8 Days
From US $1,395
Self-guided Lake Bled and Triglav National Park Bike Tour
Witness the wild beauty and cultural richness of Slovenia on this week-long cycling adventure through the Julian Alps and Triglav National Park. Beginning and ending in the lakeside gem of Bled, you’ll travel through alpine valleys, sleepy medieval towns, and pristine national parklands—all at your own rhythm, on two wheels.
From the peaceful glacial shores of Lake Bohinj to the charming streets of Škofja Loka, every stop on this route blends history with nature. Ride across lush plains beneath snow-capped peaks, pass iron-forging villages like Kropa, and pause to dip your feet in an alpine lake in Preddvor. A flexible route allows for side trips to waterfalls, mountaintop viewpoints, and war memorials tucked deep in the forest.
You’ll follow quiet cycle paths that hug the base of dramatic mountain ranges, visit ruined castles, and finish each day in welcoming towns with rich local character. Whether sipping honey brandy in a cosy pub or walking the wooden walkways of Vintgar Gorge, the tour offers time to connect with Slovenia’s landscapes, stories, and slower pace of life.
Ideal for those who love culture, scenery, and self-paced exploration, this tour combines moderate cycling with plentiful rest and discovery. You’ll ride past rivers, through valleys and over plateaus, before returning to Bled—where your journey began—with unforgettable memories and maybe a few mountain-made dreams.
Self-guided
Casual+ hotels
Bled
Bled
moderate
43km / 27mi
6
Min. 2, Max. 10
Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport (LJU)
Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport (LJU)
Highlights
Tranquil Beauty of Lake Bohinj
Cycle through Triglav National Park to reach Lake Bohinj, Slovenia’s largest alpine lake. Surrounded by misty peaks and forested slopes, this hidden gem offers peaceful waters, a charming lakeside village, and the option to visit Savica Waterfall or ascend Vogel Mountain for sweeping views of the Julian Alps.
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 | Bled | Hotel Savica Garni (4-Star) | |||
| DAY 2 | Bohinjska Bistrica | Bohinj Eco Hotel (4-Star) | B | 27km / 16mi | cycling |
| DAY 3 | Škofja Loka | Mini Hotel | B | 49km / 30mi | cycling |
| DAY 4 | Predoslje | Hotel Elegans Brdo (4-Star) | B | 45km / 28mi | cycling |
| DAY 5 | Radovljica | Guesthouse Lectar | B | 46km / 28mi | cycling |
| DAY 6 | Kranjska Gora | Hotel Kompas (4-Star) | B | 50km / 31mi | cycling |
| DAY 7 | Bled | Hotel Savica Garni (4-Star) | B | 40km / 25mi | cycling |
| DAY 8 | Departure | B |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Bled
Welcome to Slovenia! Begin your journey in the fairytale lakeside town of Bled, where an island church floats on a glacial lake and a cliffside castle keeps watch. Enjoy a gentle stroll, a slice of cream cake, and the calming alpine air.
Day 2: Bohinjska Bistrica
A short transfer takes you to Pokljuka Plateau, where your ride begins with a serene descent through forests and pastures into the Bohinj Valley, nestled in Triglav National Park. Lake Bohinj welcomes you with mirror-like waters and a dramatic mountain backdrop.
Meander through peaceful alpine villages to Ribčev Laz. If you're up for it, cycle to the cascading Savica Waterfall which takes about 16kms, or take a cable car to Vogel Mountain for a panoramic alpine view. Bohinj is quieter than Bled but just as magical. End your day in a cozy pub with a sip of honey brandy.
Day 3: Škofja Loka
Today, you pedal through the charming town of Bohinjska Bistrica, then climb to the Jelovica Plateau.
You can choose to accept a lift over the mountain pass, or conquer the 750-meter ascent. Pass through the forest into the Selška Dolina Valley, arriving at the village of Sorica—birthplace of painter Ivan Grohar. Discover his small gallery and continue to Železniki, where remnants of the 19th-century iron industry remain. After a well-earned lunch, ride into Škofja Loka, one of Slovenia’s oldest towns. The medieval streets invite wandering, and if you’ve got energy left, a short climb takes you up to the hilltop castle.
Day 4: Predoslje
Today is a gentler ride across the wide Sora Plain, with the dramatic Kamnik-Savinja Alps always in view.
The route weaves through quiet countryside, inviting you to pause and soak in the pastoral scenes. If it’s warm, stop for a swim in Preddvor’s small alpine lake. The cycling is relaxed today, giving you time to explore Brdo Estate, a former royal and presidential residence surrounded by gardens and serene parkland. It's a fine place to unwind after your ride, perhaps with a stroll among manicured paths and reflective ponds.
Day 5: Radovljica
This stage takes you deeper into Slovenia’s rich cultural landscape. Stop in Kranj, once the capital of Carniola, then continue to Kropa, a historic town where blacksmithing traditions come to life in its iron forging museum.
If you’re curious, you can even craft your own nail. Follow the route along the edge of the Jelovica Plateau to the charming old town of Radovljica. Explore its cobbled streets and visit the beekeeping museum, a tribute to Slovenia’s deep apicultural heritage.
Day 6: Kranjska Gora
Enjoy a slow and scenic ride today along the foot of the Kamnik-Savinja Alps, reaching Begunje, a village marked by WWII history and music heritage.
Visit the Museum of Hostages or pay tribute to local legend Slavko Avsenik. Nearby, the ruins of Kamen Castle await. Continue on a cycle path nestled between the Julian Alps and the Karawanke range.
Arrive in Kranjska Gora, a lively alpine town known for its winter sports and summer trails. If you arrive early, take a side trip to Planica Valley, home to record-breaking ski jumps.
Day 7: Bled
Your final cycling day begins alongside the Sava Dolinka River as it snakes south through quiet woodlands.
At Mojstrana, veer into the Krma Valley, a serene pocket of the Triglav National Park dotted with WWII monuments and rustic farmhouses. Stop for lunch at a mountain hut near the base of Mount Triglav. Then continue through the Radovna Valley, flanked by towering plateaus.
Before returning to Bled, consider a short detour to the Vintgar Gorge, a 1.6 km chasm carved deep into the rock, now bridged by wooden walkways offering dramatic views.
Day 8: Departure
It is a day of departure from Bled today. Enjoy a final breakfast before moving out of the hotel . What a ride it’s been!
Ready to plan your adventure? Download a print-ready detailed itinerary.
Map
Dates and Prices
Single Supplement
From US $450
E-Bike Upgrade
From US $220
Couldn't find a trip with convenient dates?
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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.
TREK FX 2 DISC MID-STEP GEN 3 or similar
Included in your trip price
Bergamont E-Horizon Tour 5 Wave or similar
Available at a surcharge
Rock Machine Crossride or similar
Available at a surcharge
Arrival & Departure Details
Arrival
Your tour begins in Bled which is served by Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport. From the airport you can travel to Bled by bus which takes about two hrs 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.
Departure
Your tour ends in Bled which is served by Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport.
You can also depart by taking a train from Bled to Ljubjana Jože Pučnik Airport. Bled has two railway stations
-
Lesce-Bled on the Villach-Ljubljana mainline. You can take a bus to reach the railway station.
-
Take a bus to reach Bled-Jezero on the Jesenice-Nova Gorica sideline which is 2kms away from the centre.
Weather
From March to October, Slovenia’s cycling season offers a refreshing blend of crisp mountain air and ever-changing alpine scenery. Spring (March–May) brings blooming meadows, cool mornings, and fewer crowds—ideal for quiet rides through valleys and forested slopes.
Summer (June–August) warms up with longer daylight hours, perfect for lingering at lakes and enjoying open-air cafés, though afternoon thunderstorms can occasionally roll in. September and October are golden months—less heat, more colors, and clear views across the peaks.
Outside the cycling season, November to February turns Slovenia into a snowy wonderland. Many mountain routes are inaccessible, but alpine towns like Kranjska Gora buzz with skiers and winter charm.
January
Offseason
February
Offseason
March
Good
April
Good
May
Good
June
Best
July
Best
August
Best
September
Good
October
Best
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 road surface is 95% paved and 5% unpaved.
The roads are 65% regional country roads, 20% cycleways, 10% street (city approach sections), and unpaved path 5%.
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.
