Ultimate 10 Days Slovenia discovery cycling trip
This "Cross Country Cycling Tour" whisks you through the majority of western Slovenia's most interesting attractions and along the many natural wonders packed into this diverse little country. Starting at the enchantingly beautiful Lake Bled, then on to the vibrant capital city of Ljubljana. Then it's over a limestone landscape laden with castles and vineyards above and huge cave systems below, as you cycle your way from the alpine center to the lovely Adriatic coast. Suitable for cyclists with time on their hands, an average fitness level, a love of fine wine and the great outdoors. If you wish to explore Slovenia by bike, this is best choice.
Our Salzburg to Lake Bled cycling tour would be a good option to take before this tour.
Itinerary
Day 1: ARRIVAL TO BLED
You will start in Bled, a cute little town on the shore of a beautiful glacial lake. Characterized by its unique island church protruding from this immense body of water, backed by the towering Karavanke Alps, and the castle perched high on a cliff standing guard over the town, Bled is one of Slovenia’s most popular tourist attractions. Take some time on your first day to visit the island church by boat and hike up to the Mala Osojnica viewpoint at the western side of the lake. You won't regret it.
Day 2: BLED – BOHINJSKA BISTRICA (BOHINJ VALLEY) (↔ 27 km, ↑ 130 m, ↓ 830 m ) +side trip to Savica waterfall (return ↔ 16 km, ↑↓ 200 m )
You will be taken by bus up to the high plateau at Pokljuka. From here you can marvel at the stunning views before gliding down into the neighboring Bohinj Valley, the jewel in the heart of the Triglav National Park. You will cycle through the many small alpine villages scattered across the valley until reaching the small settlement of Ribčev Laz (Fisherman’s Pass) lying next to the stunning Lake Bohinj. Wedged into the corner of this dead end valley, Bohinj is the largest and deepest lake in the national park, and is surrounded by shimmering mountain peaks. The view across this lake from the bridge at Ribčev Laz is unrivaled. Cycle around the lake to Savica Waterfall, source of the Sava Bohinjka River, and then take the cable car up to Vogel Mountain for a spectacular view into the Bohinj Valley and of Mount Triglav, the highest peak in the Julian Alps. Explore the forests surrounding the lake before spending the evening in one of the cosy village pubs and trying the local home made honey brandy. Cycling downhill, at the foot of Mount Triglav. Triglav National Park, very peaceful area.
Day 3: BOHINJSKA BISTRICA (BOHINJ VALLEY) – ŠKOFJA LOKA (↔ 49 km, ↑ 980 m, ↓1.130 m)
Leaving Bohinj you cycle to the lovely village of Bohinjska Bistrica, where you can admire the picture-perfect backdrop. Then it’s up 750 m/2400 ft to the Jelovica high plateau (a “help out” lift to top of mountain pass is available for this part). From the top the route takes you through a deep forest which soon drops off into the Selška Dolina Valley leading to the Škofja Loka hills. The first stop is at the little alpine village of Sorica, set among low green hills. This is the birthplace of the famous Slovene painter, Ivan Grohar. As you ride into the village his statue will greet you. Visit his gallery where you’ll find a limited collection of his work. The next stop is at the historic iron-smelting town of Železniki, where you will find the remains of an old blast furnace dating from 1826. Stop in one of the village inns along the way and try the delicious trout. Finally you arrive in the wonderful town of Škofja Loka, one of the oldest towns in Slovenia. If you are not too tired you can cycle up to the castle on the hill overlooking town. Spend the rest of the evening wandering through the old streets of this historic medieval town.
Day 4: ŠKOFJA LOKA – LJUBLJANA (↔ 31 km, ↑ 170 m, ↓ 240 m)
Once settled into your hotel, you will visit the historic old town of Ljubljana and marvel at the ornate, old-world architecture and lovely “fin de siecle” mansions. Then it’s a short walk or ride up to the mighty Ljubljana Castle, perched high on a hill and standing guard over the old town and city center. From its tower you get a commanding view of Ljubljana’s heart and soul. As the sun goes down you can choose between relaxing with a drink in the many outdoor bars/cafes beside the Ljubljanica River, or take an evening stroll, enjoying the lights and vibrant sounds of the city and its charismatic people. Or perhaps do both!
Day 5: LJUBLJANA - VRHNIKA (↔ 41 km, ↑ 150 m, ↓ 160 m)
A nice easy first day across the historic and richly diverse plains surrounding the capital.
As the morning sun begins to rise high in the sky, you will be cycling across an immense 160-square kilometer marshy plain. The Ljubljansko Barje was once a great lake until it dried up 6000 years ago, leaving behind an incredibly diverse landscape that is now home to some of Europe’s rarest forms of bird, plant and insect life. Along the way you can see the remnants of the world’s highest railway viaduct in Borovnica. In hot summer months you can even freshen up in a typical Carst Lake of Podpec. Just before arriving in Vrhnika, you can visit the Technical Museum of the Republic of Slovenia housed in Bistra Castle, where you’ll find a great hunting collection and an interesting exhibition of president Tito’s cars.
Day 6: VRHNIKA – POSTOJNA (↔ 43 km, ↑ 760 m, ↓ 510 m)
On this day the roads will take you away from the main tourist routes and off the beaten track. You can also take a short detour to the impenetrable fortress of Predjama castle, wedged tight into a crevasse halfway up a 123-meter cliff-face protruding dramatically into the surrounding basin. Here lived a vivacious and daring knight. Erasmus kept a whole army at bay by utilizing the secret of the Predjama Cave to sneak out for supplies, which included freshly picked cherries which he used to throw at his adversaries to taunt them. Take the tour and learn how Erasmus met his untimely demise in less than poetic circumstances, as he was literally caught with his pants down.
Day 7: POSTOJNA – ŠTANJEL AREA (↔ 32 km, ↑ 240 m, ↓ 630 m)
So far nearly 30 million tourists have visited this stunningly beautiful underground Postojna cave formation, carved deep into the heart of the limestone hills. This is the most extensive cave system in Slovenia, covering a total of 21 kilometers. The 1½ hour tour will take you through a fairy tale world full of large and colorful stalactites and stalagmites, not forgetting the unique “human fish”, a mysterious creature that lives in dark pools inside the caves. In the afternoon you head to first vineyards of Vipava region. (Accommodation in 3* guesthouse.)
Day 8: ŠTANJEL AREA – LIPICA – DIVAČA (↔ 50 km, ↑ 630 m, ↓ 360 m)
First stop is at the lovely botanical garden in Sežana, then cycle on to the stud farm of Lipica, where you can visit these beautiful thoroughbred Lipizzaner horses whose glistening white coats and gentle, graceful dancing have made them famous worldwide. Take a tour in a traditional carriage, and visit them up close in their stables. This will be a day to remember. If you have time for a couple of side trips, you can also visit the unusual but very interesting “War Museum” set in a Venetian tower.
Day 9: DIVAČA – MUGGIA (↔ 39 km, ↑ 350 m, ↓ 780 m)
If you missed Postojna Caves, don't worry – this morning, you have the chance to explore the Škocjan Caves, a UNESCO-listed natural monument known for their stunning beauty and tranquility. Next, head to Socerb Castle, where you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the Bay of Trieste, the Friulian Plain, and even the Julian Alps. Your day trip concludes in the charming town of Muggia, just south of Trieste. After a day of cycling, unwind with a delicious gelato in the town's historic center or relax on one of its inviting beaches. If you arrive early, consider a quick bus or boat trip into Trieste, a vibrant Italian city renowned for its rich history, cosmopolitan vibe, and captivating atmosphere. (Accommodation in 4* hotel.)
Day 10: MUGGIA – PIRAN (↔ 35 km; 46 km with a side trip, ↑ 230 m, ↓ 240 m)
For your last day, you'll cycle along the coastal road on a new cycling path following the old railway line. Enjoy great vistas of Slovenia's lovely coastline, and Trieste Bay. A stop in the interesting harbor town of Izola is a must. The trip ends in the gorgeous little Venetian town of Piran, where you can ascend to the church bell tower and watch the sunset over the sprawling red roofs and sparkling blue Adriatic Sea.
Day 11: DEPARTURE
After breakfast your cycling Best of Slovenia tour ends. However, you can prolong your stay in Piran, take a one-way boat trip or day-cruise to Venice or continue cycling by taking our Croatia Istrian Coastal Tour down to Pula.
Price
Price per person based on two people sharing:
Season A: 29.3. to 2.5. and 5.10. to 11.10.2025 1.370 EUR
Season B: 3.5. to 14.8.2025 and 20.9. to 4.10.2025 1.425 EUR
Season C: 15.8. to 19.9.2025 1.495 EUR
Date of Day 1 sets the trip's season.
Price includes:
• Ten nights accommodation in hotels and guesthouses 3*/4* in a two bedded en-suite facilities room, on basis of bed & breakfast
• Luggage transport between hotels, one piece per person, max 23 kg / 50 lb. Lufthansa dimensions, every additional piece 90 EUR, payable on spot
• Personal transfer on day two
• Tour description and maps in GUIBO application electronic form, one download per room
• Personal welcome meeting and bike handover
• Local tourist and other taxes
• Backup service (hotline) during the trip
Optional extras:
• Single travelers season A 445 EUR, season B 455 EUR, season C 465 EUR. Applies when a person travels alone and includes single room supplement.
• Single room season A 345 EUR, season B 375 EUR, season C 395 EUR. Applies when a person is traveling together with other persons in a party.
• Hotel in Ljubljana City center – price at request
• Standard touring bike rental 190 EUR. Bikes have 27 gears. Included are: one pannier per bike, helmet. One repair set per pair of bikes – includes: one long lock, one spare inner tube, one set of Allen keys, tyre levers and a basic puncture patch set. Every additional rental day 25 EUR per bike. Bike rental period starts 9:00 of day two of the tour and ends at 18:00 of day ten.
• Electric bike rental 390 EUR, every additional day 50 EUR per bike
• Additional transfer to top of the pass on day three - 30 EUR per person
• Printed information package in English or German, including route notes and detailed maps, delivered upon arrival - 30 EUR.
Additional nights:
• 4* Hotel in Bled: Season A 105 EUR per person per night in a standard double room B&B, single room 200 EUR. Season B 115 EUR per person per night in a standard double room B&B, single room 210 EUR. Season C 130 EUR per person per night in a standard double room B&B, single room 240 EUR.
• 4* Hotel in Ljubljana (city middle ring): Season A 90 EUR per person per night in a standard double room B&B, single room 145 EUR. Season B 100 EUR per person per night in a standard double room B&B, single room 160 EUR. Season C 105 EUR per person per night in a standard double room B&B, single room 170 EUR.
• 4* Hotel in Ljubljana (historic center) at request
• 3* Hotel in Štanjel area: Season A 65 EUR per person per night in a standard double room B&B, single room 95 EUR. Season B 70 EUR per person per night in a standard double room B&B, single room 100 EUR. Season C 80 EUR per person per night in a standard double room B&B, single room 110 EUR.
• 4* Hotel in Muggia: Season A 75 EUR per person per night in a standard double room B&B, single room 110 EUR. Season B 85 EUR per person per night in a standard double room B&B, single room 125 EUR. Season C 100 EUR per person per night in a standard double room B&B, single room 145 EUR.
• 4* Hotel in Piran (old town): Season A 105 EUR per person per night in a standard double room B&B, single room 165 EUR. Season B 120 EUR per person per night in a standard double room B&B, single room 180 EUR. Season C 125 EUR per person per night in a standard double room B&B, single room 185 EUR.
Discounts:
• Children up to 12 years when sharing room with parents 40% discount on basic price
• Third adult in the room 10% discount on basic price
Not included: lunches, dinners, entrance fees, saunas and massages in hotels
Route Profile
Total Length: 347 km / 366 km with side trips
Way type: 80% regional country roads, 15% cycleways, 5% main road (town and city approach sections)
Surface: 95% asphalt and paved, 5% unpaved
Difficulty: medium - for those who, for example complete daily trip to the market by bike in nice weather and consider cycling should be fun but not training. Gentle hills or stretches on gravel paths do not cause any difficulties. Average daily elevation gains between 100 and 500 meters.
Accommodation
Helia supports responsible travel. On our trips we therefore use small, authentic hotels and guesthouses with character operated by locals or their families. Here you can find the list of standard accommodation we primarily use on the trip. The actual hotels may differ from this list, depending on time of booking and rooms availability.
Day 1: 4* Hotel Savica, Park, Kompas, Lovec or Triglav in Bled
Day 2: 4* Eco Hotel in Bohinjska Bistrica
Day 3: 3* Mini Hotel in Škofja Loka
Day 4: 4* M-Hotel in Ljubljana
Day 5: 3* Hotel Mantova in Vrhnika
Day 6: 4* Hotel Kras in Postojna
Day 7: 3* Guesthouse Hiša Posebne Sorte in Štanjel area
Day 8: 3* Hotel Malovec in Divača
Day 9: 4* Hotel Marina San Rocco in Muggia
Day 10: 4* Hotel Piran in Piran
Travel & Transfer Options
Starting point of this trip is Bled in NW Slovenia.
Getting there...
By plane: closest airport is Ljubljana (LJU). Several airlines serve it. From the airport you can travel to Bled by bus (change once, takes about two hours) or book our transfer: Ljubljana Airport to Bled (faster - 20 min) - please check here below.
By bus: Flixbus lines stop at Lake Bled.
By train: Bled has two railway stations: Lesce-Bled station on the Villach - Ljubljana mainline, 4 km away from town center, need to take a bus or call us, we'll give you a lift for free. The other is station Bled-Jezero on the Jesenice - Nova Gorica sideline, only a few trains a day.
By car: take exit Lesce on the A1 motorway Ljubljana - Jesenice, Karavanke. Please consult us about parking options.
.... and away
By plane: Trieste airport (TST) or Ljubljana (LJU). Several airlines serve them. You can book our transfer: Piran to Ljubljana Downtown or Ljubljana Airport - please check here below.
By train: Koper railway station is 18 km away from Piran. Trains leave from here to Ljubljana. If you wish to travel onward to Rijeka (Croatia) you need to change in Pivka, however, only a few trains cross the border! There are no train connections to Italy, you'll need to first travel to Trieste.
By boat: there are boats operating from Piran to Venice and to Trieste and ferries from Poreč to Venice.
By car: if your car is in Ljubljana, you can return there by bus or train. Our transfer is available - please check here below.
Local transfers
Ljubljana Airport to Bled: 1–3 persons: 85 EUR, 4–8 persons: 120 EUR
Ljubljana City to Bled: 1–3 persons: 120 EUR, 4–8 persons: 160 EUR
Trieste Airport to Bled: 1–3 persons: 375 EUR, 4–8 persons: 420 EUR
Villach to Bled: 1–3 persons: 170 EUR, 4–8 persons: 190 EUR
Klagenfurt Airport to Bled: 1–3 persons: 200 EUR, 4–8 persons: 230 EUR
Lesce Bled Railway Station to Bled: 1–3 persons: 20 EUR, 4–8 persons: 30 EUR
Piran to Trieste City: 1–3 persons: 150 EUR, 4–8 persons: 200 EUR
Piran to Trieste Airport: 1–3 persons: 160 EUR, 4–8 persons: 210 EUR
Piran to Ljubljana City: 1–3 persons: 225 EUR, 4–8 persons: 265 EUR
Piran to Ljubljana Airport: 1–3 persons: 250 EUR, 4–8 persons: 290 EUR
Piran to Bled: 1–3 persons: 275 EUR, 4–8 persons: 320 EUR
All prices per transfer, one way. Price includes transport of bikes.
Rental bike
Helia bikes are available in different sizes in unisex frame model:
Touring bike 24-gear Shimano Deore
Touring Ebike 4 electronic gears / 9 mechanical gears Shimano
Features:
- aluminium frame
- mudguard
- rear rack
- comfort gel saddle
- anti-puncture Continental tires
- ergonomic bicycle grips
All rented adult bikes are equipped with:
- Vaude one-sided saddlebag
- combination bike lock
Only for self-guided tours: one repair kit per two bikes: one spare inner tube, glue, patch, a pump, two Allen keys and tire levers
First Hand Experience
We stayed at Hisa Posebne Sorte with our cycle tour of Slovenia (we went with Helia - fantastic by the way). This charming guesthouse is nestled in a tiny village in the heart of wine country, the accommodation is large, comfortable, clean, and every need catered for. The views are outstanding.
What makes this place truly special is two things, firstly, the hospitality truly is outstanding. The hosts have a wonderful personal touch, and we are truly grateful to them. Secondly the restaurant, lovingly handmade, and then the food, exceptional.
In fact, it was so special that we got engaged here! It is a very popular location for weddings, so we may be back. Highly recommend for a weekend away, a relaxing stay, or a wedding!
Thank you Helia for organizing the wonderful self-guided trips we did with you in September. Everything was just perfect. The different hotels were interesting, always in lovely locations, always clean and very welcoming. The maps and instructions combined with your stickers on various fences and posts made navigation really easy. After 23 years of cycling on our own, this was the first 'self-guided tour 'we've done and now we are hooked on this way of cycling. Many thanks for all your efforts and help.
- Rosemary and Colin
