Bled – Venice

Bled, the sparkling jewel on the edge of Triglav National Park, offers an enchanting escape. Discover this picturesque town nestled beside a pristine glacial lake, where a fairy-tale castle majestically overlooks the serene waters. The iconic island in the heart of the lake creates a magical backdrop, making Bled the ultimate Slovenian postcard-perfect destination!

Hotel example: Hotel Kompass

Leave the lake behind and cycle into the Sava Valley, Slovenia's longest river. Here, follow the well-developed bike path through lush forests, over scenic bridges, and along a former railway track to the renowned winter sports resort of Kranjska Gora. While winter athletes vie for World Cup points, you can enjoy a relaxing break. From there, it's just a short ride to the Italian border and your overnight destination, Tarvis.

Hotel example: Hotel Haberl

In Italy, the bike path is equally well-developed, allowing you to enjoy a leisurely downhill ride through the Canal Valley while marveling at the pristine beauty of the Friulian Alps, with its unspoiled nature and expansive forests. Plan a stop in the charming village of Venzone, which has been meticulously rebuilt since the 1976 earthquake. For the night, you'll stay in one of the picturesque villages nestled at the foothills of the Julian Alps.

Hotel example: Hotel Pittini

At the southern exit of the Canal Valley lies one of the most charming historical towns in Friuli Venezia Giulia. The townscape of Gemona del Friuli, dominated by the majestic Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, will captivate you. As you head towards Udine, you'll start to see the first vineyards along the route. Once in the city, soak up the “dolce vita” at a café on the “Piazza” or while strolling through the streets, admiring the buildings from the late Gothic and Renaissance periods.

Hotel example: Hotel Astoria Italia

After soaking up numerous impressions and plenty of “dolce vita,” you’ll leave Udine heading south along the ancient Roman road “Via Claudia Augusta.” Cycling through the vast Friulian landscape, you'll pass through charming, typical local villages until you reach the historic star-shaped fortress town of Palmanova. Treat yourself to a creamy gelato on the vast Piazza Grande before continuing towards the coast. In Cervignano, you'll leave the renowned Alpe-Adria-Cycle Path and travel along the lagoon to the picturesque Marano Lagunare.

Hotel example: Hotel Jolanda

A warm Scirocco breeze greets you as you cycle inland for a short stretch before heading back towards the lagoon and the sea near Lignano. In the summer, this section from Marano Lagunare to Lignano can be shortened with a ferry ride (self-arranged). Pedal through the flat coastal landscape on quiet backroads, passing through often uninhabited areas, until you reach the lively resort town of Caorle. Spend the afternoon exploring the long sandy beaches and savoring the quintessential Italian vacation vibe.

Hotel example: Hotel Garden Sea Wellness & Spa 4*

Cycle along the scenic coastline towards the enchanting lagoon city of Venice. As you reach Jesolo, follow the Sile River for a stretch before it flows into the Adriatic Sea. Continue along the lagoon until you reach the tip of the peninsula at Punta Sabbioni, where you'll board a boat for a picturesque journey to Venice. After disembarking, a short ride across the Liberty Bridge will bring you to Mestre, completing your captivating journey from the Adriatic coast to the heart of Venice.

Hotel example: UNA Hotels Villa Costanza