man gravel cycling
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Authentic adventure

The Great Gravel Loop of Slovenia & Italy

9 days / 8 nights

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Feel the thrill of gravel climbs, alpine descents, and vineyard valleys on a self-guided cross-border adventure through Slovenia and Italy’s hidden paths.

Starting point

Ljubljana

Finish point

Ljubljana

Season

From May to September

Fitness level

5/5

Highlights

  • Cross borders seamlessly between Slovenia and Italy on gravel paths
  • Feel the rush of thrilling descents into the heart of alpine scenery
  • Challenge yourself on the King Stage with over 2,200 meters of elevation
  • Explore the alpine trails of the Julian Alps on two wheels
  • Pedal through Italy’s tranquil gravel roads and untouched landscapes
  • Master a mix of loose gravel climbs and hard-packed trails

What’s included in the price?

Self-guided

Tour design and organisation
Booklet with detailed itinerary and route instructions
Service and support during your tour
GPS navigation with an easy-to-use app
8 nights in a 3* hotels with breakfast
Luggage transfers

NOT INCLUDED

Tourist tax

OPTIONAL EXTRAS

Airport transfer
E-bike
Gravel bike
Hotel upgrades
Pannier bags
Single supplement

Are you ready for the once-in-a-lifetime test of endurance?

This self-guided adventure covers rugged terrain, technical ascents, and thrilling descents across two countries, combining the beauty of Slovenia's karst landscapes, alpine trails, and vineyard valleys with the tranquility of Italy's lesser-known gravel paths.

Iconic sections in Slovenia like Kobariški Stol, the Prašnik saddle, and the alpine paths of the Julian Alps demand precision and focus, while smoother gravel segments through the vineyard-lined valleys of Goriška Brda provide moments to appreciate the serene surroundings.

On the other side of the border, the Italian stages are defined by their tranquility and raw beauty, punctuated by challenging climbs and thrilling descents that demand both focus and skill.

The King Stage, which connects Resiutta in Italy to Kranjska Gora in Slovenia, showcases the best of cross-border gravel cycling. With over 2,200 meters of elevation gain, it features steep gravel climbs like Prašnik saddle and technical descents into Riofreddo, delivering a satisfying mix of grit and adrenaline.

From the first pedal stroke to the final descent, this journey offers a mix of hard-packed trails, loose gravel climbs, and breathtaking panoramas that will push your skills and endurance to the limit.

To make sure you can give your all to this cycling adventure, we’ll take care of all the logistics. From booking comfortable accommodation after a long day of pedaling to providing detailed GPS routes, local recommendations and round-the-clock support, we’ve got you covered.

All you have to do is pack your bags and get ready to feel the thrill of every climb!

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

Frequently Asked Questions

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

It really depends on the level of your restriction. Vegetarian options are fairly easy to find 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.

All available guidance options

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 1.795 € /person
Experience the diverse landscapes of Slovenia on a bicycle with Slovenia Cycling Holidays, an up-and-coming incoming travel agency.

Have questions? Talk to us.

Lan Lajovic
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