Cycling Slovenia: Ljubljana to the Adriatic

The medieval city of Ljubljana is the starting point for your cycling adventure. This pretty capital is easily explored on foot, and you’ll be astounded by the number of cyclists that ride through the narrow cobbled streets with their ‘fin de siècle’ mansions. Take time to explore the impressive castle which occupies a lofty position overlooking the city, and stroll through the old quarter, visiting the famed ‘Triple Bridge’.

Ljubljana is easily reached with flights into the capital’s airport offered by various low-cost airlines. Alternatively, Ljubljana is an easy hour’s drive from the border with Croatia, Austria or Italy.

A welcome meeting this evening (6pm) means you are ready and set for the coming days ahead.

A nice easy first day across the historic and richly diverse plains surrounding the capital. As the morning sun begins to rise high in the sky, you will be cycling across an immense 160-square kilometer (100-square feet) marshy plain. The Ljubljansko Barje was once a great lake until it dried up 6000 years ago, leaving behind an incredibly diverse landscape that is now home to some of Europe’s rarest forms of bird, plant and insect life. Along the way you can see the remnants of the world’s highest railway viaduct in Borovnica. In hot summer months you can even freshen up in a typical Carst Lake of Podpec. Just before arriving in Vrhnika, you can visit the Technical Museum of the Republic of Slovenia housed in Bistra Castle, where you’ll find a great hunting collection and an interesting exhibition of president Tito’s cars.

Ascent/Descent: 91m/89m (299ft/292ft)

On this day the roads will take you away from the main tourist routes and off the beaten track. We highly recommend you take the short and scenic detour to the impenetrable fortress of Predjama castle, wedged tight into a crevasse halfway up a 123-meter (403-feet) cliff-face protruding dramatically into the surrounding basin. Here lived the vivacious and daring knight Erasmus, who kept a whole army at bay by utilizing the secret of the Predjama Caves to sneak out for supplies- which included freshly picked cherries which he used to throw at his adversaries to taunt them. Visit the castle or perhaps even take the tour and learn how Erasmus met his untimely demise in less than poetic circumstances, as he was literally caught with his pants down. Next, you'll cycle to the town of Postojna, and if you arrive by 3pm, we recommend visiting the underground Postojna complex this afternoon to avoid the mid to later morning crowds tomorrow (check the cave website for more details on opening and tour times and ticket prices). So far nearly 30 million tourists have visited this stunningly beautiful underground Postojna cave formation, carved deep into the heart of the limestone hills. This is the most extensive cave system in Slovenia, covering a total of 21 kilometers (13 miles) You can opt to purchase a ticket for the 1½ hour cave tour, which will take you through a fairy tale world full of large and colorful stalactites and stalagmites, not forgetting the unique “human fish”, a mysterious creature that lives in dark pools inside the caves.

Ascent/Descent: 804m/549m (2637ft/1801ft)

If you didn't visit the Postojna Caves yesterday, cycle there after breakfast as early as possible to avoid the tourist bus crowds. After your visit, continue your ride through the charming Slovenian countryside, passing through small towns, villages, and occasional woodlands, before reaching the vineyards of the Vipava region. We recommend arriving at tonight’s hotel early so you can relax and enjoy the peaceful setting, take in the countryside views, sample local wines, and savor a leisurely dinner.

Ascent/Descent: 236m/607m (775ft/1991ft)

First stop is perhaps at the botanical garden in Sežana, especially lovely in the morning. Then it’s on to the impressive stud farm of Lipica, where you can visit these beautiful thoroughbred Lipizaner horses whose glistening white coats and gentle, graceful dancing have earned them a worldwide reputation. The history of the Lipica horses is closely linked to the Vienna riding school. Take a tour in a traditional carriage, watch them perform and visit them close up in their stables (on some days of the week, there are riding shows, check the site's website for more details).  If you have the time for a side-trip, you can also visit the very unusual but fascinating “War Museum” set in the village tower of Lokev. This will be a day to remember.

Ascent/Descent: 622m/323m (2040ft/1056ft)

If you missed Postojna Caves, don't worry - this morning, you have the chance to explore the Škocjan Caves, a UNESCO-listed natural monument known for their stunning beauty and tranquility. Next, head to Socerb Castle, where you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the Bay of Trieste, the Friulian Plain, and even the Julian Alps. Your day trip concludes in the charming town of Muggia, just south of Trieste. After a day of cycling, unwind with a delicious gelato in the town's historic center or relax on one of its inviting beaches. If you arrive extra early, consider a quick bus or boat trip into Trieste, a vibrant Italian city renowned for its rich Roman history, cosmopolitan vibe, and captivating atmosphere.  Or treat yourself to well-deserved spa visit or massage, the seaside resort of Muggia has a number of spas to choose from.

Ascent/Descent: 215m/651m (705ft/2135ft)

Today you’ll be cycling alongside the coastal road with incredible views of the Slovene coast and Trieste Bay. Enjoy easy cycling on a new path which follows a former railway line. As you come closer to Piran, pause for a coffee in the chic seaside resort of Portoroz.

Finally reach the beautiful little Venetian harbour village of Piran. You’ll want to spend time here exploring the little alleyways and streets, as well as relaxing in a seafront café or restaurant. The holiday atmosphere here is simply wonderful!  Piran is worthy of an extra night for relaxation or exploration, or to simply enjoy more of the fresh and delicious seafood. 

Ascent/Descent: 230m/240m (754ft/787ft)

Your trip ends after breakfast, although you might want to extend your stay in Piran or perhaps take the ferry to Venice, Italy (departs typically 1 day a week, there are schedules online with Direct Ferry).

Transfers are available (supplement payable) to Ljubljana, or you can take a bus then train back to the capital.