As you may know from past articles, I really like to travel. Our recent adventure cycling through Slovenia turned out to be as enchanting as it was challenging—a trip filled with stunning scenery, gourmet food, and moments we wished could last longer. Known for its pristine landscapes and tucked between Italy, Austria, and Croatia, Slovenia offers breathtaking countryside, reminiscent at times of Tuscany’s vineyards and rolling hills. Here’s a glimpse into our trip, the highs, the “could-have-beens,” and everything in between.
Getting there: A smooth start
We made our way to Slovenia on a direct flight from London to Ljubljana with EasyJet, which was surprisingly affordable. The flight was quick, and before we knew it, we were stepping off the plane, ready to begin our cycling adventure in this green and picturesque country. Ljubljana’s airport is small and efficient, making for an easy start to the journey.
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Our tour, organized and guided by Visit GoodPlace, an eco-friendly local tour company, began in Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia. Known for designing sustainable travel experiences, Visit GoodPlace curated an itinerary focused on exploring Slovenia’s breathtaking landscapes while highlighting its commitment to green tourism. After enjoying Ljubljana’s laid-back charm, we headed to the Soča Valley, where our cycling journey officially kicked off amidst emerald rivers and vineyard-covered hills.
A challenging but rewarding ride through the Slovenian countryside
While the landscapes were stunning, the cycling itself was not for the faint-hearted. Most of the route could be described as “hilly,” with constant ups and downs, but there were several sections with sustained, steep climbs that tested our endurance. Thankfully, we had e-bikes—without them, some of the inclines would have been impossible for us. That said, the ride is doable for all fitness levels if you pace yourself. One of the most inspiring moments came when we discovered that a 75-year-old participant on our tour completed the entire route on a standard bike! If you’re an avid cyclist, this adventure is more than manageable.
Although the tour was beautifully planned, we found ourselves wishing for a rest day or two. The hotels we stayed at were charming and unique—perfect places to unwind. We stayed just long enough to appreciate them, but not long enough to fully relax. A little more downtime would have made the experience even more enjoyable.
We were fortunate with the weather. Although the skies were occasionally overcast, temperatures stayed ideal for cycling. We experienced only one short burst of heavy rain, which hit just as we reached our hotel, allowing us to change quickly out of wet clothes. The mild conditions in late September were perfect for the journey, and we didn’t even need the thermals we had packed.
Slovenian gourmet delights at every stop
Food was a highlight throughout the trip. Breakfast was provided at every hotel, and dinners featured local restaurants—some Michelin-rated—serving dishes influenced by Italian, Austrian, and Balkan cuisines. We enjoyed seafood, veal, venison, and beef, with potatoes or fries seemingly part of every meal. To our delight, despite my usual wine allergies, I had no issue drinking Slovenia’s local wines. We also discovered that Slovenia brews excellent beer—Laško being the most popular—and many villages offered their own craft beers on tap.
Lake Bled: A perfect post-tour escape
After finishing the tour, we took a couple of extra days to visit Lake Bled. With its serene waters, iconic island church, and scenic castle, it was the perfect way to wind down after several days of cycling. A leisurely boat ride across the lake provided a peaceful conclusion to an active and fulfilling adventure.
A Few Travel Tips:
- Flights: EasyJet offers direct, affordable flights from London to Ljubljana, making Slovenia an accessible destination.
- Terrain: Expect rolling hills with some tough, steep climbs. We strongly recommend e-bikes unless you’re a seasoned cyclist. If a 75-year-old on our tour could complete the route with a standard bike, you can too—with the right mindset!
- Tour Guide: Our tour was run by Visit GoodPlace (www.visit-goodplace.com), a local eco-friendly travel company committed to sustainable tourism. They provided well-maintained bikes, helmets, and repair kits, making the logistics seamless.
- Currency & Payments: Slovenia uses the euro, and credit cards are widely accepted, even in smaller villages.
- Coffee Culture: Slovenia takes its coffee seriously, and every café we visited served excellent espresso and cappuccinos.
This cycling trip through Slovenia was a memorable blend of physical challenge, scenic beauty, and gourmet indulgence. With its well-curated itinerary, eco-friendly ethos, and inspiring landscapes, Slovenia offers an adventure that’s both enriching and sustainable. We’d return in a heartbeat—next time, with just a little more time to relax and soak it all in.
If you find yourself in or around the capital city, here are a couple of places we tried and would recommend.
Pizzeria Cavallino, Sežana
Located in the heart of Sežana, Pizzeria Cavallino is renowned for its delicious pizzas and friendly service. The menu features a variety of pizzas baked in a traditional wood-fired oven, as well as pasta dishes and salads. The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating, providing a cozy atmosphere for diners. It’s a popular spot among locals and visitors alike, known for its quality food and reasonable prices. We “carbed up” here for lunch before biking another 10 miles. Highly recommended if you end up in this village.
Holidays Pub
Holiday’s pub is a top local favorite located in the center of the capitol city of Ljubljana. With a full bar and good draft selection, it’s the typical Irish style pub with local vibes. It’s a great place to enjoy a pint, play some games and listen to 80s music. Known for its friendly staff and welcoming environment, it’s a great place to unwind after a day of exploring.
Marley & Me, Ljubljana
Situated in Ljubljana’s charming old town, Marley & Me is a cozy restaurant offering a fusion of Mediterranean and Slovenian cuisine. The menu includes a variety of dishes prepared with fresh, local ingredients, catering to both meat lovers and vegetarians. The intimate setting and attentive service make it an ideal spot for a relaxed meal in the city center.
Altrokè, Ljubljana
Altrokè is a Michelin Guide-listed restaurant located in Ljubljana, inspired by Istrian and Mediterranean cuisine. The menu features meat and fish dishes enhanced by ingredients such as fruit, aromatic herbs, and olive oil, many of which are sourced from the restaurant’s own property near Koper. The elegant ambiance and commitment to quality make it a must-visit for food enthusiasts seeking a refined dining experience.
These establishments each offer a unique taste of Slovenian hospitality and cuisine, enriching your travel experience with their distinct flavors and atmospheres.
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