Slovenia – a little cycling miracle in the middle of Europe

Everybody vividly remembers the sensational double victory by Slovenian cyclists Tadej Pogačar (UEA Emirates) and Primož Roglič (Jumbo- Visma) at the 2020 Tour de France. This achievement has catapulted the green country in the heart of Europe, where cycling is one of the most popular activities, into a position as one of the global cycling superpowers. Pogačar proved that he is not a one hit wonder, but a world-class cyclist, at the 2021 Tour de France, when he again won the yellow jersey for the overall winner. With this achievement, he joined the company of twenty cyclists who have managed to win the prestigious French circuit more than once. At this year's, 109th edition of the race, which will take place from 1 to 24 July, he has the opportunity to take his place among the eight cyclists who have managed to win the Tour at least three times.

Get to know the Slovenian cycling champion and ambassador of Slovenian tourism

Tadej Pogačar has had a stellar rise to the world's cycling elite. With a double overall victory in the French circuit, he placed himself on a par with the top cycling names who managed the feat in the past. He has an Olympic bronze medal and is currently the leading cyclist in the rankings of the International Cycling Union (UCI). Primož Roglič, currently the third-ranked cyclist in the world, hopped on a bike after ending his ski jumping career and ascended to cycling’s Olympus after only a few years. Among other feats, he has achieved three victories in one of the Grand Tour cycling races – the Vuelta a España, and the Olympic gold medal in the time trial.

Meet cyclist Tadej Pogačar

Meet Tadej Pogačar, a young Slovenian cyclists, who has won Tour de France two times in a row.

Meet cyclist Tadej Pogačar

More

Primož Roglič – from ski jumping to cycling to Olympic gold

Discover the cycling routes of Slovenia, the homeland of Primož Roglič, a top cyclist who became the Olympic champion at the Tokyo Olympics.

Primož Roglič – from ski jumping to cycling to Olympic gold

More

Feel Slovenia the Podcast #8: Cycling in Slovenia with Tour de France Champion Tadej Pogačar

2022 Tour de France in brief

The Tour de France is the largest and most prestigious three-week road cycling race in the world. It was first organised in 1903, with French Maurice Garin becoming the first winner. The first stage win for Slovenia at the Tour de France was scored in 2017 by Primož Roglič, who was still a cycling rookie at the time. A turning point for Slovenia was 2020, when the country had two of its riders in play for the overall victory. At the time, Roglič was very close to the overall victory, but was beaten to it by another wunderkind of Slovenian cycling – Tadej Pogačar. The latter set a new milestone for Slovenian cycling with his second consecutive overall victory in last year's race.

The Slovenian cycling renaissance at the Tour was completed by Luka Mezgec, who was second in two stages in 2020, and Matej Mohorič, currently the sixth-ranked cyclist by the UCI, who won two stages at last year's race. What is awaiting cyclists in this year's race?

Number of stages
21
Total length
3.328 km
Longest stage
220 km (Binche-Longwy)

tour de france_slovenski kolesarji

Slovenian favourites in the France circuit

In Slovenia, the highest expectations are for the reigning Tour de France champion, Tadej Pogačar, and the Olympic champion Primož Roglič, who challenged his cycling rival and friend Pogačar by winning this year's Critérium du Dauphiné. Will Roglič, after the bad luck with falls and injuries in last year's race, pay back Pogačar for the defeat at the Tour two years ago?

Slovenia has even more cycling firepower. One of the hot names in Slovenian cycling is definitely last year's two-time stage winner Matej Mohorič (Bahrain Victorious). Luka Mezgec (Bike Exchange) and Jan Polanc (UAE Emirates) will also take part in the 2022 Tour.

 

Join us at the start of the Tour in Copenhagen!

Get to know the homeland of Tadej Pogačar and Primož Roglič, major favourites for the overall victory at this year's Tour de France! Visit the temporary pavilion at the start of this year's race in Copenhagen, Denmark. Between 30 June and 1 July in Sankt Annæ Plads square in the Danish capital, all cycling enthusiasts will be able to find out the reasons why green Slovenia is such a fantastic and attractive destination for cycling and other outdoor activities. Do you dare to race too? No worries, you can cycle virtually along the route of Le Étape Slovenia by Tour de France, which will take place live in Slovenia in September.

A "stage" of the Tour de France in Slovenia?

Yes, you read that right! Le Étape Slovenia by Tour de France is an official event of the Tour de France that represents a personal sporting challenge and a tourist adventure in green Slovenia. It is intended for amateur cyclists who are tempted to feel at least a part of the competitive adrenaline that professionals experience at the Tour de France, with all the conditions enjoyed by professionals and top-level support from mechanics. The event itself offers the opportunity to enjoy safe and pleasant cycling without worries about traffic and is an excellent opportunity for all those who would like to actively feel green Slovenia. The first iteration of the event in Slovenia will be hosted by Kranj, a city that has produced some top-level cycling names such as Matej Mohorič, Tadej Valjavec and Franc Hvasti. So, what do you say, will you join in?

Visit website

Top athletes come with top fans

When Slovenian athletes achieve top results, the small green land in the heart of Europe erupts with fan euphoria. Slovenia breathes as one and to experience this fan fever is something that you are sure to remember. This is also true when bicycle pedals are being pushed by top Slovenian cyclists headlined by Tadej Pogačar and Primož Roglič. When the chips are down, everything stops for a moment. Get to know the warm hearts of Slovenian fans and surrender yourself to the supporter euphoria.

Explore

10 reasons why Slovenia is an excellent destination for cycling

Slovenia is exceptionally diverse and an excellent venue for countless outdoor activities. It is almost Europe in your pocket. The ratio between urban areas and countryside is almost 50-50, which means that the natural environment is right on the doorstep for many people. Combined with a pleasant climate, it offers some of the most beautiful cycling trails in the world, attracting many cyclists throughout the whole year. Slovenia is certainly a perfect destination for cycling.

Explore

What is the secret of Slovenian sporting achievements?

A love of sport is written in our DNA. The diverse and picturesque landscape inspires us to actively spend our free time outdoors. We have a relatively well-developed sports infrastructure. Although the majority of activities are not free of charge, they are frequently subsidised by local communities. Work in many local sport clubs is performed on a voluntary basis. Add Slovenians being diligent people who want to prove themselves to the mix and there is a part of the recipe for the top achievements of Slovenian athletes. Discover more about active experiences in Slovenia and its current sport heroes.

Explore

Tips for top cycling holidays in Slovenia

If you are not sure about how to spend your cycling break in Slovenia, let us give you glimpse into some of the current offering suited for cyclists. Choose and book your holiday today!

From 360,00 €

Active leisure away from the urban hustle and bustle. For mountain lovers and cycling enthusiasts. Follow the hiking and cycling trails of the Tuhinj...

Active thermal spa vacation in the heart of the Kamnik–Savinja Alps

From 1.150,00 €

Let the e-energy boost your cycling and draw a broad smile on your face, as you tour the stunning natural sights of Pohorje with windswept hair. Book...

Black Peak E-bike – Ambushed Fox Package

From 3.805,00 €

Enjoyable cycling adventures in pristine nature on scenic, safe and well-maintained roads on flat to rolling terrain and optional challenging climbs for...

Cycling highlights of Slovenia with E-bike

From 1.004,00 €

Take a break from the everyday – let the adrenaline flow through your veins! Ideal for solo travellers, couples and families. Enjoy the natural beauty...

An active break

From 350,00 €

Take on the Krvavec mountain bike trails and unwind after your adrenaline-fuelled downhill descents with the excellent food prepared at Hotel Krvavec,...

#furava Bike Park Krvavec Package

From 633,00 €

Spend 5 unforgettable active days full of camping and survival, sports and recreational and social activities outdoors and return home full of energy,...

5-day medium mountain active and leisure camp

From 720,00 €

Discover the mystical beauty of Pohorje with us on e-bikes. Boosted by e-energy, you'll pedal your way to unique natural wonders and experience Pohorje’s...

Black Peak E-bike – Bambi Package

From 172,00 €

Active holidays in the beautiful Pohorje region

Maribor BIKE package

A paradise destination for cyclists

It is not unusual in Slovenia to find yourself in a dilemma over whether to count kilometres on a racing bike or descend down forest trails with a mountain bike. Whichever you choose, there are interesting and diverse trails that will take you through nature and picturesque locations.

Top road cycling tours

Road cycling is gaining in popularity among Slovenians on the wings of successes of Slovenian professional cyclists. We have our own "treats" for the most enthusiastic cyclists on racing bikes. Discover some of the most popular road cycling tours where top Slovenian cyclists have been making names for themselves.

More

Top road cycling tours

Top road cycling tours

Road cycling is gaining in popularity among Slovenians on the wings of successes of Slovenian professional cyclists. We have our own "treats" for the most enthusiastic cyclists on racing bikes. Discover some of the most popular road cycling tours where top Slovenian cyclists have been making names for themselves.

More

Take the time to tackle the long distance trails

Take the time to tackle the long distance trails

Explore the diversity of the Slovenian landscape along the long distance trails that connect various parts of the country. These take you from the mountains to the seacoast, across hills and plains, and past Slovenia’s natural and cultural attractions. Most long distance trails are part of an international network of trails that connect several European countries. The longest trail that runs across Slovenian territory, as well as the oldest European long distance trail, is the Slovenian Alpine Trail. 

More

Adrenaline-fuelled mountain biking

Adrenaline-fuelled mountain biking

Do you know the feeling when you steer away from the hustle and bustle of towns to the tranquillity of nature, when each breath you take is as fresh as can be despite the effort, when you have goosebumps as you watch the world below, when adrenaline and happiness hormones are released as you overcome natural obstacles and experience the beauty of nature? Let the feeling consume you as you head out on the most beautiful mounting bike tours, trails and singletracks in Slovenia.

More

With e-bikes easily around the green Slovenia

With e-bikes easily around the green Slovenia

Slovenia is a dynamic land which is worth touring by bicycle. If, until recently, steep slopes were “reserved” for fitter cyclists, these have become more accessible with e-bikes. You can thus explore the most beautiful corners of Slovenia in a more comfortable and active way, which is also one of the greener methods of mobility.

More

Most beautiful cycling routes

Most beautiful cycling routes

Bikers will also get more than their fair share of enjoyment in Slovenia while riding through the picturesque countryside. You can opt for family cycling on level terrain, while more enthusiastic bikers can try to conquer slopes which will reward their efforts with beautiful views.

More

Do you want even more cycling experiences?

Cycling is a popular sporting activity, especially if beautiful natural scenery follows you along the way. This is also one of the most sustainable ways to explore Slovenia. No more excuses - grab your bicycle or rent one and embark on your own cycling adventure.

Visit website

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.

More

Green & Safe

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.

More

Accommodation tailored to cyclists

When you get tired of covering kilometres on your bicycle, you can find a pleasant resting haven in specialised accommodation facilities for cyclists scattered all over Slovenia.

Visit website

 

Image
TripAdvisor traveller rating Image

Hotel Center

18 Reviews More
Image
TripAdvisor traveller rating Image

Smogavc Farm and Guesthouse

21 Reviews More
Image
TripAdvisor traveller rating Image

Kamp Siber

More
Image
TripAdvisor traveller rating Image

Brunarica Hike & Bike

More
Image
TripAdvisor traveller rating Image

Hotel Kompas

277 Reviews More
Image
TripAdvisor traveller rating Image

Grand Hotel Primus - Sava Hotels & Resorts

282 Reviews More
Image
TripAdvisor traveller rating Image

Cycling hotel Ravbar

43 Reviews More
Image
TripAdvisor traveller rating Image

Penzion Kobala

22 Reviews More
Image
TripAdvisor traveller rating Image

Hotel Vital

14 Reviews More
Image
TripAdvisor traveller rating Image

Hotel Bela Krajina

More
Image
TripAdvisor traveller rating Image

Kamp Park Lijak

18 Reviews More
Image
TripAdvisor traveller rating Image

Terme Banovci

12 Reviews More

Discover Slovenia by bike

Take a ride along the green countryside that will inspire you with its diversity. The distances between individual regions are short, so you can find yourself in the Alpine world, on the sea coast or among thermal springs all within one day. You will never run out of power, as you will be able to treat yourself to Slovenian specialties along the way.

Useful information and safety guidelines for carefree travel to Slovenia

See useful information and safety guidelines.

Useful information and safety guidelines for carefree travel to Slovenia

More

Biking

Explore Slovenia by bike. The dynamic landscapes of Slovenia, with their countless natural beauties, are ideal for a biking holiday.

Biking

More

Food and wine

Love is experienced through the stomach.

Food and wine

More

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.

Regions

More

Active holidays

Discover the world of active outdoor adventures in Slovenia.

Active holidays

More

Unique accommodation in Slovenia

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

Unique accommodation in Slovenia

More

Green story of Slovenia

Plan your holidays in green.

Green story of Slovenia

More

Spas and health resorts

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

Spas and health resorts

Spas and health resorts

More

Stories from Slovenia

Sign up for our monthly newsletter to receive a green piece of Slovenia in your inbox, and learn about holidays, seasonal offers, upcoming events and travel options.

Share with friends

Add to favourites Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share on Vkontakte Recommend to a friend