CYCLING GUIDE

Italia

W M O W .C . A BI RI Emerald KE-ALPEAD Cycling Trails

GUIDE CYCLING GUIDE CYCLING GUIDE 3 Content Emerald Cycling Trails

Circular cycling route Only few cycling destinations provide I. 1 – 4 such a diverse landscape on such a small area. Combined with the turbulent history I. 2 –Cividale del 6 and hospitality of the local population, I. 3 –Tolmin 8 this destination provides ideal conditions for wonderful cycling holidays. Travelling by bicycle gives you a chance to experi- Connecting tours ence different landscapes every day since II. 1 Kolovrat 10 you may start your tour in the very heart

II. 2 –Castelmonte 11 of the Julian and end it by the . Alpine region with steep mountains, deep valleys and wonderful emerald rivers like the emerald II. 3 Around Kanin 12 beauty Soča (Isonzo), mountain ridges and western slopes which slowly II. 4 Breginjski 14 descend into the lowland of the (Nadiža) Valleys on one side, II. 5 Čepovan valley & Trnovo forest 15 and the numerous plateaus with splendid views or vineyards of Brda, Collio and the Colli Orientali del Friuli region on the other. Cycling tours Familiarization tours are routed across the Slovenian and Italian territory and allow cyclists to III. 1 Tribil Superiore in Natisone valleys 16 try and compare typical Slovenian and Italian dishes and in the same day, or to visit wonderful historical cities like Cividale del Friuli which III. 2 17 was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Because of its diversity III. 3 18 and climate (mixture of the Alpine and the Mediterranean climate) this III. 4 Šentviška planota plateau 19 region allows longer cycling seasons and provides opportunities for all III. 5 Banjšice plateau 20 kinds of cycling. Mountain bikers can follow trails of the and

III. 6 Dolegna del Collio 21 roads which lead to the most remote places, road cyclists can enjoy in shorter and almost traffic-free paved roads, whilst trekking cyclists can III. 7 Corno di Rosazzo 22 follow gravel roads which lead to the mountains or through beautiful III. 8 Trstelj in the Karst 23 valleys. Especially mountain biking conditions make this region one of III. 9 St. Martin in the valley 24 the European hot spots, whilst cycling along the emerald beauties is overwhelming for everyone. Mountain trails

I V. 1 Vojsko plateau 25 Peter Immich I V. 2 Mt. Stol 26 I V. 3 Pust Gost in the Resia valley 27 I V. 4 Mt. pasture Razor 28 I V. 5 Mt. Možic above Baška grapa 29 I V. 6 Mt. Matajur 30 CYCLING GUIDE 4 CYCLING GUIDE 5

I. 1 Tolmin–Nova Gorica When Soča calms down

300 Drobočnik

250 Most na Soči Avče 200 Kanal ob Soči Plave 150 100 50 m 0 km 10 20 30 40

Start This trail leaves the town of Tolmin at the area of the crosses it once again in the city of Gorizia when the trail The Tolminka Valley Tolmin confluence of rivers Soča and Tolminka, which in sum- turns to the Goriška brda and Collio region. This valley is a part of the mer turns into a popular festival stage, and continues Along the narrow streets of , which is, unlike protected National Difficulty level along the cycling trail along the lake Most na Soči. The Nova Gorica, one of the oldest settlements in the Soča Park area which at its lowest town of Most na Soči is located on an uneven terrace river basin, the trail continues to a lively city of Nova entrance includes the conflu- Length between the rivers Soča and and belongs among Gorica which has a mild climate and was constructed ence of two rivers which cre- 42.5 km the most important archaeological sites, whilst the area as a substitute for the city of Gorizia which was left ated the picturesque Tolmin around the lake offers well-arranged hiking trails. In the behind the Yugoslav-Italian border after the World War gorges. Besides the gorges, Tot. altitude difference you can also visit the memo- 600 m centre of the town the trail turns on a side road towards II. Through Nova Gorica, which was designed as a park, the village of and crosses the river Idrijca. the trail follows one of the streets which lead to the rial Church of the Holy Spirit Duration After a steep ascend, you will come to the small village railway station. In the city of roses that has a lot of green in Javorca, which is regarded 3.5–4.5 h of Drobočnik where you will turn right onto a ledge areas we take the Erjavčeva street which includes the by many people as the most beautiful monument of the above the lower part of the lake and continue towards Alley of the Famous Men and leads to the square Surface World War I, whilst along the the village of . Here, you will be faced with and the railway station with Museum collection Kolod- way you can also taste the lo- somewhat more demanding part of the trail which vor. In the vicinity you can also visit the Kostanjevica cal Tolminc cheese and curd. asphalt macadam leads through the ravine of the Vogršček brook, past the monastery with the resting place of the last heirs of the Babja jama cave, and along the up-and-down road or French royal family of Bourbons. Nova Gorica and Gorizia cart track all to the village of Avče. From there you will After crossing the former border on the Erjavčeva After World War II, this meet- descend into the central part of the Soča valley with the street, you can decide to visit the old city centre of Gori- ing point of several cultures Sights along the trail: medieval town of Kanal with its stone square Kontrada zia at the next junction as Gorizia can offer much more was divided by fence into two – Confluence of rivers Soča fortified with tightly built houses above the river Soča. historical buildings than its younger sister. The mild cities – Gorizia and Nova Gori- and Tolminka Here, you will cross the stone across the Soča climate and the numerous parks are the cause why the ca. The area of the last east-Eu- – Lake Most na Soči gorge, which is the symbol of Kanal, and continue along city was once also known as the Adriatic Nice. The trail ropean border which once – Babja jama Cave the right bank of the river Soča. The trail then leads then continues to the largest city square Piazza della Vit- divided the Transalpina square – Kanal bridge and the along the local road through the villages of Gorenja toria (Victory square) and the most distinctive shopping where the railway line of the Kontrada square vas, Anhovo, Ložice, and Plave. At the bridge across the street Via Rastello which leads to the important Cavour same name was routed and – Solkan stone bridge river Soča in Plave, you will turn left into the village of square and to the Gorizia castle above. When the trail included the railway station, is – Kostanjevica Franciscan Prelesje and descend to the river Soča from where you leaves the city, it continues in the direction of the village today rearranged into the Eu- monastery will continue along the cycling trail, routed next to the of San Floriano del Collio in the Collio del Friuli region, rope square with the museum – Europe square accumulation lake all to the with a view of crosses the Piuma bridge over the river Isonzo, and which unites all people of this – Gorizia castle mt. . Before reaching the new Solkan bridge, continues past the Piuma-Isonzo park located on both area. After the war, the border – Piazza Vittoria square you will cycle past the old railroad bridge with the larg- banks of the river. also cut the aforementioned – Coronini park est stone arch in the world, as this cycling trail, all from railway line to which is – Gorizia provincial museum Most na Soči, follows the railway which used to why today both sisterly cities, – Piuma-Isonzo park connect the cities of and Trieste. Just behind the Nova Gorica and Gorizia, try town of Solkan, the clear river Soča flows into and is to write the future together renamed into river Isonzo. At the same time it leaves the without border crossings and Alpine and pre-alpine area. Just like the river Soča turns in even greater symbiosis with away from Slovenia, the trail turns away from it and only each other. CYCLING GUIDE 6 CYCLING GUIDE 7

I. 2 Gorizia–Cividale del Friuli roads of Slovenian and Italian Gorizia Hills

500 Vrhovlje 400 300 Bosco Romagno 200 Dobrovo Vipolže 100 0 m 0 km 10 20 30 40 50

Start After visiting the cities of Gorizia and Nova Gorica you growing district where you will continue your tour past Šmartno Gorizia will cross the river Isonzo and continue cycling along the the prominent castle towards the picturesque village of The former medieval military Italian territory across the southern outskirts of the Gorizia where top-class wines are produced by numer- fortification which is now Difficulty level hills region which is in Italy called Collio del Friuli and ous renowned winemakers. a restored village belongs includes the hilly area with villages located on smaller ris- From Medana you will descend past the village of Ce- among the most beautiful Length ings and is no longer divided by the national border. Just glo and after crossing the former border crossing in the cultural sights in Slovenia. The 50 km after you will cross the Piuma bridge, one of the oldest village of Plessiva turn right towards the town of Corno picturesque fortified village across the river Isonzo which is important for the di Rosazzo where you will start cycling along the region with five preserved towers Tot. altitude difference Slovenians from the foothills of the Goriška brda region, of Collio orientali del Friuli. Before approaching the city can be seen from all over the 620 m you will first turn left and only later towards the village of Cividale from the southern side you will have plenty of Brda region as it is located on Duration of San Floriano del Collio (Števerjan). In the small village opportunities to admire the endless vineyards along the a very noticeable hill. 4–5 h of Bucuie (Bukovje) located at the middle of the ascent trail. Instead of cycling directly to Cividale you can also you will turn and continue through the village of Valleris decide to visit the nearby city of Cormons (Krmin). If you Cividale del Friuli Surface (Valerišče) towards the village of Giasbana (Jazbine). After decide to go directly to Cividale you will first pass the Due to its strategic position a short descend through the vineyards and after crossing Park Plessiva in the south and later the hill with the small at the end of the Natisone valley, the former small mil- asphalt macadam the former border crossing you will turn right and pass village and a castle called Ruttars, where you will cross the villages of Gornje and . In the village of the bordering river Judrio (). Along the side field itary village of Forum Julii Vipolže you can decide to continue along an easier trail trails between the small villages of Gallo and Gramo- soon became a genuine city towards the city of Cividale (Čedad) by turning towards gliano you will pass Corno di Rosazzo where you will and the most important cen- tre of the Friuli region. The Sights along the trail: the town of Dobrovo or the village of Plešivo (Plessiva). be faced with the last ascent before reaching Cividale The round trip along the Goriška brda region, where you leading over the San Biagio hill. From there, you will Romans, Lombards, and the – Village Šmartno Venetians left their mark here – Outlook tower in Gonjače can taste exquisite wines and local delicacies, begins by descend into the Bosco Romagno park whose name is of cycling past the Vipolže castle and offers cycling along Lombard origin and which was of strategic importance with monuments and artistic – Dobrovo castle works which make Cividale – Village Medana the narrow and winding roads and sightseeing villages, throughout the history. Today it represents a perfect but also includes many ascents. resting spot with meadows and numerous tree species. the most important tourist – Castle of Gramogliano site of the region. The old city – Bosco Romagno park The trail keeps ascending past the long village of Koza- From the northern park entrance the trail leads along na and further to the most beautiful village of the wider the lower parts of the village of Spessa through grain centre is located above the – Villa Nachini - Cabassi steep banks of the river Nati- – Unesco’s city Cividale del area – the village of Šmartno. From its sightseeing tower, fields and vineyards, parallel to the road Corno–Cividale. the neighbouring village of Gonjače offers the most Between the church in Spessa and the village of Gagli- sone and includes priceless Friuli: archaeological and architec- • Basilica of St. Mary of the magnificent views of the Dolomits mountain range all to ano you will follow the cycling road which literally winds the Gulf of Trieste. When you will leave the tower, you will along the lowland vineyards, fruit tree groves, olive tural treasures. Due to the Assumption Lombard reign, Cividale was reach a junction where you will turn towards the village groves and grain fields. In the direction of the village of • National Archaeological also inscribed on the Unesco of Plave, whilst in the village of Vrhovlje you will turn from Prepotto (Prapotno), the countless grape vines cover the Museum World Heritage list in 2011. • Squares Piazza del Duo- the main road towards the village of Lig and mt. Korada. never ending hills and slopes, whilst on your left you can mo and Paolo Diacono After you will reach the highest point of the Goriška brda admire the Rocca Bernarda castle and wine cellar. From • Devil’s bridge region you will make another turn and cycle towards the Gagliano you will continue cycling along the side roads • Christian museum village of Višnjevik which is known as the birth place of to the village of Rualis where you will join the main road • Longobardo temple the Rebula wine. From there, you will descend through and through which you will enter the city of Cividale and the villages of Krasno, the aforementioned Višnjevik, and reach the river Natisone (Nadiža) on your right side. Drnovk all to Dobrovo which is the centre of this wine- CYCLING GUIDE 8 CYCLING GUIDE 9

I. 3 Cividale del Friuli–Tolmin Abreast two emerald rivers

400 Robič Kobarid 300

200

100

0 m

0 km 10 20 30 40

Start This trail follows the symbols of the Venetian Slovenia, lowlands and enter the area beneath the high Alpine San Giovanni D’Antro Cave Cividale river Nadiža and the dominant mt. Matajur, along the peaks where your trail will be guided by mt. Matajur and The most important monu- main of the Natisone (Nadiža) valleys (Nadiške doline) mt. . ment of the village of Difficulty level which connects the city of Cividale (Čedad) with the Soča Just before you will reach the village of Robič on (Podbonesec) and its surround- valley and allows you to admire the temple on Castel- the Slovenian side of the former border, you will have a ing area is interesting from nat- Length monte (Stara Gora) on your right side. The trail is routed chance to refresh yourself in clear bathing pools of the ural, historical, artistic and reli- 45 km upstream the smaller, warmer and bather-friendlier of river Nadiža. After reaching Robič, you will turn from gious points of view. The cave both emerald rivers which will accompany you along the the main road and continue across the Kobariško blato can be accessed by ascending Tot. altitude difference the steps of the winding un- 350 m entire trail. Along the trail you will notice - marshland. Here, you will part from the river Nadiža posts which indicate that you are cycling through a bi- and continue under mt. Matajur through the villages of derground paths which lead Duration lingual area with dense Slovenian community. Except for Sužid and , and later along the well-arranged gravel to the chapel at the entrance 3.5–4.5 h some very short sections, the trail runs practically on flat cycling trail towards Kobarid where you will reach the which includes a wooden altar made by an artist from Kobarid. terrain as it never moves far from both rivers. The section river Soča and the renowned tomb in the memory of the Surface This naturally protected place around the former border crossing in the ravine between fallen Italian soldiers on the St. Anthony’s hill with mt. Krn has been used since the an- mt. Mija and mt. Matajur is the most sparsely populated, in the background inviting visitors from afar. The villages asphalt macadam cient times when the Romans but the richest in forests and wildlife along the entire under mt. Krn and the upper part of the river Soča with built a military stronghold here. trail. In spite of the emigration which affected the higher the town of Bovec are also sites worth seeing which you Later it was also use by the Byz- altitude villages, the »burnjak« chestnut festival is still can visit by turning at the Napoleon bridge in the Soča antines and Lombards. celebrated in the higher altitude villages. gorge, whilst our trail will simply run along the stream of Sights along the trail: From the old centre of Cividale you will follow the the river Soča through the villages on its left bank all to The Kobarid Historical Trail – San Giovanni D’Antro cave cycling trail routed above the left bank of the river the town of Tolmin. There is a hiking trail routed – River Nadiža Natisone leading towards the village of Ponte S. Quirino The road past the village of still offers splendid around the town of Kobarid – Slovenian Multimedial (Most) where you will cross the river and continue cycling views of the mt. Krn mountain chain and of the ridge of which is one of the most Window museum through the villages of Vernasso (Dolenji Barnas) and Lasiz mt. Kolovrat on the other side of the river Soča where renowned historical towns – House Raccaro Biacis (Laze). Along the route, your trail will be joined by the the bloody battles of the World War I took place. In Ladra in Slovenia and is especially – Kobariško blato marshland connecting trail coming from the Breginjski kot valley and you will turn from the main road and ascend to the small known for the »Battle of Ko- – Italian charnel house will later include the junction towards the San Giovanni church of St. Lawrence with the grave of the renowned barid« which took place in the – Kobarid museum D’Antro cave. The opposite bank of the river includes the poet Simon Gregorčič and great views over the river World War I. For the visitors of – Dairy museum village of San Pietro al Natisone (Špeter) which with its Soča. From here, you will follow the main road through Kobarid, this is a must-do trail – Soča gorge and the bilingual school and the Slovenian Multimedial Window the villages of Kamno and , whilst in the following which connects natural sights Napoleon’s bridge museum represents a cultural centre of the Venetian village of Gabrje you will have a chance to follow the with historical monuments: – Kozjak waterfall Slovenians. To cross the former border crossing in Robič Alpe-Adria Trail. Before arriving to Tolmin with the rem- the river Soča and the Kozjak – Church of st. Lawrence you will have to turn on the main road in the village of nants of the old castle on the hill above it you can make waterfall, the Kobarid museum, – Tolmin gorges Loch (Log). In the past, the route between Cividale and a small detour by turning left in the village of Dolje and the tomb in the memory of the – the town of Kobarid also included a railway connection by visiting the Tolmin gorges located past the village of fallen Italian soldiers, the ar- which was later cancelled. The only present day remnants . From here, you will continue towards Tolmin chaeological site Tonocov grad of this railway connection are the rare remains of the rail- directly past the World War I cemetery in Loče and when from the ancient times, the way line and the railway station in the village of Stupizza you will reach Tolmin you will, at the same time, complete remnants from the World War I, (Štupica). In these few kilometres you will leave the Friuli a part of the circular trail around the town. and the Napoleon bridge. CYCLING GUIDE 10 CYCLING GUIDE 11

II. 1. Kolovrat II. 2. Dobrovo–Castelmonte Following a ridge road from the Alps to the In the remote world of the border river and Mediterranean following the path of three sanctuaries Kolovrat 700 1200 Castelmonte/Stara Gora 600 1000 500 Kambreško Korada Vrhovlje pri Kožbani 800 400 300 600 200 400 100 200 m 0 m 0 km 10 20 30 40 0 km 10 20 30

Start In spite of its difficult road climb to the ridge of mt. Start The trail to the Kožbanski kot valley starts in the heart Kobarid Kolovrat above the river Soča, this tour is appropriate Dobrovo of the Goriška brda region from where it leads north along for various cyclists with at least some strength in their the mountain ridge of mt. Korada. You will never reach the Difficulty level Difficulty level legs. After the initial 800 m ascend, the Kolovrat moun- mountain top though, as the trail turns just beneath it and tain ridge road from the village of Livek to the village descends to the valley of the bordering river Idrija (Judrio) Length of Kambreško no longer represents a greater effort Length which you will then follow along a flat road leading through 48 km as it slowly descends to the Goriška brda region. This 33.5 km small villages and past isolated farms of this demographi- Tot. altitude difference descend can also be called a physical and cultural tran- Tot. altitude difference cally challenged region until you will reach its spring under 1360 m sition from the Alpine valley into the wine-growing area. 830 m mt. Kolovrat. After crossing the river and the former border Orientation-wise, the tour also isn’t too demanding and crossing in the small village of Mišček, you will join the Duration allows you to enjoy in the views of the river Soča, Julian Duration themed cycling trail of the three temples which you will 4.5–5.5 h Alps behind you, and the Adriatic Sea in front of you. 3–4 h follow to the Castelmonte (Stara Gora) monastery. All three Surface From the town of Kobarid the tour follows the Surface Mary’s temples in the vicinity represent popular pilgrimage Historical Trail to the steep road ascending to Livek from destinations, of which the Castelmonte monastery stands where the second ascent of the tour will lead you past out with its unique architecture which served as a fortifica- asphalt macadam the village of Livške Ravne. This second ascent is some- asphalt macadam tion. Located in the centre of the Natisone valleys it offers what kinder, but still offers practically no opportunities views over the region of Veneto and the city of Cividale to rest. A stop at the World War I Outdoor museum at which you can quickly reach by descending down the Alpe– the start of the descent is therefore more than welcome. Adria hiking Trail. Sights along the trail: The remnants of the Italian military positions, the splen- Sights along the trail: From the town of Dobrovo you will cycle towards the – Kobarid Historical Trail did views, and the botanical diversity would of course – Dobrovo castle former border crossing in the village of Neblo where you – Idrsko Histori­cal Trail like to keep you here, but some sort of a magical force – Krčnik natural stone bridge will turn right and cycle along the Kožbanjšček brook, at – Outdoor museum Kolovrat will just pull you towards the south. From this point, and the Kotline pools first, along the bottom of the valley, and later past the small – Marijino Celje temple there is still quite a distance left before reaching the – Church of St. Mary on the villages of and Vrhovlje where you will ascend onto in Lig Goriška brda region which you will mainly overcome in Lake a ridge near the village of Kožbana and later descend past – Mt. Korada a gentle descend with some flat sections, except for the – Bordering river Idrija the village of Senik to the village of Golo Brdo. From there, – Outlook tower in Gonjače short section under mt. Korada. In the land of chestnuts, – Church of the Three Wise you will continue your tour on the Slovenian territory and – Village of Šmartno with the river Soča on your right and the bordering river Men cycle along the gravel road routed on the left bank of the Idrija (Judrio) on your left, you will find the pilgrimage – Castelmonte Monastery river Idrija to the small village of Mišček. Just after the bridge, Marijino Celje temple located above the village of Lig – Unesco’s city Cividale you will turn left towards the first small village where you from where the other two temples of the Path of the will turn right on a somewhat demanding, at first paved, Three Temples can be seen. This is a more than appro- and later on gravel ascent through the village of Prepotischis priate place for your eventually last stop before reaching (Prapotišče) and past the church of the Three Kings. You the Brda region. Here, the view towards the Brda region will then arrive just under the Castelmonte monastery from is still blocked by the top of mt. Korada, but when you where you will descend to the village of Purgessimo in front will pass it, you will literally fall among the sunny terrac- of Cividale along the gravel road which soon turns right es of the Brda region and won’t stop until you will reach from the main road. After passing through Purgessimo and the idyllic village of Šmartno. after crossing the main road towards Cividale you will then return along the trail routed by the river Natisone. CYCLING GUIDE 12 CYCLING GUIDE 13

II. 3 Around mt. Kanin Royal road tour of tree mountain passes

Sella Nevea/Na Žlebeh Predel 1200 Sella Carnizza/Karnica 1000 800 600 Resiutta 400 200 m 0 km 20 40 60 80

Start This cycling tour along the roads around mt. Kanin From the town of Bovec, the trail leads through the The Resia valley Bovec (Canin) is popular among the cyclists due to its profile village of Čezsoča and along the river Soča to the village On your tour, you might get a chance to meet one of the Difficulty level and its connecting story. It is mainly intended for road of Žaga where it turns right towards the ascent leading cyclists as it is routed completely on paved (main) roads. above the Učja ravine and further to the former border rare Eastern Alpine Slavic in- It can also be said that this is an Alpine tour as it con- crossing with the same name. There you will be faced habitants of the Resia valley Length nects various Alpine valleys and road passes on both with a short descent after which you will turn right to who, due to the position of the valley, developed their 96 km sides of the former border. As a one–day tour it repre- the village of Uccea from where you will continue along distinctive Resia language Tot. altitude difference sents a challenge even for well-prepared cyclists. Alter- a narrow paved road with a constant incline to the Sella and culture. The municipality 1800 m natively, you can divide the tour into several parts which Carnizza (Karnica) mt. pass from where you will descend of Resia is also a part of the Duration will allow you to experience individual valleys separate- very steeply to the Resia valley where you will reach the Julian Prealps Park with its 7–8 h ly. The municipality of Resia (Rezija) located by the river valley road which you will follow and after a while turn Visitor’s Centre located in the Resia is special for its dialect, folk customs, songs and left towards the village of Ressiuta (Na Bili) and contin- village of Prato (Ravanca). Surface dances, whilst the next valley offers cycling under mt. ue to the main road between the cities of Udine and Jôf di Montasio (Špik nad Policami) which is the highest . Here, you will turn right towards Tarvisio and and asphalt peak of the Western and only smaller than continue along the valley of the river Fella to the village the highest peak of the Julian Alps - mt. Triglav. When of where you will leave the main road and The village of Log pod Man- you will approach the city of Tarvisio you won’t be far turn right across the bridge over the river Fella and con- gartom used to be connected from the pilgrimage church of Monte Lussari (sv. Višarje) tinue along the Raccolana (Reklanica) valley towards the with the lead mine in the village of Cave del Predil with and the three-border area of Slovenia, Italy and Austria mountain pass. At the end of the valley, the Sights along the trail: a tunnel called »Štoln« which, – Učja ravine which also represents the meeting point of three cul- initially flat road turns into a steep ascend which, after a during the World War I, served – Church of St. Anna, Sel­la tures and the area with four official languages. Here, you few hairpin bends, first reaches the village and later the as a railway tunnel for the Carnizza can decide to prolong your tour and return to the Soča Sella Nevea mountain pass. From here, you will descend transportation of goods and – Visitor’s Centre, Prato valley via across the Vršič mountain pass. along the Rio del Lago valley past the turquoise Lago soldiers to the Isonzo Front. – Lago di Predil lake The last part of the tour will take you through the valley del Predil to the crossroads towards Tarvisio and Predil Later on, the tunnel served for – Predel fortress of the river which lies parallel to the where you will turn right and, after a short ascent, reach the transportation of Slove- – Kluže fortress valley and is also one of the finest Slovenian Alpine the former border crossing at the Predel mountain pass. nian miners to the lead mine valleys where you can admire some of the numerous Initially, the road descends slowly and leads past the and included a border control waterfalls from the road itself. The above mentioned Predel fortress and the junction with a road leading between and Italy. circular tour can also be joined with other cycling trails towards the Mangart pass with the highest altitude road Today, the former »station« in like the ascend to the Božca mountain pasture from the in Slovenia. From here the descent becomes steeper Log pod Mangartom includes a well-arranged presentation former Uccea (Učja) border crossing, trail to the end of and leads through the villages of Strmec and Log pod of the tunnel, the lead mine, the Resia valley, ascend to mountain pastures under Mt. Mangartom, and past the Kluže fortress to your starting and the village. Jôf di Montasio from Sella Nevea mountain pass, or the point in Bovec. ascend to the Mangart pass located in the vicinity of the Predil (Predel) mountain pass. CYCLING GUIDE 14 CYCLING GUIDE 15

II. 4 Breginjski kot II. 5 Čepovan valley & Trnovo forest Above the Nadiža river over the extreme edge Down the dry river valley and through the diverse of Slovenia Dinaric forest 1000 Lokve Caludranza/Koludranica 1200 800 Čepovan 800 600 Nadiža 600 400

400 200

200 m 0 m 0 km 10 20 30 40 0 km 10 20 30

Start This alternative trail from the town of Kobarid to- Start Cycling down this dry valley serves as a worthy alter- Staro Selo (Kobarid) wards the village of San Pietro al Natisone (Špeter) leads Most na Soči native to the road connection along the Soča river. In through the Breginjski kot valley which really opened the vicinity of the Most na Soči railway station we turn Difficulty level Difficulty level towards the Natisone valleys with the removal of the for- to the road with a mild ascent above the Idrijca river to mer border crossings. At the foothills of mt. Stol, the trail enter the valley of Čepovan through Vrata. Before the Length slowly ascends through numerous villages towards the Length village turning towards Trebuša, the road turns into a 41 km village of which was once considered the pearl of 39.5 km mild descent, which continues as far as , so it is Tot. altitude difference the Veneto-Slovenian architecture. After the earthquake Tot. altitude difference appropriate for road cyclists, who want to reach Nova 1050 m of 1976, only the smaller old village centre was preserved 870 m Gorica. But our descent doesn’t take long, because in and can now be visited. Besides the trail leading through Čepovan we turn to a steep macadam road leading to Duration the most western Slovenian village of Robidišče, you Duration the Trnovo plateau, to the village Lokve, where we can 3.5–4.5 h can also choose a slightly longer trail which leads from 3.5–4.5 h enjoy a longer lunch break. Various typical home-made Surface Breginj through the village of Prossenicco (Prosnid). The Surface dishes with a herb-based spin are particularly interest- first trail descends through the village of and fur- ing. Lokve is the highest-situated village on the plateau, ther on to the bridge across the river Nadiža from where where the warm air from the south intertwines with the asphalt you will soon reach the picturesque Nadiža gorges with asphalt macadam freshness of the pre-Alpine landscape as we turn our the stone Napoleon bridge and many bathing pools. pedals. Cyclists who would like to immediately return to Kobarid In our case, before we start descending towards have to take the trail along the river Nadiža which leads Nova Gorica, we are in for a pleasant ride on a forest Sights along the trail: through the village of and continues towards Sights along the trail: route through the Trnovo forest, through villages – Old village centre and the the village of Robič, whilst others have to ascend on a – Kosmačeva learning path , Podgozd and Sedovec. Then, right after the Museum in Breginj terrace with the remote village of Robidišče which was (KUP) village Lokve, we opt for a forest route right of the main – Nadiža gorges with the cut-off from its ‘mother region’, Venetian Slovenia, but – The cultural and historical route for Trnovo. We connect to the main road just for Napoleon bridge in spite of all the troubles still managed to preserve the trail of Most na Soči a second, before the village Ravnica, which served as a – Village of Robidišče with the authentic Venetian architecture including the distinc- – Monuments to the people rear area in World War I. In Lokve we can decide also for black kitchen tive black kitchen. The trail then continues towards the who died in World War I a longer ride to Trnovo fol­lowing a cycling route across – Chapel and monument mountain pass above the village of Canebola (Čenebola) and II in Čepovan Mala , the botanical gardens in the midst of spruce Bocchetta di Sant’ Antonio which boasts with the chapel and monument Bocchetta – Smrečje frost hollow tree forests, and past the vantage point on Krnica above – San Giovanni d’Antro cave di Sant’ Antonio. Even if you choose the longer trail you – Mala Lazna clearing the . It’s also worth mentioning the con- will reach the aforementioned mountain pass. In this – Vantage point on Krnica nection to Vojsko, with the famed Great ice cave, and case you will first have to cycle from Breginj to the for- – castle the route across the inter­esting high-altitude karst that mer border crossing and then cross the bridge over the passes Smrekova draga (Spruce glen). Under Ravnica we river Natisone. From here, the trail will lead you through embark on another downhill ride with numerous ser- Prossenicco towards the village of Attimis and later above pentines before reaching the suburbs of Nova Gorica. the village of Faedis located at the outskirts of the Veneto hills with splendid views over the Friuli lowlands. Both trails will lead you to the top of mt. Ioanez which you will first encircle and then descend past the San Giovanni d'Antro Cave back to the river Natisone. CYCLING GUIDE 16 CYCLING GUIDE 17

III. 1 Tribil Superiore in III. 2 Bovec Natisone valleys Circle through Bovec Churches of the Natisone valleys Zavrzelno S. Nicolò/Sv. Miklavž 550 Tribil Sup./G. Tarbij 700 Cravero/Kravar 500 Ravelnik Športno 600 Kamp Liza letališče 500 450 Most čez Sočo 400 400 300 200 350 100 m 300 m 0 km 10 20 30 0 km 5 10 15 20

Start The diverse circular route passes numerous churches Start The familiarization tour across the Bovec basin is San Leonardo that were once used by the locals to warn their fellow Bovec appropriate for everyone, in spite of some short ascents townspeople of dangers. So, it is certainly worth giving and exposed sites which you can pass with the bicycle Difficulty level Difficulty level our attention to the numerous sacral buildings along in your hands. It leads past the Virje and Boka waterfalls, the way. If we chance upon any locals, we will undoubt- along the emerald beauty Soča, through the confluence Length edly be fascinated by the specific melody of their Slove- Length and gorges of rivers Soča and Koritnica, and past the 36.5 km nian dialect. Because it seems that time in these valleys 24.5 km Bovec airport and the World War I outdoor museum. Tot. altitude difference goes by a lot slower, it only makes sense to stay in one Tot. altitude difference All along the way, this trail allows you to admire the 950 m of the inns that offer home-made delicacies with the 277 m Julian mountains like mt. Kanin, mt. Rombon and also influences of Slovenian, Friuli, Italian and mid-European mt. Triglav. Duration cuisine. The Natisone valleys (Nadiške doline) represent Duration At the town square, the trail turns towards the top of 3–4 h something special and surprise us in many things. 2–2.5 h the town, past the church, on the road leading to the Surface The route begins near San Pietro al Natisone (Špeter), Surface Kanin ski-slope, and then left towards the village of Pluž- the centre of the Natisone valleys, in the village San na with the accumulation lake and the Virje waterfall. In Leonardo (Podutana) along the river Cosizza (Kozca) the village, the trail turns left and descends past the golf asphalt macadam trail with a macadam ascent past the first of the churches asphalt macadam trail course to the main road which it follows to the junction and through the hamlet Picon (Pikon), and on to the towards to the village of Log Čezsoški where it crosses asphalt road, which leads to Castelmonte (Stara Gora). the river Soča with the most wonderful view of the Boka It is the destination of many pilgrims and it delivers a waterfall. Here, the trail turns back in the direction of Sights along the trail: view of the Friuli plain, the Natisone valley and Slovenia. Sights along the trail: the town of Bovec and continues towards the village – Pilgrim church on Castel- We continue down the panoramic asphalt road, which – Virje waterfall and the Pluž- of Čezsoča. The trail then goes through Čezsoča and monte winds on a ridge with smaller ascents and descents, na accumulation lake continues towards the small village of Jablenca where it – Churches of St. Silvester, and soon we pass the church of St. John (San Giovanni), – Boka waterfall turns left towards the bridge over the river Soča which St. Nicholas, St. John, which, situated on a rock, reigns the valley of Judrio – Confluence of rivers Soča it crosses and turns left across the next bridge over St. Lucy, St. Andrew and (Idrija). Following a panoramic road we reach the high- and Koritnica the river Koritnica. This part of the trail is undoubtedly St. Anthony est point of Tribil di Superiore (Gorenji Tarbij) on the – Ravelnik outdoor mu­seum attractive, but also demands a certain degree of atten- – Slovenian Multimedial WWI entrenchment line, from Kolovrat to Castelmonte. – Church of Virgin Mary tion due to bridge crossings and other exposed sites. Window museum SMO We turn downhill along the ridge on the other side of From the village of Vodenca you will cycle back towards the river Erbezzo (Arbeč) through the hamlets Oblizza Bovec along the paved road, but turn right on a cart (Oblica) and Cravero (Kravar). As we continue down to track before reaching the town and soon after to the the valley we visit the last of the secluded churches, the left, across the road towards Čezsoča, and then around church of St. Andrew (S. Andrea) on a hill above the river the Bovec airport. From there, you will return to the cen- Cosizza. tre of Bovec which you will leave through the part of the town called Mala vas and continue along the cart track in the direction of the village of Log pod Mangartom. By the Ravelnik outdoor museum, you will cross the main road and, under the rising ground with the same name, return back to Bovec. This last circle is also very appro- priate for families. CYCLING GUIDE 18 CYCLING GUIDE 19

III. 3 Kobarid III. 4 Šentviška planota plateau Jump to the bathing Nadiža Circle through macadam roads of Planota

1000 Črvov vrh 900 300 Robič (Nadiža) Starijsko blato 800 275 Svino 700 Polje 250 600 225 m 500 m 0 km 5 10 15 0 km 5 10 15 20 25

Start The majority of the tour leads across the dried up Start A diverse route takes us across the vast pre-Alpine Kobarid Kobariško blato marshland where mills used to operate Ponikve Šentviška planota plateau, squeezed between the Baška grapa gorge and the valley of Idrijca. A network of Difficulty level and where a railroad used to connect the towns of Ko- Difficulty level barid and Cividale. Today, this area with rich diversity of peaceful macadam and asphalt routes, in the company vegetation and animal life includes an educational and of carefully groomed meadows and typical karst forma- Length cycling trail with splendid views of the long mountain Length tions, makes the plateau very appropriate also for less 15.5 km ridge of mt. Stol and of the mighty walls of mt. Krn. 26.5 km experienced cyclists. We will cycle along its edge, which Tot. altitude difference Old cart track trails are perfect for cyclists headed to Tot. altitude difference offers wonderful views of the Julian Alps and the Idrija 50 m the Breginjski kot valley and further on into the region 570 m and hills. of Veneto, or just to the river Nadiža (Natisone) which One of possible accesses to the plateau is also the Duration springs under mt. Stol and turns towards Cividale at the Duration access of our choice – Idrija pri Bači. But before we start 1–1.5 h foothills of mt. Matajur. From the Nadiža gorges, the 3–3.5 h exploring the plateau, we will cycle on the left bank Surface trail leads to the natural bathing spot near the village of Surface of Idrijca, on the Kosmač educational path (KUP), a flat Robič which is a true paradise for bathers, as the river cycling route, which is appropriate for everyone, particu- Nadiža is one of the warmest Alpine rivers. According larly for those who want to bathe. On the plateau, our asphalt macadam to the folk tradition, the river also possesses medicinal asphalt macadam starting point can be Ponikve with the Plečnik’s church powers which are especially beneficial after a tiring or the nearby ski slope Suše. After visiting the church cycling tour. above the village, we will cross the plateau and reach In Kobarid, the trail turns on the local road which Šentviška Gora. In Ponikve we first turn off the main road Sights along the trail: ascends towards the village of Svino where it turns right Sights along the trail: to a forest path and later connect to the road again. We – Kobarid museum and descends towards the next village under mt. Mata- – Church of St. Mary in continue through the village , in the direction of – Kobariško blato marshland­ jur. In the village of Sužid, the trail keeps to the left and Ponikve the crossroads Markaduc, which connects with the road – Nadiža gorges then turns on the cart track leading towards Robič. Just – Wooden granary from the from . Even before the crossroads we turn – Church of St. Volar in front of the village, the trail turns right on the road 18th century in Pečine left to the side road to Brdo. In the village we – Pod slapom waterfall towards the village of Breginj which it quickly leaves and – Gorge of the Kostanjevec turn towards the playground and continue over mead- turns through the village of Kred. Behind Kred, the trail brook ows through the village Polje to Šentviška Gora. Before keeps to the right until it reaches picturesque gorges, – Lukševa hiša house in the most challenging part of the route – ascent to Črvov numerous river pools and finally the bathing spot near Šentviška Gora vrh – we also circle through Zakraj and Daber. Before the – Črvov vrh peak Robič. To reach the previously used cycling trail, a short road preponderates downhill at , we turn drive along the main road is required, whilst the return left towards Črvov vrh to reach a panoramic edge of the between Sužid and Svino follows the trail across the plateau above the Baška grapa gorge. This is followed by Kobariško blato marshland and not the trail routed to a descent to Zagomilca, where we turn right and pass the right and through the village of Svino. peaks Kuk and Pušnik. Our cycling expedition over the northern edge of the plateau is rounded up with a return ride past the ski slope to the starting point in the village Ponikve. CYCLING GUIDE 20 CYCLING GUIDE 21

III. 5 Banjšice plateau III. 6 Dolegna del Collio Panoramic tour across the plateau above Soča Across vineyard hills along the border river

800 Kuk 750 Restocina/ 700 250 Raztočno Ronco Albina 200 650 Bate 150 Craoretto 600 100 550 m 50 m 0 km 5 10 15 0 km 5 10 15 20

Start Besides the tour across the Šentviška planota plateau, Start The tour along the wine roads around the village of Kanalski Vrh there is another circular tour routed across a pre-al- Cividale del Friuli Prepotto (Prapotno), where the authentic grape varieties pine plateau located between the Soča valley and the like Friulano and Refosco dal Peduncolo rosso are grown, Difficulty level Difficulty level Čepovan valley. Except for a short gravel road section, offers splendid views of the terrace cultivated vineyard the circular cycling tour across the Banjška planota pla- hills and also some quite demanding ascends. It starts Length teau (700 m and higher), or the subalpine pearl as this Length towards the south in the direction of the wine-grow- 18 km plateau is also called, follows the winding paved roads. 25 km ing town of Corno di Rosazzo and follows the road Tot. altitude difference Agriculture and cattle breeding represent the most Tot. altitude difference surrounded with houses on both sides which leads from 258 m important activities of the plateau therefore the entire 220 m the town centre to the nearby meadows and fields and Duration tour is routed across the well-cultivated countryside Duration later enters the village of Gagliano with the remnants 1.5–2 h with grazing cattle herds. At the same time, the plateau 2–2.5 h from the Roman and Lombardian times. From here, the represents a high altitude without running trail turns to the left through the distinct peasant country Surface water, with caves and precipices, and other Karst fea- Surface and later to the right, away from the main road towards tures. The village of Banjšice is also well-known due to Prepotto, and continues on higher grounds of the village asphalt macadam the events of the World War I when, in the 11th Isonzo asphalt Spessa past the well renowned winemaker farms until battle, the Austro-Hungarian army had to retreat from it reaches the Bosco Romagno park. The name of this the western edge of the plateau to its central part which park with numerous tree species is also of Lombardian they barely defended. origin. The trail then ascends to the village of Craoretto Sights along the trail: The entire tour only includes two ascents. The first, Sights along the trail: from where it descends to the town of Dolegna del Collio – Kanalski Vrh accumula­ shorter one, starts from the village of Kanalski Vrh and – Church of St. Elena in (Dolenje) which it reaches after crossing the bordering tion lake leads to the village of Lužarji and includes the only Mernicco river Judrio (Idrija) which comes from under mt. Kolovrat. – World War I museum short, otherwise well-arranged, section of a gravel road. – Villages Ruttars and From Dolegna del Collio which is located along the – Church of the Holy Cross Here, you will be greeted with splendid views of the Restocina Road of Wine and Taste and along the Road of Wine and in the village of Bate outskirts of the Julian Alps and with the start of the – Bosco di Romagno park Cherries, the trail ascends steeply to the group of houses next section of the tour leading towards the top of mt. – Wine and tastes road and named Restocina from where it descends to the village Kuk first through the villages of Mrcinje and Trušnje and Wine and cherries road of Mernicco (Mirnik) and through the village of Albano di later through the villages of Raven, Breg and Krvavec. Prepotto. This trail also includes a bridge across the river The second, somewhat longer ascent to the top of mt. Idrija called Ponte dello Schioppettino which was named Kuk shouldn’t be too demanding due to the marvellous after the authentic black berry grape variety which makes views which you will experience along the way. The the red wines of Prepotto especially elegant and delicate. layout of the trail is very dynamic and includes one only From the village of Albana, the trail then continues across descent worth mentioning which leads to the village of a small hill, past the small village of Cialla, and reaches the Bate. The ascend to the plateau from the town of Kanal winegrowing slopes of Montebello and vineyards of For- via the village of Morsko requires you to overcome addi- nalis at the south-eastern outskirts of the city of Cividale tional 500 meters of a well-routed road, whilst the other which you will enter after cycling past the western side of two access roads come from the villages of Čepovan the small village of Fornalis which you will reach from the and Grgar located under mt. Sveta gora. junction towards Castelmonte (Stara Gora). CYCLING GUIDE 22 CYCLING GUIDE 23

III. 7 Corno di Rosazzo III. 8 Trstelj in the Karst Across the lowland passing vines Through dark pine tree forests and karst villages

200 Rosazzo/Rožac 700 Trstelj 175 600 150 500 Gagliano 125 400 Cerje 100 300 75 m 200 m 0 km 5 10 15 20 0 km 5 10 15 20

Start This wine-cycling trail will take you to the lowland Start When looking towards south from the Lower Vipava Cividale del Friuli parts around the Rocca Bernarda castle and wine cellar Kostanjevica na Krasu valley, we can see the hills covered by vast dark pine which, along with the Rosazzo abbey, dominates over forests. This is why the peaks are commonly called Difficulty level Difficulty level the wine-growing hills south of the city of Cividale. It Črni hribi (Black hills). As we climb onto them, the dark will first take you in the direction of the city of Trieste undertone quickly disappears, because cycling in the Length through the small villages of Rualis and Gagliano where Length region between Trstelj and Cerje delivers a spectacu- 21.5 km you will turn right and cross the fields towards the 21 km lar view of the Karst and the surrounding countryside Tot. altitude difference village of Firmano. At this section of the tour you will Tot. altitude difference between the sea and the Alps. History enthusiasts will 110 m be able to enjoy in the distinctive countryside with 430 m love exploring the former World War I battlefields, while grain fields and lowland vineyards, and cycle along everyone fascinated by the elements of typical stone Duration the left bank of the river Natisone. When you will reach Duration architecture and the flavours of the beautiful wine- 1.5–2 h the small village of Casali Potocco, you will continue 2.5–3.5 h growing region will get their share in karst villages. The Surface towards the village of Ipplis and later towards the village Surface tour begins in Kostanjevica na Krasu, and then through of Azzano where you will cycle along the fields on your and . The villages are positioned on pic- left until you will reach the last houses of the village of turesque locations on top of hills, where they flirt with asphalt macadam Oleis which was named after its olive groves. Here, you asphalt macadam trail the azure Adriatic Sea. Groups of houses are positioned will turn left towards the west and ascend to the Rosaz- close to one another, which enabled the locals to find zo abbey. This place is also special for its views over the shelter from the notorious wind. Behind Temnica wine-growing region of Collio orientali del Friuli and the we embark on a light ascent to Trstelj, which serves as Sights along the trail: Goriška brda region. The Rosazzo tourist-cycling trail Sights along the trail: the highest point and the most beautiful vantage point – Nachini-Cabassi villa continues down the beautiful Rosazzo hills which are – Karst architecture in Temni- of this part of Karst with its 643 m above sea level. Just – Abbey in Rosazzo distinguished by vineyards and fruit tree groves which ca, Novelo and Ko­stanjevica below the peak we can regain some strength in the – Bosco Romagno park can be found all the way to the small village of Noax – Numerous remnants of the mountain hut. Next, we will cycle down the forest path – Rocca Bernarda castle near the town of Corno di Rosazzo. From here, the trail battles of the Isonzo through pine forests and past vantage points between continues along the main road past vineyards, fruit tree – Memorial to the de­fenders individual peaks. On the Fajtji hrib hills the time healed groves, olive groves, and grain fields to the village of Sp- of the Slovenian land all wounds of the blood battles of the Isonzo. The essa. Just a short distance away you will be able to see – Chair of General Borojević­ then events are evidenced only by individual caverns, the castle of Rocca Bernarda which was at first liable to entrenchments and other remains, which are today con- the Aquileian patriarch and later to the city of Cividale. nected by the Path of peace. Cerje is the icing on the Today, the castle is a property of the Maltese Knight cake with its all-encompassing view – the entire region Order and a location where the renowned Picolit wine is covered by the routes described in this guide book is produced. You can also visit the castle with your bicycle practically there for you to savour. We will return back to if you follow the aforementioned tourist-wine road from Kostanjevica through a typical karstic common. Noax to Rosazzo and if you are willing to make another ascend to the top of the hills. After cycling through Spessa you will return to your starting point through the village of Gagliano. CYCLING GUIDE 24 CYCLING GUIDE 25

III. 9 St. Martin in the Vipava valley I V. 1 Vojsko plateau Among fields and vineyards of the Vipava valley Passing untamed ravines to the highest situated village in the Primorska region Sv. Martin Hudournik Vojsko 300 1200 Kamnje (Rebki) 250 1000 Malovše 200 800

150 600 ž.p. 400 100 200 m 50 m 0 km 5 10 15 20 0 km 10 20 30 40

Start This is a wine shops route, where we can taste ex- Start This trail leads along the low-traffic roads among the Potoče quisite, home-made wine, and typical Vipava dishes at Dolenja Trebuša Idrija hills, or, more precisely, to the idyllic Trebuša area tourist farms. We start our trip in Potoče and then we which represents the border between the plateaus of Difficulty level Difficulty level go up to the village Kamnje with the church of St. Mi- Vojskarska planota and Čepovanska planota. There is chael. For a moment we will enjoy the wonderful view only the Prvejk hill preventing you to reach the starting Length and then head on to . The ride that follows is far Length point in Dolenja Trebuša if you arrive along the KUP 22 km from noisy roads and we feel the beat of Vipava villag- 43 km trail from the direction of Tolmin. The circular trail starts Tot. altitude difference es. From Vrtovin we head to Gojače and Malovše and Tot. altitude difference along the valley of the Hotenja brook towards the town 430 m on to Črniče. The path among hills is rugged, but it is 1100 m of Idrija and includes a gentle ascent to the Oblakov vrh possible to enjoy an easy ride in the picturesque land- pass. It becomes somewhat more demanding from the Duration scape. In addition to the varied terrain, which creates a Duration right turn towards the top of mt. Hudournik. Before the 2–2.5 h picturesque landscape, we can also admire the villages 4–5 h road begins to descend towards the Gačnik farm, we Surface with elements of typical karst architecture. In Črniče we Surface turn left to the forest road. To reach the top we turn left turn to a narrow street past the church of St. Vitus and on the forest road to a footpath, and go up the mead- continue down the macadam road. Further on, we will ows to the most beautiful viewpoint of the plateau. asphalt macadam pass the homestead Huhov mlin. We again connect to asphalt macadam From the turning for Hudournik to Vojščica we follow a the asphalt road and drive to the industrial zone Pod dirt road, which soon turns into asphalt and takes us to Batujami. Here we cross the river Vipava, which lend the centre of Vojsko, the highest situated village in the the name to the valley, and head to the Vipava hills on Primorska region. From the church in the centre of the Sights along the trail: the south, as the landscape passes to karst. We climb to Sights along the trail: village we follow a rather non-demanding asphalt road – Church of St. Martin in Brje Preserje and continue directly towards the hamlet St. – Confluence of Idrijca and for a while longer. After a short ascent, the macadam – Stone bridge and the Martin, which rises above Brje at an altitude of 331 m. Trebuščica road preponderates down to the valley of the Gačnik church of St. Michael in Here, the church of St. Martin occupies the dominant – Partisan cemetery in creek and takes us to the farm with the same name. Kamnje position, which separates the Vipava valley from the Vojščica Here the water shaped a wild canyon and we can see – Baroque church in Vrtovin Branica valley. This place also delivers a beautiful view – Partisan printing house it crash into the valley of Trebuščica in a tumultuous – Military cemetery in Črniče of the Vipava valley and the hillsides of the Trnovo Slovenija fall with numerous waterfalls. We return to Gorenja – Huhov mlin mill forest on the north-east, and the Karst on the south- – Wetlands in the valley of Trebuša enjoying a scenic descent and passing typical – Picturesque villages on the west. From St. Martin we will start our way downhill, Gačnik mountain farms. From here, the return to the village Vipava wine road through the village Brje, and continue down the road – Brdarjev slap waterfall of Dolenja Trebuša includes a pleasant ride along the to the village Potoče, where our route comes to an end – Gačnik ravine valley of the Trebuščica river with ravines of its many among the vines. – Stone bridge on the tributaries like Gačnik and Pršjak. The latter provides the Trebuščica river most picturesque Sopota waterfall. – Waterfall in Sopota in the Pršjak ravine – Sulphur spring CYCLING GUIDE 26 CYCLING GUIDE 27

I V. 2 Mt. Stol I V. 3 Pust Gost in the Resia valley Panoramic ride over the mountain ridge of Stol One of the most beautiful uninhabited cycling tours

1600 Planina Božca 1500 1400 Starijski vrh Pust Gost/Pusti Gozd 1200 1250 1000 1000 Požar 800 Žaga 600 750 400 500 200 0 m 250 m 0 km 10 20 30 40 0 km 5 10 15 20

Start The ride along the ridge of mt. Stol is one of the best Start This 20 km long glacier valley by the Resia (Rezija) Kobarid cycling experiences in the valley which offers plenty of Prato di Resia brook is surrounded by the mighty mt. Kanin and is ascents and descents. From the town of Kobarid, the open only to the west towards the Friuli region. The Difficulty level Difficulty level fastest way for you to reach the ascent leading from the only turn from the main valley road is an ascending road village of Žaga along the northern side of the hill is to leading across the Carnizza pass which then descends Length cycle along the main road. Alternatively you can avoid Length to the Uccea valley. The northern part of the municipal- 45 km the main road and cycle along the road connection 25 km ity of Resia is protected by a ridged mountain crest with Tot. altitude difference routed on the left bank of the river Soča. In Žaga, you Tot. altitude difference the three-headed mt. Sard reaching from the top of mt. 1450 m have to turn on the low-traffic road above the Učja gorge 1550 m Kanin, whilst the southern part is protected by the ridge which will lead you to the former border crossing where of the sharp Monte Musi mountain range. Duration you will have to turn left on the cyclist friendly forest road Duration Names of villages on bilingual signposts are written 4.5–5.5 h with a constant incline and plenty of shade. The ascend 4–5 h in the Resian dialect and in the Slovenian language. Surface alone offers splendid views over the Bovec basin and of Surface The Pust Gost tour is technically and physically quite the Kanin mountain range, whilst the arrival to the ridge demanding. You won’t meet many people along this of mt. Stol past the Božca mountain pasture represents a tour, except perhaps at the Sagato mountain hut. As the asphalt macadam trail truly unforgettable experience. You will share this beau- asphalt macadam trail experienced backcountry cyclists can say, this is one of tiful spot with numerous paragliding pilots who also use the best tours in the area of the Western Julian Alps. The the same access road. At this point you will have to turn trail starts from the sports centre and leads along the left towards the town of Kobarid where you will reach the paved road by the river towards the village of Prato di Sights along the trail: road leading to the top of mt. Stol along the southern Sights along the trail: Resia (Ravanca) where the road turns into a steeply as- – Trnovo gorge slope. During the summer, this road is over exposed to – Alpine meadows on cending gravel road which gradually becomes gentler. – Učja gorge the sun, but nevertheless offers splendid views. The lei- Pust Gost From the Sagato mountain hut, the road includes some – Ridge of mt. Stol sure ride along the long and distinctive grassy ridge with – Knife grinders museum concrete ascents, of which the first few are somewhat – Kobarid gorge with the views of the neighbouring mt. Matajur and over the river in Stolvizza normal, whilst the last one is almost vertical. At the Napoleon bridge Nadiža deep below ends at the junction in front of the – Centre for visitors of the altitude of 1.200 m, you will turn from this road and con- peak Starijski vrh on mt. Stol. From here you will continue Julian Prealps Natural Park tinue along the forest road where you will have to push along the somewhat more demanding trail along the your bicycle a few times, just like you will hate to push ridge. You will re-join the forest road towards the village it for the last 100 metres of the height difference. After of Trnovo after you will pass the sightseeing Hum and you will re-join the route 643, you will descend along a turn left on the gravel road before you will reach Predela very nice old military mule trail with some short techni- and peak Baba. From there you will slowly descend to a cal parts which will perhaps make you step down from junction with a footpath above the village of Trnovo. Just your bicycle. At the end of the descend you will reach after the right concrete bend you will have to turn left the village of Stolvizza (Solbica) where you will turn on from the road and then immediately right to the nearby the up and down trail routed above the right bank of a clearing. On the attractive descend directly to Trnovo you tributary of the river Resia back to your starting point. will have to keep to the right side. For the return to the town of Kobarid you can choose the old Napoleon trail which you can reach after turning from the main road at the bend above the Otona pool. CYCLING GUIDE 28 CYCLING GUIDE 29

I V. 4 Mt. pasture Razor I V. 5 Mt. Možic above Baška grapa Over Alpine meadows to the eco-village and Along bridle paths of the Rapallo border the Tolminka river valley 1600 Koča na pl. Razor 1800 1400 Slatnik Možic 1200 1600 Pl. Stador 1000 Tolm. Ravne 1400 800 1200 600 Laz 1000 Zastenar 400 800 Tolmin Tolmin 200 600 0 m 400 m 0 km 10 20 30 40 0 km 5 10 15

Start This classic mountain bike tour offers almost everything Start Cycling along the old Rapallo border, former Yugo- Tolmin even to the most experienced mountain bikers. You will Podbrdo slav-Italian border, takes place along old military trails ascend towards the renowned Kobala paragliding take- routed on the slopes of mt. Slatnik, Lajnar, Možic and Difficulty level Difficulty level off and then cycle across the Tolmin mountain pastures. Kobla. The joyful ride along the ascending old military The last of the mountain pastures, Razor, just calls for a mule trails allows you to observe numerous scattered Length longer stop before descending back to the valley. The first Length remnants of the old border which are a good reason to 47 km descent will lead you to the valley of the river Zadlaščica 18 km make a stop. This wonderfully routed hair pinned trail is Tot. altitude difference which you will leave somewhere above the Tolmin gorges Tot. altitude difference accompanied with rare and famous plant species, whilst 1575 m and turn to the valley of the river Tolminka under the vil- 1080 m its section from the turn towards mt. Lajnar also offers lage of Čadrg. This eco village is distinguished by its per- Duration Duration splendid views over the Baška grapa valley and lake sistent villagers, whilst the valley underneath it boasts Bohinj with mt. Triglav in the background. 4–5 h with the church of the Holy Spirit in Javorca and the Tol- 3–4 h The trail starts in the old village centre of Podbrdo min gorges. Surface Surface and leads upstream the river Bača which it later crosses You will gain the majority of the height difference by ascending the paved road leading towards the Sta- and continues along the old road towards the village asphalt macadam trail dor mountain pasture which is also used by the numer- macadam trail of . You will soon leave this road and turn ous paragliding pilots which use it to reach the take-off to the left towards the Huba farm. Before reaching this on mt. Kobala. To reach the Razor mountain pasture you farm, you will turn on the old military mule trail leading will have to cycle along the gravel road with short ascents, to the top of peak Kup. Along the trail you will cycle past Sights along the trail: descents, and intermittent flat parts, and pass two more Sights along the trail: former military positions and later join the trail coming – Tolmin mountain pastures mountain pastures - Lom and Podkuk. Under Razor, you – Old village centre and the from Petrovo Brdo. In front of the hunting lodge on mt. – Village of Čadrg will then leave this road and turn on the old military mule Jakovkna house in Podbrdo Kovce, you will turn right and continue along the ascent – Church of the Holy Spirit trail – the left hiking trail leading to the village of Tolmin- – Kup air-raid shelter to mt. Lajnar where you will reach the former military in Javorca ske Ravne. From this village, you will descend down the – Lajnar barrack barrack under the ridge of mt. Slatnik. From there, the – Tolmin gorges valley of the river Zadlaščica and, before reaching the river, – Slatnik barrack trail continues to peak Možic which offers excellent turn right on the crossing trail towards Čadrg located on – Iron bunker on Možic views. The descent from peak Možic to the top of the the right bank of the river. In the village of Zadlaz-Čadrg – Boundary stone forti­fication Vrh Bače mountain pass is routed in the direction of on top of the Bača mt. pass you can decide to shorten your tour and descend to the mt. Šavnik and mt. Črna prst, and turns somewhere be- Devil’s bridge in the Tolmin gorges, or continue your tour tween the old barrack and peak Možic. From the ridge, with another ascend along the road towards Čadrg. Just you will be faced with a short, but very demanding in front of the village you will turn and descend through descent to the well-preserved old hair pinned military the former small village of Ozidje, pass the Podlogar farm mule trail leading to the crossroads towards Bača and and cross the wooden footbridge over the river Tolmin- Podbrdo where you will turn to the left in the direction ka located just under the church of the Holy Spirit in Javor- of Podbrdo and soon to the right on the forest road ca which is certainly worth visiting in spite of the steep as- leading to the old road towards Petrovo Brdo where cent leading to it. The Tolmin gorges are also a must-see your tour started. natural sight which you will reach by descending along the old military mule trail on which you have to turn at the church of St. Peter above the village of Zatolmin. CYCLING GUIDE 30 CYCLING GUIDE

Published by: LTO Sotočje and the Soča Valley Development Centre (PRC) I V. 6 Edited by: Peter Dakskobler Mt. Matajur Text: Peter Dakskobler Royal descent from the top of the Symbol of Translation: Andrej Božič (ANG) the Venetian Slovenia Photos: LTO Sotočje archive, LTO Bovec archive, TIC Brda archive, Two Wheel Travel archive, Slotrips.si archive, Enoteca di Cormons archive. Colli Orientali e Ramandolo; Claudio Costerni, Sebastjan Vehar, Fabio 1800 Mrzli vrh Ferrari, Željko Cimprič, Matevž Lenarčič, Srdjan Živulovič, Monika Silva, Peter Immich, Peter Dakskobler, Jan 1600 1400 Klavora, Tomi Kanalec, Sašo Pajer, Tine Zidarič, Boris Mrak, Boris Matjašec, Marko Munih, Robert Niedring, 1200 Mersin/Mersino Robert Zabukovec, Tyler Robertson. 1000 Print Design by: Premedia, Andrej Juvan 800 Printed by: Kartografija 600 Total edition: 30.000 copies 400 200 0 m Visit www.bike-alpeadria.com 0 km 10 20 30 This publication is available in Slovenian, Italian, English and .

Tolmin, December 2013

Start This demanding yet memorable connecting trail between Kobarid the town of Kobarid and the city of Cividale (Čedad) which leads across the top of mt. Matajur, the symbol of the Vene- Difficulty level tian Slovenia has been attracting even the most demand- ing mountain bikers for quite some time now. Its first part Length includes two separated ascents, of which the first, leading 37 km to the village of Livek, makes you really push hard, whilst the Tot. altitude difference second one which follows the forest road brings more joy For more infor- 1440 m since it is routed along the ridge of mt. Matajur. After crossing the former border, the road past the junction towards the mation visit the Duration mountain pastures of mt. Matajur slowly turns into an old interactive bicycle 4.5–5.5 h military mule trail leading to a top of a grassy mountain pass Surface with breath-taking views over the endless Friuli lowlands trails map and the Gulf of Trieste. At the same time, you cycle along the footsteps taken by the general Erwin Rommel during the at- www.bike-alpeadria.com asphalt macadam trail tack of his troops on the Italian military positions in the World War I. At the end of the ascent, you arrive to the high altitude mountain hut under mt. Matajur, but if you push your bicycle all the way to the chapel on the top of the mountain, you are Sights along the trail: rewarded with splendid views of the other - Alpine side. The – Kobarid Historical Trail descend along the trails to the village of San Pietro al Nati- – Idrsko Historical Trail sone (Špeter) is demanding, but certainly one of the finest – Chapel on the top of mt. for miles around. On the top of Matajur we look for path 725, Matajur which takes us in the direction of Stupizza (Štupica), and then – Slovenian Multimedial we keep to the left, towards mt. pasture Mersino, where we Rules of behaviour on Window museum SMO make a turn to Mersino Alto. We connect to the asphalt road – Old town centre of and, following a short ascent, we arrive to the mountain pass mountain trails Cividale Glevizza (Hlevišče), where we turn to path 749 in the direction of San Pietro. Observing the rules helps preserve nature and improve On the following junctions you simply follow the up-and- encounters with other people on the mountain: down route 749 leading past the church of St. San Giorgio which might make you step down from your bicycle on some 1. Ride only on designated routes and respect local barriers. of its sections. The trail then continues past the church of St. 2. Do not leave any trace. San Canziano and in its lower part allows several options to 3. Have control over your bike and regulate your speed. join the main road. It is worth to continue cycling all to the 4. Respect other visitors of nature – hikers come first. gravel road leading to the church in the centre of San Pietro al 5. Be considerate to animals. Natisone where you find yourself only a short section of the 6. Plan ahead. valley cycling connection trail away from your well-deserved 7. Do not ride your bike in muddy conditions. refreshment in the marvellous city of Cividale. Information and reservations

CIRCULAR CYCLING ROUTE

TIC Kobarid – LTO Sotočje TIC Kanal Trg svobode 16, SI – 5222 Kobarid Pionirska ulica 2, SI – 5213 Kanal T: + 386 (0)5 380 04 90 T: + 386 (0)5 398 12 13 E: [email protected] E: [email protected] www.visit-soca.com www.tic-kanal.si

TIC Tolmin – LTO Sotočje TIC Nova Gorica – Petra Skalarja 4, SI – 5220 Tolmin Turistična zveza T: + 386 (0)5 380 04 80 Delpinova ulica 18 b E: [email protected] SI – 5000 Nova Gorica www.visit-soca.com T: + 386 (0)5 330 46 00 E: [email protected] TIC Brda www.novagorica-turizem.com Grajska cesta 10 , SI – 5212 Dobrovo T: + 386 (0)5 395 95 94 Ufficio Informazione E: [email protected], www.brda.si e Accoglienza Turistica Turismo FVG Pro Loco Nediške INFOPOINT Gorizia Doline – Valli del Natisone Corso Italia 9, IT – 34170 Gorizia Via Alpe Adria 13/01, IT – 33049 T: + 39 (0)481 535764 San Pietro al Natisone (UD) E: [email protected] T: + 39 (0)349 3241168 www.turismofvg.it/Localita/Gorizia + 39 (0)339 8403196 E: [email protected] Servizio di Informazione ed www.vallidelnatisone.eu Accoglienza Turistica del di Cividale del Friuli Consorzio Tutela Vini Friuli Colli INFORMACITTÀ Orientali e Ramandolo Palazzo ex Monte di Pietà - piazza Piazza XXVII Maggio n. 23, P. Diacono 10, IT – 33043 Cividale IT – 33040 Corno di Rosazzo (UD) del Friuli (UD) T: + 39 (0)432 730129, T: + 39 (0)432 710460 F: + 39 (0)432 702924 E: [email protected] E: [email protected] www.cividale.net www.colliorientali.com

TIC Bovec – LTO Bovec TIC Cerkno – LTO Laufar Trg golobarskih žrtev 8 Močnikova 2 , SI – 5282 Cerkno SI – 5230 Bovec T: + 386 (0)5 373 46 45 T: + 386 (0)5 384 19 19 E: [email protected] E: [email protected] www.turizem-cerkno.si www.bovec.si TIC Ajdovščina TIC Idrija Cesta IV. Prekomorske 61a Mestni trg 2, SI – 5280 Idrija SI – 5270 Ajdovščina T: + 386 (0)5 37 43 916 T: + 386 (0)5 36 59 140 E: [email protected] E: [email protected] www.visit-idrija.si www.tic-ajdovscina.si

In cooperation with

Bike Alpe Adria

Partners: Občina Tolmin • Občina Kobarid • Partners: Razvojna agencija ROD • Regionalni razvojni center Občina Bovec • Občina Kanal ob Soči • Mestna Koper • RRA severne Primorske d.o.o. Nova Gorica • Posoški občina Nova Gorica • Občina Brda • Lokalna razvojni center • Območna razvojna agencija Krasa in Brkinov • turistična organizacija LTO Sotočje Kobarid Gospodarska zbornica Slovenije • Območna zbornica za severno - Tolmin • Direkcija Republike Slovenije za Primorsko • Obrtno-podjetniška zbornica Slovenije • Slovensko ceste • Comune di Cividale del Friuli (UD) • Deželno Gospodarsko Združenje • INFORMEST – Centro di Servizi Comunità Montana Valli del Natisone e Documentazione per la Cooperazione Economica Internazionale e Collio (FVG) • Comune di San Pietro al • Confederazione nazionale artigianato e piccola e media impresa Natisone • Comune di Pulfero • Comune di del Veneto – CNA Veneto • Confcommercio della provincia di Corno di Rosazzo • Consorzio tutela vini “Colli Trieste • Confartigianato Imprese – Federazione Orientali del Friuli” e “Ramandolo” Regionale Artigiani Piccole e Medie Imprese del Friuli Venezia Giulia • E.I.N.E. – Enti Industrializzazione Nord Est • S.I.PRO. Agenzia Provinciale per lo sviluppo S.p.A.

Projekta Bimobis in iCON sofinancirana v okviru Programa čezmejnega sodelovanja Slovenija-Italija 2007-2013 iz sredstev Evropskega sklada za regionalni razvoj in nacionalnih sredstev. Progetti Bimobis e iCON finanziati nell’ambito del Programma per la Cooperazione Transfrontaliera Italia-Slovenia 2007- 2013, dal Fondo europeo di sviluppo regionale e dai fondi nazionali.

REPUBLIKA SLOVENIJA REPUBLICA ITALIANA MINISTRSTVO ZA GOSPODARSKI MINISTERO DELL’ECONOMIA RAZVOJ IN TEHNOLOGIJO E DELLE FINANZE