Cycle Slovenia
8 Days Starting and ending in Ljubljana
Visiting: Ljubljana, Bled Cycling, Cycle Bled to Kranjska Gora, Cycle Vršič Pass to Bovec, Smartno Loop Cycling, Cycle Smartno to Postojna, Cycle Postojna to Piran, Piran/Ljubljana
Tour operator:
Tour code:
ZMXL
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 15
Age range:
15-99 years
Trip Styles:
Activities:
Tour Overview
It’s beautiful, it’s bite-sized and it’s best explored on a bike – on this active adventure, spend eight days discovering Slovenia on two wheels, from Ljubljana to Piran. Cycle around the famous Lake Bled, wind through the natural beauty of Triglav National Park, take in alpine views from the slopes of Kranjska Gora, follow the emerald waters of the Soca River and explore the biodiverse Postojna Cave. When you’re not busy pedalling, you’ll enjoy picnics, barbecues, coffee stops and winery visits, and see Slovenia’s short but stunning Adriatic coastline. One thing’s for sure – this is going to be a ride to remember!
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Ljubljana
Location: Ljubljana
Accommodation: Hotel
Zivjo! Welcome to Slovenia. Known as ‘Europe in Miniature’, this country may be tiny, but its diversity makes it a top-notch destination for cycling, with each day bringing something different. Your adventure begins in the country’s capital, Ljubljana, with a welcome meeting at 6 pm. If you arrive early, you might like to take a walk around this leafy city at your own pace, checking out the beautiful buildings, bridges and museums on foot. After your meeting, maybe head out as a group for a welcome dinner at a traditional restaurant – your leader will know the best spots.
Optional Activities:
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Day 2: Bled Cycling
Location: Bled Cycling
Accommodation: Apartment
Meals Included: breaksfast
Say goodbye to Ljubljana this morning and drive to Bled – a scenic resort town on Lake Bled. Here, you’ll have a bike fitting and safety briefing to set you up for the journey ahead. Then it’s time to get your wheels in motion! From Bled, you’ll pedal gradually uphill through the mountains, following the low-traffic forest paved road. This route offers plenty to look at – mountain views, scenic stops along the way and a loop around the beautiful Lake Bled. Your final stop of the day is a flower and tree-filled valley, where you can refuel at a popular mountain house. The rest of the day is free for your own discoveries – you may like to explore Triglav National Park, check out the Vintgar Gorge or visit Bled Castle.
Included Activities:
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Optional Activities:
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Day 3: Cycle Bled To Kranjska Gora
Location: Cycle Bled to Kranjska Gora
Accommodation: Hotel/Guesthouse
Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch
Leave Bled early this morning and cycle the scenic route beside the Sava River. Half of the route is a cycling path, and the other part covers the paved roads of Triglav National Park, passing mountains, ravines, lakes, canyons, caves, rivers, forests and Alpine meadows. Your ride today is a gradual uphill until you reach the alpine resort of Kranjska Gora, your final stop for the day. When you arrive, enjoy lunch with a view as you tuck into a barbecue feast on the ski slope – the perfect chance to unwind and appreciate the spectacular scenery.
Included Activities:
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Day 4: Cycle Vršič Pass To Bovec
Location: Cycle Vršič Pass to Bovec
Accommodation: Hotel/Guesthouse
Meals Included: breaksfast
Your journey continues with a drive this morning, avoiding a long and steep uphill climb. The support vehicle will take you up the Julian Alps to the Vrsic Pass, known as the ‘Russian Road’, as it was built by Russian prisoners during the first World War. Take a moment to soak up the amazing views, then hop on your bike for a freewheeling descent through winding switchbacks and alpine scenery, down to the emerald waters of the Soca River. Check your speed as the road flattens out and you ride along the valley floor in one of the most beautiful valleys in this part of Europe, following the river as it flows west. Take in the views at the two-tiered Boka Waterfall, then complete your ride at the mountain town of Bovec. With your free evening, you can put your feet up or walk the nearby Walk of Peace trail for a fascinating insight into life in the trenches in WWII.
Included Activities:
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Day 5: Smartno Loop Cycling
Location: Smartno Loop Cycling
Accommodation: Hotel/Guesthouse
Meals Included: breaksfast
Start the day early and drive south to the fortified hilltop village of Smartno. Nestled between the Julian Alps and the Adriatic, this village is the perfect place to start today’s ride. Cycle the loop through the hills and vineyards – this part of Slovenia is considered a cradle of white wines and is often called Slovenia’s Tuscany. For those craving an espresso break, you’re in luck – today's route also ducks across the border into Italy! Finish the day with an included wine tasting at a local winery and raise a glass to the gorgeous surroundings.
Included Activities:
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Day 6: Cycle Smartno To Postojna
Location: Cycle Smartno to Postojna
Accommodation: Hotel/Guesthouse
Meals Included: breaksfast
Begin cycling directly from your hotel, crossing once again into Italy and descending to the valley floor. Follow the gentle Vipava River east past green fields, vineyards and small villages before arriving at the small town of Vipava, where you'll enjoy an optional picnic beside the river. Hills are never great on a full stomach, so you'll board the vehicle and drive up the steep 10 km (6 mi) climb (you'll thank us later!) before remounting your bike and enjoying a mostly downhill ride all the way to red-roofed town of Postojna. When you arrive, you might like to rest up after the longest ride of the trip. Alternatively, you can choose to explore – maybe visit the Notranjska Museum, discover the nearby Predjamsk Castle or stroll through the Postojna's old town centre.
Included Activities:
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Optional Activities:
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Day 7: Cycle Postojna To Piran
Location: Cycle Postojna to Piran
Accommodation: Hotel/Guesthouse
Meals Included: breaksfast
Today begins with a visit to the stunning Postojna Cave, said to be the most biodiverse cave in the world, home to fairytale-like labyrinths of stalagmite and stalactite-filled tunnels. After your visit, board the vehicle and drive to the small village of Vanganel, the starting point for your last ride. This picturesque route is mostly on cycling ways, following Parenzana’s old railway tracks now turned cycling paths. Enjoy sea views on one side and mountain views on the other. Finish the ride in the seaside town of Piran – once part of the Venetian empire, the town has kept its historic charm and the Old Town is among the best-preserved anywhere in the Adriatic. After your ride, wander the maze of narrow streets past Venetian architecture, Tartini Square and the pier. Tonight, maybe hit one of the many cafes or restaurants in town and swap stories over an optional farewell dinner.
Included Activities:
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Optional Activities:
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Day 8: Piran/Ljubljana
Location: Piran/Ljubljana
There are no activities planned after breakfast today and your adventure comes to an end. You're free to leave at any time after checking out. If you'd like to extend your stay, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation. You can catch the bus (approximately 2 hours and included) back to Ljubljana or spend some more time exploring Piran.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Hotel/Guesthouse (6 nights), Apartment (1 night) -
Meals
6 breakfasts, 1 lunches -
6 Days Bicycle Hire
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Lake Bled & surrounds Guided and Vehicle-supported cycling
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Bled to Kranjska Gora Guided and Vehicle-supported cycling
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Vrsic pass to Bovec Guided and Vehicle-supported cycling
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Boka Waterfall visit
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Smartno & surrounds Guided and Vehicle-supported cycling
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Slovenian Winery Visit
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Smartno to Postojna Guided and Vehicle-supported cycling
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Postojna - Postojna Caves
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Vanganel to Piran Guided and Vehicle-supported cycling
Transport
- While there are occasions we use local public transport such as trains, buses or taxis to cover long distances or attend non-cycling activities we predominantly use the bicycle as our main form of transport. On most of our trips we also have a support vehicle as secondary transport for travelling longer distances, avoiding hazardous areas to cycle, as a backup should we have any incidents and of course an option for those that would prefer not to cycle for an hour or a day. These vehicles range from a minivan in most regions up to a full sized coach or overland vehicle in others.
- Your main luggage is transported in the support vehicle
- INCLUDED BICYCLE TYPE
- On this trip we use 2017 Felt 7 Fifty mountain bikes.
- Please note that due to legal restrictions our support vehicles in Europe seat a maximum of 8 people (excluding the driver) so with a larger group there may be times when the vehicle has to make two journeys. If this occurs the tour leader will find a suitable place for the remainder of the group to wait until the vehicle returns. We endeavour to make this wait as short as possible and appreciate your patience.
- RESTRICTIONS ON THE USE OF THE SUPPORT VEHICLE
- Due to European driving regulations, the support vehicle can only be used clients when directly supporting the ride itself, or as transport between cycling legs. Clients are unable to travel full-time in the support vehicle.
- An e-bike option (at additional cost) may be available on this trip. We have limited numbers of these bikes available and they are an 'on request' basis only. A request does not guarantee an e-bike, only a confirmed booking. Please ask your agent for more details at the time of booking.
- RENTAL E-BIKES
- Our Europe rental e-bikes are the 2018 Felt NINE E-20, which you may request in the following sizes: Extra Small, Small, Medium & Large. Please provide your height at time of booking so the correct size can be arranged. Sizes are limited, so confirmation is subject to availability.
- For further details on sizing please see https://www.feltbicycles.com/International/Catalog/Bikes/electric/mountain/ninee-20.aspx
- BRINGING YOUR OWN BIKE
- While we’re confident in the quality and suitability of the bikes we include, we do recognise that sometimes you just need the comfort of your own bike to enjoy the ride. If you are thinking of bringing your own bike on this trip, please advise us at time of booking and take note of the below information. If you do choose to bring your own bike, please note that we will not being carrying a spare bike for you.
- SUITABLE TYPE OF BIKE
- Although the surfaces of the roads we travel on are generally good there are occasionally gravel or potholed sections of road/track. As such, we recommend a 'mountain' or 'hybrid' style bike with plenty of gear selections for easy cruising. For more details on the type of roads we’ll be riding on see the ‘Physical Rating’ section of your Essential Trip Information. Please contact your booking agent if you have any questions about the suitability of your bike.
- We usually cannot accept tandem bikes on our trips as they are often too large for our transport. In some destinations we can make an exception. Please ask your booking agent if you are interested in bringing a tandem bike.
- BEFORE THE TRIP
- We recommend that you have a full service of your bike performed by a trained mechanic to help minimise any issues you may have during the trip. Please also ensure that you have specific and adequate cover for loss, damage or theft for your bike under your travel, home and contents or specialist insurance policy.
- DURING THE TRIP
- Your bike will be transported in the same way as our included bikes, usually in the support vehicle or on the bike trailer. While we endeavour to take the best care we can, you should recognise that transported bikes do get the occasional bump or scratch along the way. The same applies when we take other forms of transport, such as a train, where we are unable to pack the bikes ourselves. Your bike will be secured in the same way as our included bikes. This can occasionally be outside the vehicle (where the bikes are locked together).
- In order to reach our destination, it is necessary for us to travel via various modes of transportation, including planes and trains. Any extra costs involved with transporting personal bikes are your responsibility. This includes (but is not limited to) additional transport costs and customs/import fees.
- While our mechanics can usually assist with minor repairs, you are responsible for the safety and upkeep of your own bicycle. This includes conducting regular safety checks of your bike during the trip and cleaning your bike. In addition, any parts that require replacing are your responsibility. Most destinations have access to only limited spares along the way and access to bike shops can be days apart. Therefore, please ensure you bring any spare parts that you may require (especially specialist parts).
- TRANSPORTING YOUR BIKE TO/FROM THE DESTINATION
- Your preferred airline should have no problem carrying your bike, but many will charge an extra fee. Contact them before departing to discuss their arrangements for transporting bikes.
- A well-padded bike box (obtainable from a bike shop) is usually the best method of plane transportation. We recommend that you accompany your bicycle on the flight. Unaccompanied bicycles have been known to spend some extra days in the hands of customs authorities.
- Many taxis are not large enough to transport a bike box/bag so you may be delayed waiting for a suitably sized vehicle.
- INCLUDED OR HIRE BIKES: CONDITIONS OF USE
- You must not mistreat the bicycle and must return it in the same condition as when you received it (excepting ordinary wear and tear). You should immediately inform the supplier in the case of breakdown or loss. The provider is entitled to charge for any damage caused to the bicycle during the period of hire. You must also make sure that the bicycle is secured when not in use. If the equipment is lost or stolen you may be liable for the replacement value of the bicycle. The bicycle remains the property of the supplier and you may not sell, rent out or part possession with the bicycle. You must not use the bicycle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Accommodation
- The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation.
- Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available.
- OCCASIONAL ALTERNATIVE ACCOMMODATION
- The style of accommodation indicated is a guideline. On rare occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our usual accommodation. A similar standard of accommodation will be used in these instances.
- TWIN SHARE BASIS
- Accommodation on this trip is on a twin share basis. Please note there may be times where facilities will be shared rather than ensuite.
- CHECK-IN TIME
- On your arrival day rooms should be ready for you at 2pm.
- PRE/POST TRIP ACCOMMODATION
- If you've purchased pre-trip or post-trip accommodation (if available), you may be required to change rooms from your trip accommodation for these extra nights.
- FACILITIES
- Your accommodation may not always have private en suite facilities or air-conditioning. European hotels generally don't provide kettles or fridges.
Important Information
- 1. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
- 2. Bicycle hire is included in your trip price. Please advise your height at time of booking so as we can organize a suitable sized bike.
- 3. Bike helmets are compulsory on this trip. We are unable to hire bike helmets locally so please ensure you bring your own bike helmet from home.
- 4. On this trip we have a single leader that rides with the group, and another that drives the support vehicle (acting as a back marker where needed). Where the vehicle cannot travel directly with the cyclists (e.g. a cyclists-only path) your leader will assign a person from the group to act as a back marker.
- 5. An e-bike option (at additional cost) may be available on this trip. We have limited numbers of these bikes available and they are an 'on request' basis only. A request does not guarantee an e-bike, only a confirmed booking. Please ask your agent for more details at the time of booking.
- 6. This itinerary is designed to minimise the amount of climbing needed and to avoid dangerous sections of road, and does use the support vehicle mid-ride where needed .
Check out our Q&As
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Is this trip right for you
On this trip we have a single leader that rides with the group, and another that drives the support vehicle (acting as a back marker where needed). Where the vehicle cannot travel directly with the cyclists (e.g. a cyclists-only path) your leader will assign a person from the group to act as a back marker.
To complete this trip, it’s important that you’re both confident and competent in riding a bicycle. As our riding is done mostly on sealed roads with the occasional gravel cycle path there are no technical cycling skills required. Remember we will always have the support vehicle on hand if you need to take a break for an hour or a day. -
What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room
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Free Date Changes
Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.
Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.
At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions