7 Days
From US $1,195
Self-guided Around the Lake Bled Mountain Bike Tour
Slovenia is one of Europe’s most enchanting landscapes to experience on two wheels. This cycling tour around Lake Bled is your gateway to Slovenia’s alpine magic, where every pedal stroke brings you closer to glacial lakes, forested plateaus, hidden gorges, and panoramic peaks. You’ll base yourself in the fairytale setting of Bled, a charming lakeside town watched over by a cliff-top castle and dotted with a picture-perfect island church.
Each day unveils a new adventure—for instance, cycle deep into the dramatic Vintgar Gorge, where turquoise waters rush beneath wooden walkways and end in a roaring waterfall. Wander the cobbled streets of Radovljica, taste local treats, and dive into Slovenia’s beekeeping heritage. Climb to the peaceful Pokljuka plateau and discover remote alpine pastures like Zajamniki, where time slows down and the mountains feel close enough to touch.
Tackle rewarding climbs to viewpoints above Bled, trace forested paths across the Jelovica plateau, and venture off the beaten track through meadows and hidden trails few travelers ever find. Along the way, enjoy cozy mountain huts, sweeping views of the Karavanke range, and moments of perfect silence in Slovenia’s unspoiled wilderness.
This tour is perfect for active travelers who crave natural beauty, cultural charm, and a touch of adventure—without having to pack up and move every night. Whether you're hiking to viewpoints, cycling beside glacial rivers, or toasting the day with a lakeside drink, you’ll leave with your heart full and your legs happily tired. Slovenia is waiting—and it’s even better by bike.
Self-guided
Casual+ hotels
Bled
Bled
challenging
46km / 28.5mi
5
Min. 2, Max. 10
Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport (LJU)
Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport (LJU)
Highlights
Cycling Around Magical Lake Bled
Cycle around one of Europe’s most iconic alpine lakes, framed by snow-capped peaks and guarded by a fairytale castle. Visit the island church by boat, ring the wishing bell, and hike to Mala Osojnica for panoramic views that will stay with you long after the tour ends.
Itinerary
Brief Itinerary
Meals are indicated as B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner.
Listed hotels are subject to availability and may be replaced with similar alternatives of equal standard.
| Day | Place | casual_plus Inns | Meals | Distance | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DAY 1 | Lake Bled | Hotel Savica Garni (4-Star) | |||
| DAY 2 | Bled | Hotel Savica Garni (4-Star) | B | 36km / 22mi | cycling |
| DAY 3 | Bled | Hotel Savica Garni (4-Star) | B | 72km / 44mi | cycling |
| DAY 4 | Bled | Hotel Savica Garni (4-star) | B | 40km / 25mi | cycling |
| DAY 5 | Bled | Hotel Savica Garni (4-star) | B | 55km / 34mi | cycling |
| DAY 6 | Bled | Hotel Savica Garni (4-star) | B | 26km / 16mi | cycling |
| DAY 7 | Departure | B |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Lake Bled
Touch down in Slovenia and settle into your charming 4-star hotel beside the fairytale shores of Lake Bled. With its glistening glacial waters, a church-topped island, and a clifftop castle watching over it all, Bled is the perfect introduction to alpine beauty.
Stretch your legs with a traditional pletna boat ride to the island church—don’t forget to ring the wishing bell and make a heartfelt wish. For an unforgettable panorama, hike up to Mala Osojnica on the lake’s western edge. The view will steal your breath and your heart.
Day 2: Bled
Today’s ride is a feast for the senses. Glide through the emerald Vintgar Gorge as the Radovna River roars beneath wooden walkways.
Cross stone bridges and pass beneath moss-draped cliffs until you reach the stunning Šum Waterfall. Afterward, pedal on to Radovljica, a storybook town with cobbled streets, colorful facades, and a fascinating beekeeping museum.
Treat yourself to lunch in the lively old town square, and don’t leave without trying the heavenly local gelato—arguably the best in Slovenia. Then it’s a gentle roll back to Bled, the lake shimmering ahead of you as the perfect reward.
Day 3: Bled
Today, prepare yourself for an unforgettable alpine journey.
You’ll climb slowly through whispering pine forests to reach the Pokljuka plateau. Breathe in the scent of wildflowers and spruce as you pedal toward Zajamniki, a picture-perfect alpine pasture dotted with wooden shepherd huts and framed by towering peaks.
Continue through the twin valleys of Bohinj, where pristine meadows and rustic farms recall a simpler time. The return to Bled is pure bliss—a newly built cycle path tracing the deep green Sava River brings you home in style. You’ll sleep soundly tonight, dreaming of mountaintops and meadows.
Day 4: Bled
Today is all about elevation and exhilaration.
Your first climb leads to the Church of St. Catherine above Bled, where panoramic views unfold across the lake and surrounding hills. Then it’s onto the Karavanke foothills, where rugged peaks of the Black Mountains await. Stop at a mountain hut for a well-earned drink before beginning the most rewarding ascent to the historic hilltop church of St. Peter—once a lookout during the Turkish invasions.
Feel the history in the stones beneath your wheels. Before heading back, enjoy a final refreshment in Begunje, birthplace of Slovenia’s most beloved Alpine musicians.
Day 5: Bled
Today’s adventure begins with a peaceful ride along the Sava River, slowly gaining altitude as you head into the pine-scented wilderness of the Jelovica Plateau.
The dense forest envelopes you in quiet serenity. At the summit, stop at Talež mountain hut for a hearty Slovenian lunch—washed down with a local brew and framed by panoramic views of the Karavanke range.
In the afternoon, you’ll coast gently along secluded forest roads, the hum of your tires the only sound. The descent back into Bled feels like floating, and the lake’s calm waters welcome you home once again.
Day 6: Bled
Get ready for a ride few even locals know well. Today’s path winds through secret corners of the southern Pokljuka plateau—remote, rugged, and utterly magical. You’ll tackle a mix of forest roads, narrow trails, and sections of mountain singletrack.
Pedal beneath towering firs and through open meadows buzzing with wild bees. Every turn rewards you with solitude and sweeping mountain vistas. It’s a day to disconnect, challenge your legs, and immerse yourself in the raw beauty of Slovenia’s highlands.
Back in Bled, celebrate with a lakeside dinner—you’ve earned it.
Day 7: Departure
Today, soak into the beautiful view and enjoy one last lakeside breakfast before your departure. Slovenia has a way of staying with you—don’t be surprised if you find yourself planning a return.
Ready to plan your adventure? Download a print-ready detailed itinerary.
Dates and Prices
Single Supplement
From US $670
E-Bike Upgrade
From US $150
Couldn't find a trip with convenient dates?
Open your date as a join-in tour or customize further as a private one.
Essential Info
Inclusions
LODGING
All hotels as mentioned in the tour details or similar (subject to availability).
bike
Immaculately maintained bike with helmet, suited to a terrain.
Luggage Transfer
Transportation of luggage from one hotel to another.
meals
Meals as per itinerary. Guests are given the opportunity to dine on their own so that they discover a location independently.
Exclusions
Airport pickup and drop
We recommend to book direclty from airport or hotel.
Beverages
Beverages such as alcohol, tea, coffee, juice at a hotel or restaurant.
Gratuity
Gratuities for your guide team are not included in the trip price.
Bikes
When you have a road and the thrill of a journey ahead of you, it’s imperative to have a good bike to enjoy it. Our fleet majorly consist of the below bikes as a part of this tour. However, sometimes due to height or availability constraints, we may provide a different but similar quality bike.
Fuji Nevada 26 or similar
Included in your trip price
E-MTB Rock Machine Torrent INT E50-29B or similar
Available at a surcharge
Arrival & Departure Details
Arrival
Your tour begins in Bled which is located 56 kms ( 35mi) north-west from the national capital Ljubljana. It is served by Ljubljana Jože Pučnik international Airport. From the airport you can travel to Bled by bus which takes about two hours with one change.
You can also arrive at Bled by train.
Bled has two railway stations
-
Lesce-Bled on the Villach-Ljubljana mainline which is located four km away from the town center. After getting off the train, you can take a bus to get to Bled.
-
Bled-Jezero on the Jesenice-Nova Gorica sideline which is 2kms away from the centre.
You can also take a private taxi from the airport to Bled.
Departure
Your tour ends in Bled itself.
You can depart by taking a train or bus from Bled to Ljubljana. Private taxis are also available from your hotel.
Weather
Cycling around Lake Bled is best between March and October, when mild spring air, summer sunshine, and crisp autumn colors make for stunning rides.
Spring (March–May) offers blooming scenery and fewer tourists. Summer (June–August) is warm and lively, ideal for lakeside breaks.
Autumn (September–October) brings golden foliage and cooler, pleasant days.
Winter (November–February) sees snow and icy paths—cycling is limited, but the snow-dusted lake and mountains create a serene, storybook setting.
January
Offseason
February
Offseason
March
Good
April
Good
May
Best
June
Best
July
Best
August
Good
September
Good
October
Good
November
Offseason
December
Offseason
Best
Good
Mixed
Offseason
What to Pack
Packing smart is essential for a safe and enjoyable cycling adventure. From essential biking gear to clothing and travel necessities, this guide ensures you're prepared for any terrain or climate.
Recommended Bicycling Clothes & Gear
- Bicycling shoes or stiff-soled sneakers.
- Padded cycling shorts.
- Short-fingered cycling gloves (personal gloves are ideal).
- Brightly colored cycling jerseys or synthetic T-shirts for visibility.
- Synthetic cycling socks.
- Sunglasses with UV protection.
- Personal helmet (recommended even though provided).
- Personal saddle (optional for added comfort).
- Rain jacket or windbreaker.
- Cycling water bottle (to reduce plastic waste).
Note: Helmets, gloves, and water bottles are personal items, so bringing your own is recommended for maximum comfort and hygiene.
Clothing
- Light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
- Full-sleeved clothing for sun protection.
- Warm layers for chilly mornings and evenings (if traveling in winter).
- Comfortable footwear for non-cycling time.
- Bring a compact rain jacket in case of sudden weather changes.
- Ethnic or modest clothing for exploring towns and temples.
Other Necessities
- Toiletries: Basic hygiene essentials, including insect/mosquito repellent and sunscreen.
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
- Plug socket adaptor.
- Binoculars for wildlife spotting or desert landscapes.
Pro Tips
- Pack light but plan for the varying temperatures: warm days, chilly evenings, and desert winds.
- Use brightly colored clothing for visibility on roads.
- Pack light to leave room for shopping.
Luggage
Please limit your luggage to one medium-sized suitcase and one carry-on bag. Mark your luggage with your name, address, and phone number.
Visa Information
Before venturing on your adventure, make sure you're equipped with essential travel advice, including security updates, local laws, and crucial passport and visa information. Start by visiting the official government website of your home country for accurate and reliable guidance:
- UK Residents: Stay informed by reviewing the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Travel Advice.
- US Residents: Access vital travel tips and updates through the US Department of State Travel Advice.
- Australian Residents: Plan ahead with the latest updates on the Smart Traveller website.
- Canadian Residents: Find comprehensive travel and visa guidance on the Government of Canada's Travel Advice and Advisories.
- New Zealand Residents: Get practical travel advice on the New Zealand SafeTravel website
- Residents of Other Countries: Check with your government or local consulate for tailored travel advice and requirements.
Note: Passport and visa regulations can change at any time. Stay proactive by checking for the latest updates to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.
Insurance
Medical insurance that covers medical costs in case of an accident during the trip is mandatory to participate in our tours.
We recommend to purchase adequate travel insurance in order to participate in our tours and protect yourself from unforeseen events. Our experience shows that guests who purchase travel insurance—including coverage for all activities on the itinerary, trip cancellation, interruption, delay, baggage damage, loss or theft, personal accident, death and repatriation costs, medical and emergency expenses (including Covid-19), and personal liability—travel with greater peace of mind.
Can I use my credit card insurance?
Yes, as long as it meets our requirements and provides adequate coverage. Ensure you have an emergency contact number and policy number available.
When should I buy travel insurance?
Purchase travel insurance as soon as you've paid in full or booked your flights.
Is proof of travel insurance required?
Yes. You must provide your insurer's name, policy number, and emergency contact via our reservation form. This is mandatory. If you cannot provide proof, you’ll need to purchase insurance before traveling with us.
Does Art of Bicycle Trips sell travel insurance?
We do not sell travel insurance directly, as we believe our customers should have the freedom to choose a policy that best suits their needs. However, we recommend Insured Nomads as a great starting point.
Frequently Asked Questions
The route is 98% paved, 2% unpaved.
We provide an app-based navigation system that can also be used offline. You can download the app to your phone in advance, and we will share the login details ahead of your trip. Since the app works offline, it helps conserve your phone's battery during use.
For minor issues like punctures, the guests are provided with a self-repair kit, which includes tools to help them fix such minor issues. The exact contents of the kit depend on the type of bike, terrain and other factors, and will be communicated to you closer to your date of departure. However, usually such a kit includes tire levers, a spare tube, a patch kit, and a pump, allowing riders to fix the problem themselves. In some cases, the kit may only include a pump or a repair foam.
Self-guided riders are expected to be independent in handling these minor problems. While there are some bike shops along the route, they are limited. If you are unsure about how to repair a puncture, we recommend considering a guided or van-supported trip instead.
For major mechanical failures, such as a cable break, the guests can contact the emergency support number provided. The support team will help coordinate a solution, which could include dispatching a local mechanic, suggesting a nearby bicycle shop for repairs, or sending a vehicle to pick up the rider. Please note that all support services will be provided on a chargeable basis, and assistance may take time, so we advise being prepared for potential delays.
We provide 24/7 emergency support by phone for any medical emergencies during the tour. Our team will assist in coordinating medical care, guiding you to the nearest healthcare facility, and ensuring you receive the necessary support. The national emergency system is reliable and effective, and in the event of a serious accident, contacting them is highly recommended. However, due to our distance from certain areas, response times may be longer. We strongly recommend having appropriate travel insurance, and we will do everything we can to ensure your safety and well-being during an emergency.
The fitness level required for each trip is indicated by the "level" of the tour, which in turn is mentioned on each tour page right next to the price and the trip duration.
Easy: The terrain is mostly flat with a few gentle climbs.
Moderate: The terrain is either mostly flat or consists of rolling hills with a few challenging climbs. There could also be a few days with longer riding distances of up to 75 kms (45 miles)
Difficult: The terrain is mostly hilly with strong elevation gains and/or has long days on the bike. Such trips are recommended for intermediate to advanced cyclists.
Please note that we usually bike around 4-5 hours per day irrespective of the level of the trip.
You can exchange currency at the airport itself, or at ATMs in larger cities. Most commercial establishments will accept international credit cards for payments, though its good to carry some local currency with you at all times.
The meeting time on Day 1 is mentioned in your travel planner shared with you. You can arrive either on the morning of Day 1 depending on the meeting time, or book a pre-tour night to arrive a day earlier.
Yes, we can provide helmets. However, we recommend that guests try to bring their own helmets, as these are items of a personal nature.
Yes, panniers will be provided.
Your luggage will be picked up at the reception of your hotel every morning by 9.00am.
It will be delivered to the next hotel before 5pm. Most of the time it is delivered in the early afternoon itself.
We recommend that you carry no more than 2 bags together weighing up to 15kgs for this trip. You can have one large bag, which contains all your clothing and gear needed for the trip, and one small bag that contains essential items you will frequently need such as passport etc. Please note that once a bag gets loaded in the luggage transfer vehicle, you may not have access to it till later in the evening when you reach the hotel for the night.
For answers to broader questions, please visit our Comprehensive FAQs section.
