Thanks to its mild Mediterranean climate, Slovenian Istria can be explored by bicycle year-round. Visit the old town centres, get to know the natural splendours of the region and choose from the wide range of accommodation, events and sports.
The old town centres of Koper, Izola and Piran, with their historical feel, the natural phenomena of the Istrian coast, landscape parks and the scenic Šavrini Hills, make Slovenian Istria a unique tourist destination for cycling enthusiasts. In a bora, or gentle maestral breeze, the Parenzana is simply a must-do.

Cycling tours
Running for 30 km from Škofije to Sečovlje, the famous Porečanka-Parenzana route takes you across the short but excitingly diverse Slovenian coast. The route, commonly known as the Route of Health and Friendship, follows the former narrow-gauge railway line between Trieste (Italy) and Poreč (Croatia), in operation from 1902 to 1935. Suitable for both cycling and hiking, the route is ideal for a family tour or active holidays.
The Parenzana runs through the old towns by the sea and amid vineyards and olive groves, through short tunnels, across valleys with majestic viaducts, over rolling hills. Start at the former Sečovlje border crossing, follow the D-8 signposts to Portorož, Izola, Koper, all the way to the well-known Sečovlje saltpans, where you will learn – without getting off your bicycle – how salt is made.

Cycling package
A special offer for cyclists is available at Terme Krka in Strunjan (++386 5 676 41 00) and the tourist accommodation complex Salinera in Strunjan (++386 5 676 25 02).

Additional offer
Bicycle hire is available at RR & CO Koper, KC Ritoša Izola, Adriarent Koper and The Parenzana Train Museum Izola

Maps and guidebooks
- Parenzana – The Route of Health and Friendship (folder), 1 : 50 000
- Map of Slovenian Istria – Roads around Slovenian Istria, 1 : 50 000
- Free tourist map Slovenian Istria, The Green Mediterranean (Koper, Izola, Piran), 1 : 50 000
- Koper-Capodistria (folder), 1 : 50 000
- Terrain suitability rating (e.g. the Porečanka-Parenzana route)