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Slovenia – Explorer Gravel Bike Tour

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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.

Get your adventure:   
1. Call or email with Questions:  +1-970-230-5896 or email us. 
2. Book the trip, pay a deposit, and get excited about your adventure!
Book This Tour

Arrival & Departure Locations

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. 

Price Includes

Our Slovenia Self Guided Gravel Bike Tour is very well supported! Our tour includes the following:

  • Backup service (24/7 support hotline) during the trip. We include a high level of support on this tour. It is self-guided, but you have local experts at your fingertips!
  • 6 nights of accommodation in handpicked, deluxe 4-star boutique hotels, with one very special 3-star hotel
  • Delicious breakfast daily
  • Personal welcome orientation and bike fitting on Day 2, in English
  • All other ride transfers per itinerary
  • Luggage transfers between hotels
  • Information package including detailed road notes and corresponding maps; one per person
  • Backup service (24/7 hotline) during the trip.
  • Navigation pack: GPX tracks in app for use on your smartphone, local intel, maps

Not Included:

  • Gravel Bike Rental
  • Any additional activities and/or entrance fees
  • Arrival/departure transfer from/to airport
  • Meals outside of the itinerary
  • Travel Insurance – required

Lodging

Included Deluxe Lodging:

  • Ljubljana: Hotel Cubo **** (1 night)
  • Skofja Loka: Hotel Zamorc **** (1 night)
  • Lake Bled: Hotel Triglav **** (1 night)
  • Kranjska Gora: Hotel Vandot *** (1 night)
  • Bovec: Hotel Sanje ob Soci **** (1 night)
  • Bohinj: Hotel Bohinj **** (1 night)  

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. 

Optional Add-Ons

Guides & Local Support


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! 

Tour Highlights
  • Exploring Ljubljana: Discover the charming capital with its medieval castle, vibrant bars, cafes, and art galleries.
  • Historic Škofja Loka: Cycle through lush woods to this 10th-century town, known for its exquisite woodcarvings and traditional crafts.
  • Lake Bled: Experience the iconic alpine lake, with opportunities to visit Bled Castle and the picturesque Bled Island.
  • Radovna Valley: Pedal along scenic trails with breathtaking views of rolling meadows and alpine streams.
  • Kranjska Gora and Peričnik Waterfall: Enjoy the stunning views of Mt. Triglav and visit the magnificent Peričnik Waterfall.
  • Vršič Pass: Conquer this legendary high-alpine mountain pass in Triglav National Park, with its panoramic mountain vistas.
  • Soča Valley: Descend into this emerald valley, known for its turquoise rivers and vibrant outdoor activities.
  • WWI History in Kobarid: Visit the fascinating WWI museum and learn about the region’s rich history.
  • Bohinj Lake: Take a scenic train ride and explore the tranquil, environmentally protected area.
  • Food & Wine: Enjoy excellent local cuisine throughout, with wines from Slovenia’s own wine country.
  • Read more about Slovenia in our blog!

Need to Know:

  • The best travel season is mid-June to mid-September; the weather in spring and fall can be rainy.
  • This tour is set primarily on country and side roads with the majority of surfaces that are ridable crushed gravel. A gravel bike is recommended.
  • We recommend arriving a day in advance of your tour’s start in case of flight delays and to explore UNESCO-listed Ljubljana.
  • English is commonly spoken here, even throughout the countryside.
  • Important Terms & Conditions apply to this tour; please see the Rates section below.
  • Travel Insurance is required on all Pure Adventures tours.
Photos
Itinerary: Slovenia Self-Guided Gravel Bike Tour

Day 1Arrival to Ljubljana

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

Day 28AM Orientation, Ljubljana to Skofja Loka: 23 km / 15 mi

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

Day 3Skofja Loka to Lake Bled: 42 km / 26 mi or shorter

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

Day 4Bled Lake to Kranjska Gora: 35 km / 22 mi

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

Day 5 Kranjska Gora to Vrsic Pass to Bovec: 47 km / 29 mi

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

Day 6 Bovec to Tolmin, Train to Bohinj Lake: 55 km / 34 mi

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

Day 7Departure Day

Your tour ends today, after breakfast. Take the train from Bohinjska Bistrica railway station to continue your travels home or elsewhere!

Meals: breakfast

Map
slovenia bike tour
Date & Rates

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)

  • 2 persons:  2282 euros/person
  • 4 persons:  2000 euros/person
  • 6+ persons: 1904 euros/person
  • Single Supplement:  638 euros
    (applies when an individual is traveling with 2+ travelers and requests a single room.) 

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.

 
How do our tours compare to similar trips? You Get MoreIf you compare prices, we are much less than guided trips with similar experiences. In our private, independent format, you get much more than what most traditional self-guided tours offer, plus it’s a better experience! Our team has gone to great lengths to build and create exceptional tours all over the world, vacations that will give you lifelong memories. From the accommodations to the bikes, to the routes themselves, we hold each component of our tours to a very high standard. We are dedicated to empowering people through travel!
 
What Next:   
1. Call or email with Questions:  Our well-traveled, knowledgeable and dedicated team is standing by and eager to make your travel dreams come true. Call now at 800-960-2221 (USA/Canada 8 am-5 pm MST) +1-970-230-5896 or email us. 
2. Book the trip, pay a deposit, get excited for your adventure!
Book This Tour