Trip code: C07SN 4.9 (12 reviews)
Self-guided cycling
7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 2+
Moderate plus
Flights
available
24.0Kg CO2e
Headwater
Navigation App
Optional
e-bike hire
Discover the 'Secrets' of Slovenia, cycling through scenic countryside which changes with every turn of the pedal. From the turquoise waters of Lake Bled and the white peaks of Julian Alps to the emerald Soča river and green Karst vineyard, finishing at the blue Adriatic Sea.
Cycle through traditional villages around Lake Bled before taking a scenic railway journey to Kanal from where you'll reach Goriška Brda, the 'Tuscany' of Slovenia. Explore the local vines and wines before discovering the Karst region and visiting the hilltop village of Štanjel, a medieval stonemason settlement with narrow, stone alleys that wind among the buildings built on terraces and the UNESCO-listed Škocjan caves. Next stop is Lipica, home of the original Lipizzaner horses with the stud farm dating from 1580 to the time of the Hapsburg. It is possible to join a guided tour to see the horses before cycling on to the edge of the border with Italy for views out to the coast towards Trieste in Italy and your destination. the city of Koper. A scenic path takes you along the Parenzana railway line to Koper from where you cycle on to Piran - looking back to the distant mountains gives you a great feeling of achievement.
The places where you will stay vary from a large lakeside property in Bled, to a renovated homestead in Smartno, and the Maestoso Hotel in Lipica, where you'll find the Lippizaner stud farm.
Distances vary, and parts of the countryside are fairly hilly, so you can take your time on the steeper climbs and admire the wonderful long distance views. Routes mainly follow tranquil lanes and traffic-free cycle trails. There are some short sections on busier roads and on gravel tracks and on some sections there is a choice of route depending on your preference.
Arrive at your 4 star hotel on the promenade of Lake Bled. Enjoy some of the hotel facilities before heading into Bled for dinner.
You stay at Hotel Park.
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Overlooking Lake Bled, Park Hotel - Sava Hotels & Resorts features a wellness centre with a large indoor pool and a gym. All rooms have balcony with either lake view or park view.
Today's ride takes you on a circular route from Bled passing through pretty Slovene villages. There is an optional detour to visit Grad Kamen Castle. The route then brings you back into Bled along the shores of the Lake.
An early start today with a scenic train journey along one of the most picturesque railway lines in the area with 28 tunnels, five galleries and 68 bridges. Your cycle route starts in Kanal and soon you'll be joining a newly built cycle path, following the emerald crystal clear Soča river to the sun-kissed wine country, Goriška Brda. The local wines and culinary delights will help you get your strength back after a lovely trip.
You stay at Hisa Marica.
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Set in a traditional stone house, Hisa Marica is decorated in rustic style with wooden beams, all rooms are fitted with solid wooden furniture. There is a restaurant serving traditional cuisine and a bar with charming terrace.
You'll spend the day exploring the Brda wine growing region. Following the so-called 'peach' route you will be cycling through the charming landscape covered with vineyards, orchards and olive groves. Cycling through small hilltop villages and past renaissance manors will tempt you for lunch with a view.
After breakfast. we take you (45 min transfer) to the village of Štanjel. Štanjel is a place of countless unique stories, where you'll become acquainted with stonemason Karst architecture. This region is the home of Teran ruby wine and tasty air-dried Karst prosciutto. Your destination for today is Lipica - home of the famous Lipizzaner white horses. Extend your day by cycling to the Škocjan caves, considered to be one of the most beautiful underground gems and a UNESCO World heritage site.
You stay at Hotel Maestoso.
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Hotel Maestoso is set in the heart of the Lipica stud farm, home to over 300 Lipizzaner horses. The hotel blends naturally with the traditional elements of Lipica and has modern rooms as well as a restaurant. Your evening meal is included here and is usually a varied buffet.
Before you set off, take the opportunity of a guided tour of Lipica Stud farm, a unique green estate home to the white Lipizzaner horses (book and pay locally). Once you set off cycling the scenery changes as you leave the Karst region behind and the view opens up to the Adriatic sea. You'll head into Italy for a short time today and join the famous Parenzana coastal trail which runs on the former narrow-gauge between the Italian city Trieste and Poreč in Croatia. Your final two nights are spent on the coast in the medieval town of Koper, linked to the Venetian republic until the end of the 18th Century.
You stay at Grand Hotel Koper.
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Situated in the Old Town of Koper, on the seafront, Grand Hotel Koper has been recently renovated. Rooms feature a seating area, a TV, and a phone and overlook the town or the sea. The hotel also has a bar and à-la-carte restaurant with a spacious terrace.
The Parenzana trail runs along the coast, takes a turn among vineyards and partly runs through tunnels. It will take you through Portorož, a lively tourist town with sandy beach, to Piran. This worldly town, which developed under the influence of Venice, is considered to be one of the most authentic and most photogenic towns on the Adriatic coast. Return to Koper.
Please note that cycling helmets are compulsory in Slovenia for all customers under 15yrs. As we are unable to provide these, we strongly recommend that you bring your own.
Please see our Planning your holiday page for full details.
If you'd like to extend your trip with extra hotel nights we recommend: Grand Hotel Toplice, Bled; Grand Hotel Union, Ljubljana.
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The hotel has a pleasing open aspect looking out over Lake Bled, there is a lakeside promenade accessed directly from the hotel.
All rooms have a balcony.
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The Grand Hotel Union is one of Ljubljana's most prestigious hotels. Built at the turn of the century it was considered one of the finest hotels in Europe at this time with its lift, central heating and telephones (a rarity in 1905). Its hall was used as the city's concert hall for many years and its clientele has traditionally been associated with the arts. The hotel has hosted many famous pianists and singers over the years.
The rooms are all furnished in a contemporary style with satellite television, telephone and air-conditioning. The hotel has a swimming pool on the top floor that has an appealing glass roof dome.
Extra nights: Please contact us for details.
These tour prices are based on two people sharing. Single supplement from £433.
We can book your flights, protected by ATOL and ABTA. Please ask at time of enquiry.
If you choose a flight inclusive package with us, you will fly into Ljubljana airport. We can provide transfers from the airport, please contact us for details and prices.
We hold an ATOL License and are fully ABTA bonded, so you can book your flights with us in confidence. We can book most airlines and will advise you of your most convenient airport and flight options.
Flight prices vary massively and change quickly. At Headwater we will sell you your flights at the same price you can buy them yourself. We simply add £35 per person to cover your flight protection, to learn more please click here.
Subject to availability and dependent on service provider, please ask at time of enquiry and book early to avoid disappointment.
Clare, our Commercial Manager, shares what makes this destination such a special place to visit and has some tips for making the most of your time there.
Self-guided cycling
7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 2+
Moderate plus
Flights
available
24.0Kg CO2e
Headwater
Navigation App
Optional
e-bike hire
