Cycling Trip from Ljubljana to Venice

On the first day of your cycling adventure in Slovenia, you’ll arrive in Ljubljana, where you’ll check into your accommodation.

Your first day of a cycling trip from Ljubljana to Venice takes you from Ljubljana into the rolling hills of the Slovenian countryside. Leaving the city, you’ll ride through Dobrova and into the village of Polhov Gradec, known for its historic manor and peaceful surroundings. The first real challenge awaits as you climb to Šentjošt and continue to Smrečje before reaching Goli Vrh, your first peak of the day. A thrilling descent brings you to Lučine, followed by a steady 5 km climb. From here, you’ll enjoy a breathtaking descent into Poljane nad Škofjo Loko, though some sections require careful riding. The final challenge is a 10 km ascent to Stari Vrh ski resort, with gradients reaching up to 12%. After conquering the peak, it’s all downhill to the picturesque town of Škofja Loka, where you’ll end your first day.

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Day 3 of your cycling journey begins in the charming medieval town of Škofja Loka, leading you through the scenic Selška Valley to Železniki, a town known for its rich ironworking history. From there, you’ll continue to Zali Log, where the real challenge begins, an epic 10 km climb to Soriška Planina with gradients reaching up to 11%. While the road is popular among local cyclists, some traffic is expected, so we recommend riding with caution. After conquering the climb, you’ll enjoy a thrilling descent into Bohinjska Bistrica before reaching the stunning Lake Bohinj. Take a well-deserved break, soak in the breathtaking alpine scenery, and enjoy a coffee by the lake. The final stretch takes you through picturesque countryside as you ride toward the iconic Lake Bled, where you’ll end your day in one of Slovenia’s most enchanting destinations.

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The ride on day 4, will take you along what is considered one of the most beautiful cycling routes in Slovenia. You’ll start the day by admiring the breathtaking Lake Bled before beginning your ascent toward Pokljuka, a pristine alpine plateau known for its dense forests and world-class biathlon center. We've prepared a stunning loop on Pokljuka, allowing you to fully experience its serene beauty before descending into the picturesque Radovna Valley. The route through Radovna is peaceful, offering spectacular views of the surrounding Julian Alps. From there, you’ll pass through the charming village of Mojstrana and continue on a scenic cycling path along a former railway line. This car-free route provides a smooth and enjoyable ride to Kranjska Gora, a famous alpine resort where you’ll conclude your day surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes.

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On the fifth day, you have the option to take a rest day or continue your adventure in the saddle. If you choose to ride, you’ll start with a climb over Korensko Sedlo, crossing into Austria. Soon after steep descend you’ll arrive in Villach and cycle around the Dobratsch Nature Park, a stunning area of alpine beauty. The route then loops through Arnoldstein, leading you into Italy before returning to Slovenia through Tarvisio. The final stretch follows a scenic cycling path, once a railroad, back to Kranjska Gora.

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This day is an unforgettable challenge featuring two legendary climbs that every serious road cyclist should conquer. Departing from Kranjska Gora, you’ll ascend the iconic Vršič Pass, Slovenia’s highest mountain pass, with its famous cobbled switchbacks and breathtaking alpine views. After reaching the summit, a long and scenic descent into the stunning Trenta Valley awaits. As you ride through Trenta, you’ll follow the emerald-green Soča River, one of Europe’s most beautiful waterways. But the day’s challenge isn’t over yet, next comes the majestic ascent to Mangart Saddle, Slovenia’s highest paved road. At the top, we highly recommend stopping at the mountain hut for a traditional lunch, such as Jota or Ričet. After soaking in the incredible views, a well-earned descent brings you to Bovec, where your epic day concludes.

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Day 7 route of your cycling trip from Ljubljana to Venice offers a perfect balance of recovery and challenge as you follow the stunning Soča River. Leaving Bovec, you’ll ride through the historic town of Kobarid, home to the famous WWI museum and the beautiful Kozjak Waterfall. Continuing toward Tolmin, the ride remains gentle, allowing you to soak in the breathtaking scenery of the emerald-green river and lush valleys. After reaching Most na Soči, the real challenge begins, a long but rewarding climb to a scenic mountain ridge. You'll ride along this ridge for a significant stretch, enjoying panoramic views before descending into the enchanting wine region of Goriška Brda, known for its rolling vineyards, charming villages, and exquisite wines, where your day ends.

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On the 8th day, you’ll enjoy a mostly flat but incredibly scenic ride as you transition from Slovenia into Italy. Leaving the charming vineyards of Goriška Brda, you’ll seamlessly cross the border without even noticing. Soon, you’ll pass through Monfalcone, a lively coastal town, before continuing toward the picturesque fishing town of Grado. Here, a coffee stop is highly recommended as you take in the views of the Adriatic Sea. After Grado, you’ll turn inland, cycling through quaint Italian villages with their charming piazzas and rustic architecture. The final stretch leads you straight to Bibione, a vibrant seaside town, where you can relax and enjoy the Italian coastal atmosphere after a beautiful day on the bike.

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Your final day of cycling marks the grand finale of an unforgettable journey through Slovenia and Italy. Departing from Bibione, you’ll ride along a completely flat route, passing through the lively seaside town of Jesolo, known for its golden beaches and vibrant atmosphere. As you approach Venice, the landscape remains just meters above sea level, with the only climbs being bridges crossing the road. Soon, the magical city of Venice comes into view, your ultimate destination. Here, your cycling adventure comes to an end.

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