In Love with S-LOVE-NIA
Top tip for mountain bikers between Karst and Karawanken
In the age of Instagram & Co, there aren’t many secret tips left to discover. Most of the beautiful, sleepy corners of the world have already been posted, shared, and flooded countless times. In Slovenia, however, there are still a few blank spots on the European cycling map for mountain bikers to discover. Adventurous cyclists with a pioneering spirit are in the right place here and can visit several MTB regions in just a few days to discover the country. Because Slovenia is relatively small, you can get from the Julian Alps to the Adriatic Sea and from the hinterland to the cities in no time. Thanks to its dynamic landscape, Slovenia is surprisingly varied. The Mediterranean east and southeast are characterized by plains, rolling hills, and vineyards, which—like the mild climate—are reminiscent of Tuscany. The northwest, on the other hand, is characterized by the foothills of the Alps and the Alps themselves: the high mountain ranges of the Julian Alps, the Karawanks, the Steiner Alps, and the southern Limestone Alps.From the Alps to the Adriatic Sea.
To start with, we head between the ridges of the Julian Alps, Slovenia’s largest mountain range, and the Karawanken to the most famous holiday region in the northeast of the country: Bled in Upper Carniola. No wonder – the turquoise glacial lake and the typical cream cakes are not to be missed. And all around is a magnificent mountain biking area. No less impressive in terms of mountain scenery is the nearby Savinja Valley. The unspoiled alpine glacier valley is a prime example of unspoiled nature. The ancient forests can be explored by bike in various ways. Endless routes lead right through the valley. In addition, there is a well-developed network of trails and countless forest and gravel paths along the Savinja, past waterfalls and impressive mountain ranges.
Between bike park and trails
What Bled and the Savinja Valley offer in terms of exciting tours in an impressive mountain landscape, Koroška and Rogla offer in terms of bike parks and trails. The bike park in Kope offers a variety of lines and trails. One example is the Berry Line, which is 1.3 km long and has an elevation gain of 150 meters. The trail is as narrow as a towel and winds its way through countless blueberry bushes. It takes you over roots, stones, and rocks through the forest—the elevation gain is never too great, so you can easily control your speed.
Slovenia Must Bike: Black Hole Trail
The Black Hole Trail is a new experience and mental challenge even for experienced mountain bikers. After all, it’s not every day that you cycle underground through the underworld of Petzen, from one side of the mountain to the other. The route runs for about 5 km and 150 meters of elevation gain through the abandoned tunnels of the Mežica mine. There are a few technically demanding sections that you have to overcome (on foot if necessary) – and occasionally you have to adjust your headlamp. The Black Hole Trail, which has been awarded the label “Slovenia Unique Experiences – Recommended by Slovenian Tourist Board” since 2023, can only be ridden with a guide.
In the heart of the Pohorje forests
A little further on, we find ourselves in the forests at the foot of the Pohorje Mountains. In the middle of the dense Pohorje forest, there are a large number of forest trails of all levels of difficulty, from Mašinžaga to Ostruščica. In addition to the two bike parks, a jungle tour and a culture tour should definitely be on your bucket list! To get started gently and warm up, first head to the beginner’s practice area at Bike Park Rogla, where you will be faced with the pleasant choice of which of the bike park’s six trails to start with. And if that’s not enough, you can continue straight on to the Konjice Trails Bike Park.
Our conclusion about Slovenia: Whether it’s a ride through the valley, a gravel road, or a single trail, Slovenia is the perfect place for all mountain bikers to enjoy themselves. The special thing here is simply the diversity! So slow down & fall in S-LOVE-NIA.
