Self-guided cycling
7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 1+
Leisurely plus
Flights
available
Headwater
Navigation App
Optional
e-bike hire
This relaxed cycling holiday explores the very heart of Central Europe, beginning in Slovenia on the shores of magical Lake Bled, passing by Austria before heading south through Italy and on to the Adriatic.
Throughout, there is a very distinct and multi-cultural feel, evident in the local language, culture and cuisine. A richly preserved regional heritage reveals a complex and tumultuous past; visit colossal archaeological sites like Aquileia, with its remains of a Roman city and early Christian cathedral; mediaeval Udine, full of artistic masterpieces, and the restored fortress town of Venzone, reflecting the Renaissance Utopian ideals of a bygone era.
The area is one of outstanding natural beauty too. With the dramatic limestone peaks of the Julian Alps providing a formidable backdrop to your route, it's picture-postcard views all the way through lush forests, rolling meadows and pretty hamlets hemmed in by well-tended vineyards and shimmering mountain streams. On your final cycling stretch, the Adriatic seascape opens before you as you make a dramatic descent across the lagoon and on to the sun-kissed island of Grado with its sandy beaches lapped by crystal-clear waters.
The places we've chosen for you to stay in are among the best in the region. Hotel highlights include beautiful lakeside views from the luxurious 4 star Hotel Triglav in Bled; an alpine lodge in Tarvisio, and the 4 star Grand Hotel Hannover overlooking Grado's pretty harbour and just 200m from the Adriatic Sea.
Arrive at your stunningly located 4 star hotel overlooking Lake Bled, its romantic island and mountains beyond. Time for a refreshing dip, sauna or massage before sampling some traditional dishes in the 1906 Restaurant!
You stay at Hotel Triglav.
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The Hotel Triglav is a historic hotel sitting above beautiful Lake Bled, dating back to 1903 it has an interesting history through the times of communism and the break-up of Yugoslavia. It has in recent years become renowned for its innovative take of Slovenian cuisine.
All rooms are of a good size, there is also a lovely terrace where you can view the lake and enjoy a glass of wine from its extensive cellar. The hotel has a swimming pool and sauna both adding to the comfort.
Sitting opposite the town of Bled you can follow a lake path to either visit the town or the impressive castle which towers over the lake.
Room upgrades: Suite.
Your circular warm-up ride takes you first along the shore of Lake Bled and then through a series of sleepy Slovenian hamlets and on to 12th century Kamen Castle. Explore its Gothic and Renaissance keeps, and climb the preserved Roman tower - great views from the top. Picnic at the peaceful Zavrsnica Reservoir then cross the white-water Sava Dolinka River back towards Bled. We strongly recommend the short uphill detour to its castle - the oldest in Slovenia - with towers, ramparts, moat and viewing terrace.
You stay at Hotel Triglav.
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The Hotel Triglav is a historic hotel sitting above beautiful Lake Bled, dating back to 1903 it has an interesting history through the times of communism and the break-up of Yugoslavia. It has in recent years become renowned for its innovative take of Slovenian cuisine.
All rooms are of a good size, there is also a lovely terrace where you can view the lake and enjoy a glass of wine from its extensive cellar. The hotel has a swimming pool and sauna both adding to the comfort.
Sitting opposite the town of Bled you can follow a lake path to either visit the town or the impressive castle which towers over the lake.
Room upgrades: Suite.
After breakfast, we take you (25 mins) to Mojstrana, a gateway village to the Triglav National Park. You can almost reach out and touch the jagged limestone pinnacles of the Julian Alps on the one side, and the contrasting rolling hills of the Karawanken mountains on the other, as you start your cycle west through the valley. Birdlife here is prolific so look out for eagles, hawks and rare birds of prey as you approach charming Kranjska Gora, a pretty alpine ski village and fantastic lunch spot. A pine-scented stretch then leads you across the border and down to the gorgeous 4 star Hotel Edelhof, just 5 minutes' walk from the village centre.
You stay at Hotel Edelhof.
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Sitting just a short walk from the centre of Tarvisio and at the foot of the winter ski slopes the Hotel Edelhof takes its influences from bordering Austria in its design and feel.
The breakfast room and restaurant are more akin to an Austrian Stube and the rooms are delightfully decorated, a mix of elegance with an Austrian mountain feel.
The food though is distinctly Italian with great local choices and good wines, the hotel has a small spa area (pay locally) and a garden terrace.
A longer but totally undemanding cycling route today packed with interest, colour and natural beauty. After a 400m descent (great fun!) into the wooded Fella Valley, your traffic-free cycle trails wind through cheery mountain communities - often criss-crossing the river below - en route to Venzone, a jaw-droppingly pretty mediaeval walled town, famous for its lavender.
You stay at Agiturismo Casali Scjs.
The Agriturismo Casali Scjs is a quaint farmhouse in a rural setting. There is a restaurant next door or it's around 400m into Venzone. A national monument, Venzone is a great example of architectural renovation. The Tiere Motus is a museum that retraces the history of the town and especially of the earthquake and the subsequent reconstruction work.
As the sun rises the valley lights up and the mountain silhouettes come to life; you coast effortlessly along tranquil lanes, passing fruit orchards, vineyards and remote churches nestled in the rolling foothills of the Friuli hills. Lots of traditional villages - Tavagnacco, Treppo Piccolo and Osoppo - will tempt you for lunch before you continue on through gentian-carpeted meadows to the historic regional capital, Udine.
You stay at Astoria Hotel Italia.
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The Astoria hotel sits on one of the squares in the centre of the old town of Udine, the hotel building dates back to the 14th century and has been owned by many noble families.
The rooms are large and offer all modern amenities, the large breakfast room opens out into a small garden where breakfast can be taken in good weather.
The city's historic quarter is on your doorstep with a huge choice of restaurants, and the train station is just a 20 minute walk away.
If you fancy the idea of gentle pedalling from one pretty wine village to the next - with lots of traditional tasting trattorias thrown in - then this is the day for you! Enjoy lunch in mediaeval Pavia di Udine then it's on through sun-dappled cornfields and swaying vines to the 16th century star-fort citadel of Palmanova.
You stay at Hotel Ai Dogi Palmanova.
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This lovely 3 star hotel is in a quiet spot in the corner of the piazza which is the heart of the geometric perfect town.
With the square on your doorstep, there is a great choice of restaurants and bars, and it is easy to explore the town. It has one of Italy's best pizzerias.
The rooms are nice and modern and the hotels small breakfast area has a well-stocked buffet.
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. Discover its immense archaeological site, magnificent 14th century mosaics and dominant patriarchal basilica before heading down the spectacular Adriatic lagoon to the island town of Grado where the elegant 4 star Hotel Hannover overlooks the charming port, and is just 200m from the beach.
You stay at Hotel Hannover.
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The Hotel Hannover is in the perfect position for visiting the town of Grado, situated looking over the harbour and on the edge of the charming old fishing quarter.
It has good sized rooms some with balconies, others with views of the harbour, and a nice breakfast room and harbour side outside terrace.
The restaurants of the town are within easy walking distance of the hotel.
Room upgrades: Junior Suite.
Please note that cycling helmets are compulsory in Slovenia for all customers under 15yrs. As we are unable to provide these, we strongly recommend that you bring your own.
Please see our Planning your holiday page for full details.
If you'd like to extend your trip with extra hotel nights we recommend: Savoia Excelsior Palace, Trieste; Hotel Kette, Venice; Grand Hotel Toplice, Bled; Grand Hotel Union, Ljubljana.
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This stunning 19th century palazzo has been beautifully converted into an elegant 4 star hotel which simply oozes sophistication. It blends contemporary facilities with classical elegance - expect to see marble columns and ceilings with the original stucco detail as you wander round the luxurious public rooms. The hotel boasts a superb location too, on Trieste's pretty sea front, just a few minutes' stroll from the town's historic centre. There are fantastic views over the Gulf of Trieste, especially from the hotel's panoramic bar. Other facilities include a fitness centre and restaurant.
Room upgrades: Superior or Deluxe.
Superior rooms come with a view over the Gulf of Trieste as well as bathrobe, slippers, kettle and espresso machine Deluxe rooms are larger with private terrace with view, and come with bathrobe, slippers, kettle and espresso machine Rates available on request.
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The Hotel Kette is set in the heart of Venice, a short distance from Teatro La Fenice, from via XXII marzo, the elegant shopping street, 2 minutes from piazza San Marco and only 10 minutes from Ponte di Rialto. So this is an excellent base for exploring the many delights Venice has in store.
The 63 en suite rooms are immaculately furnished and are fully worthy of the four-star rating.
It is possible to reserve a non-smoking room (please contact us and we will request this for you).
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The hotel has a pleasing open aspect looking out over Lake Bled, there is a lakeside promenade accessed directly from the hotel.
All rooms have a balcony.
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The Grand Hotel Union is one of Ljubljana's most prestigious hotels. Built at the turn of the century it was considered one of the finest hotels in Europe at this time with its lift, central heating and telephones (a rarity in 1905). Its hall was used as the city's concert hall for many years and its clientele has traditionally been associated with the arts. The hotel has hosted many famous pianists and singers over the years.
The rooms are all furnished in a contemporary style with satellite television, telephone and air-conditioning. The hotel has a swimming pool on the top floor that has an appealing glass roof dome.
Extra nights: Please contact us for details.
We do not currently have departure dates and prices available on-line. The season may have ended for this tour, or we are still in the process of adding these details to our website.
Please contact our sales team on 01606 720199 to for further details or to discuss alternavie trip options.
Subject to availability and dependent on service provider, please ask at time of enquiry and book early to avoid disappointment. *Unfortunately, due to the airline themselves we are unable to book Ryanair.
Self-guided cycling
7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 1+
Leisurely plus
Flights
available
Headwater
Navigation App
Optional
e-bike hire
