Julian Alps & Soča Valley
Nine days from Ljubljana into the heart of the Julian Alps, past Bled, Bohinj and Kranjska Gora, over the legendary Vršič Pass and down the emerald Soča Valley to a glass of wine in Goriška Brda.
Into the heart of the Julian Alps
A journey through some of Slovenia’s most spectacular landscapes, this multi-day cycling adventure combines small towns, peaceful countryside, alpine valleys, crystal-clear rivers, alpine lakes, a high mountain pass and charming historic villages.
Starting in Ljubljana, the route gradually leads into the heart of the Julian Alps, passing Bled, Bohinj and Kranjska Gora before crossing the legendary Vršič Pass into the emerald Soča Valley. Along the way, we discover lakes, scenic roads, quiet cycle paths and some of Slovenia’s most iconic mountain views.
The journey finishes among the rolling vineyards and medieval villages of Goriška Brda, where a glass of local wine provides the perfect ending to an unforgettable ride across Slovenia.
- From Ljubljana to the Julian Alps – scenic gravel roads, peaceful valleys, alpine lakes and iconic destinations including Bled, Bohinj and Kranjska Gora.
- Epic mountain and river landscapes – the legendary Vršič Pass, the emerald Soča River, dramatic gorges and some of Slovenia’s finest alpine views.
- Culture, villages and local flavours – historic towns, small villages and a memorable finish among the vineyards of Goriška Brda with a glass of local wine.
Book your spot below, or enquire if you’re booking for a group.
Four things we don’t compromise on
Amazing routes
We love being on the road and we ride out every route ourselves. Whatever your ability, goals or time, you get the best roads we know.
Impeccable guides
Our tour leaders know this territory completely. They set each day around your ability, safely and with the fun left in.
Balanced nutrition
Foodie travellers do well here. Local cuisine, regional specialities and tastings chosen for discerning appetites.
Adventure
We know these roads like the back of our hands, and we’re ready to share our secrets with you.
Nine days, seven stages
Seven riding days, including a relaxed optional day in Kranjska Gora, linked by an arrival and a departure day with the support van available throughout. Every stage splits by pace, so nobody is dragging or being dragged.
Arrival and transfer to Ljubljana
Upon arrival, a van transfer takes us to the capital city, Ljubljana. The rest of the day is dedicated to preparing the bikes, exploring the lively city, and enjoying a traditional Slovenian dinner.
Around Ljubljana
We discover Ljubljana and its surroundings on a scenic cycling loop that combines city charm, green hills, peaceful gravel roads, and local history.
The ride begins just outside Ljubljana, then heads into the forests above the Ljubljana Basin. Scenic trails lead us to the Church of St. Jakob, offering beautiful views towards the Alps. The route then descends to the Sora River and continues across fields, forests, and the slopes of Rašica. A relaxing gravel section along the Sava River brings us back towards the edge of the capital.
The final stretch follows the historic Path of Remembrance and Comradeship before we climb over Golovec and descend back into the city. A perfect ride for experiencing Ljubljana like locals.
From Ljubljana to Bled
A pleasant and relaxed ride through the Ljubljana Basin, framed by the gentle slopes of the Škofja Loka Hills on one side and the dramatic peaks of the Kamnik–Savinja Alps and the Karawanks on the other.
Our first stop is Kranj, a historic town set against a spectacular mountain backdrop and considered one of Slovenia’s cultural heartlands. Slovenia’s greatest poet, France Prešeren, spent an important part of his life here, which is why Kranj is proudly known as the City of Prešeren. From there, we continue towards Radovljica, a beautifully preserved medieval town known as Slovenia’s capital of beekeeping and chocolate, and an ideal spot to enjoy an ice cream just before reaching Bled.
The route then takes us along the Sava Bohinjka River, whose striking colour and peaceful flow create a wonderfully scenic backdrop for the final part of the ride. Our destination is Bled, one of Slovenia’s most iconic landscapes: a glacial lake with a tiny island at its centre, surrounded by a magnificent mountain panorama, while Bled Castle rises dramatically on a cliff high above the water.
To Bohinj Lake
The day begins with a ride across Jelovica, a peaceful high karst plateau separated from the Julian Alps by the Sava Bohinjka River. Its quiet gravel roads wind through dense forests, offering welcome shade and a particularly pleasant ride on warm summer days.
From Jelovica, we descend towards Lake Bohinj, a true alpine gem nestled in the heart of the Julian Alps. Surrounded by peaks and unspoilt nature, the lake offers breathtaking scenery, a wonderfully peaceful atmosphere and, on hot days, the perfect opportunity for a refreshing swim in its clear alpine waters.
The final part of the day takes us back towards Bled along a pleasant cycle path following the Sava Bohinjka River, with beautiful mountain views on one side and the river’s clear pools on the other.
From Bled to Kranjska Gora
We leave Bled behind and ride through the peaceful Radovna Valley towards the Upper Sava Valley, enjoying quiet roads, forested surroundings and beautiful alpine scenery. Along the way, we make a short stop at Lake Kreda, known for its distinctive pastel-green colour.
In Mojstrana, we join the scenic cycle path through the Upper Sava Valley, where impressive views open up towards Triglav, Slovenia’s highest peak. Continuing towards Gozd Martuljek, the dramatic Martuljek mountain group comes into view, dominated by the striking pyramid-shaped peak of Špik.
We finish the day in magical Kranjska Gora, surrounded by the spectacular peaks of the Julian Alps. The route can optionally be extended into the Vrata Valley.
Time to relax or explore new alpine gems
A slower-paced day offers the perfect opportunity to relax and explore Kranjska Gora and its beautiful alpine surroundings. A short walk leads to Lake Jasna, where there is time to enjoy a coffee by the water while taking in magnificent views of the surrounding peaks.
For those who would still like to spend the day on two wheels, there is the option of a relaxed ride to the stunning Fusine Lakes (Belopeška jezera), nestled beneath the dramatic walls of Mangart, Vevnica and the Ponca peaks. Those looking for a little more challenge can keep climbing to a mountain hut higher up, where lunch is rewarded with spectacular views of Mangart’s towering rock faces.
Another option is to explore the beautiful alpine Tamar Valley, lying beneath the mighty peak of Jalovec, or ride up to Tromeja, the point where Slovenia, Austria and Italy meet. From there, the day can be rounded off with a scenic ride through Austria before following the cycle path back into Slovenia.
Over Vršič Pass to Bovec
The highlight of the day is the climb over Vršič Pass, Slovenia’s highest road pass. Its famous hairpin bends wind through spectacular high-alpine scenery, turning the ascent into one of the most memorable rides of the journey.
From the top, a long and scenic descent leads into the Soča Valley, with a stop in the fairytale-like Trenta Valley. Along the way, we also pause at the Great Soča Gorge, where the emerald-green river has carved deep pools and rock formations beneath picturesque suspension bridges.
The ride finishes in Bovec, a lively mountain town with a true alpine spirit and a strong sense of adventure.
Through the Soča Valley to Goriška Brda
A pleasant ride through the Soča Valley leads us to Kobarid, a town marked by a powerful history and surrounded by beautiful alpine scenery. Here, there is time to slow down, reflect on the valley’s past and stop at the iconic Napoleon Bridge.
From Kobarid, the route continues past Tolmin towards Most na Soči, where the remarkable emerald colour of the Soča once again steals the show. On warm days, the bravest can even enjoy a refreshing swim in the lake.
The final part of the day takes us into the rolling hills of Goriška Brda, ending in the enchanting village of Šmartno, just a stone’s throw from the Italian border. A glass of excellent local Slovenian wine provides the perfect finish to a long and wonderfully varied day of cycling.
Goriška Brda
After an excellent breakfast and coffee with a view, we take a moment to gather all the impressions and memories from the journey, before slowly waving goodbye to Slovenia.
In the price
- Eight nights’ accommodation with breakfast – Ljubljana (2), Bled (2), Kranjska Gora (2), Bovec (1) and Šmartno (1), tourist tax included
- 7× lunch along the way, from stops at small local restaurants to picnics with homemade local delicacies
- 8× dinner in local restaurants, with an emphasis on traditional Slovenian dishes typical of the region you’re staying in (à la carte, up to three courses)
- Daily snacks on the road
- 7× guided riding, including a local bike guide
- Gravel bike and helmet for the whole trip
- Luggage transportation between hotels
- Support van available at all times, with a driver and technical support
- Pick-up and drop-off at Ljubljana airport or in Ljubljana
- Planning and organisation
Not included
- Transport to Slovenia
- Travel insurance
- Additional activities and services
- Single supplement, if you’d rather not share
Based on 3★/4★ hotels with breakfast. Send us your group size and dates and we’ll confirm availability.
Ride the Julian Alps & Soča Valley
Tell us your dates, your group size and roughly the kind of days you’re after. We’ll come back with availability, a firm price, and an honest read on whether this is the right trip for your group.
We usually reply within two business days.