Cycling Slovenia &
Yachting Croatia:
Ljubljana to the Adriatic
(With a touch of Italy and Croatia too)
JUNE 4-13 2026
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Explore the charming historic city of Ljubljana, with its hill-top castle
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Enjoy excellent Slovenian wines and ice-cold beers
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Cycle from the Slovenian mountains to the warm Adriatic coast
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Visit Europe's highest caves at Postojna, with its waterfalls and gorge bridge
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Finish at Piran, a relaxed little Venetian harbour town
Explore picturesque Slovenia on two wheels as you cycle from the historic city of Ljubljana to the warm blue waters of the Adriatic Sea. Journey through idyllic rural communities as you cycle on easy-going countryside roads as you pedal towards the most extensive cave system in Slovenia, Postojna Caves. Cycling onwards, head south to the UNESCO-listed Skocjan Caves before detouring to the bustling port of Trieste, with its Miramare Castle, cathedral and Piazza Unita square. Finish cycling at Slovenia's charming Venetian harbour town of Piran, where you can relax and soak up the atmosphere of Slovenian Istria with some delicious seafood and a beverage.
Day 1
Arrive in Ljubljana
Arrive in the early afternoon, check-in and get acclimated to the time change. Nothing is planned, except meeting for a drink before dinner on your own. A meeting is planned for the next evening.
The medieval city of Ljubljana is the starting point for your cycling adventure. This pretty capital is easily explored on foot, and you’ll be astounded by the number of cyclists that ride through the narrow cobbled streets with their ‘fin de siècle’ mansions. Take time to explore the impressive castle which occupies a lofty position overlooking the city, and stroll through the old quarter, visiting the famed ‘Triple Bridge’.
Overnight Ljubljana
Day 2
Half-day tour of Lake Bled.
Visit beautiful Lake Bled and Bled Castle with ease on this 3/4 day guided tour from Ljubljana. Walk around Lake Bled or choose to take a boat tour on a traditional boat. Afterwards, stop at Bled Castle for a tour. Overnight Ljubljana
Day 3
Scenic cycle to Vrhnika via the Ljubljansko Barj
You start your journey through Slovenia with a scenic ride across the Ljubljansko Barje, once a great lake but now an immense 160 sq-km marshy plain, which is home to some of Europe’s rarest birds, plants and insects. Along the way you can see remnants of the world's highest railway viaduct in Borovnica. In the hotter months, why not freshen up in a typical Karst Lake at Podpec. If you have time, visit the Technical Museum at Bistra Castle just before arriving in Vrhnika, where you’ll find an exhibition of President Tito’s cars.
Ascent/Descent: 220m/230m
24 miles / 39 km
Overnight Vrhnika
Day 4
Cycle to Postojna via Rakov Skocjan Nature Reserve
A hearty breakfast will prepare you for a day’s cycling over rolling hills and forest roads, a typical Carst polje (field). Today you’ll be exploring off the beaten track, where you can stop for a picnic lunch in the Rakov Skocjan Nature Reserve, where the stunning gorge has been carved out by the Rak River, creating magical sculptures, including two natural bridges and the underground Postojna cave formation, carved deep into the heart of the limestone hills. It's the most extensive cave system in Slovenia, covering a total of 21km. You can take a 1.5 hour tour should you wish to. You’ll wander through Europe’s highest cave hall and cross the bridge over the gorge, a breath-taking experience. Learn about the ’human fish’; a mysterious creature that lives in the cave’s dark pools.
Cycle options: 44 kms/27 mi (if taking the extended out and back section through the Rakov Skocjan Nature Reserve), Ascent/Descent: 590m/350m
33 kms/21 mi (route excluding Rakov Skocjan Nature Reserve),
Ascent/Descent: 504m/274m
27 miles / 44 km
Overnight Postojna
Day 5
Cycle to Kodreti via Predjama Castle
30 miles / 48 km
In the morning, take the short detour to Predjama Castle. This 700-year old fortress is wedged into a crevasse half-way up a 123m cliff face. A daring knight, Erazem, took delight in pelting his enemies with fresh cherries, smuggled in through a hidden cave (much to the annoyance of his foes).
Cycle options:
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48 kms/30 mi (if taking the detour to Predjama Castle), Ascent/Descent: 410m/790m
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42 kms/26 mi (route excluding Predjama Castle), Ascent/Descent: 328m/707m
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Please note: there aren't many hotel options in this area of rural Slovenia so if we are unable to be accommodated in Kodreti, it may be necessary to cycle 7.7kms further today to Hrusevica. This location is enroute for tomorrow's cycle, so if we go further today to Hrusevica, then the ride tomorrow will be 7.7kms shorter.
Overnight Kodreti
Day 6
Cycle to Divača via charming Stanjel town
After breakfast, cycle to the charming old-world town of Stanjel and the lovely botanical garden in Sezana, then ride on to the stud farm of Lipica, where you can visit the beautiful thoroughbred Lipizzaner horses whose pristine white coats and graceful dancing have earned them a worldwide reputation. Their history is closely linked to the Vienna riding school.
If you have the time, you can also visit the unusual but very interesting “War Museum” set in the village tower of Lokev.
Ascent/Descent: 630m/370m
30 miles / 48 km
Overnight Divača
Day 7
Visit Skocjan Caves; cycle to Muggia on the Italian coast
Begin your day with an optional visit to the Skocjan Karst Caves—less visited but just as fascinating as the Postojna Caves; they are listed as a UNESCO Natural Monument.
Cycling along the coast you’ll cross the border into Italy, as you head for the delightful old town of Muggia. An ideal spot to end the afternoon with a gelato and enjoy the sea views. If you would like to experience the hustle and bustle of the nearby Italian port town of Trieste, you can take a boat from Muggia to Trieste—with its castle, cathedral and Piazza Unita central square. Trieste was once part of Slovenia whilst under the rule of the Austrian monarchy. Relax by the sea before your final day of cycling tomorrow.
Ascent/Descent: 280m/700m
24 miles / 39 km
Overnight Muggia
Day 8
Slovene Coast and Trieste Bay
Today you’ll be cycling alongside the coastal road with incredible views of the Slovene coast and Trieste Bay. Enjoy easy cycling on a new path which follows a former railway line. As you come closer to Piran, pause for a coffee in the chic seaside resort of Portoroz.
Finally reach Slovenia's beautiful little Venetian harbour village of Piran. You’ll want to spend time here exploring the little alleyways and streets, as well as relaxing in a seafront café or restaurant. The holiday atmosphere here is simply wonderful!
Ascent/Descent: 320m/330m
23 miles / 37 km
Overnight Piran
Day 9
Onward travel from Piran
The biking portion of the trip ends after breakfast. We will be extending to the beautiful Croatian city of Opatija which is less than 2 hours away. We will spend the night in a luxurious seaside hotel.
Opatija is a Croatian coastal town on the Adriatic Sea. A fashionable resort in the 19th century, it's dotted with Habsburg-era villas. The Lungomare is a promenade that snakes along the coastline, offering views of the town and neighboring islands. The 1800s Villa Angiolina, set in a garden of exotic plants, houses the Croatian Museum of Tourism.
Overnight Opatija
Day 10
Opatija or Zagreb
You may choose to spend an extra day relaxing on the coast in Opatija or take a public bus two hours to Zagreb, the best air/transportation hub in the region and the capital of Croatia. You may choose to spend some time there, including a full-day trip to the incredible Plitvice Lakes with 16 hanging lakes, a very famous UNESCO Heritage site.
Information on
Self Guided Groups
Pricing
June 3 through June 12 2026 (flying out on June 2, 2026)
Price: $3,095 per person (double occupancy)
Solo price, if available: $3,995
Includes 9 nights in hotels
Check or bank draft price. Credit cards add 3.5%
Does not include:
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International Air, lunches & dinners.
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Transportation on the first, and final day
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Hybrid Bike Rental $195
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E-bike Rental $385
Optional Trip Extension
Boat and Bike Croatia from Opatija! June 14 - 20 2026
Description
Embark on a small ship cruise along Croatia's charming coastline and islands aboard the lavishly designed, fully air-conditioned luxurious vessel. Discover the unique beauty and diversity of the Kvarner Bay treasures over eight unforgettable days, cruising the North Adriatic Sea from one picturesque island to another. Delight in delicious cuisine, enjoy stunning sights, swim in the cleanest seawater, and immerse yourself in tranquility. Each day brings new adventures and ample leisure time to explore new islands, antique churches, and historical monuments, all while experiencing the authentic small island way of life.
Highlights
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Kvarner Bay & Opatija Riviera
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Kornati National Park
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Rab Cake - originating in the medieval period, with its first documented preparation linked to the visit of Pope Alexander III to Rab Island in 1177.
Itinerary
Included:
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Deluxe superior or deluxe air-conditioned cabin with en-suite bathroom
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Welcome reception & cocktail
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Daily buffet breakfast
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Three-course lunch daily + cheese and salad bar
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Captain's dinner with live entertainment
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Dinner on board in the Telašćica Bay
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Water from the water fountain
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Coffee and tea after lunch
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Olive oil and wine tasting on board
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Abundance of fruit
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Professional tour manager
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Visitors' tax & port fees
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Luggage handling
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Daily cabin service and towel change
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Midweek bed linen change
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Wi-Fi onboard
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Guided walking tours in Opatija, Lošinj, Zadar, Rab and Krk
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Apoxyomenos Museum in Mali Lošinj entrance fee
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National Park Kornati and Nature Park Telašćica entrance fees
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Wine tasting in Vrbnik
Pricing:
The 2025 price is 3400 EUR0 Per Person
Bike and E-Bike rental is an additional charge–TBD
Important Information
SWIMMING BREAKS & CYCLING ROUTE
Weather permitting, swim stops will be arranged in secluded bays or after cycling, before setting sail for the next island. The daily cycling route length may vary due to local conditions, detours, or shortcuts. Both sailing and cycling routes may be adjusted based on weather conditions and the cyclists' abilities. Departures typically take place in the morning, mostly after breakfast.
FOOD & ADDITIONAL MEALS
The trip includes breakfast and either lunch or dinner. We encourage guests to dine at local restaurants along the cycling routes to experience authentic cuisine (meals at restaurants are not included in the trip price). A Captain’s Dinner, hosted by the captain and tour guide, is available for the Traditional Ensuite category and can be booked on-site.
RECOMMENDED EQUIPMENT FOR BIKE CRUISES
We recommend bringing biking shoes (cycling shoes are not permitted on the vessel), a water bottle, a backpack, sunglasses, cycling gloves, extra clothing, and protection from rain and sun. If using a personal bike, a repair kit is mandatory.