Ride from Alps to Adriatic – Self-Guided Cycling Holiday
Cycle from the heart of the Alps to the Adriatic Sea on a carefully designed self-guided cycling journey. This tour is part of our self-guided hiking and cycling holidays in Slovenia, designed and operated by local experts based in Bohinj.
This multi-day route connects alpine landscapes, scenic valleys and Mediterranean coastal views, offering an unforgettable active holiday in Slovenia and beyond.
Perfect for road cyclists, gravel riders, and e-bike enthusiasts.
Quick overview
- Duration: 7–9 days
- Type: Self-guided cycling holiday
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Daily distances: 50–80 km
- Best season: April – October
- Suitable for: Gravel, touring bikes, e-bikes
why choose this self-guided cycling tour?
- Iconic journey from mountains to the sea
- Carefully planned stages with realistic daily distances
- Quiet roads, scenic routes and local highlights
- Designed and tested by local cycling guides
- Freedom to ride at your own pace, with local support
designed by local experts
This self-guided tour is designed by certified local cycling guides based in Bohinj, in the Julian Alps. Every stage is carefully planned to balance distance, elevation, safety and experience – so you can focus on enjoying the ride.
ITINERARY overview
This 8-day self-guided cycling itinerary takes you from the Alpine heart of Slovenia to the Adriatic Sea. The route is designed as a point-to-point journey, with daily stages connecting carefully selected locations.
Day 1 – arrival & first alpine ride
Arrival to the Alpine region and bike setup. An optional shorter introductory ride through alpine valleys and quiet roads, perfect for getting into the rhythm of the journey.
DAY 2 – alpine landscapes &2 iconic lakes
- distance: 80 km
- vertical meters: 1160 m
A classic Alpine cycling day featuring mountain scenery, green valleys and traditional villages. You will ride from one iconic alpine lake to the other and back.
Day 3 – POKLJUKA PLATEAU & ALPINE VILLAGES
- distance: 65 km
- vertical meters: 1360 m
Climb to a forest plateau, ride through a beautiful valley and finish in alpine village Kranjska Gora. Enjoy the peaceful forest roads of the plateau and watch for local wildlife.
Day 4 – Crossing from Alpine to Pre-Alpine Regions
- distance: 67 km
- vertical meters: 1240 m
The route gradually leaves the high Alpine environment and transitions into rolling pre-Alpine landscapes. A varied day combining scenic climbs, flowing descents and cultural highlights along the way.
Day 5 – Rural Countryside & Cultural Towns
- distance: 58 km
- vertical meters: 610 m
Cycling through quieter countryside, passing vineyards, rivers and historic towns. The day offers a pleasant balance of riding and opportunities to explore local life and cuisine.
Day 6 – Towards the Mediterranean Climate
- distance: 50 km
- vertical meters: 660 m
A noticeable change in landscape and atmosphere as Mediterranean influences begin to appear. The route becomes smoother, with warmer air, softer terrain and longer panoramic sections.
DAY 7 – Final Ride to the Adriatic Sea
- distance: 78 km
- vertical meters: 850 m
A memorable final cycling day leading down to the Adriatic coast. Celebrate the journey from the mountains to the sea and enjoy the relaxed seaside atmosphere.
DAY 8 – DEPARTURE
Departure day or optional extra night by the sea.
Each stage is carefully planned to balance distance, elevation and overall experience, creating a rewarding journey from the Alps to the Adriatic.
what’s included
Included:
- Route planning & GPS tracks
- Detailed itinerary
- Welcome meeting and route briefing
- Accommodation reservations
- Breakfasts
- Local tips & highlights
- Luggage transfers
- Support before and during the tour
Not included:
- Bike rental (optional)
- Meals
- Travel insurance
Optional extras:
- bike rental
- licensed local guide
- bikepacking bags
- wine tasting & winery visits
- extra nights in the mountains or at the sea
WHO IS THIS TOUR FOR?
This tour is ideal for active couples, friends and small private groups looking for a flexible, well-organised cycling holiday without a guide. If you prefer a circular route with less daily logistics, you might also like our Tour of the Julian Alps self-guided cycling holiday. For travelers who want to combine cycling with hiking, we also offer a Hike & Bike around the Julian Alps self-guided experience.
how the self-guided tour works
- Send us your preferred dates and group size
- Receive a tailored proposal and itinerary
- Fine-tune details together
- Enjoy your self-guided cycling holiday
START PLANNING YOUR CYCLING HOLIDAY
Tell us about your travel plans and cycling experience – we will prepare a personalised self-guided proposal for you.
FAQ
Who Is This Tour For?
– Cyclists with moderate to good fitness
– Road, gravel, and e-bike riders
– Couples, friends, or small groups
– Nature, wine, and culture enthusiasts
Best Time to Go
April to October: ideal weather for cycling and open passes
Why This Tour Is Unique?
– Combines alpine adventure with Mediterranean charm
– Authentic local experiences: food, wine, and culture
– Self-guided freedom & support
– Carefully curated routes and lodging for cyclists
– Eco-friendly & sustainable travel
TESTIMONIALS
“Riding from the Alps to the sea was an unforgettable adventure. Amazing landscapes and delicious local food along the way.” – Sophie, France
“Perfect mix of challenge and relaxation. Loved every day of the tour!” – Mark & Rachel, NZ
Join us!
Check also
Tour of the Julian Alps
Join us on a superb cycling loop in the Julian Alps and experience life in the mountains with locals in 2026.
Hike&Bike around the Julian Alps
Longer version of the Julian Alps Loop Short, but with two extra loops that will take you also into Italy and Austria.