A week-long road cycling journey through the Alps of Slovenia, Austria, and Italy—why settle for less? For those who crave a challenge, this one’s for the books. We’ll maximize our eight days, diving into the top cycling spots across this unique three-country region. Lush valleys, legendary climbs, a surreal glacial lake featuring a tiny island in the middle of it, emerald river valley, charming Alpine towns… It’s all on the menu. And speaking of menus, missing out on this area’s cuisine and customs would be a crime—we, as locals, are here to help you sample traditional dishes and experience the local culture. Epic climbs, local bites, and stories for a lifetime—what more could you want?
Experience the ride of a lifetime as you traverse the majestic Alps of Slovenia, Austria, and Italy on this carefully curated cycling adventure! Each day brings new challenges and rewards—from the historic streets of Ljubljana to the emerald waters of Lake Bled, from the rugged Vršič Pass to the awe-inspiring Mangart Saddle. You’ll explore pristine valleys, cross international borders, and conquer legendary climbs, all while soaking in the rich culture and natural beauty of the region. We’ve got the logistics covered—just show up and enjoy the ride!
We’ll pick you up at Ljubljana Airport and take you to the city. We recommend taking full advantage of this day—stroll through Slovenia’s capital, Ljubljana, known for its vibrant cultural scene, historic architecture, and picturesque riverbanks. The city provides the perfect start to this adventurous cycling holiday!
Accommodation: Hotel
As we leave the city, we head north toward the scenic town of Kamnik, nestled at the foothills of the Kamnik-Savinja Alps. The route to Kamnik is relatively flat, giving us a chance to warm up our legs as we pass through lush countryside and charming villages.
From Kamnik, the real adventure begins as we tackle the climb to Velika Planina, a stunning alpine pasture known for its traditional herders’ huts and panoramic views. The ascent is challenging but rewarding, winding through dense forests before opening up to breathtaking mountain vistas. After reaching the top, we descend into the enchanting Logar Valley, one of Europe’s most beautiful glacial valleys, enjoying a thrilling ride with sweeping curves and spectacular scenery.
Meals: Breakfast
Cycling: 66.7 km (41.5 mi)
Elevation gain: +1,094 m (+3,588 ft), -746 m (-2,448 ft)
Accommodation: Hotel in Solčava (Logar Valley)
We depart from the serene Logar Valley and take on an epic climb to Pavličevo Sedlo, a mountain pass at the Slovenian-Austrian border. The hard-fought ascent rewards us with stunning views before a short descent into Austria.
From there, we climb back into Slovenia, reaching the picturesque alpine village of Jezersko, home to the mineral-rich Jezerska Slatina natural spring. Then, we enjoy a long, exhilarating descent through lush landscapes, finishing in the historic city of Kranj, known for its medieval architecture and vibrant town center.
Meals: Breakfast
Cycling: 65.9 km (40.9 mi)
Elevation gain: +1,374 m (+4,508 ft), -1,640 m (-5,379 ft)
Accommodation: Hotel in Kranj
We start in Kranj and ride through Slovenia’s picturesque pre-Alpine region. Along the way, we pass St. Jamnik Church, perched atop a hill with stunning mountain backdrops and known as the most picturesque church in Slovenia.
The route takes us over Sorica Pass and onto a well-maintained 15 km gravel section, suitable for road bikes. We finish at the serene Lake Bohinj, where its tranquil waters and breathtaking scenery provide the perfect end to our tour.
Meals: Breakfast
Cycling: 58.7 km (36.5 mi)
Elevation gain: +1,261 m (+4,137 ft), -1,100 m (-3,638 ft)
Accommodation: Hotel in Bohinj Lake
We leave the serene Lake Bohinj behind and climb to the Pokljuka Plateau, passing through magnificent spruce forests in the heart of the Julian Alps. A long, exhilarating descent takes us to the iconic Lake Bled, where a stop for the famous cream cake is a must. From there, we ride through the scenic Radovna Valley before reaching Kranjska Gora, Slovenia’s most famous ski resort, surrounded by stunning alpine scenery.
Meals: Breakfast
Cycling: 61.1 km (38 mi)
Elevation gain: +1,316 m (+4,318 ft), -1,061 m (-3,484 ft)
Accommodation: Hotel in Kranjska Gora
We start in Kranjska Gora, tackling the legendary Vršič Pass, Slovenia’s most renowned mountain pass. The climb features historic cobblestone turns, originally built by Russian prisoners during World War I, adding a sense of history to the challenge. The pass has also hosted numerous cycling races, making it a true test with its steep gradients and breathtaking alpine views.
After reaching the summit, we enjoy a thrilling descent into the stunning Soča Valley, home to one of Europe’s most beautiful rivers, famous for its striking emerald-blue color.
Meals: Breakfast
Cycling: 43.7 km (27.2 mi)
Elevation gain: +1,003 m (+3,288 ft), -1,357 m (-4,459 ft)
Accommodation: Hotel in Bovec
The final stage is the grand finale, starting in Bovec and ascending to the Mangart Saddle, Slovenia’s most stunning mountain road. The climb is demanding but rewards us with breathtaking alpine views, making it a true highlight of the journey.
After reaching the summit, we descend into Italy, passing through Predil before finishing back in Kranjska Gora. For those needing a break, skipping the Mangart climb is an option, but the experience is truly spectacular and well worth the effort!
Meals: Breakfast
Cycling: 74.7 km (46.4 mi)
Elevation gain: +2,296 m (+7,534 ft), -1,933 m (-6,350 ft)
Accommodation: Hotel in Kranjska Gora
As your epic cycling adventure comes to an end, enjoy a leisurely morning in Kranjska Gora, reflecting on the unforgettable climbs and stunning landscapes you’ve experienced. Take time to explore the charming town or relax before departing. Wishing you safe travels and hoping the memories of Slovenia’s breathtaking beauty stay with you until your next adventure!
Meals: Breakfast
We had such a great trip with Nejc and HourAway Bike Tours! Nejc made our trip so personal, we felt so welcomed everywhere! The country is truly beautiful. Through Nejc, it seemed we got to experience many things that the average traveler would not be able to experience. Even the accommodations were wonderful, we never wanted to leave!!
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This road cycling adventure through Slovenia, Austria, and Italy is designed for cyclists who crave both the thrill of ascent and the peacefulness of untouched landscapes. This tour is quite challenging and demands great fitness—prepare for climbs up to 10 km (6 miles) per day with steep sections reaching 12% grades.
If you’re an experienced and fit cyclist who enjoys testing your limits on demanding ascents, look no further! For day-by-day distances and elevation gains, check out the itinerary. The most you’ll ride within a day is up to 74.7 km (46.4 miles) and gain up to 7,534 ft (2,300 m).
Enjoy well-maintained roads that are less trafficked than those in other European Alpine regions, offering a safer and more enjoyable cycling experience amidst stunning scenery.
For more bike adventures in the Alps, click here!
Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:
Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season and activity.
You can bring your own road bike, or rent a high-quality road bike with your guides for an additional fee of $365 per week. Your guides recommend using a bike you’re comfortable with for optimal performance on challenging climbs.
Group sizes and pricing
Road cycling in Slovenia, Austria, and Italy can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.
Min. age requirements
If your group has cyclists under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
The starting point of your road cycling adventure through Slovenia, Austria, and Italy is Slovenia’s capital, Ljubljana. To get there, it’s best to fly into Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport (LJU). Your guides will pick you up at the Ljubljana Airport (included in the price) and take you to the city. You will receive more details before your departure.
We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with both medical and travel protection. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, simply choose Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner!
Redpoint tailors their protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations. Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.
Once your booking is confirmed and your trip is paid in full, you will be offered to purchase Redpoint’s protection. If you need any help or require more information, let us know and we will be happy to help!
Deposits
You can secure one of the set dates with a 30% deposit upon booking. The remaining 70% of the trip price is to be paid 90 days prior to departure, at the latest.
Cancellations
Booking fees are non-refundable in all cases. During checkout, however, you can choose one of 57hours’ flexibility options:
Basic
Flexible
Super Flexible
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Wow really had an amazing bike ride . Good experience especially have to point out that Nejc the guy in hours away who guided us so fantastic guy , so friendly and energetic. And the bikes are good quality and gives a good moment and maintained well . We will see you soon for next ride brother