Its Romanesque walls, medieval courtyards, and Renaissance towers overlook one of Europe’s most photographed lakes, with panoramic views of the Julian Alps and the tiny island church below. Inside, a small museum traces a thousand years of history, while a wine cellar, chapel, and printing workshop bring the past to life.

Zelenci Nature Reserve

Zelenci is where the Sava Dolinka River begins. The water rises through porous chalk and sand, creating bright emerald pools that never freeze, even in winter. The reserve covers 15 hectares and is home to rare species of plants and animals, including orchids and kingfishers. A wooden boardwalk and viewing tower make the area accessible for visitors, offering views of the surrounding Julian Alps. The constant temperature of the spring water is about 6°C year-round.

Lake Jasna

Lake Jasna consists of two connected artificial lakes near Kranjska Gora. Built for tourism, they are surrounded by walking paths and overlooked by the peaks of the Julian Alps. A wooden viewing tower, a bronze statue of an ibex, and clear alpine water make it one of the most photographed spots in the region.

Vršič Pass

Vršič Pass is the highest road pass in Slovenia at 1,611 meters, with exactly 50 numbered hairpin turns. Built by Russian prisoners during World War I, it is still known as the “Russian Road.” The pass connects Kranjska Gora with the Soča Valley and is a popular gateway for hiking trails, mountain views, and a stop at the small Russian Chapel built in memory of the workers who died during its construction.

Soča Valley

The Soča Valley is famous for the emerald color of the Soča River, which flows through deep gorges and past waterfalls. The area is popular for outdoor sports like rafting, kayaking, and hiking, and features an abundance of natural highlights, among others: the Great Soča & Tolmin Gorges, and stunning waterfalls like Virje, Kozjak and Slovenia’s highest - Boka. It is also a site of major World War I battles, remembered through a variety of museums and the Walk of Peace trail.

Napoleon’s Bridge

Built in 1750 and named after Napoleon’s troops who crossed it in 1797, this single-arch stone bridge spans about 55 m, rising 22 m above the emerald Soča River. Rebuilt after World War I battles along the Isonzo Front, it remains a striking historic crossing with panoramic views of the Julian Alps.

Goriška Brda

Goriška Brda is a wine-growing region on the border with Italy, often called “Slovenia’s Tuscany.” Its rolling hills are covered with vineyards, orchards, and small villages, many of which offer wine tastings and farm-to-table food. The region is known for both white and red wines, and cycling through its gentle hills is one of the best ways to explore.

Lipica Stud Farm

The Lipica Stud Farm was founded in 1580 and is the original home of the Lipizzaner horses. These horses were bred for the Habsburg court and later became famous worldwide for their performances at the Spanish Riding School in Vienna. Today, the stud farm still breeds and trains Lipizzaners, offering riding shows, guided tours, and a museum that tells the story of this historic breed.

Piran

Piran is a coastal gem on the Adriatic, known for its Venetian heritage and narrow medieval streets. The main square, Tartini Square, is named after the famous violinist Giuseppe Tartini, who was born here. Climb the old city walls for panoramic views of the red-roofed town and the sea, or visit St. George’s Church, which overlooks the harbor from a bluff.

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

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.

Scott Aspect E-Ride

Or similar

Type: E-bike
Best for: Leisurely rides, light trails, and everyday cycling on mixed-terrain

The Scott Aspect eRide combines comfort with intuitive handling, perfect for leisurely rides on mixed terrains. Its durable frame, paired with a front suspension fork, provides a smooth experience on uneven paths. Powered by a robust motor, it’s an ideal choice for those seeking a hassle-free e-bike adventure.

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.

Non-Riders Activities

We understand that not everyone may want to ride every day, or perhaps some in your group are non-riders. No problem—we’ve got plenty of exciting activities lined up for them, too!

Whether you’re looking to explore Slovenia’s rich culture or get active in different ways, we’ll make sure your experience is just as fulfilling. Options include (but are not limited to):

Active Alternatives

Slovenia has plenty to offer for those seeking active experiences beyond the bike.

Whether you’re craving adrenaline or a scenic escape, here are some top picks:

Kayak on emerald Soča river
Feel the thrill of whitewater rafting
See Slovenia from bird’s view on zipline
Discover Zelenci Nature Reserve
Hike to Vrata Valley & Peričnik
Waterfall Explore the dramatic
Vintgar Gorge

Cultural Exploration

Slovenia is rich in culture, offering diverse experiences for those who want to explore beyond the bike.

Here are some must-see highlights:

Explore Ljubljana’s extensive network of museums
Learn about Slovenia’s traditions in Radovljica
Beekeeping Museum
Visit Slovenia’s oldest castle in Bled Castle
Take a scenic Pletna boat ride
Step back in time at Castle Kamen ruins
Explore historical landmarks and WWI sites

Ratings & Reviews

5.0 average rating

+54

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 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

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Show all 18 photos

Chris Pyne

Verified customer

First class company with a well planned route, great accommodation and simply outstanding support in time of trouble. We did a two week ride from Bled to Pula in September 2023. Fair to say we hit a lot of problems courtesy of BA with rescheduled and diverted flights, lost bags, problems with our own bikes, returning rental bikes and more. Daja was simply amazing in helping us sort all of them out and was so accessible at all hours. She even managed to source and buy a forgotten Thru-axle and deliver it personally to our hotel, which is far and above any service i would reasonably expect. Thank you !! Our accommodation was fantastic and far better than expected in all but one location. The route planning in Slovenia was great but due to our decision to bring road bikes from the UK and the nature of the roads in Croatia, our second week was a bit tricky route wise and it would have been good to have had a discussion about this section beforehand. A Gravel bike is far better suited to Croatia although this was our decision to bring road bikes. Transport arrangement and logistics were flawless. Overall, i would change very little and we will definitely be returning to Slovenia. Daja was fantastic and I absolutely recommend Slovenia Cycling Holidays and will be using their services again.

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Filip Vercruysse

Verified customer

Top Company, Top Tour ! We did the 7 days tour (from Alps to Adriatic), from Bled to Piran in august 2024 ! It was the best tour made in years. Amazing landscapes and nature, great accommodations and food and perfectly organised. Daja did really a perfect job ! she was allways available for questions or suggestions ! I would recommend this tour to everyone.

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Karen

Verified customer

Had a ball! We rode from Ljubljana to Bled via the mountains - 5 days/4 nights. Daja did a great job communicating with us and ironing out any hitches as soon as they were identified. E-Bikes were great (and v necessary!), accomm was great and the scenery was extraordinary! Being less fit, I wished I had opted for a days’ break at Lake Bohinj. My legs and butt would have appreciated it. Can’t wait to return and do another riding tour with this company!

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ACP2527

Verified customer

G’day Klem, Back in Australia and just wanted to say how much we enjoyed our holiday. You guys did a wonderful job. The whole experience was first class. The bikes were excellent. The route was fun and well mapped using the app. The hotels were excellent. The hotel staff, outstanding. The food and wine truly memorable. I cannot recommend you guy’s highly enough. Our impressions of Slovenia as an outstanding destination, of beautiful scenery and friendly people will be passed onto all our friends. Thank you so much for a great holiday!

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Diane Flynn

Verified customer

We had a wonderful cycling trip, starting in Trieste, then onto Slovenia and Croatia. Before the trip, Klemen was extremely patient with our many questions and addressed our concerns very satisfactorily- even changing the original bike route to meet our needs. The bikes we used ( e-bikes) were in great condition, and easy to use. The hotels were very satisfactory- and included big breakfasts to start our days. The towns we visited were charming. All in all- a first class experience!!

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Jenny Wright

Verified customer

Show all 18 photos

Filip Vercruysse

Verified customer

Show all 10 photos

ACP2527

Verified customer

Show all 15 photos

Chris Pyne

Verified customer

Show all 11 photos

Karen

Verified customer

Show all 3 photos

Diane Flynn

Verified customer

Show all 4 photos

All available guidance options

Join a Group

If you are a solo cyclist who wants to spend a fun holiday cycling, look no further. We’re going to find you a group of up to 8 like-minded biking enthusiasts and take care of all the other tour details. The cycling tour will be led by our guide, who’ll make sure everything runs smoothly, so you’re able to enjoy as much cycling as possible.

Private Guided Solo

The private guided bike tour is for those who want to enjoy their cycling holidays at their own pace...

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.