LJUBLJANA TO DUBROVNIK

Best of Slovenia and Croatia's Dalmatian Coast

The first leg of our trip takes us through Slovenia. From the concert halls of Ljubljana to the soaring Julian Alps, from verdant farmlands to dazzling coastal vistas, Slovenia’s compact size belies its sophistication and beauty. Next, learn what ardent travelers already know about Croatia – an incomparably scenic and urbane region – as we explore the gilded Dalmatian archipelago by land and sea.

DAY 1: Ljubljana arrival

After our arrival in the picturesque and inviting Slovenian capital of Ljubljana, you’ll have time to explore. Art lovers will enjoy the National Gallery and Museum of Modern Art, which showcase the best of Slovenia’s rich cultural heritage. After a group dinner, we’ll stop for a drink or gelato at one the city’s many riverside cafes.

DAY 2: Ljubljana to Lake Bohinj

Our first ride takes us to Triglavski National Park and the banks of serene Lake Bohinj. For the full alpine effect, we’ll be airlifted by gondola to a ski resort for a panoramic view of the majestic Julian Alps. Afterwards, we’ll enjoy a light lunch before cycling back to Lake Bled.

32 miles

DAY 3: Bled to Kranjska Gora

Today we press deeper into the Julian Alps, traversing mountain passes, high meadows, and bubbling mountain streams. We'll end in Slovenia's premiere ski resort town of Kranjska Gora.

26 miles

DAY 4: Soca Valley ride

We'll start today with a transfer from Kranjska Gora to Trenta, navigating the Vrsic pass (Slovenia's highest) with its awe-inspiring views. From there, we'll cycle towards the coast along the Soca River, ending in the town of Tolmin. After a brief transfer to Piran, the day is yours to explore this romantic Venetian port town. Be sure to sample the local catch in one of its many fine seafood restaurants.

40 miles

Day 5 – Motovun Loop ride

After a morning transfer into Croatia’s northern interior, we’ll enjoy a loop ride from the quaint and picturesque hilltop town of Motovun through Istria’s truffle growing region. After the ride, we’ll transfer by private motor coach to bustling Rijeka where we'll board an overnight ferry for the Dalmatian Coast.

24 miles

Day 6 - Split Layover

Upon arrival in Split, we’ll stroll from the Roman Palace of Emperor Diocletian to our hotel then take a guided walking tour of the town. Before a welcome dinner, you’ll have a few hours to explore Split, Croatia’s second largest city.

Day 7 - Island of Brac

This morning we’ll transfer from Split to Brac, where we’ll begin our first Dalmatian island ride. At the rendezvous in Bol, we’ll board a privately chartered boat -- our accommodations for the next six nights.

28.5 miles

Day 8 - Island of Hvar

After a short transfer by sea to Hvar, we’ll cycle through the island’s lavender fields and red-roofed towns, ending our ride in small but vibrant Hvar town (touted as the next St. Tropez!).

21 miles

Day 9 - Island of Korcula

We’ll greet the day at sea before our arrival in Vela Luka. Today’s route along scenic country and coastal roads, through vineyards and olive groves to Korcula town, the supremely photogenic birthplace of Marco Polo.

30 miles

Day 10 – Island of Miljet

Today’s ride covers the length of Miljet. Often called Croatia’s greenest island (whose every inch is a national park), Miljet is known for its sweeping vistas and imposing 12th century monastery, and as the one-time home of Odysseus.

Day 11 – A Day at Sea

We’ll continue our journey down the coast, pausing for lunch and a swim in a secluded cove on the island of Lopud. At day’s end, we’ll meet for a farewell dinner at the harbor in Dubrovnik, Pearl of the Adriatic.

Day 12 - Depart for Home