Alps to Adriatic Cycling - from Lake Bled to Poreč via Parenzana
SLOVENIA, ITALY AND CROATIA | CYCLING - TOURING | SELF GUIDED | 2025
An exceptional cycling tour that connects the stunning alpine lakes and rivers of the Julian Alps with the Mediterranean charm of Istria, complete with scenic coastlines and distinctive red soil. This journey combines the refreshing mountain landscapes with the warm ambiance of the Adriatic coast, offering cyclists a unique blend of nature, culture, and Mediterranean allure. Cycling tour running through Slovenia, Italy and Croatia.
The Julian Alps are one of the smallest yet most beautiful regions in the entire Alpine chain. It’s here, amidst this gem of natural beauty, that our cycling tour begins, taking us from the Alps all the way to the Adriatic Sea. This region offers incredibly dynamic cycling, as each day greets riders with an almost unique natural setting, distinct from the one before. There's nothing better than actively experiencing the alpine landscape, the renowned Karst region with its world-famous caves, and finally, the beautiful Istria, often called a "little Tuscany"
This cycling tour offers the chance to experience three distinct countries and cultures that have coexisted in this region for thousands of years. Most of the journey leads us through the western part of Slovenia, followed by a descent into Italy’s Trieste, the unofficial capital of the northern Adriatic. From there, we continue cycling through the Slovenian and then Croatian sections of Istria. It’s a pure blend of cultures, natural landscapes, and outstanding cuisine.
Parenzana Trail: Parenzana was a 123-kilometre long railway line, which connected 33 towns and villages in Istria, from Trieste to Poreč. Today the route passes the territories of three countries: Italy - 13 kilometres, Slovenia - 32 kilometres and Croatia - 78 kilometres. The railway opened in 1902 and it gave life to the region it ran through; on its 123 kilometres long route, the small, slow train was puffing every day through hilly and diverse Karst areas, carrying passengers, salt from Piran and Sečovlje salt pans, olive oil from Buje and Motovun, fruit, vegetables, Istrian stone and wine. The railway line was closed in 1935. The route was recently reopened as a beautiful cycling path.
Facts:
- Duration: 10 days / 9 nights
- Activity: Cycling touring | Touring
- Type of the tour: Self Guided Tour
- Grade: Easy to Moderate.
- Accommodation: Small Local hotels ***/****
- Open dates for groups: From April 15th to November 15th.
- Start of the tour: Kranjska Gora, Slovenia
- End of the tour: Poreč, Croatia
- Price: 1.480,00 €/person (min. 2 people in group)
- Note: This tour provides all the fun of biking on backroads and with traditional biking experience.
Want to do a private guided group? We can organise a private guided group from just 4 bikers with our experienced and licensed guides. Please, contact us.
1.480,00 €
10 Days
Self Guided Tour
INFORMATION
Difficulty: Easy.
Bike skill level: Intermediate +/++
Bike fitness level: Level 2-3 (7 is max)
EXPERIENCE
It is one of the best cycling adventure tour with biking from Alps to Adriatic sea.
WHEN TO GO / DATE
April 15th - November 15th
START / END LOCATION
Kranjska Gora, Slovenia
Poreč, Croatia
KRANJSKA GORA TO BLED
DISCOVERING THE MOST BEAUTIFUL VALLEYS OF THE JULIAN ALPS
This riding day is dedicated to all cycling enthusiasts who love the alpine setting, crystal-clear rivers, majestic waterfalls, and deep valleys of the Alps. The route takes you along well-maintained bike paths and scenic side roads, all within a beautifully diverse and pleasant natural environment.
Itinerary:
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- Morning introductory meeting in Kranjska Gora - "face to face"
- Riding from Kranjska Gora to Bled.
- Hotel ***/****, Bled
- 52 km | +550m | 3-4 hours
LAKE BLED TO LAKE BOHINJ
IN HARMONY WITH TWO BEAUTIFUL ALPINE LAKES
Cycling between two alpine lakes, Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj, is a truly special and enchanting experience. The ride becomes even more memorable thanks to a newly constructed cycling trail that seamlessly connects these stunning destinations through the picturesque Bohinj Valley. This route offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and a well-maintained path, ensuring an exceptional day on the bike.
Itinerary:
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- Breakfast in hotel.
- Riding from Bled to Lake Bohinj via brand new safe cycling path.
- Hotel ***/****, Bohinj
- 38 km | +380m | 3-4 hours
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LAKE BOHINJ TO KOBARID
EXPERIENCING THE EMERALD RIVER SOČA
An exceptionally dynamic cycling adventure awaits as we connect the Alpine valleys with the stunning Soča River Valley. This route offers the opportunity to explore Soča’s tributaries and visit iconic landmarks like the Tolmin Gorges, Kozjak Waterfall, and Napoleon Bridge. The ride combines thrilling routes with breathtaking natural surroundings, making it an unforgettable experience in the heart of Slovenia’s pristine environment.
Itinerary:
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- Breakfast in hotel.
- Riding bike from Lake Bohinj to Bohinjska Bistrica.
- Train ride from Bohinjska Bistrica to Most na Soči.
- Riding bike Most na Soči to Kobarid via Tolmin gorge.
- Hotel ***/****, Kobarid.
- 55 km | +650m | 4-5 hours
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KOBARID TO ŠMARTNO (SABOTIN)
A BEAUTIFUL REGION OF VINEYARDS, CHERRY ORCHARDS
In the morning, we gently ascend above the Soča Valley, cycling through a fascinating hilly region marked by historical relics such as bunkers, trenches, and tunnels—a reminder of the First World War and a unique open-air museum. From there, the journey takes us across the picturesque Collio region, renowned for its natural beauty and rich agricultural heritage. This area is famed for its vineyards, fruit orchards, and local produce, offering a perfect blend of history, nature, and gastronomy.
Itinerary:
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- Breakfast in Hotel.
- Riding bike from Kobarid to Šmartno | Goriška Brda (Collio) - Sabotin
- Optional: Private transfer from Kobarid to Livške Ravne (climb; + 900m).
- Hotel ***/****, Šmartno or Solkan
- 60 km | +1250m | 5-6 hours
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ŠMARTNO (SABOTIN) - SEŽANA
WONDERFUL EXPLORATION OF THE UNIQUE RED KARST
Exploring the stunning Karst region by bike is truly a unique experience. Cyclists are welcomed by a mosaic of small villages, rich cultural landmarks, diverse natural beauty, and an exceptional culinary scene. The terrain features a captivating landscape of rolling hills, sinkholes, stone walls, and dense shrubbery. This environment offers an immersive journey filled with discovery, local flavors, and the poetry of cycling through one of the most characteristic regions of Slovenia.
Itinerary:
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- Breakfast in Hote.
- Riding bike from Solkan to Sežana via karst region.
- Optional: Morning train ride to Štanjel (30 min.).
- Hotel ***/****, Bled
- 48 km | +650m | 4-5 hours
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SEŽANA TO TRIESTE
UNESCO ŠKOCJAN CAVES, FAMOUS LIPICA AND TRIESTE
The journey from the rugged Karst plateau to the Adriatic Sea offers cyclists a day filled with diverse landscapes and experiences. Starting with a visit to one of the world's most stunning Karst caves, riders marvel at its underground beauty before heading to Lipica, home of the famous Lipizzaner horses. The ride continues, blending the rugged terrain of the Karst with the coastal Mediterranean ambiance.
Descending towards Trieste, cyclists follow a scenic, winding path along a former railway line from Kozina, providing a smooth and picturesque route to the sea. The day encapsulates the natural and cultural richness of the region, offering breathtaking views and a rewarding descent to the Adriatic coastline.
Itinerary:
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- Breakfast in hotel.
- Riding bike from Sežana to Trieste via Škocjan caves.
- Hotel ***/****, Trieste
- 45 km | +450 m | 3-4 hours
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TRIESTE TO PIRAN
EXPERIENCE THE CHARMING CITIES ALONG THE ADRIATIC
This day’s cycling adventure takes you along the coastline, offering a unique blend of urban exploration and serene rural landscapes. Riding on the first stretch of the famous Parenzana trail is pure poetry, as the well-maintained path winds through charming villages, historic towns, and even tunnels, all while skirting the shimmering sea.
The Parenzana, once a narrow-gauge railway connecting Trieste to Poreč, now serves as a beloved cycling route, combining cultural heritage with stunning coastal views. It’s an unforgettable experience for cyclists of all levels.
Itinerary:
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- Breakfast in hotel.
- Morning boat transfer to Muggia.
- Riding from Muggia to Piran via Parenzana trail.
- Hotel ***/****, Piran
- 38 km | +250m | 3-4 hours
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PIRAN TO MOTOVUN
A TRUE LITTLE "TUSCANY" AND THE PARENZANA TRAIL
Istria is a unique geographical area, often referred to as "Little Tuscany"due to its resemblance to the famous Italian region. The journey through Istria offers a serene and immersive experience, as you cycle past tranquil villages, rolling hills, and stunning landscapes.
On this leg of the Parenzana trail, the route becomes more winding and challenging, with steeper inclines and rocky sections, showcasing the region's diverse terrain. The day culminates with a visit to the picturesque hilltop town of Motovun, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Istrian countryside—a perfect ending to an unforgettable adventure.
Itinerary:
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- Breakfast in hotel.
- Riding bike from Piran to Motovun.
- Hotel ***/****, Motovun
- 42 km | +650m | 4-5 hours
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MOTOVUN TO POREČ
"TERRA ROSA", VINES, OLIVE TREES... THE SMELL OF THE MEDITERRANEAN
Cycling from the heart of Istria back to the sea takes you through the striking Terra Rossa landscape, renowned for its vibrant red soil. This fertile ground is the foundation for producing some of Istria's most delicious wines. Along the way, you'll encounter authentic Istrian life—locals adept at weathering the wind, summer heat, and enjoying the cool interiors of their stone houses.
This region is a culinary haven, offering delicacies made from local produce, including world-famous truffles. The experience is an exploration of culture and taste, concluding with a refreshing arrival at the Adriatic coast.
Itinerary:
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- Breakfat in hotel.
- Riding bike from Motovun to Poreč.
- Hotel ***/****, Poreč
- 42 km | +450m | 3-4 hours
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POREČ
RELAXING MORNING IN POREČ AND DEPARTURE
- Breakfast in hotel.
- Private transfer to Ljubljana or Ljubljana airport
- Departure
WHY THIS CYCLING TOUR
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- Experience extraordinary natural beauty and diversity of the Julian Alps.
- Explore magical Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj.
- Experience the Triglav National Park with alpine valleys.
- Discover the enchanting emerald Soča River and its breathtaking natural canyons.
- Experience the true essence of the Karst region, renowned for its stunning karst caves and exquisite culinary delights.
- Explore Trieste, the historic capital of the Adriatic.
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- Experience the breathtaking scenery of Istrian peninsula.
- Connect three countries on one Journey - Slovenia, Italy and Croatia.
- Cycle on a former railway route with notable remains from former times.
- Unique coastal towns of Piran, Trieste, Poreč.
- Wine growing region of Istria "Small Toscana" with its distinct red soil - Terra rosa.
- Great cycling and exploring everything you love about the pristine biking journey.
- Excellent organization - 25 years of our work in cycling and tourism.
MAP
PRICE INCLUDES - SELF GUIDED TOUR
Included in the price:
- Full organisation of the cycling tour.
- 9 nights in 3*/4* hotel accommodation with breakfast.
- Introductory briefing in Kranjska Gora (day 01, morning) - face to face.
- Self Guided LIFE Booklet with detailed itinerary and route instructions, timetables and details with all vouchers for accommodations, private transfers, ...
- GPS routes/tracks (all stages/all days).
- APP for navigation (login with phone or tablet) with phone holder.
- Emergency contact number and 24/7 support.
- Daily collaboration and tracking on the communication app - additional customer support.
- Private return transfer from Poreč to Ljubljana, Ljubljana airport or Kranjska Gora.
- Train ticket Bohinjska Bistrica to Most na Soči.
- Luggage depot.
- Tourist tax and VAT.
Not included in the price: Travel to Trieste. / Food and drinks: all food and drinks, except breakfast. / Items of personal nature. / Travel Insurance. / Bike & bike equipment.
Paid on location:
- Boat Trieste-Muggia: appox. 10 € / person
- Train ticket for a bike (day 3): approx. 3 € / bike
Surcharges:
- High season (June 1st to Sept. 30th): 320 €/person
- Single supplement: 590 €
Optional extras:
- Day-to-day luggage transfer: 650 €/group
- Private transfer Kobarid to Livške Ravne (day 4): 130 €/group
- Train ride Nova Gorica - Štanjel (day 5): 5,50 €/person
Bike rental:
- * Bike rental: Trek DS touring bike: 25 €/day/bike
- * Bike rental: E-touring bike: 45 €/day/bike
- * Bike rental: Trek Marlin 7: 30€/day/bike
- *Bike rental: Trek Checkpoint ALR5: 40 €/day/bike
- *Bike rental: Trek Checkpoint SLR5: 50 €/day/bike
- Bike rental: Ortlieb waterproof handlebar pack, and side bags for luggage: 60 €/tour/bike
- Bike rental: Bike rental: Ortlieb bikepacking bags - full: 60€/tour/bike
* bike rental includes: bike rental with helmet, lock, pump, spare tube, Squirt chain lube and repair kit.
Every company needs a responsible person behind the scenes. Every cycling tour needs a person who knows the destination, who knows more about cycling, who is also a passionate cyclist and dedicated to cycling. Matej, who has been working in cycling for two decades, is there for you and with you on your biking tour. He has excellent knowledge of destinations in Slovenia, Croatia, Austria, Italy and elsewhere in the Balkans. He is the creator of the following cycling events: Human Fish Gravel, Bled Bike Festival, Women Ride Together Day, Gravel Epic, No Borders Bikepacking, Trans Balkan, ... and the creator of more than 100 cycling routes, products and programs.
He advises on many destinations regarding cycling content and cooperates with the economic sector in the development of cycling routes, contents, concepts and organization of cycling events. He is here mainly for you, to offer advice, to brief you before the tour and to be, with the rest of Life Bike team, the greatest possible help to you and your fellow travellers on your bike tour. Welcome!
