A country of awe-inspiring beauty, Slovenia is a European cycling destination of choice for many fans of the sport, who will soon have access to the Rateče-Obrežje Cycling Route that runs close to the Italian and Croatian borders. According to plans revealed by the Ministry of Infrastructure on Thursday, marked cycling routes will be available by the beginning of the summer.
As the only country in Europe that combines the Alps, the Mediterranean, the Pannonian Plain, and the Karst, Slovenia is already a paradise for cyclists. The country is also known for several international cycling competitions and races, including the prestigious Tour of Slovenia, which is a tradition since 1993.
This year, the Ministry of Infrastructure has designated two international cycling routes passing through Slovenia: Eurovelo 8 and Eurovelo 13. Eurovelo 8 runs from Spain to Cyprus, and in Slovenia from Škofije to Sečovlje. Eurovelo 13 is Europe’s longest bicycle trail and in Slovenia in “crosses a small area in the northeastern part of the country, between the border crossing with Hungary at Domanjševci and with Croatia in Dubrovnik.”
Cycling routes run close to natural, tourist, and cultural attractions and can be used for tours, recreation, and competitions. The Ministry of Infrastructure plans to expand the existing network of regional and local cycling routes and also to set up a new network of marked bike routes, to connect the capital with the border with Croatia on various paths.
The Rateče-Obrežje cycling route will be labeled in accordance with the international rules of safety and traffic. The 200 kilometers route will be marked with special red signposts.
Cycling tourism is already very popular in Slovenia, with several companies offering specialized tours that include quality accommodation in tourist farms, food, spa experiences, and more, depending on the traveler’s budget. Simply Cycling Slovenia is one of the several companies that offer such services. They offer guided tours on four different routes that explore different aspects of the country. If you cannot afford paid guided tours and you want to adventure on your own, here are some suggested self-guided tours.