Slovenia Green Gourmet Route – green cycling and culinary delights

Take a ride along the new cycling route which only passes through destinations bearing the Slovenia Green label and offers culinary delights in sustainable restaurants, including Michelin-starred restaurants, and let yourself be enticed by the nearby vineyards, spas and farm stays.

Sustainable cycling with culinary stops

Nothing brings more pleasure than discovering the local culinary delicacies and hidden culinary gems of this year’s European Region of Gastronomy, sleeping in boutique family hotels and guest houses, admiring the lush green countryside and feeling the wind in your hair when cycling along forest trails. The 11-day tour, designed on the principles of responsible, sustainable tourism, is the right choice for all travellers and cycling enthusiasts seeking an active holiday this year. It is made up of both less and more challenging cycling sections, but mostly it runs along paths offering plenty of scenic views. The route runs from Ljubljana to Goriška Brda, the Vipava Valley and the Kras region and back through the capital towards Sevnica, Podčetrtek, Ptuj and Maribor.

A cinematic journey through the green story of Slovenia

The Slovenia Green Gourmet Route is the common thread of this promotional documentary film about the green story of Slovenia, connecting the stories of the winners of the Slovenia Green label and presenting sustainability through the eyes of locals, destination representatives and tourism providers. Join the cinematic cycling journey of Aliash Tepina and discover how the green story of Slovenia lives in practice.

Join the cinematic cycling journey

The Slovenia Green Gourmet Route in numbers

To make it easier for you to plan your cycling journey, here is some basic information about the tour that will come in handy.

Icon of a stopwatch with a highlighted time segment.

Travel time

11 days

Number of green destinations

Length

401 do 473 kilometres of cycling

Difference in altitude

12,870 metres

Connecting trips by train

Four reasons to experience the Slovenia Green Gourmet Route:

Embark on a green trip around Slovenia – there are many reasons that make this the perfect cycling adventure!

A wild mountain river flows between large rocks under a wooden suspension bridge, surrounded by forest and mountains.

A new cycling route which only includes destinations holding the Slovenia Green certificate – destinations that are committed to a green future and sustainable tourism development.

Two people sitting at a table on a terrace with a view of nature, enjoying a meal with several dishes.

Slovenia proudly held the title of European Region of Gastronomy 2021 and has accepted the first Slovenia Green Cuisine providers into the green family.

A red train crosses a blue bridge over a river, surrounded by greenery under a clear blue sky.

The route includes other sustainable ways of travelling to take a break from pedalling, such as using a train for sections of the cycling route that are too long or could not be cycled in their entirety.

A group of cyclists racing on a road, wearing colorful jerseys and protective helmets.

The fact that Slovenia is a top cycling destination is proven by two world cycling champions and ambassadors of Slovenian tourism: the two-time winner of the Tour de France Tadej Pogačar and the three-time winner of the Spanish La Vuelta Primož Roglič.

Discover the Slovenia Green destinations included in the new culinary cycling route

Take a breath and embark on a green adventure cycling from the country’s vibrant capital, amid the mountain scenery, through diverse forest terrains and from the lively countryside to calm rivers and lakes. The 11-day itinerary takes you from one end of Slovenia to the other.

Set out on the journey

Destinations along the route

See what green destinations you will visit along the way and check out what is worth seeing and experiencing in these locations.

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Slovenia's sustainable cuisine

The basic principles of sustainable cuisine are based on short supply chains, on local, seasonal, and thus the freshest food often made with homegrown ingredients, as well as on the exceptional tradition of beekeeping and honey products, on natural wines and on verified local quality brands that combine beverages, food, products and experiences. In addition, sustainable cuisine goes hand in hand with the responsible management of waste and energy sources. Slovenia is truly a land of sustainable cuisine.

Discover Slovenia’s sustainable cuisine

Green cuisine along the way

As we say in Slovenia, "an empty bag cannot stand upright", therefore, you will also need to refuel with tasty dishes while cycling around green and gastronomic Slovenia. On your way, make a stop at providers that have earned the Slovenia Green Cuisine label for their sustainable efforts.

The Slovenia Green Cuisine logo.

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Alone or in an organised group?

You can get to know the Slovenia Green Gourmet Route alone or you can join an organised tour.

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The Slovenia Green Gourmet Route on your own

Find a detailed description of the route, links to accommodation facilities, attractions and restaurants, and a full navigational package with a GPX file.

The Slovenia Green Gourmet Route organised by a local tourist agency

Members of the Visit GoodPlace agency of Ljubljana participated in the creation of the cycling route, so they are very familiar with both the roads and the best options for overnight stays and refreshments...

Hungry for culinary experiences?

Ready your taste buds for excellent cuisine awarded with Michelin Stars and for Slovenian wines, taste a diversity of waters, enjoy culinary experiences and local, home-made specialties.

Michelin-starred restaurants in Slovenia

Slovenia’s diverse landscape is also reflected in its cuisine. Each part of the green country has something unique to offer. World-renowned Slovenian chefs incorporate these unique features into their dishes in their own special way. These masterpieces were also spotted by the Michelin Guide scouts, who award the prestigious Michelin Stars and other titles. Which restaurants attracted the most attention from the Michelin Guide?

Michelin-starred restaurants in Slovenia

Discover the charms and special features of all three wine-growing regions

Slovenia boasts good wines that are the unique result of the sun, soil and caring human hands. Each of the three wine-growing regions in Slovenia has its own specialities. In some places, you will find indigenous grape varieties. Our sustainable wines, where nature itself plays the main role, are especially worth a taste.

Pour yourself a glass of drinking water anywhere in Slovenia

In Slovenia, water is "law". The preserved nature and a concern for clean waters allow us to drink water from the tap. Anywhere. Our right to drinking water is even enshrined in our constitution. Slovenian waters also have special powers. Mineral and thermal springs are a rich source of health.

Feel unique Slovenian experiences with all your senses

The way to the heart is through the stomach and when you visit Slovenia, you will inevitably fall in love with its rich cuisine. This love will be further fed by unique experiences with the local cuisine being an integral part of the adventure.

From simple stews to festive meals

What do Slovenians like to eat? Above all, we like to eat well. And we also like to offer good food to our guests. Take a look at how a typical Slovenian meal looks like, the dishes we eat during the holidays, the places that offer local delicacies and find out why every bite is so full of flavour.

Slovenia is a cycling paradise

No matter what kind of bicycles and routes you enjoy, you are bound to find something that suits you in Slovenia. And no need to worry if you do not have the proper cycling equipment with you – you can rent what you need in almost every larger town.

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Why is Slovenia a cycling destination?

In light of the outstanding achievements of Slovenian cyclists, with Tadej Pogačar and Primož Roglič at the forefront, many wonder how such a small country with only two million people can produce such extraordinary cycling champions. Well, there are quite a few reasons why Slovenia is such an attractive cycling destination. Take a look at the major ones that might convince you to go and pedal through the land of the current cycling champions.

More on: Why is Slovenia a cycling destination?

Top road cycling tours

If you are a cyclist who prefers to cover distances by a road bike, take a look at some of the most beautiful, popular and challenging road cycling tours in Slovenia.

Cycling and biking

Explore Slovenia by bike. Riding amid the hills and plains, mountain peaks and forests, along the coast and the karst landscape and along the rivers and lakes of Slovenia is a lushly verdant fairy tale. Different trails are suitable for on-road and off-road biking.

Mountain biking experiences

Rugged trails and single tracks through rocky terrain, meadows and forests are a magnet for mountain bikers. Let their appeal draw you in too!

Long-distance cycling

Gaze into the distance and set off on scenic routes. Slovenia's long-distance trails wind through varied landscapes across different regions – along the Drava River, the coast, the Alps and the Mura River.

Family cycling

Take your children on a journey through landscapes they've never seen before. Cycle along forest paths or well-maintained cycling trails. For an active and healthy holiday, choose between mountain or seaside surroundings, the Pannonian plains or rolling hills.

Explore green destinations with e-bikes

Not a fan of long-distance or uphill cycling? Choose an e-bike and ride to some of the most breathtaking views of green Slovenia.

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Cycling among Vineyards

Go cycling and spoil your taste buds along the wine-tourist roads and trails.

Go underground by bike and kayak

Koroška, a unique region in northern Slovenia, really is a treasury of surprises. One of them is hidden underground, at Mount Peca in Mežica. Did you know that you can take a bike ride through the tunnels of the disused mine or even row through them in a kayak? Experience a unique adventure.

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The most beautiful cycling routes

Don't forget your bike when visiting Slovenia. Numerous routes cater to all tastes, offering unforgettable cycling experiences. Discover some of the most scenic trails.

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Bike parks

Take on the twists and turns of parks filled with adrenaline and new experiences. Find out just how well you've mastered your bike. Beginners and professionals alike will enjoy testing themselves on the tracks of Slovenia's many bike parks.

Time to rest

When your legs get tired after your cycling adventure, you can treat yourself to a break in specialised cycling accommodations or have a rest at other providers along the way.

The Slovenia Green Accommodation logo.

Logo Slovenia Outdoor Standards – Bike Hotel.

Hotel Hvala

4.2 616 Google reviews

InterContinental Ljubljana

4.6 2757 Google reviews

Krasna House

4.7 234 Google reviews

Rest & Ride

4.9 18 Google reviews

Camp Siber

4.3 798 Google reviews

Wellness Hotel Sotelia

4.7 1263 Google reviews

Camp Koren Kobarid

4.4 1406 Google reviews

Urban Center Boutique Hotel

4.6 927 Google reviews

Elegans Hotel Brdo

4.7 1057 Google reviews

Hotel Dvorec

4.2 590 Google reviews

Camping Koren Kobarid

4.4 1406 Google reviews

Hotel Sava Rogaška

4.3 1550 Google reviews

Get ready for your visit to Slovenia and cycle responsibly

Upon registering for the Slovenia Green Gourmet Route, participants will receive instructions on how to act responsibly and all the necessary information and maps if they choose to travel the route on their own. Before you embark on this unique cycling adventure, you should acquaint yourself with instructions and tips for a perfect green, biking holiday in Slovenia. Become familiar with our green story and useful green guidelines for visiting Slovenia, keep up to date with our instructions for a healthy and safe holiday and find ideas for unique souvenirs.

Green & Safe

We are aware that travel habits have changed over the past year, which is why we have decided to focus even more on sustainability and safety. When planning your next visit to Slovenia, keep an eye out for the Green&Safe label. The label testifies to our sustainable direction and high health and hygiene standards, among the first in the world to be acknowledged by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), which awarded us the Safe Travels Stamp.

Green & Safe

A green story of Slovenia

Slovenia is a pioneer in the field of strategic sustainable tourism development on a national level. Over 270 Slovenian destinations and tourism service providers have successfully obtained the Slovenia Green label, which reflects their sustainable approach and responsible behaviour towards the environment. Discover your favourite green corners and experiences and join us in creating a better future.

How to visit Slovenia in a green way

We pride ourselves on our unspoilt nature and rich cultural heritage, which we actively protect for the generations to come. We encourage you to help us in achieving this. Follow the green guidelines for ensuring sustainable behaviour before, during, and after your visit to Slovenia, so as to have a positive impact on the natural environment and local communities.

Slovenia’s green steps towards a sustainable future

We are proud that Slovenia ranks among the most environmentally friendly countries in the world. By implementing a number of green projects, we are making sure that it stays that way. We prioritise sustainable approaches in various areas of development, such as energy, transport, waste management, water resources management, biodiversity and tourism development.

For beautiful and unique memories of your holiday

Take a piece of Slovenia home with you. Choose unique Slovenian crafts and arts products, culinary delicacies and unique souvenirs to remind you of your visit to Slovenia.

Discover green, active and healthy Slovenia in your own way

No matter where you go, Slovenia will surprise you at every turn. The diverse landscape invites you to experience active adventures, authentic flavours tickle your taste buds while unique thermal and mineral waters pave your way to good health and well-being.

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Active holidays

Discover the world of active outdoor adventures in Slovenia.

Regions

In its small corner of the world, Slovenia is the only European country lying at the crossroads of the Alps, the Mediterranean, the Karst and the Pannonian Plain.

Green gastronomic destinations in Slovenia

Destinations where sustainable gastronomy comes first.

Food and wine

Love is experienced through the stomach.

Spas and health resorts

Rest, relax and enjoy the soothing power of thermal waters and wellness treatments.

Unique accommodation in Slovenia

Spend your dream holiday in world-class comfort and in authentic touch with nature.

Stories from Slovenia

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Back Next

Slovenia Green Gourmet Route – green cycling and culinary delights

Sustainable cycling with culinary stops

A cinematic journey through the green story of Slovenia

The Slovenia Green Gourmet Route in numbers

Four reasons to experience the Slovenia Green Gourmet Route: