The Experience
The Julian Alps & Friuli’s Collio Wine Region
This week will be officially referred to as “The Ride.” Start the day overlooking Italian vineyards and by afternoon gaze at the majestic beauty of the Julian Alps. Welcome the challenge of two completely empty alpine passes (save for your fellow biking companions). Fight that inner conflict between taking in the view and taking on the next corner. Remember how to say “Good Morning” in Slovenian. Toast in the stunning town of Bled. And, yes, tasting the local pinot grigio and tocai will be incredible. But it’s still about the ride.
Bike tranquil lanes with light traffic and unparalleled scenery
Challenge yourself on two alpine passes, comparable to the great climbs of the French Alps
Sip superlative white wines from the Collio region of Friuli, one of Italy’s best kept secrets
Ready for an unforgettable dinner at Michelin-starred La Subida?
Fall in love with Slovenia’s most romantic alpine destination, Lake Bled
Day 1 Bike tranquil lanes with light traffic and unparalleled scenery Visit Aquileia, a World Heritage site with exquisitely restored Roman ruins Worked up an appetite? Feast on delicious polenta, prosciutto San Daniele, and other Friulian specialties at Michelin-starred La Subida.
Day 2 Superlative white wines from the Collio region of Friuli, one of Italy’s best-kept secrets, where low hills lie blanketed in chestnut forests, cherry orchards and tidy vineyards On rolling hills, venture into neighboring Slovenia and the Goriška Brda wine region for incredible riding and your first taste of Eastern European culture Enjoy hearty alpine cuisine at an agriturismo, a working farm where we’re treated like family.
Days 3-4 Challenge yourself on two mountain passes reminiscent of classic climbs in that famous French bike race After a thrilling descent, enter Soča River Valley for a spin to the sleepy village of Bovec (“beautiful valley”) Take in the turquoise Soča River and remarkable limestone peaks of Triglav National Park.
Days 5-6 Explore Slovenia’s most breathtaking alpine destination,Lake Bled, whose island harbors a magnificent 17th-century church – you’ll arrive by pletna (traditional wooden boat) Find villages steeped in tradition en route to gorgeous high-altitude Lake Bohinj The glamorous resort town of Bled, beloved for its thermal spas, inspires rejuvenation Journey to Ljubljana, with its unique Austrian flavor and vibrant cultural scene.
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The Route
