Geographically speaking, Slovenia is one of the most
diverse countries in the world. The climate, the terrain, its urban and rural
areas, everything comes in a wonderfully colourful palette of options, especially
in the area of outdoor activities.
And mountain biking is no exception.
In fact, Slovenia’s reputation as one of Europe’s top mountain
biking destinations is growing among enthusiasts of this sport at an unprecedented
rate. Stunning scenery with an abundance of rolling hills, mountainous slopes
and lush forests present the perfect environment for brilliant mountain bike
routes. Whether you come to Slovenia with mountain biking in mind or happen to
be vacationing here and want to hit the trails on the fly, biking tours of
every kind are probably your most convenient choice.
Let’s take a look at some of the main MTB areas this
subalpine gem has in store.
Experts and beginners alike can choose among a wide
variety of different mountain biking locations. The more adventurous among them
are in for a real treat in the form of a superb collection of off-road trails at
Pokljuka, an Alpine plateau in Triglav National Park. A ride across this
pristine forested karst plateau is a truly pleasant experience with amazing views
of the famous glacial lakes Bled and Bohinj.
On the other side of the Alps is another lovely plateau
called Velika Planina. It’s famous for its autochthonous shepherd’s huts, where
traditional cheese-making is still very much alive. These MTB runs through forests, wide-open
pastures with grazing livestock are as picturesque as they are diverse. The routes
along Velika Planina’s terrain are suitable for every type of biker and the
proximity to the capital makes this location very convenient for an active day
trip while on holiday in these parts.
If you thought mountain biking in Slovenia is reserved
strictly for the countryside, think again. Ljubljana, Slovenia’s vibrant and
green capital, is not only surrounded by forested hills that can be conquered
by bike, but also has a few such areas on the very doorsteps of its centre.
These routes are quite demanding, perfect for thrill-seekers who want to escape
the crowds and join them again later for some night-time festivities.
Then there’s Kranjska Gora, Slovenia’s most famous Alpine
sports hub. The Triple Border MTB Trail takes you up to the “three-border” area
between Austria, Italy and Slovenia. The trail passes the spring of the Sava River
and the emerald wonder of Zelenci. It may be a physically very demanding route,
but it’s also exceptionally rewarding in terms of panoramic views.
In Slovenia, cycling isn’t a sport that’s only limited
to hills, towns and forests. Subterranean mountain biking down underground
tunnels is another unique way of engaging in this awesome activity. Thanks to
its rich mining history, the incredibly picturesque region of northern Slovenia
called Koroška (Carinthia) is as captivating below as it is above. One such
place is the underground world of Koroška’s beautiful Mount Peca, which is
fascinating to explore and to do so on a bike is truly an epic experience. You
can join a guided
tour that will lead you down 5 km of the mountain’s mysterious underground
tunnels.
***
As an up-and-coming tourist destination, Slovenia has
great accommodations in both rural and urban areas, excellent road connectivity,
and a fantastic natural world, so whatever your mountain biking preference is, you
are sure to find the right trail for you.
Don’t take our word for it, check it out for
yourselves!
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