Hotel in Ljubljana
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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
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.
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
Itinerary of the trip
FREE ITINERARY
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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!
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.
Ljubljana
Ljubljana is Slovenia’s capital and cultural hub, with a population of just under 300,000. The Ljubljanica River runs through the center, lined with outdoor cafés and crossed by well-known bridges such as the Dragon Bridge and the Triple Bridge, both designed by architect Jože Plečnik. The city’s castle dates back to the 11th century and offers views across the entire basin. Ljubljana has been named a European Green Capital thanks to its pedestrianized center, bike-sharing system, and strong focus on sustainability.
Church of St. Thomas
The Church of St. Thomas sits on a hill near Škofja Loka and has become one of Slovenia’s most photographed landmarks. The church was first built in the 13th century, later rebuilt in Baroque style, and today still serves the local parish. A nearby roadside viewpoint frames the church with the surrounding hills and mountains, making it a favorite spot for photographers.
Škofja Loka
Škofja Loka is one of Slovenia’s oldest towns, with a history dating back over a thousand years. Its medieval center is one of the best preserved in the country, dominated by a castle on a hill that today houses a museum. The town lies at the meeting of two rivers and is surrounded by a landscape full of waterfalls and hiking trails.
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.
Lago del Predil
Lago del Predil, or Raibl Lake, lies just across the border in Italy, at 969 meters above sea level. It was formed by a landslide in the 14th century and is surrounded by high peaks of the Julian Alps. In summer, it’s popular for swimming, boating, and cycling stops, while its location near the former World War I front adds historic interest.
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.
Kobarid Charnel House
The Italian Charnel House in Kobarid is a military ossuary built in 1938 to hold the remains of 7,014 Italian soldiers who died during World War I in the Isonzo Front battles. The circular structure is built around the pre-existing church of St. Anthony, and its inauguration was attended by Mussolini. It stands above the town of Kobarid and is part of the “Walk of Peace” heritage trail, which connects key sites from the front lines of the Great War across the Soča Valley.
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.
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.
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
This cycling route 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
The route 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
Frequently Asked Questions
Ratings & Reviews
+120
I found this place with a simple Google search, and I never could’ve expected the custom experience I received. They provided options to help my husband and I hone in on exactly what we wanted to do for our honeymoon. We had perfectly curated GPS-lead rides all across the country, they booked all of our hotels, and planned all of our transportation. Every place that we went was so beautiful. I’m so grateful that we found this company to help us plan our honeymoon, couldn’t have asked for a better experience!
Show all 19 photos
This was the best cycling experience we have ever had! The Julian Alps are spectacular, and the people of Slovenia are the kindest people. We went through so many amazing places. I cannot recommend this company enough. Everything was perfect.
Show all 10 photos
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
Show all 5 photos
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.
Show all 27 photos
Slovenia Cycling Holidays arranged a custom itinerary for my friends and I to do an 8 day cycling trip (10 nights of lodging) around the Julian Alps and to the coast at Piran. Their planning made it really easy for us to arrive to Slovenia with all details of our trip already figured out. They booked our lodging, provided luggage transfers, and gave us daily GPS files for the cycling route every day which made for an amazing trip! I'd definitely recommend this company for your next cycling trip you do in Slovenia or other parts of Europe!
I found this place with a simple Google search, and I never could’ve expected the custom experience I received. They provided options to help my husband and I hone in on exactly what we wanted to do for our honeymoon. We had perfectly curated GPS-lead rides all across the country, they booked all of our hotels, and planned all of our transportation. Every place that we went was so beautiful. I’m so grateful that we found this company to help us plan our honeymoon, couldn’t have asked for a better experience!
Show all 19 photos
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.
Show all 27 photos
This was the best cycling experience we have ever had! The Julian Alps are spectacular, and the people of Slovenia are the kindest people. We went through so many amazing places. I cannot recommend this company enough. Everything was perfect.
Show all 10 photos
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
Show all 5 photos
Slovenia Cycling Holidays arranged a custom itinerary for my friends and I to do an 8 day cycling trip (10 nights of lodging) around the Julian Alps and to the coast at Piran. Their planning made it really easy for us to arrive to Slovenia with all details of our trip already figured out. They booked our lodging, provided luggage transfers, and gave us daily GPS files for the cycling route every day which made for an amazing trip! I'd definitely recommend this company for your next cycling trip you do in Slovenia or other parts of Europe!
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 handle itineraries, accommodations, and anything else you prefer not to deal with, so you can enjoy a carefree holiday.
Completely Customizable
Flexibility is our middle name — whether you want more or less, or just beyond ordinary, we’ll make it happen.
Book with confidence
We are a financially protected company, fully bonded and insured, keeping your money safe and allowing you to travel with confidence.
Unbeatable support
Our 24/7 customer support is where we show our passion, bringing you a better experience by making your well-being our number one priority.
from 1.795 € /person
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