Cycling Slovenia: Ljubljana to the Adriatic

The medieval city of Ljubljana is the starting point for your cycling adventure. This pretty capital is easily explored on foot, and you’ll be astounded by the number of cyclists that ride through the narrow cobbled streets with their ‘fin de siècle’ mansions. Take time to explore the impressive castle which occupies a lofty position overlooking the city, and stroll through the old quarter, visiting the famed ‘Triple Bridge’.

Ljubljana is easily reached with flights into the capital’s airport offered by various low-cost airlines. Alternatively, Ljubljana is an easy hour’s drive from the border with Croatia, Austria or Italy.

A welcome meeting this evening (6pm) means you are ready and set for the coming days ahead.

You start your journey through Slovenia with a scenic ride across the Ljubljansko Barje, once a great lake but now an immense 160 sq-km marshy plain which is home to some of Europe’s rarest birds, plants and insects.

There's the option of taking an extended route into the picturesque Iski Vintgar Gorge, carved deep into a stunning limestone plateau. There are a number of picnic benches along here making it an ideal spot to stop for lunch beside the peaceful stream.

Take a look at the remains of the world’s highest railway viaduct in Borovnica. If you have time, visit the Technical Museum at Bistra Caste, where you’ll find a collection of Tito’s cars.

Cycle options:

56 kms/35 mi (if taking the extended out and back section through the Iski Vintgar Gorge), Ascent/Descent: 90m/90m

37 kms/22 mi (route excluding Iski Vintgar Gorge), Ascent/Descent: 34m/12m

A hearty breakfast will prepare you for a day’s cycling over rolling hills and forest roads. Today you’ll be exploring off the beaten track as you take in the beautiful Slivnica Mountain and the disappearing Lake Planina, riding through an area carved from limestone.

The Rakov Skocjan Nature Reserve provides an ideal spot for some lunch, as you marvel at the stunning gorge which has been carved out by the Rak River, creating magical sculptures, including two natural bridges.

Cycle options:

38 kms/24 mi (if taking the extended out and back section through the Rakov Skocjan Nature Reserve), Ascent/Descent: 504m/274m

33 kms/21 mi (route excluding Rakov Skocjan Nature Reserve), Ascent/Descent: 504m/274m

Next comes a highlight of the trip—a visit to the underground Postojna cave formation, carved deep into the heart of the limestone landscape. An incredible 30 million visitors have explored this natural wonder, covering a total of 21km. An optional 1h30 tour transports you through a fairy-tale world of stalactites and stalagmites. You’ll wander through Europe’s highest cave hall and cross the bridge over the gorge—a breath-taking experience. Learn about the ’human fish’; a mysterious creature that lives in the cave’s dark pools.

A short detour to Predjama Castle is recommended; this 700-year old fortress is wedged into a crevasse half-way up a 123m cliff face. A daring knight, Erazem, took delight in pelting his enemies with fresh cherries, smuggled in through a hidden cave (much to the annoyance of his foes).

Cycle options:

48 kms/29 mi (if taking the detour to Predjama Castle), Ascent/Descent: 328m/707m

41 kms/26 mi (route excluding Predjama Castle), Ascent/Descent: 328m/707m

Please note: there aren't many hotel option in this area of rural Slovenia so if we are unable to accommodate you in Kodreti, it may be necessary to cycle 7.7kms further today to Hrusevica. This location is enroute for tomorrow's cycle, so if you go further today to Hrusevica, then the ride tomorrow will be 7.7kms shorter.

After breakfast, cycle to the charming old-world town of Stanjel and the lovely botanical garden in Sezana, then ride on to the stud farm of Lipica, where you can visit the beautiful thoroughbred Lipizzaner horses whose pristine white coats and graceful dancing have earned them a worldwide reputation. Their history is closely linked to the Vienna riding school.

If you have the time, you can also visit the unusual but very interesting “War Museum” set in the village tower of Lokev.

Ascent/Descent: 497m/207m

Begin your day with an optional visit to the Skocjan Karst Caves—less visited but just as fascinating as the Postojna Caves; they are listed as a UNESCO Natural Monument.

Cycling along the coast you’ll cross the boradr into italy, as you head for the delightful old town of Muggia. An ideal spot to end the afternoon with a gelato and enjoy the sea views.

If you would like to experience the hustle and bustle of the nearby Italian port town of Trieste, you can take a bost from Muggia to Trieste—with its castle, cathedral and Piazza Unita central square. If you have the time then perhaps consider extending your stay in Muggia for a night to give you a full day to take the boat into Trieste and explore or to relax by the sea before your final day of cycling tomorrow.

Ascent/Descent: 216m/650m

Today you’ll be cycling alongside the coastal road with incredible views of the Slovene coast and Trieste Bay. Enjoy easy cycling on a new path which follows a former railway line. As you come closer to Piran, pause for a coffee in the chic seaside resort of Portoroz.

Finally reach the beautiful little Venetian harbour village of Piran. You’ll want to spend time here exploring the little alleyways and streets, as well as relaxing in a seafront café or restaurant. The holiday atmosphere here is simply wonderful!

Ascent/Descent: 163m/148m

Your trip ends after breakfast, although you might want to extend your stay in Piran or perhaps take the ferry (departs specific days only) to Venice.

Transfers are available (supplement payable) to Ljubljana, or you can take a bus then train back to the capital. Alternatively, why not take a ferry on to Venice; contact us to check timetable arrangements as these vary from day-to-day.