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Should Slovenia be your next cycling destination?

Roula Khalaf, Editor of the FT, selects her favourite stories in this weekly newsletter.

Should Slovenia be your next cycling destination?

TL;DR

  • Slovenia is gaining recognition as a top cycling destination, partly due to Tour de France champion Tadej Pogačar.
  • The country offers a variety of cycling routes, including challenging Alpine passes and serene, dedicated bike paths.
  • Bled serves as a good base, with easy access to Triglav National Park and diverse cycling routes.
  • A tour operator can manage logistics, allowing cyclists to focus on riding.
  • Dedicated tarmac bike paths, often built on former railway lines, are noted for their quality and separation from traffic.
  • Key climbs include Vršič Pass with its historic cobblestone sections and the challenging Mangart climb to Slovenia's highest paved point.
  • The region offers dramatic mountain scenery, comparable to the Dolomites, alongside gentler routes through forests and meadows.
  • Slovenia also provides cultural and historical attractions, such as Bled Castle and local culinary specialties like Bled cream cake and štruklji.