The Slovenian route of green capitals and five other epic European cycling rides that you can try this summer
Want an epic ecological adventure with plenty of time for nature? Then a bike trip could be just right.
The new Slovenian “Green Capitals Trail”, which tourists can take by bike or train, connects the most beautiful travel spots in the country.
See the lively nightlife in the ‘urban capital’ of Ljubljana, take a walk through the jungle of the ‘natural capital’ of Kočevje and indulge in excellent cuisine in the ‘cultural capital’ of Bela krajina.
The route was officially launched in October 2020, but restrictions due to the pandemic deterred tourists.
When the country reopens, here’s everything you need to know about the big trip – and five other free European cycling adventures you can try out this summer.
What does the path of green capitals look like?
The ‘Visit to green capitals’ is a top environmentally friendly trip – even more so if you arrive in Slovenia by train.
“[The route] is the second anywhere in the world that connects destinations that have received a sustainable certificate with the responsible development of tourism, “said a spokeswoman for the Slovenian Tourist Board.
“This unique route is your perfect choice for a quick and green escape to beautiful Slovenia.”
Start your journey in Ljubljana, capital city of Slovenia. Stroll through the lively central market, have a picnic in the elegant gardens of Tivoli Park, or take the funicular to the medieval Ljubljana Castle for stunning 360 views.
Fun animals won’t be disappointed either: become like one of the city’s 45,000 students and pick up a glass at one of the many bars.
But watch out for the cat – from Ljubljanacyclists have a 65 km drive south to Kočevje. The train is also an option.
More than 90 percent of the “capital of nature” is covered with trees. Cyclists will ride in the shade UNESCO heritage Krokar primeval forest, a 75 ha beech forest that survived the Ice Age. The area is one of the last places in Europe where bears, wolves and lynx roam the wilderness.
The final capital, Bela krajina, lies 80 km east of this wild reserve. Reward yourself for a busy day of cycling with a drop of wine and a gourmet meal at one of the many restaurants in the area.
A stunning journey can be both for the conscience and for the eyes.
According to the European Cycling Unionin total, riding means more than ten times more CO2 per kilometer than cycling.
Epic European cycling routes
Cyclists in Europe are spoiled for choice. From the vibrant Albanian Alps to the turquoise bays on the Amalfi Coast, here are four of the best cycling tours you can try this summer.
Danube Cycling Trail (Vienna – Budapest) – 290 km
Whole Danube The cycle path is 1,200 km long and winds from the South German source of the river all the way to the Black Sea.
If you run out of time, give it a try Vienna-Budapest segment travels. After a day or two spent in admiration of its baroque splendor and vibrant café culture, start cycling downhill.
The straight path cuts through lush lowland forests and picturesque villages. After a week in the saddle soothe sore muscles in one of Budapest famous spas.
Camino Frances – 800 km (200 km, Ponferrada – Santiago de Compostela)
Follow in the footsteps of countless pilgrims along this famous trail, which is the most popular in Camino de Santiago network.
Every year, tens of thousands of pious and worldly travelers travel the path traversed by James the Apostle. Ten percent of pilgrims do this by bike.
The whole route is a huge trail that stretches 800 km from the rugged Pyrenees to the rolling hills of Galicia.
For a less intense option, start in Ponferrada – an ancient mountain town in northwestern Spain – and cycle 200 km to Santiago de Compostela, the end point of the pilgrimage route and the tomb of St. James.
Amalfi Coast (Cetara – Positano – Sorrento – Salerno loop) – 150 km
Do you want to tan from lycra this summer? The Amalfi Coast cycling may be for you.
Attend all the cities on the list while pedaling through medieval coastal towns Positano, Sorrento in Ravello. Admire the colorful fishing boats jumping in the harbor and cruise past the lemon groves and olive groves.
Start at Cetara and cycle west to Positano. Turn around the end of the peninsula – through Sorrento – and back to Salerno. The trip is expected to take about six days. To avoid the heat, go later in the summer – September is ideal.
Albanian Mountains (Cursed Alps) – 300 km
If you are not afraid of a small burn on your thigh, this Albanian mountain bike trip is right for you.
Spend an epic week dealing in sales Damn Alps. Don’t be put off by the name; the dramatic mountains are one of the most beautiful in the world, with high peaks and ice blue lakes.
If you want everything planned for you, Much Better Adventures offer an eight-day trip with stops in the picturesque Komana fjords and the Valbona Valley.
Provence Bicycle Loop (Avignon – Arles) – 260 km
tole picturesque viewing will appeal to those who like to combine winding paths wine and dining room.
Taste the famous French wines in the vineyards outside Avignon and admire the fragrant fields of peaceful Provence. Go through St Remy, where Vincent van Gogh created his masterpieces. In Orange you marvel at the remains of ancient Roman amphitheaters.
With all these amazing cycling trips available, there is no excuse not to ride this summer.