The most beautiful cycling trails in Slovenia

Slovenia, a nation of exceptional natural beauty and geographic diversity, entices adventure seekers and cycling enthusiasts with its wealth of options for physical recreation. The country is crisscrossed by a vast network of roads, walkways, and trails, making it a great destination for all abilities of bikers. Look no further if you want to discover the best beautiful riding routes Slovenia has to offer. We have developed a list of our favourite trails, each of which showcases the splendours of this gorgeous nation. Prepare to go on a riding adventure unlike any other.

1. Poljanska valley

Our first choice is a very special cycling experience in the Škofja Loka mountain range. With its hilly landscape, it offers an ideal mountain biking polygon. Starting in the medieval town of Škofja Loka, the path leads you through the valley of Hrastnica to Sveti Ožbolt, where you receive a spectacular view. From there on the most beautiful part of the cycling trail begins. The trail winds through mountain villages with views of the Polhov Gradec and Škofja Loka hills all the way to the Julian Alps. Especially unique is the last part of the route along Žirovski Vrh, where the Rupnik defensive line is located. The system of bunkers and fortifications brings special stories written by history. A very pleasant part of the route along with Poljanska Sora through the Visoko mansion is just the tip of the iceberg. All this is the reason why this route is at the top of our list of the most beautiful cycling trails in Slovenia.

Good to know:

• The length of the trail is 60 km. Altitude meters: 1400 m.
• The trail is suitable for cyclists in good physical condition or with an electric bike.
• A tour of the underground fort on Goli vrh (Rupnik’s line) is possible only by prior arrangement.
• A very pleasant experience is a visit to the two biggest farms in Poljanska Valley: Pustotnik and Bogataj. They make local cheeses and can offer to taste.

2. Mountain trio – Blegoš, Ski resort Cerkno, Porezen

Are you a sworn mountain biker? In this case, this touring mountain bike trail should be something you simply have to ride. The trail begins with a pleasant but long ascent to Blegoš mountain, where a magnificent view awaits. Followed by descent and another short ascent and you will be at the top of the Cerkno ski resort. Here you can relax and enjoy the scenery. The path will take you further through Davča, with views of the Julian Alps as well as the Cerkljansko hills. And so trail leads you to a viewpoint in Vrše. From here to the hut on Porezen mountain, a real test of cycling knowledge and fitness is waiting for you. Only some of the cyclist manages to cross the slope without getting off the bike. But at the top, all the torment will be rewarded with one of the most beautiful alpine scenery. With good visibility, it is possible to see all the way to the Gulf of Trieste. This experience is followed by a long descent into the valley which will bring a smile to your face.

Good to know:

• The length of the trail is 50 km. Altitude meters: 1500 m.
• The tour is only suitable for cyclists with good technical knowledge.
• Refreshments are possible in mountain huts.

3. Cycling circle around Moravče

A cycling route that will positively surprise you. You would not expect that this part of Slovenia can be so beautiful. The start of the trail is on Gradiško Lake. From here trail winds through sparkling forests, full of positive energy and fresh air. The first surprise of the tour is Limbarska Gora with a unique church and a beautiful view of the Kamnik-Savinja Alps. Along the way, you also pass quite a few mountain villages and enjoy endless views. The second interesting attraction is when it passes a Geoss (Geometric Center of Slovenia).

Good to know:

• The length of the trail is 50 km. Altitude meters: 1400 m.
• The route is suitable for cyclists in good physical condition or with an electric bike.

4. Karst wine cycling trail

And our last choice is the fairytale Karst. The most beautiful in spring and autumn is a cycling experience for everyone. The cycling trail starts in the village of Komen. From here will lead you through the typical karst villages of Volčji Grad, Pliskavica, Kobjeglava, and all the way to Štanjel. The last one is, due to its exceptional architecture, especially recommended to see. As the Karst is a plateau, the continuing of the trail is full of surprises. Through the village of Lukovec, you arrive at a lookout point with a beautiful view of the Vipava Valley and the whole of its mountain range. From here, the path will lead you again through karst villages and vineyards. Finally, we recommend you to have lunch in one of the many Karst farms. Because only that way you can truly taste the Karst landscape.

Good to know:

• The length of the trail is 40 km. Altitude meters: 600 m.
• The route is suitable for everyone.
• Prior reservation is required for lunch at the tourist farms.

Slovenia’s pristine trails

You are in for a treat as you take in Slovenia’s flawless and alluring natural beauty, regardless of the bike trail you decide to explore. We put emphasis on routes that travel on non-trafficked trails, ensuring a calm and safe experience. Even if you face difficult ascents, don’t worry, because the rise of electric bicycles has altered the riding environment, making them an accessible and more popular choice for riders of all levels.

The best cycling trails in one package

If you’d like to experience more than one trail, you can always sign up for one of our Slovenian e-bike holidays. Here, two guided holiday options are available, including the Trans Slovenian ebike Tour and the Slovenian Alps e-bike Tour. However, there is also an option for people who enjoy self-guided tours, such as our favourite Ljubljana to Bled bike tour.

So, if you’re visiting Slovenia, don’t be afraid to climb on a bike, even if you’re only a casual rider. Slovenia’s cycling splendour is waiting for you.