Travel Story: Bled - Venice

On two wheels through a vibrant storybook

After just a few miles, it’s clear - this Eurobike Original Tour is so much more than a sporting challenge. We glide through blooming alpine meadows, follow the gentle curves of old railway lines, pedal across shimmering lagoons, and discover villages that feel straight out of a storybook. The air is filled with the scent of summer, the taste of the sea lingers on our lips, and the people we meet become part of our journey. Each day brings new colors, fresh impressions, and stories waiting to be told. Our bikes become trusted companions, rolling along a tapestry that unfolds in a new way with every stage.

Postcard-perfect views and cycling friendships

The Julian Alps look as if they were painted by hand. Well-maintained cycling routes wind through blooming alpine meadows, past grazing sheep and cows, accompanied by the rush of wild mountain streams. Towering above, the peaks are rugged and awe-inspiring.

The Slizza Gorge, with its turquoise water, feels almost magical. Between sunlight and shade, we discover small highlights on the second stage - roaring waterfalls and tunnels along the old railway line, where we soak in the welcome coolness.

We pause for a photo on a stunning railway bridge, joined by two other cyclists. A quick exchange, a smile. Over the next few days, our paths cross again and again. We wave as we ride by, share dinner in the evenings. Out of fleeting encounters, a little travel community forms—no planning needed.

Clear turquoise stream flowing through rocky Slizza Gorge near Tarvis, with steep rock walls, green trees, and a wooden walkway on the left.

Lake Bled with island church framed by trees. Pilgrimage Church of the Assumption of Mary on the island, forested mountains in background.

Cyclist in red shirt with bike viewing Lake Bled's island church and mountains. Yellow panniers visible on bike, framed by green trees.

Bled Castle perched on a steep rocky cliff above Lake Bled, surrounded by dense green forest. Boathouses visible at the water's edge below.

Forested hills and rocky mountain peaks in the Radnova Valley under blue sky. Tree branches frame the view in the foreground.

Birdsong and an unexpected adventure

Slowly, we leave the mountains behind and the landscape softens. Forest stretches line our path, and it feels as if the birds are putting on a concert just for us. Between the treetops, we spot birds of prey, while butterflies dance above blooming sea lavender along the roadside.

The cycling routes turn gravelly, wild, and beautiful. Then comes a moment I’ll never forget: lost in thought, I follow my companion, when suddenly a low underpass appears. At the very last second, I duck and press myself onto the handlebars, slipping through with barely an inch to spare. We burst out laughing. My companion grins, “I don’t just navigate, I have to check the clearance for you, too.”

Lone cyclist on gravel path through green fields near Osoppo. Mountains visible in distance under blue sky with scattered trees lining the route.

Elevated concrete bridge crossing a turquoise river in Dogna, nestled in a green mountain valley between Tarvis and Gemona on the Bled-Venice route.

Stone gate tower Porta San Genesio in Venzone with cyclist standing in arched entrance. Medieval walls and green trees under blue sky.

Historic stone town hall in Venzone with clock tower and arched arcade on town square. Mountains rise in the background under blue sky.

Two cyclists riding on a tree-lined gravel path near Osoppo. Dense green foliage frames the path with blue sky visible above.

Elegant appetizer on wooden board with cheese, crispy wafers, strawberries, and microgreens. Bread basket and white plates in background.

Historic clock tower with blue and gold dial at Piazza della Libertà in Udine, featuring white stone architecture, arched colonnade, and statues.

Piazza Giacomo Matteotti in Udine with colorful historic buildings, a white baroque church, central fountain, and people strolling at sunset.

The aroma of fresh coffee and that very first hint of sea breeze

In Palmanova, the star-shaped fortress town, we treat ourselves to a cappuccino. The sun is high, the breeze grows warmer as we ride. Along the way, we spot a deer sipping from a ditch, playful coypus splashing in the water, and birds in dazzling colors. Our route winds through fields, rows of poplars, and quiet stretches of road.

Then, suddenly, the first hint of sea breeze lingers in the air - a salty touch mingling with the scent of summer. The sea is not yet in sight, but with every pedal stroke, we draw closer. The flavors of Italy are just as promised: cozze alla marinara, homemade orecchiette, and paper-thin pizza. Italy reveals its most delicious side.

White stone cathedral facade in Palmanova with three arched entrances, statues in niches, and a bicycle parked in front on the square.

Sunshine, tranquility and a sandy beach

The route to Caorle might just be the most adventurous of all. One section takes us along dusty, solitary farm tracks near San Michele al Tagliamento - no houses, hardly a soul, just pure nature. And then, as if flipping a switch, Caorle appears: vibrant facades, sandy beach, umbrellas, and crowds of travelers.

We treat ourselves to a dip in the water - a blend of reward, refreshment, and that feeling of finally arriving. The lounge chair beneath the umbrella becomes the best spot of the day. “Il dolce far niente,” the sweet art of doing nothing, has never felt so well-earned. Here, the mix of activity and relaxation is simply perfect.

Feet in white sandals with pink nail polish on sandy beach in Caorle. A heart shape is drawn in the sand above the feet.

Wide sandy beach in Caorle with rows of white umbrellas and sun loungers. Beachgoers relax on the sand under a blue sky with buildings visible in the background.

Two Italian pizzas with salami and mozzarella on a restaurant table in Caorle, accompanied by wine glasses and water.

Female cyclist with helmet standing with bike equipped with yellow Eurobike panniers on path through green marshland at Foci dello Stella.

The labyrinth of Venice

On our final day, we set out early - my companion wants to soak in Venice’s splendor, with all the time in the world. He’s dreamed of wandering the maze of narrow streets, gazing at magnificent buildings, and immersing himself in the city’s unique atmosphere. Today, that dream comes true.

A quick stop in Jesolo, then we head for the first ferry. When we board the second ferry, we’re the only cyclists on deck. Our bikes rest below, tucked among cars, trucks, and even a digger - a quirky sight. We sit upstairs with locals, craftsmen, and travelers, letting the wind play across our faces as we enjoy the crossing.

Narrow Venetian canal with moored boats between historic buildings. Weathered facades in beige and red tones line the waterway under blue sky.

The ride offers us our first glimpses of Venice - elegant palazzi and ornate facades drawing ever closer. After the last miles on our bikes, we reach our hotel, drop off the bikes, freshen up, and hop on a bus straight into the city. St. Mark’s Square sparkles in the sunlight, crowds move slowly, but just a few steps away, we find ourselves almost alone in quiet alleyways. Glass art, narrow canals, the gentle splash of gondolas - Venice is a labyrinth of beauty.

We want to savor Venice’s flavors, too, and treat ourselves in the afternoon to a slice of “Dolce Vita”: crisp cannoli filled with sweet ricotta. A perfect moment of indulgence - quintessentially Venetian and delightfully sweet.

View of Venice's Canal Grande with water taxis and boats navigating between colorful historic palaces under blue sky.

Ornate facade of St. Mark's Basilica in Venice with Gothic arches, spires, domes, and decorative sculptures under blue sky.

San Giorgio Maggiore Basilica with white marble facade and red brick bell tower on an island in Venice, surrounded by blue water and marina.

White bowl with linguine pasta in green pesto sauce topped with creamy white burrata cheese, served in Venice.

Conclusion

This tour was a true adventure, a wonderful experience, and the perfect workout for legs, senses, and soul. We felt the power of the Alps, soaked in the gentle expanse of the south, and admired the elegance of Venice. Six days filled with vibrant colors, enticing aromas, lively conversations, and pure delight on two wheels.

What lingers are the images of the Julian Alps, the soft murmur of the sea, and the wonder of turquoise streams, colorful towns, and Venice’s one-of-a-kind atmosphere. Every little detour became a story of its own.

I remember the anticipation as we set out, the pizza that was almost too good to share, the music drifting across St. Mark’s Square, and that feeling of being completely in the moment. This tour proved that in just six days, you can cover countless miles and collect a world of memories - if you open your heart and embrace every moment.

Bled to Venice? I’d do it all over again in a heartbeat!

My Favorite Place

The Radovna Valley captivated me from the very first moment. Nestled between towering cliffs and tranquil forests, it radiates a special sense of calm. Set within Triglav National Park, between the Karawanks and the Julian Alps, the valley reminds me of the Alpine valleys back home, yet it feels entirely unique.

My favorite spot is shaded by leafy trees - perfect for a picnic or, as we did, a relaxed break at Gostilna Psnak. Sitting in the cool shade, a cold cola in hand, my gaze drifts across the breathtaking landscape. On this clear summer day, I even catch a glimpse of the north face of Triglav, Slovenia’s highest peak.

My tip: Stop here, take a deep breath, and simply soak it all in.

Female cyclist in red shirt riding e-bike on road in Zgornja Radovna with dramatic mountain peaks and green forests under clear blue sky.