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Slovenia Self-Guided Gravel Bike Tour: Embark on Pure Adventures’ thrilling cycling journey along Slovenia’s finest gravel roads. Start in Ljubljana, riding through lush forests and rolling hills to Škofja Loka, a historic town and cultural heart of Slovenia. Continue through serene forests to Lake Bled, one of Slovenia’s most iconic spots. Cycle through the enchanting Radovna Valley to Kranjska Gora, a picturesque alpine town. Conquer the legendary Vrsic Pass in Triglav National Park, then descend into the emerald Soča Valley. Follow riverside trails through the Soča Valley, visiting Bovec, Kobarid, and Most na Soči. End your adventure with a scenic train ride to Bohinj Lake. This week-long self-guided bike tour blends nature, culture, and thrilling gravel cycling experiences, showcasing Slovenia’s diverse beauty. Slovenia is emerging as one of the top bucket-list holiday destinations, per recent features in Nat Geo, Forbes, Lonely Planet, and Condé Nast. Anyone who wants a taste of Europe’s natural beauty only needs to visit Slovenia to see how it exceeds all expectations!
Read more about Slovenia in our blog.
Pro-tip: Book early! The boutique hotels along our tour route book up many months in advance. We recommend booking 5-6+ months before your desired travel date.
Arrive to Ljubljana Airport or rail station and transfer on your own to your hotel; taxis are readily available. Tour ends in Bohinj, where you can train to your onward travels.
Our Slovenia Self Guided Gravel Bike Tour is very well supported! Our tour includes the following:
Not Included:
Included Deluxe Lodging:
About: All hotels are subject to availability at the time of booking. We use boutique 4-star hotels, with one very special 3-star, conveniently situated in each town along the route. All lodging offers a private bathroom, breakfast, and a variety of other amenities. Bedding is European style: 2 twin beds separate or pushed together.
Slovenia self-guided gravel bike tour has ‘Local Experts’: Meet our representatives in Slovenia! Ursula and Danijel manage incoming travel to Slovenia on behalf of Pure Adventures and have been in the industry for many years! They are true experts on all things Slovenia and very fluent and eloquent in English. They will welcome you upon your arrival in Slovenia and be your point of contact throughout your self-guided Slovenia bike tour, ensuring you have the most wonderful experience ever!
Need to Know:
Your tour starts in Ljubljana, one of Europe’s hippest and greenest cities, reminiscent of Salzburg or Prague but without the crowds. Known as the “Green Capital of Europe,” it’s lively with bars, cafes, and art galleries. The compact city is perfect for exploring on foot or by bicycle along the willow-lined pedestrian path bordering the Ljubljana River. Upon arriving to Ljubljana Airport, take a short 25-minute taxi to the historic old town. Check into your hotel, then take some time to explore the major sights: Triple Bridge, Congress Square, and Prešeren Square. Enjoy a funicular ride to the iconic Ljubljana Castle, where you can enjoy stunning views of the medieval city and panoramic vistas stretching to the Alps.
Note: We highly recommend arriving a day earlier, so that you have time to explore this magical city and allow for any airline mishaps/flight delays!
Overnight: Ljubljana
Today starts with an 8:00 AM tour orientation & bike set-up with our local experts. Then, get ready to start your cycling adventure with a warm-up ride from the heart of Ljubljana. Follow designated bike trails and gravel roads starting at the city’s outskirts. Soon, you’ll find yourself surrounded by lush green woods, soaking in panoramic views of the Alps from St. Jakob’s Church. Continue your journey to the medieval town of Škofja Loka, nestled along the Kokra River. This charming 10th-century town is a craft center of Slovenia, known for its exquisite woodcarvings, ironworks, and bobbin lace. Take time to explore local eateries and pastry shops, savoring traditional treats before settling in for the night.
Distance: 23 km / 15 mi, +622/-585m
Highlights: St. Jakob’s Church, Skofja, Loka, green cycling & crafts
Overnight: Skofja Loka
Today, you’ll leave the gentle rolling hills of the pre-alpine world and head deeper into the Alps. Start with an uphill ride toward Krizna Gora, where breathtaking views await. (A shuttle is available for an additional fee if you prefer to skip the climb.) At the top, soak in the stunning panoramas and recharge with a strong coffee at a local gostilna. Enjoy views of the Kamnik-Savinja Alps as you ride along. Stop at the picturesque Jamnik Church, famous for its stunning backdrop and serene atmosphere. Continue through Kropa, known for its rich ironworking heritage, and descend into Radovljica for a leisurely lunch. Radovljica, the beekeeping and chocolate capital of Slovenia, offers delicious local treats. End your day at the enchanting Lake Bled. If the weather permits, take a refreshing dip in this beautiful alpine lake.
Optional Extra Day: We recommend adding an extra day to explore Bled’s iconic sights, including Bled Castle, Bled Island, and Vintgar Gorge.
Meals: breakfast
Distance: 42 km / 26 mi, +1226/-1076m
Shorter Ride: 37 km 23 mi, +886/-1076m
Highlights: Krizna Gora, Jamnik Church, Kropa, Radovljica, Lake Bled
Overnight: Lake Bled
Today you head towards Kranjska Gora on one of the Upper Sava Valley’s most picturesque trails, following the former Italian railroad path. Continue along the scenic Radovna cycling trail, where rolling meadows and vibrant wildflowers add to the beauty. Take breaks at cycling-friendly rest areas and enjoy the stunning valley views. In Mojstrana, enjoy magnificent views of Mt. Triglav, Slovenia’s highest peak. Be sure to stop and visit the Mojstrana Mountaineering Museum to learn about the region’s climbing history. Don’t miss the stunning Peričnik Waterfall: park your bike and take a short hike for an unforgettable view. Arrive in Kranjska Gora by late afternoon. This charming alpine town is perfect for unwinding after your day of cycling!
Meals: breakfast
Distance: 35 km / 22 mi, +547/-270m
Highlights: Bled lake, Radovna valley, Mojstrana museum, Pericnik waterfall, Triglav NP, Kranjska Gora
Overnight: Kranjska Gora
Start your day with breakfast overlooking the majestic high alpine peaks, setting the stage for an unforgettable adventure. Today, tackle the iconic Vršič Pass, a must for any cycling enthusiast visiting Slovenia. Known as one of Europe’s most stunning mountain roads, the route offers breathtaking views as we ascend, surrounded by towering Dolomite-style peaks reaching up to 2,500 meters. As you pedal, the striking rock face of the Pagan Lady on Prisank Mountain adds a touch of mystique. Expect plenty of photo stops as we gradually make our way up to the Vršič Pass at 1,611 meters, where panoramic mountain vistas reward our efforts. Refuel with lunch in a cozy alpine hut, savoring local flavors.
After lunch, prepare for an exhilarating descent into the Soča Valley. On the way, visit Slovenia’s oldest Alpine Botanical Garden, Julijana, and stop at the Great Soča Gorge, a spectacular natural wonder with emerald green pools. For the adventurous, this is the perfect spot to take a refreshing dip in the icy waters!
Meals: breakfast
Distance: 47 km / 29 mi, +314/-128m
Highlights: Kranjska Gora, Vrsic Pass, Trenta, Soca River, Bovec
Overnight: Bovec
On today’s ride, marvel at the enchanting Boka and hidden Kozjak waterfalls. Stop in Kobarid to visit the fascinating WWI museum. Enjoy the scenic ride towards Tolmin and Most na Soči, where you’ll catch an afternoon train back to Bohinj Lake. In Bohinj, follow the car-free cycling path through quaint villages known for their delicous cheeses. To cool off, take a refreshing swim at Bohinj Lake, or arrange additional activities on your own like paddleboarding or canoeing. Bohinj is a beautiful, environmentally protected area and one of Europe’s top destinations. You will most certainly enjoy your time here!
Your Julian Alps Circuit comes to an end at a charming family-owned boutique hotel overlooking the lake, where you can relax and celebrate your week-long adventure with a toast.
Meals: breakfast
Distance: 55 km / 34mi, +503/–776m; + 8 km / 5 mi, +/-100m
Highlights: Soca valley, Boka waterfall, Kobarid, scenic train ride, Bohinj Lake
Overnight: Bohinj
Your tour ends today, after breakfast. Take the train from Bohinjska Bistrica railway station to continue your travels home or elsewhere!
Meals: breakfast
Dates: Plan your trip at a time that best fits your schedule! Pure Adventures tours have flexible start dates.
2025 Tour Rates: (based on double occupancy)
Gravel Bike Rental:
Important Cancellation Terms: Unique deposit terms apply to this tour, starting with a 20% trip price non-refundable deposit. Inside of 90 days, our usual Terms & Conditions apply.
New! Travel Insurance is now required to participate in this tour; we highly recommend purchasing a “Cancel For Any Reason” policy. You can book through our preferred vendors or your own. Proof of coverage will be required.