Self-guided Bled to Piran Bike Tour

Welcome to Bled, a jewel tucked beneath the Julian Alps.

As you arrive, the first glimpse of the emerald lake will steal your breath. An island rises from the center like a fairy tale—crowned with a chapel you can reach by traditional pletna boat.

Walk the lakeside path or climb to the Mala Osojnica viewpoint for a stunning panoramic of the water, mountains, and Bled Castle perched high above. This serene mountain town is the perfect place to settle in and get inspired for your adventure ahead.

We start with a climb up to Pokljuka Plateau, riding amidst alpine meadows and towering forests. Glide downhill into the pristine Bohinj Valley, surrounded by peaks of the Triglav National Park. Cycle past quiet villages before reaching Ribčev Laz on the edge of Lake Bohinj, Slovenia’s largest glacial lake.

Take a detour to the thundering Savica Waterfall, then ascend Vogel Mountain by cable car for views of Mount Triglav. In the evening, unwind with a shot of homemade honey brandy in a cozy pub. The Bohinj Valley’s tranquility is unmatched—this is nature at its most majestic.

Elevation: ↑1.090 m, ↓ 1.050 m

Your day starts with a climb up to the forested Jelovica Plateau (750 m / 2400 ft).

At the summit, breathe in crisp mountain air before descending into the Selška Dolina Valley. Roll through Sorica, the birthplace of Slovene painter Ivan Grohar, and explore his tiny gallery. Continue on to Železniki, once a hub of ironworking, where remnants of an old blast furnace still stand. As you ride, keep an eye out for rushing rivers and trout-filled streams.

Riding on, the charming town of Škofja Loka, welcomes you with cobbled lanes, pastel facades, and one of Slovenia’s oldest castles. We end the day's biking atLjubljana, the capital of Slovenia. Treat yourself to a relaxed evening stroll through this medieval gem. Wander beneath baroque facades, cross the famed Triple Bridge, and climb up to Ljubljana Castle for sweeping views.

Elevation: ↑ 1.000 m, ↓ 1.210 m

Today’s ride takes you across the Ljubljansko Moors, a vast marshland teeming with some of Europe's rarest birdlife. Once an ancient lake, the area is now a sanctuary for rare birds and orchids.

Head next to the impenetrable Predjama Castle, famous for the legend of Erasmus of Leug, Slovenian knight who in the 16th century, kept an entire Habsburg Army of Frederick III at bay from within this castle.

The castle’s dramatic location and gripping tales are sure to captivate you.

Afterward, continue riding toward Postojna, a town known for its underground wonders. The peaceful countryside sets the rhythm for a relaxed ride, with open views and forested valleys leading the way.

Elevation: ↑ 910 m, ↓ 670 m

Start the day with a journey into the depths of Postojna Caves, the most extensive cave system in Slovenia. Board the electric train and descend into a glowing world of stalactites, stalagmites, and strange cave creatures like the blind “human fish.”

Once back in daylight, cycle toward the sun-drenched hills of the Vipava Valley, where vineyards begin to dominate the landscape. This is your first real taste of Slovenia’s wine country. Pedal through quiet country roads and rolling hills until you reach your charming guesthouse in the Štanjel area, where stone villages and sweeping views greet you. Raise a glass—you’ve earned it.

Elevation: ↑ 510 m, ↓ 780 m

Begin your day with a visit to the botanical gardens in Sežana before pedaling onward to Lipica, home of the world-famous Lipizzaner horses. Watch these elegant white stallions train or take a tour in a traditional carriage for a taste of aristocratic flair.

From here, the route continues through the scenic Karst Plateau, dotted with stone houses and wind-sculpted trees. If time allows, explore the local War Museum tucked inside a historic Venetian tower.

Tonight, you rest in Divača, a quiet town nestled between green hills and rugged stone.

Elevation: ↑ 500 m, ↓ 340 m

If you didn’t get a chance to see the Postojna Caves, you’re still in luc! This morning you can explore the Škocjan Caves instead. They’re just as impressive and tend to be much quieter. Afterward, take a relaxing break with a cappuccino or gelato in the delightful old harbor town of Muggia. A newly opened coastal bike path now runs along a former railway line, offering sweeping views of Slovenia’s scenic shoreline. Be sure to pause in Portorož, a gem of the Slovenian Riviera, before ending your adventure in the enchanting Venetian harbor town of Piran.

Elevation: ↑ 470 m, ↓ 900 m

All good things must come to an end, and so does this incredible journey. You can depart according to your own plans for your onwards journey.