Self-guided Cycling Tour Ljubljana to Grado

Individual arrival in Ljubljana

Discover this hidden gem of Europe. Ljubljana is a city with a green soul (European Green Capital 2016). It has preserved its small-town charm and, at the same time, can offer everything that all large capitals are able to. It has been marked by different historical periods (beautifully seen in its varied architecture), and you will discover many beautiful attractions, however one of the main ones, and one not to be missed is, Ljubljana Castle, standing on a hill overlooking the city and its surroundings for about 900 years.

Ljubljana – Logatec (approx. 40 km and 520 altitude metres).

Leaving the capital you will ride through idyllic and quaint villages, cycling on quiet roads, surrounded by fields, green hills and farms. Slovenia’s largest museum, the Technical Museum of Slovenia, can be found in the most amazing and perfect place a few kilometres off your track (a short detour). It is located in a former Carthusian monastery and is known for its permanent and occasional collections from agriculture, fishing, wildlife and hunting to electricity, wood working, forestry, water driving machinery, textiles and printing. (meals included: breakfast).

Logatec – Postojna (approx. 36 km and 512 altitude metres).

Another meandering cycling day which will take you to Postojna, a place with two world class attractions: Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle. The world famous Queen of the Caves is simply awe-inspiring. Having formed over thousands of years, it has become one of most visited places in Slovenia. A bit further is the second attraction, Predjama, where you will find one of the most picturesque castles in Slovenia. Predjama Castle is built into an overhanging rock in front of a karst cave hall that is connected with a cave system underneath the castle. It is situated just a few kilometres from the entrance to the Postojna Cave. The castle is now a museum on five floors that shows the life in the 16th century and its mightiness and importance throughout its diverse and lively history. (meals included: breakfast).

Postojna – Vipava (approx. 45 km and 520 altitude metres).

Vipava is still a relatively undiscovered jewel, such a fertile and wine-rich Valley, just waiting be explored. You will love cycling through idyllic rural scenery, with lots of fruit trees which blossom spectacularly in spring, whilst in the autumn their foliage is just a magical mix of colour. (meals included: breakfast).

Vipava – Gradisca d ́Isonzo (approx. 49 km and 660 altitude metres).

What a scenic day! From wonderfully scenic Vipava Valley you are first heading towards picturesque Štanjel. It is one of the oldest settlements in the Karst Region, known for its old village centre. You will enjoy pedaling along tranquil roads, admiring the nature on your way towards the Italian town Gradisca d ́Isonzo. It is considered to be one of the most beautiful towns in Italy which was fortified by the Venetians as a bastion against Ottoman raids. Take the time to enjoy the atmospheric square and treat yourselves to a delicious Italian coffee. La dolce vita! (meals included: breakfast).

Gradisca d ́Isonzo – Palmanova - Grado (approx. 45 km and 108 altitude metres).

Your last cycle day is truly glorious. First the cycle path takes you to star-fort citadel of Palmanova. But the highlight of today's cycle is, without doubt, the UNESCO-listed, ancient Roman city of Aquileia, a self-standing masterpiece of sacred art and historical treasure. From Aquileia you'll be heading down the spectacular Adriatic lagoon to the charming island town of Grado. The approach to (Sun Island) Grado is very dramatic. A long causeway crosses the lagoon from the mainland – similar to arriving in Venice, but with a much emptier landscape. You may well be tempted to spend an extra day here just relaxing on its sandy beaches, simply soaking up the lovely views over the sea to Croatia and Slovenia! Do make time to stroll the calli e campielli (lanes and courtyards) of the well-kept historic town. Benvenuti! (meals included: breakfast).

Departure

Depart after breakfast or extend your stay. (Meals included: breakfast).