Begin your cycling adventure with a vibrant night in Ljubljana, where café-lined streets and a castle-topped skyline set the tone for Slovenia’s easygoing charm. Ride north through green valleys and alpine foothills to Lake Bled, spending two nights amid turquoise waters, island churches, and dramatic Julian Alps views. Continue to Kranjska Gora for a night of crisp mountain air and smooth forest roads, then cross into the Soča Valley for a stay in Bovec or Kobarid, where emerald rivers, World War I history, and wild peaks define the landscape. The journey flows seamlessly into Italy, following vineyard-draped hills and quiet border lanes to Cividale del Friuli for two nights. Here, Roman heritage, Lombard history, and exceptional Friulian cuisine provide a warm, flavorful finale to a tour rich in nature, culture, and unforgettable riding.

Read more about owner Robbin McKinney’s cycling trip on our blog.

Slovenia & Italy Biking 8 Days

Ljubljana

Ljubljana

Day 1

Bled

Bled

Day 2+3

Kranska Gora

Kranjska Gora, Slovenia

Day 4

Kobarid

Kobarid, Slovenia

Day 5

Cividale

Cividale del Friuli, Province of Udine, Italy

Day 6+7+8

Cormons

Cormons, Province of Gorizia, Italy

Day 6

Trip Inclusions

What’s Included

  • 7 nights hotels
  • All breakfasts and 1 dinner
  • Luggage transfers
  • Comprehensive Tour Details with detailed pre-trip information
  • GPS routes & maps
  • Orientation with our Area Manager
  • Area manager available on call throughout the tour
  • Access to Loyalty Program and other exclusive benefits

Particulars

Departure Dates

Any start date between May 15 and October 15

Total Days

8 days / 7 nights with 6 days cycling

Arrive/Depart

Ljubljana / Cividale (trains for Venice)

Activity Level

Moderate+ with challenging options.

Terrain

Slovenia is moderately hilly and there is the opportunity to challenge yourself on two mountain passes. Friuli, Italy is less so. See elevation gains in itinerary.

Cost

Classic Accommodation: US $2,970
Single Supplement: US $750

Luxe Accommodation: US $3,545
Single Supplement: US $900

Bike Rentals

Hybrid Bikes: US $380

Racing Bikes: US$480

E-Bikes: US$560

E-bikes are generally available but are on an ‘on request basis ‘ and will be confirmed on receipt of your booking registration. E-bikes provided are the best rentals available in the region. Our regular fleet of hybrid and race bikes are fun to ride and light and fast, but if having an e-bike will make your trip, we’ll do our best to provide. E-bike rentals are non-refundable.  

Please note: Final itinerary is subject to revision; any changes made are done so in an attempt to provide the best possible trip given route conditions and available services. Due to the nature of our business and exchange rates, prices are subject to change. All prices quoted are U.S. dollars but we gladly accept payment in Canadian dollars also. If you have any questions before making your reservation, please contact us.

Additional information

DestinationItaly, Slovenia
LevelModerate

Getting There

Your tour begins from Ljubljana, Slovenia. Your trip finishes in Cividale de Friuli and you can reach Venice by train via Udine.


1

Day 1

Ljubljana

Described as one of Europe’s most livable cities, with pedestrian and bike-friendly streets, and an active cultural scene. Surely one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, but without crowds (yet). We recommend arriving late afternoon in time to walk along the emerald green Ljubljanica River which is lined with vibrant cafes and then have dinner at the acclaimed Gostilna na Gradu, situated in the castle above town ; it will be the first of many memorable meals.

2

Day 2

Bled

Meet with the area manager for the briefing and bike fitting. Bike lanes depart right from the center out of town. You will be soon be out in the countryside and enjoying the dramatic scenery of Slovenia. Lunch in the medieval village of Skofa Loka, with its castle and restored historical center. You will arrive to splendid Lake Bled along a little known bike path. The setting here is nothing short of spectacular. Take a dip, or take one of the pletnas out to the island to visit the monastery. We have several restaurants for you to choose between.
Ride Distance: 40 km, elevation gain 620 m or 71 km, gain 1450 m.*

3

Day 3

Bled

Ride through Triglav National Park to Lake Bohinj, quite possibly even more beautiful than Lake Bled. Optional hike to the Savica waterfall, which at 60 m is one of the most impressive sights in the Julian Alps. On your return ride circling Lake Bled, stop at one of the beaches or at the rowing center, where world-class rowers train. Visit the castle above town.
Ride Distance: 43 km, elevation gain 445 m or 67 km, gain 740 m or 84 km, gain 1610 m.*

4

Day 4

Kranska Gora

Leaving Bled, you will ride to Kranska Gora, with time to enjoy this charming mountain town. If you would like additional riding, there is a paved bike trail that winds towards Italy, or, take a hike on one of the local trails. Dine at a unique gostilina, and soak up the atmosphere, resting your legs for the climb up and over Vrsic pass tomorrow. 
Ride Distance: 40 km, elevation gain 480 m. Add-on distance 40 km.*

5

Day 5

Bovec or Kobarid

If you wish a lift up and over Vrsic Pass (at 1611 m), we have a shuttle option for you and you can enjoy the long descent into the Soca River valley. The afternoon ride to Bovec will surely rate as one of the most spectacular of your life. With the Julian Alps high above, the Soca River below, and Triglav National Park all around, this dramatically situated village is one of the adventure centers of the country. Most people choose to stay in Bovec but for those interested in dining at Hiso Franko, you have the option to continue to and overnight at a remarkable inn that boasts one of the most renowned restaurants in Europe.
Ride Distance: 54 km, elevation gain 790 m or 63 km, gain 1580 m or 43 km, gain 1280 m.*

6

Day 6

Cividale

From Bovec, ride south towards Italy. It’s a short ride to Cividale and there are additional rides waiting you with quiet roads lined by vineyards to tempt you. Cividale is a beautifully preserved Unesco World Heritage city with lots to see. It’s central plaza is one of the most beautiful in Italy.
Ride Distance: 48 km, elevation gain 725 m or 43 km, gain 1280 m.*

7

Day 7

Cividale

For your last day in Friuli, we have designed options that range from flat to hilly. Our favourite ride dips back into Slovenia to wine taste and enjoy those quiet roads that wind through vineyards, past castles and quiet roads, with streetside fruit stalls and wine tasting opportunities. Or, from Cormons, pedal south to the Roman site of Aquiela and reach the sea on a longer, flat ride. Finish your trip with a well-deserved dinner at Orsone, opened by Lidia & Joe Bastian (yes, that Joe Bastian), or at La Subida, in their Michelin starred dining room. As you wash this down with the local wines, toast your journey that will have given you memories to last a life-time.
Ride Distance: 47 km, elevation gain 350 m or 47 km, gain 980 m.*

8

Day 8

Depart

Trains for Venice depart frequently. From Cividale you connect through Udine (travel time to Venice is 1h50). From either Castello di Spessa or La Subida, you will take a short taxi to Cormons and then train to Venice.

*Distance and elevation gains may vary depending on hotels chosen for specific departure.

Classic

Hotel Lesar Angel, Ljubljana

This boutique hotel has a prime location in the Old town, not far from Ljubljana Castle. The rooms are spacious and there are comfortable lounge rooms. There is a charming garden to relax in. Free wifi. Alt: Hotel Bloom

Hotel Astoria, Bled

This hotel, with its contemporary design and upscale furnishings is in a class of its own. The wellness centre is superb with Jacuzzi, sauna and massage services available. Air-con, wifi and LCD.

Hotel Kotnik, Kranjska Gora

This 4- star family-run hotel with just 15 rooms is in the center of Kranjska Gora and has comfortable rooms and friendly service. There is a good restaurant on site. Alt: Gostilna pri Martinu

Hotel Alp, Bovec

Hotel Alp is a comfortable hotel located in the centre of Bovec. The hotel has an air-conditioned restaurant, outdoor summer terrace and a wellness centre with three saunas (Turkish, Finnish and infrared).

Locanda Al Pomo D'Oro, Cividale

This modest 3-star hotel is the best in Cividale historic center and has been managed by the family Picotti since 1938. Guest rooms are small, but the welcome is warm and the location, steps from the central plaza is ideal.

Luxe

Antiq Palace Hotel & Spa, Ljubljana

This boutique hotel with just 18 guest rooms is a former aristocratic residence. Located on a quiet street in the historical center (walking distance to the castle), it has been renovated with an inviting décor and lovely salons. A member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World.

Rikli Balance Hotel, Bled

This 4-star hotel is set in a modern building overlooking a park 10 minutes from the banks of Lake Bled. Rooms feature balconies, contemporary decor. There are 3 restaurants, spa with and indoor and outdoor thermal pools.

Hotel Skipass, Kranjska Gora

Yes an unusal name but perhaps not for a hotel in a ski village. It is the most luxurious hotel in Kranska Gora with contemporary design and amenities you will enjoy.

Hotel Mangart, Bovec

Alpine style hotel with all amenities including air-con and wifi. There are beautiful views from the hotel. Alternate: at Hiso Franko in Kobarid for those who wish (please specify on reg form).

Al Castello Wellness Resort, Cividale

This 4-star castle hotel is located 1.5 km outside of Cividale, with tremendous views over the countryside. There is a wellness center and good restaurant on site. This is our first choice because of the proximity to Cividale and all its attributes.

* Note: should you wish to stay at Castello di Spessa or La Subida, in Cormons, these are options (no sur-charge).

John N. - Slovenia
Randonnee tours offers cycling and hiking trips in Slovenia & Italy
Randonnee tours offers cycling and walking trips in Europe & North America

Tour Reviews

October 27, 2022

“The location was fabulous, the scenery beautiful, the people friendly, the environment was safe and comfortable. Fabulous bikes – I felt very confident on them, especially going down the pass. The riding was so much fun, including the challenging days.”

October 27, 2022

“We thought this was a fantastic trip. Luggage was always there and waiting, scenery outstanding. Some challenges climbing but well worth it. Wonderful routes. The mountains, the food, the cleanliness, the small towns and vineyards – all just lovely. The bikes were excellent. Everything met or exceeded expectations. We thoroughly enjoyed the riding and the locations. Will not hesitate to book with you again.”

October 31, 2023

“The staff is very responsive and easy to work with. Our Travel Advisor was always most helpful, attentive and responsive.”

October 31, 2023

“It was nice having some insights into what to look for on the way or sites not to miss. Pension Berc was great – setting, food, all top notch. Loved that the tour was all set up! The rides were great.”

Leave a Review

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