Check into your hotel and then get out to explore this beautiful area. The glacial lake is ringed by green forested hills with an alpine backdrop. Bled Castle stands guard on a bluff overlooking the lake and the view from the terrace is well worth the 15 minute steep climb. You can also ask one of the boatmen to row you out to the charming island church in the centre of the lake where tradition states that if a groom can carry his bride up the 99 steps then the couple are assured of a happy life together.

The next morning you and your bikes are transferred up to the nearby Pokljuka plateau from where your first day’s ride will begin. After a lovely winding descent through pine forests you arrive in the stunning Bohinj valley. You’ll then cycle through a succession of tiny alpine hamlets set amidst verdant green meadows and overlooked by the towering granite peaks of the Triglav National Park. There’s very little traffic here and time appears to have stopped in a peaceful, more serene age. At the end of the valley you reach the large, deep Lake Bohinj that reflects the alpine grandeur that surrounds it. Here you’ll stop for the night in the charming little village of Ribčev Laz or a little further on, in the pleasant town of Bohinjska Bistrica. If you wish you can continue on around the lake to a waterfall and then take the cable car up Mount Vogel from where superb views across the Julian Alps can be enjoyed. In the evening we highly recommend sampling the locally made honey brandy in one of the cosy bars.

The day starts with another scenic cycle ride along the valley to the idyllic village of Bohinjska Bistrica. From here you can either take on the quite steep climb up the winding road to the Jelovica plateau or you can pre-book a transfer (€30 per person payable locally) and avoid this section. At the top you ride through a thick pine forest before dropping onto another beautiful and peaceful alpine valley. In the charming village of Sorica you can stop and learn about the famous Slovenien painter, Ivan Grohar, who was born here. Descending further down the scenic valley you reach Železniki, a historic iron smelting town that still proudly displays one of its original blast furnaces. Your destination today is the beautiful medieval town of Škofja Loka. If you still have some energy you could climb to the castle overlooking the old town. In the evening the ancient narrow streets are a delight to explore on foot.

Your final ride is the easiest as you leave the hills behind and enjoy fast, level cycling along a network of secondary roads towards Ljubljana. Once in the city, check into your hotel and then get out and explore this vibrant and attractive capital city. A stroll up to Ljubljana Castle is rewarded with commanding views over the city and in the evening why not indulge in a spot of people watching in the many bars, cafes and restaurants that line the riverbank. Ljubljana is a fun and lively city and a great place to end your Slovenian cycling adventure

After breakfast it’s time to check out and return home, or head off on your next adventure