Lesar Hotel 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.
Slovenia and Italy are the perfect pairing of countries to combine into one exhilarating bike tour. What’s to like? Slovenia is bordered by Italy, Hungary, Austria, and Croatia and has been influenced in its cuisine, art, and culture. The country is small with dramatic scenery, quiet roads to bike, and some wonderful hotels. Starting in Ljubljana, you will have a full day to see the many sites of this city, with its old world plazas, baroque churches, and dramatic castles. Then Bled, with its wondrous turquoise lake, island monastery, and divine cycling – some along new dedicated bike paths that wind majestically through bucolic countryside and past aqua-marine lakes. If you need assistance over the Vršič Pass, we’re there for you with assistance. But don’t miss the unending descent down the Soča Valley that follows the serpentine Soča River towards Italy. In Friuli, Italy, you will ride through vineyards and orchards, and in UNESCO World Heritage Site of Cividale del Friuli, you will, as we did, find heaven on earth. Did we mention the food is some of the best in Europe? We’ve got a treasure trove of ‘off-the-beaten path’ restaurants, wine tasting opportunities, and other discoveries to share. This will surely become one of our most popular trips – go soon, before the secret is out.
Read more about owner, Robbin McKinney’s, cycling trip through Slovenia and Italy on our blog.
Slovenia & Italy Biking 9 Days
Ljubljana
Ljubljana
Day 1+2
Bled
Bled
Day 3+4
Kranska Gora
Kranjska Gora, Slovenia
Day 5
Kobarid
Kobarid, Slovenia
Day 6
Cividale
Cividale del Friuli, Province of Udine, Italy
Day 7+8+9
Cormons
Cormons, Province of Gorizia, Italy
Day 7+8
Trip Inclusions
What’s Included
- 8 nights hotels
- All breakfasts and 2 dinners
- Luggage transfers
- Comprehensive Tour Details with detailed pre-trip information
- GPS routes and maps
- Orientation with our Area Manager
- Area Manager available on call throughout the tour
- Access to Loyalty Program and other exclusive benefits
What's Not Included
- Bike rental
Particulars
Departure Dates
| Start any date between May 15 and October 15 |
|---|
Total Days
9 days / 8 nights
Arrive/Depart
Ljubljana / Cividale del Friuli
Activity Level
Moderate
Average daily distance: 30-55 km (20-40 mi)
Terrain
Slovenia is moderately hilly and there is the opportunity to challenge yourself on two mountain passes. Cividale del Friuli, Italy is less so.
Cost
Classic Accommodation: US $3,200
Single Supplement: US $800
Luxe Accommodation: US $3,930
Single Supplement: US $1,000
Bike Rentals
Hybrid Bikes: US $500
Racing Bikes: US $600
E-Bikes*: US $720
*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.
Getting There
You can fly into Venice, Italy or directly into Ljubljana, Slovenia and back out of Venice. If flying into Venice, it takes approximately 2 hrs by bus to reach Ljubljana. Your trip finishes in Cividale de Friuli and you can reach Venice by train via Udine.
1
Day 1
Ljubjlana
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, before 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
Ljubljana
Spend a full day discovering Ljubljana, Slovenia’s charming capital. Enjoy a locally guided walking tour through the historic centre, then visit Ljubljana Castle, perched above the city with wonderful views over the rooftops and surrounding countryside. The rest of the day is yours to explore at your own pace. We’ll provide suggestions for cafés, shops, galleries, and other highlights. In the evening, enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant and experience the city’s lively atmosphere.
3
Day 3
Bled
Bike lanes depart right from the centre out of town, so if ever there was a city to ride from, this is it. You will be soon be out in the countryside and enjoying the dramatic scenery of Slovenia. Stop for lunch in the medieval village of Skofa Loka, with its castle and restored historical centre. You’ll 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 this evening.
Distance: 40 km; elevation gain: 620 m or 71 km; elevation gain: 1,460 m*
4
Day 4
Bled
Ride through Triglav National Park to Lake Bohinj, quite possibly even more beautiful than Lake Bled. There is an 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, you can stop at one of the beaches or at the rowing centre, where world-class rowers train. Before settling into your hotel for the evening, visit the castle above town.
Distance: 43 up to 84 km; elevation gain: 445 up to 1,610 m*
5
Day 5
Kranjska Gora
Leaving Bled, you will ride to Kranjska 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 Vršič Pass tomorrow.
Distance: 40 km; elevation gain: 480 m*
6
Day 6
Bovec
If you wish to get a lift up and over Vršič Pass (at 1,611 m), we have a shuttle option for you and you can enjoy the long descent into the Soča 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 Soča River below, and Triglav National Park all around, this dramatically situated village is one of the adventure centres of the country. Rafting is possible, either on the afternoon you arrive or next morning.
Most people choose to stay in Bovec but for those interested in dining at Hiša Franko, you have the option to continue to and overnight at a remarkable inn that boasts one of the most renowned restaurants in Europe.
Distance: 54 km; elevation gain: 790 m or 63 km; elevation gain: 1,580 m or 43 km; elevation gain: 1,280 m*
7
Day 7
Cividale del Friuli
From Bovec, ride south towards Italy. It’s a short ride to Cividale del Friuli and there are additional rides along quiet roads lined by vineyards to tempt you. Arriving to Cividale del Friuli, you’ll discover a beautifully intact UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its central plaza is one of the most beautiful of any Italian city and yet devoid of tourists.
Distance: 48 km; elevation gain: 725 m or 91 km; elevation gain: 2,005 m*
8
Day 8
Cividale del Friuli
For your last day in Cividale del 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 street-side 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 Bastianich (yes, that Joe Bastianich) or at La Subida, in their Michelin starred dining room. Over a glass of local wine, raise a toast to an incredible journey and memories that will last a lifetime.
Distance: 47 km; elevation gain: 350 m or 47 km; elevation gain: 980 m*
9
Day 9
Depart
After breakfast, depart at your leisure. Trains for Venice depart frequently, from Cividale del Friuli connect through Udine (travel time to Venice is 1 hr 50 min). From either Castle 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 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.
Hotel Kotnik, Kranjska Gora
This boutique hotel has a 30-year tradition with just 15 rooms and an excellent restaurant on site.
Hotel Mangart, Bovec
An alpine-style hotel offering all modern amenities with beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
Locanda Al Pomo D'Oro, Cividale del Friuli
This charming 3-star hotel is one of the best options in Cividale’s historic center and has been lovingly managed by the Picotti family since 1938. The guest rooms are modest in size, but the warm, welcoming atmosphere and ideal location—just steps from the central piazza—make it a wonderful base for exploring the town.
Luxe
Hotel Heritage, Ljubljana
Set in a 16th-century townhouse, this boutique 4-star hotel is our newest find here with an excellent location, chic lobby bar, and an informal restaurant set in an atrium.
Grand Hotel Toplice*, Bled
Overlooking the waters of Lake Bled, this 5-star hotel combines timeless elegance with a spectacular setting. Ideally located for exploring Bled, the hotel is just steps from the town’s restaurants and attractions.
*Closed until September 2027; Vila Bled will be used in the interim.
Skipass Hotel, Kranjska Gora
Yes, an unusual name but perhaps not for a hotel in a ski village. It is the most luxurious hotel in Kranjska Gora with a contemporary design and amenities you will enjoy.
Hotel Sanje Ob Soči, Bovec
Hotel Sanje Ob Soči is a luxurious boutique hotel in Bovec, Slovenia, offering refined accommodations, exquisite local cuisine, and breathtaking views of the Kanin Mountains.
Alternatively, you may choose to stay at Hiša Franko in Kobarid. Please, indicate your preference upon registration.
Al Castello, Cividale del Friuli
This 4-star castle hotel is located just outside of Cividale del Friuli, with tremendous views over the countryside. There is a wellness center and excellent restaurant on site. This is our first choice because of the proximity to Cividale del Friuli and all its riches.
Alternatively, you may choose to stay at Castello di Spessa or La Subida in Cormons. Please, indicate your preference upon registration.
Tour Reviews
“We had the best holiday ever- loved every minute”
“Of the 5 trips we’ve done with Randonnee, the biking and scenery on this one was the best. The Julian Alps are so beautiful, wow. Also self-guided biking is a good approach for social distancing when that becomes necessary. Both the trip and the region exceeded our expectations. Thanks for the e-bikes – those were essential for us. The scenery was spectacular, and we loved the cities and towns. The hotel in Kranskja Gora had the best food by far. The Rikki Resort in Bled was fantastic. All of the hotels were good and had excellent locations, thank you.”
“I enjoyed the awesome beauty of Slovenia. The routes were uniformly beautiful. All the accommodations were comfortable and welcoming.”
“We had a great trip and loved the mountain scenery and fine food! The bikes worked flawlessly, the luggage shuttles went off without a hitch, and the accommodations were all in great locations with space for the bikes. The Area Manager was helpful. The GPS routing system was perfect. We only got lost a few times due to operator error, not the system. This completes our third trip with you guys and we are big fans.”
“Fantastic country and landscape. The hotels, food, wine and culture were all so great!”
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