Slovenia · May 2025 - September 2025
Epic Climbs: The Ultimate Road Cycling Adventure Through Slovenia, Austria, and Italy
Conquer the Alps. A daily climbing adventure for road cyclists seeking unforgettable mountain roads and stunning alpine scenery
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Overview
Experience the ride of a lifetime as you traverse the majestic Alps of Slovenia, Austria, and Italy on this carefully curated cycling adventure. Each day brings new challenges and rewards—from the historic streets of Ljubljana to the emerald waters of Lake Bled, from the rugged Vršič Pass to the awe-inspiring Mangart Saddle. You’ll explore pristine valleys, cross international borders, and conquer legendary climbs, all while soaking in the rich culture and natural beauty of the region. This tour is designed for cyclists who crave both the thrill of the ascent and the serenity of untouched landscapes. With a mix of well-maintained roads and historic paths, each route is as varied as the scenery. Rest each night in charming alpine towns, where you can savor local cuisine and rest up for the next day’s adventures. Whether you’re tackling steep climbs or gliding through valleys, this epic journey will leave you with memories of extraordinary landscapes and a profound sense of achievement.
Highlights
Visit Slovenia, Austria & Italy
In just one week, cycle through three countries—Slovenia, Austria, and Italy—experiencing diverse landscapes and cultures as you conquer epic climbs across national borders.
Inn to Inn Cycling Experience
Cycle through Slovenia, Austria, and Italy while spending each night in a different scenic location within Slovenia.
Fully Supported Road Cycling
Enjoy van support on every ride, ensuring a smooth journey with assistance on climbs, gear storage, and mechanical help.
Explore Slovenia’s Natural Gems
Cycle through Slovenia’s prime locations — Logar Valley, Lake Bohinj, Lake Bled, Kranjska Gora, and the stunning Soča Valley.
Conquer Vršič Pass, Mangart Saddle, Pavličevo Sedlo & Predil pass
Test your limits on Slovenia’s iconic Vršič Pass and Mangart Saddle, renowned for their steep gradients and stunning views, while also conquering the Austrian Pavličevo Sedlo and the Italian Predil Pass for an unforgettable cross-border adventure.
Itinerary
This is the itinerary for your Ultimate Road Cycling Adventure through Slovenia, Austria, and Italy.
Previous
Next
Day 1: Arrival to Ljubljana
Arrive to the capital city of Slovenia, Ljubljana, known for its vibrant cultural scene, historic architecture, and picturesque riverbanks. The city provides the perfect start to this adventurous cycling holiday.
Overnight in Ljubljana
Day 2: It’s time to start your EPIC climbs adventure
As you leave the city, you’ll head north towards the scenic town of Kamnik, nestled at the foothills of the Kamnik-Savinja Alps. The route to Kamnik is relatively flat, allowing you to warm up your legs as you pass through lush countryside and quaint villages.
From Kamnik, the real adventure begins as you tackle the climb to Velika Planina, a stunning alpine pasture famed for its traditional herders’ huts and panoramic views. The ascent is challenging but rewarding. As you climb higher, the road winds through dense forests and opens up to breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains.
After conquering Velika Planina, you’ll descend into the enchanting Logar Valley, one of the most beautiful glacial valleys in Europe. The descent offers a thrilling ride with sweeping curves and spectacular views of the valley below.
Route:
66.7 kilometers · +1,094 m / -746 m
41.5 miles · +3,588 feet / -2,448 feet
Overnight in Solčava (Logar Valley)
Day 3: Border Climbs and Springs
Departing from the serene Logar Valley, this stage features an epic climb to Pavličevo Sedlo, a mountain pass at the Slovenian-Austrian border. The hard-fought climb rewards you with stunning views before a short descent into Austria.
You'll then climb back into Slovenia, reaching the picturesque alpine village of Jezersko, home to the natural sparkling water spring Jezerska Slatina, rich with minerals.
From here, enjoy a long, exhilarating descent through lush landscapes, concluding in the historic city of Kranj, known for its medieval architecture and vibrant town center.
Route:
65.9 kilometers · +1,374 m / -1,640 m
40.9 miles · +4,508 feet / -5,379 feet
Overnight in Kranj
Day 4: Pre-Alps Entering the Julian Alps
Starting in Kranj, this stage takes you through Slovenia's picturesque pre-Alpine region. You'll pass by St. Jamnik Church, perched atop a hill with stunning mountain backdrops, renowned as the most picturesque church in Slovenia.
The route includes a climb over Sorica Pass and a 15 km gravel section, which is well-maintained and suitable for road bikes. The stage concludes at the serene Lake Bohinj, offering a perfect end to your tour with its tranquil waters and breathtaking scenery.
Route:
58.7 kilometers · +1,261 m / -1,110 m
36.5 miles · +4,137 feet / -3,638 feet
Overnight at Bohinj Lake
Day 5: Lake Bohinj, Lake Bled & Pokljuka plateau
Leaving the serene Lake Bohinj behind, you'll climb to the Pokljuka Plateau, traversing magnificent spruce forests in the heart of the Julian Alps. A long, exhilarating descent brings you to the iconic Lake Bled, where a stop for the famous cream cake is a must. Continuing through the scenic Radovna Valley, the route leads you to Kranjska Gora, Slovenia's most famous ski resort, nestled amid stunning alpine scenery.
Route:
61.1 kilometers · +1,316 m / -1,061 m
38.0 miles · +4,318 feet / -3,484 feet
Overnight in Kranjska Gora
Day 6: Kranjska Gora to Soča Valley via Vršič Pass
Starting in Kranjska Gora, today’s stage is all about conquering the Vršič Pass, Slovenia’s most renowned mountain pass. The ascent features historic cobblestone turns, originally built by Russian prisoners during World War I.
The pass has a storied cycling history, hosting numerous competitive races and testing cyclists with its challenging gradients and breathtaking views.
After reaching the summit, enjoy a long descent into the stunning Soča Valley, home to one of Europe’s most beautiful rivers, famed for its emerald blue color.
Route:
43.7 kilometers · +1,003 m / -1,357 m
27.2 miles · +3,288 feet / -4,459 feet
Overnight in Bovec
Day 7: King Stage to Mangart Saddle
The final stage is the king stage, starting in Bovec and climbing to the Mangart Saddle, the most beautiful mountain road in Slovenia. The ascent to Mangart is challenging but offers breathtaking alpine views. After summiting, descend into Italy, passing through Predil, and finish back in Kranjska Gora.
For those low on energy, the Mangart climb can be skipped to reduce the ascent, but the experience is truly spectacular and worth the effort.
Route:
74.7 kilometers · +2,296 m / -1,933 m
46.4 miles · +7,534 feet / -6,350 feet
Overnight in Kranjska Gora
Day 8: Departure Day - Farewell and Safe Travels
As your epic cycling adventure comes to an end, enjoy a leisurely morning in Kranjska Gora, reflecting on the unforgettable climbs and stunning landscapes you've experienced. Take time to explore the charming town or relax before departing.
Wishing you safe travels and hoping the memories of Slovenia's breathtaking beauty stay with you until your next adventure.
What's included
What's Included
Expert route organization
Access to RWGPS navigation app
Accommodation with breakfast (4 star)
Van support during rides
Round-trip transfer from/to Ljubljana Airport
Daily luggage transfer
Energy snacks and hydration
Bike maintenance kit
Photo package
Evening briefings
What's Not Included
Trip Insurance (Required)
Local road cycling guide (included with guided tour bookings)
Road bikes (available for rental at 295€/week)
Gratuities
Meals and snacks (except breakfast)
Trip cancellation insurance (available at checkout)
Epic Alpine Climbing Grounds
Cycle Through Slovenia, Home of the World’s Top Climbers
Experience the thrill of road cycling in the heart of Slovenia, the world’s number one cycling nation. This is where champions like Tadej Pogačar and Primož Roglič train on the same epic climbs you’ll conquer. Ride through the majestic landscapes of Slovenia, Austria, and Italy, tackling the challenging roads and iconic passes that have shaped some of the greatest cyclists in history. From Slovenia’s lush valleys to the rugged Alpine peaks, every day promises an unforgettable adventure on two wheels.
Trip Tips
Best Seasons: May & June, Late August to Early October
Experience the best of road cycling in Slovenia during these months. Roads are less busy, and the temperatures are ideal for tackling epic climbs without the summer crowds.
Climbing Level: 4/5 - Hard
Prepare for challenging climbs up to 10 km with steep sections reaching 12% grades. This tour is designed for experienced cyclists who enjoy testing their limits on demanding ascents.
Physical Level: 4/5 - Intense
Expect intense rides, covering up to 100 km with significant elevation gains of around 1500 meters each day. This tour is perfect for cyclists with a solid endurance base looking for a rewarding challenge.
Road Conditions: Smooth and Quiet
Enjoy well-maintained roads that are less trafficked than those in other European Alpine regions, offering a safer and more enjoyable cycling experience amidst stunning scenery.
FAQs
What level of fitness is required for this tour?
This tour requires a good level of fitness, rated at 4/5. Participants should be comfortable with intense rides, covering up to 100 km daily with significant elevation gains of around 1500 meters.
How difficult are the climbs on this tour?
The climbs are rated 4/5 for difficulty, featuring challenging ascents up to 10 km with sections that can reach a 12% gradient. This tour is designed for experienced cyclists who enjoy demanding climbs.
When is the best time to book this cycling adventure?
The best seasons are May, June, late August, September, and early October. These months offer pleasant temperatures and less crowded roads, ideal for cycling.
Is there van support available during the rides?
Yes, van support is provided throughout the tour. The van offers assistance, refreshments, and a place to store your gear, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable ride.
Do I need to bring my own bike?
You can bring your own road bike, or rent a high-quality road bike for an additional fee of 350€/week. We recommend using a bike you’re comfortable with for optimal performance on challenging climbs.
Are meals included in the package?
Breakfast is included with your accommodation each day. Other meals and snacks are not included, giving you the flexibility to explore local dining options.
What kind of accommodation is provided?
You’ll stay in 3-4 star accommodations with breakfast included. Each location has been carefully selected for comfort and proximity to the cycling routes.
Is the route difficult to follow?
No, you’ll have access to the RWGPS navigation app, which allows you to follow the route each day with ease. The app provides detailed maps and turn-by-turn directions. You can choose to enjoy a self-guided tour or book a guided tour for additional support and local expertise.
What should I pack for this cycling tour?
We recommend packing lightweight cycling gear for various weather conditions, a good quality helmet and cycling shoes. Don’t forget to bring personal items like sunblock, energy snacks, and a reusable water bottle.
Can I extend my stay or customize the tour?
Yes, we offer options to extend your stay or customize parts of the tour. Contact us in advance to discuss your preferences and we’ll do our best to accommodate your needs.
What is the best airport to fly into for this tour?
The best option is to fly into Ljubljana International Airport, which is the most convenient and closest to the starting point of the tour. For better flight connections, you can also consider flying into Zagreb International Airport, which is about a 2-hour drive from Ljubljana. Transfers from Ljubljana Airport are included in the package.