Julian Alps to the Adriatic Cycling
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable 11-day journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Slovenia and Italy. This multi-day tour is a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical treasures, and gastronomic delights. From the romantic Lake Bled to the ancient Roman city of Aquileia, each day brings a new adventure. Cycle through tranquil lanes, explore medieval castles, and soak up the sun on the sandy beaches of Grado. Enjoy the comfort of 4-star accommodations and savor the local cuisine prepared by renowned chefs. This tour is not just a holiday, it's an experience that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.
Included
Management by your local Headwater-appointed agent
Route directions and maps
High quality bikes
Luggage transfers between hotels
Entrance to the Slovenian Alpine Museum
All continental breakfasts and 2 evening meals. Slovenia’s cuisine reflects its rich heritage. Neighbours Austria, Italy and Hungary influence most dishes on the menu. In the mountains, Austrian style salamis (klobasa) prevail. You’ll often find them seasoning the hearty soups served in the Alpine huts. Kruha juha is the best - you get to eat the bowl too as it’s made out of bread! The Hungarian influence is seen in the spicy meat dishes. Pleskavica (steak with herbs and paprika) is a good one to try. On the coast, you’ll find Italian fayre, like rizota (risotto) with fresh mussels or zkilofri (Slovenian ravioli). And if you are still hungry, indulge yourself in a slice of potica (a creamy Swiss roll with walnuts). Slovenia has been making wine since pre-Roman times, and boasts the oldest vine in the world, that has grown for four centuries. In the Vipava Valley, the stone villages are full of velbani hrami (vaulted wine cellars) where you can taste Teran (a heavy red best drunk with the local prsut or ham) or Rebula (a dry, crisp white). In the mountains look out for the bewildering variety of schnapps made from wormwood, blueberries, honey and even pine needles!
The places we've chosen for you to stay in are among the best in the region. Hotel highlights include beautiful lakeside views from the luxurious 4-star Hotel Triglav in Bled; an alpine lodge in Tarvisio, and the 4-star Grand Hotel Hannover overlooking Grado's pretty harbour and just 200m from the Adriatic Sea.
hotel: 10 night(s);
Destinations
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Arrival at Lake Bled
- Bled - Arrival day
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Begin your journey at a beautifully situated 4-star hotel, Hotel Triglav (or similar), overlooking Lake Bled. Take a refreshing dip or enjoy a relaxing sauna or massage. In the evening, delight in the gastronomic cuisine prepared by chef Andrej Rovan. Your stay here for the next two nights promises to be a treat.
Day 2 – Day 2: Exploring Lake Bled and Kamen Castle
- Bled
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- Bled Castle
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Start your day with a warm-up ride along the shore of Lake Bled, passing through sleepy Slovenian hamlets to reach the 12th-century Kamen Castle. Explore its Gothic and Renaissance keeps, and climb the preserved Roman tower for a panoramic view. Enjoy a picnic at the serene Zavrsnica Reservoir before heading back to Bled. Don't miss the chance to visit the oldest castle in Slovenia, offering a stunning viewing terrace.
Day 3 – Day 3: From Mojstrana to Kranjska Gora
Day 3: From Mojstrana to Kranjska Gora
After breakfast, we'll transport you to Mojstrana, a gateway village to the Triglav National Park. Cycle west through the valley, flanked by the jagged limestone pinnacles of the Julian Alps and the rolling hills of the Karawanken mountains. Keep an eye out for eagles, hawks, and rare birds of prey as you approach the charming alpine ski village of Kranjska Gora. End your day at the 4-star Hotel Edelhof (or similar), just a short walk from the village center.
Day 4 – Day 4: Discovering the Fusine Lakes
Day 4: Discovering the Fusine Lakes
- Russian Chapel
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Today, explore the 'jewel in the crown' of the Julian Alps, the twin glacial lakes of Fusine. These breathtakingly beautiful lakes offer a serene setting for a day of relaxation. If you're up for a challenge, cycle over the border to the Austrian alpine town of Arnoldstein. A chairlift ride will take you to the tripoint where Austria, Italy, and Slovenia meet, offering one of the best photo opportunities of the week.
Day 5 – Day 5: Journey to Venzone
Day 5: Journey to Venzone
Embark on a longer but undemanding cycling route packed with interest and natural beauty. Descend into the wooded Fella Valley, where your traffic-free cycle trails wind through mountain communities. Your destination is Venzone, a stunning medieval walled town famous for its lavender. Spend the night at the charming Agriturismo Casali Scjs (or similar).
Day 6 – Day 6: Exploring the Friuli Hills
Day 6: Exploring the Friuli Hills
As the sun rises, the valley lights up, and the mountain silhouettes come to life. Coast effortlessly along tranquil lanes, passing fruit orchards, vineyards, and remote churches nestled in the rolling foothills of the Friuli hills. Stop for lunch in traditional villages like Tavagnacco, Treppo Piccolo, and Osoppo before continuing to Udine, the historic regional capital. Spend the night at the Astoria Hotel Italia (or similar).
Day 7 – Day 7: Discovering Udine
Day 7: Discovering Udine
Spend the day exploring Udine, the birthplace of the acclaimed 17th-century artist, Giambattista Tiepolo. The city's brightly colored, portico-lined squares are filled with fine shops, historic cafes, and traditional osterias. If you're up for a longer day out, Venice is just a 90-minute train ride away. Return to the comfort of the Astoria Hotel Italia (or similar) for the night.
Day 8 – Day 8: Cycling through Wine Villages
- Palmanova
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If you love the idea of gentle pedalling from one picturesque wine village to the next, then this is the day for you! Enjoy lunch in medieval Pavia di Udine before cycling through sun-dappled cornfields and swaying vines to the 16th-century star-fort citadel of Palmanova. Spend the night at the Hotel ai Dogi Palmanova (or similar).
Day 9 – Day 9: From Palmanova to Grado
- Palmanova
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- Porta Aquileia
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The highlight of today's cycle is the UNESCO-listed, ancient Roman city of Aquileia. Discover its immense archaeological site, magnificent 14th-century mosaics, and dominant patriarchal basilica. Continue your journey to the island town of Grado, where the elegant 4-star Hotel Hannover (or similar) awaits, just a short walk from the beach.
Day 10 – Day 10: Relaxing in Grado
Day 10: Relaxing in Grado
Spend the day relaxing on the sandy beaches of Grado, known as the 'Sun Island'. Stroll through the well-kept historic town, exploring its winding alleys, pretty squares, and traditional fishermen's houses. If you're up for a ride, cycle along the coast through the Cavanta nature reserve to the delta of the River Isonzo. Return to the comfort of the Hotel Hannover (or similar) for the night.
Day 11 – Day 11: Farewell
Day 11: Farewell
Your memorable tour ends after breakfast in Grado. As you depart, carry with you the unforgettable memories of the stunning landscapes, historical treasures, and culinary delights experienced over the past 10 days.
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