Julian Alps to Istria Cycling Tour

If you arrive at Bled early enough, consider visiting Bled Castle, taking a boat ride to the church island, or strolling around the lake. Bled offers a variety of activities to start your adventure, from exploring the castle perched atop a cliff to enjoying Lake Bled’s serene beauty.

The first day of cycling is a warm-up with relatively flat terrain. You’ll cycle through the idyllic Radovna Valley, a hidden gem nestled between the Pokljuka and Mežakla plateaus. You’ll pass by Lake Kreda, a picturesque spot perfect for a short break. Gradually descending to Mojstrana, a village known for its alpine museum, you’ll follow the Upper Sava Valley cycling path to Kranjska Gora, a well-known ski resort town.

On the second day, you’ll tackle the steep ascent over the panoramic Vršič Pass. With its 50 hairpin bends, the pass offers stunning views of the Julian Alps. After reaching the top and enjoying the breathtaking mountain peaks, you’ll descend to the Soča Valley. You’ll cycle alongside the emerald Soča River, known for its vibrant color and crystal-clear waters, to reach Bovec, a town famous for its outdoor adventure activities.

Continue your journey down the Soča Valley, cycling on peaceful side roads and macadam trails. The valley is known for its unique emerald river and rich history. At Kobarid, you can ascend to the idyllic Drežnica village under Mount Krn. The day ends in Tolmin, where the Tolmin Gorges offer a refreshing retreat at the lowest point of the Triglav National Park.

As you head further south, you’ll enter the warmer Mediterranean climate and the magical wine-growing region of Goriška Brda. Known as the “Tuscany of Slovenia,” this region is dotted with vineyard-covered hills and charming villages. The panoramic views and the exquisite local wines make this area a paradise for wine lovers.

You’ll traverse the relatively flat area of Italian Gorizia and then ascend to the Karst plateau. Known for its unique limestone terrain and rich wine culture, the Karst region offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. You’ll cycle through the picturesque villages of Komen and Štanjel, reaching Sežana, a town bordering the coastal area.

Start the day with a quick detour to Lipica to check out the Lipizzaner stud farm, home to the world-renowned Lipizzaner horses. Then, head to Socerb for a stunning view of the coast. Follow the green Rižana River to the sea coast and cycle along the Adriatic seacoast to Piran, a charming coastal town known for its Venetian architecture and rich cultural heritage.

Continue along the coastline to the Sečovlje Saltpans, a nature park known for its traditional salt production. Then cross the border to Croatia. Head inland to the Mediterranean countryside and Istrian villages like Buje, known for its olive groves and vineyards. Your final destination of the day is Grožnjan, a medieval hilltop town known as the “town of artists.”

This stretch of the Parenzana route is the hilliest but the most beautiful. It crisscrosses between many valleys, but magnificent viaducts or tunnels make your cycling more attractive. The day ends in the touristy coast town of Poreč, known for its UNESCO-listed Euphrasian Basilica and vibrant nightlife.

From Poreč, cycle along the coast towards Vrsar, a charming fishing village. Here, the Lim Channel interrupts the coastal route. Follow a scenic path inland to the charming town of Rovinj. Known as the “blue pearl of the Adriatic,” Rovinj is famous for its colorful houses, narrow streets, and the hilltop church of St. Euphemia.

Start your day in Rovinj and continue along the coast to Pula, the peninsula’s largest city. Pula is rich in history and cultural landmarks, including the well-preserved Roman amphitheater, the Forum, and the Temple of Augustus.

Spend your last day exploring the area around Pula. Visit Kamenjak, Istria’s southernmost point, known for its rugged coastline and crystal-clear waters. Or enjoy the Mediterranean atmosphere of Premantura and Medulin, two popular seaside resorts. Return your bikes to Pula and reminisce about your journey.

After almost two weeks of adventure, we’ll assist with your travel arrangements, including airport transfers if needed. You might depart Croatia, but the memories you made here will stay with you forever.