Five Best Cycling Routes in Slovenia: Explore the Ljubljana-Turjak-Bloško Jezero-Rakitna Loop

Slovenia’s varied landscapes, from rolling hills to pristine lakes and dense forests, make it a dream destination for road cyclists. Among the country's most beloved cycling routes is the Ljubljana-Turjak-Bloško Jezero-Rakitna Loop. This challenging and scenic 100-kilometer ride starts and ends in Slovenia’s vibrant capital, Ljubljana, offering an unforgettable journey through some of the most picturesque parts of the country.

In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at this incredible route, detailing the key climbs, stunning viewpoints, road conditions, and what you can expect as you pedal through Slovenia's countryside. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist planning your next adventure or simply looking for inspiration, this guide will help you prepare for one of the best rides in Slovenia.

1. Ljubljana-Turjak-Bloško Jezero-Rakitna Loop: Overview

• Starting Point: Ljubljana
• Distance: 100 kilometers
• Elevation Gain: 1,550 meters
• Difficulty: 8.5/10
• Best Time to Ride: Late spring to early autumn
• Key Highlights: Turjak Castle, Bloško Jezero (Bloke Lake), Rakitna Lake

This loop is a favorite among local cyclists, offering a perfect blend of challenging climbs, serene landscapes, and fast descents. The route begins in the heart of Ljubljana and takes you through the historic town of Turjak, past the tranquil Bloško Jezero, and up to Rakitna Lake before descending back into the city. It’s a route that tests your endurance and climbing skills, but rewards you with stunning views and a sense of accomplishment.

2. The Route Breakdown

Ljubljana to Turjak

• Description: Starting from Ljubljana, the route heads southeast towards Turjak, a small town known for its medieval castle. The first section of the ride is relatively flat, allowing you to warm up before the more challenging climbs ahead. The road gradually gains elevation as you leave the city behind and enter the rolling countryside. The climb to Turjak is moderate, with a few steeper sections, but nothing too demanding for experienced cyclists.
• Distance: ~25 kilometers
• Elevation Gain: ~300 meters
• Difficulty: Moderate; a good warm-up for the more difficult sections ahead
• Traffic: Low to moderate, especially on weekends
• Viewpoints: As you approach Turjak, you’ll be treated to views of the surrounding hills and forests. Turjak Castle, perched on a hill, is a notable landmark and a great spot to stop for a photo.

Turjak to Bloško Jezero (Bloke Lake)

• Description: After leaving Turjak, the route continues towards Bloško Jezero, a serene alpine lake nestled in the hills. This section of the ride is characterized by rolling terrain with a mix of short climbs and descents. The road winds through dense forests and open meadows, offering a peaceful and scenic ride. The climb to Bloško Jezero is steady but manageable, with gradients typically ranging between 4-7%.
• Distance: ~30 kilometers
• Elevation Gain: ~450 meters
• Difficulty: Moderate; the climbs are steady and the scenery is rewarding
• Traffic: Very low; mostly local traffic, making for a quiet ride
• Viewpoints: Bloško Jezero is the highlight of this section. The lake is surrounded by lush greenery and is a perfect spot for a quick rest or a snack. The tranquility of the area makes it a popular spot for nature lovers and cyclists alike.

Bloško Jezero to Rakitna

• Description: From Bloško Jezero, the route continues towards Rakitna, with the road gradually climbing through more forested areas. This part of the loop is more challenging, with a longer and steeper climb that will test your endurance, especially if you’ve already covered a significant distance. The road remains quiet and well-paved, allowing you to focus on the climb without worrying about traffic. The approach to Rakitna is particularly scenic, with the forest giving way to open views as you near the lake.
• Distance: ~30 kilometers
• Elevation Gain: ~650 meters
• Difficulty: High; the climb is long and steep in sections, requiring strong legs and stamina
• Traffic: Low; you’ll encounter few vehicles, making this a peaceful climb
• Viewpoints: The climb to Rakitna offers limited views due to the dense forest, but the reward comes at the top. Rakitna Lake is a stunning alpine lake surrounded by mountains and forests, providing a picturesque setting to catch your breath. The area around the lake is perfect for a rest stop, with benches and plenty of spots to enjoy the view.

The Rakitna Climb and Descent to Ljubljana

• Description: The final climb to Rakitna is a cyclist’s dream, especially if tackled at the end of the ride. After reaching the lake, you’re rewarded with a beautiful descent back to Ljubljana. This descent is fast and exhilarating, with smooth tarmac and sweeping bends that make for a thrilling ride. The road flattens out as you approach the city, providing a relaxing finish to the day.
• Distance: ~30 kilometers
• Elevation Gain: ~150 meters (before descending)
• Difficulty: Moderate; the climb to Rakitna is challenging, but the descent is a great reward
• Traffic: Low to moderate; more traffic as you near Ljubljana, but still manageable
• Viewpoints: The descent offers breathtaking views of the valleys and mountains. As you descend, you’ll see Ljubljana’s skyline emerge in the distance, signaling the end of a great day of cycling.

3. Road Conditions and Traffic Levels

Road Conditions

The roads along this loop are generally in excellent condition, with well-maintained surfaces that are a joy to ride on. The climbs are particularly well-paved, and the descents are smooth and fast. There may be some rough patches near the lakes, but they are few and far between, ensuring a mostly seamless ride.

Traffic Levels

Traffic is generally low on this route, especially in the rural sections between Turjak and Rakitna. The roads are primarily used by locals and other cyclists, making for a peaceful ride. Traffic increases slightly as you approach Ljubljana, but it remains manageable, particularly if you time your ride to avoid peak hours.

4. Best Time to Ride and What to Pack

Best Time to Ride

The ideal time to tackle the Ljubljana-Turjak-Bloško Jezero-Rakitna Loop is from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During this period, the weather is mild and the roads are free of snow. Summer offers the warmest conditions, but early mornings or late afternoons are recommended to avoid the heat, especially on the climbs.

What to Pack

• Water and Snacks: Given the length and difficulty of the ride, it’s essential to stay hydrated and fueled. Carry enough water and snacks, as there are few places to refill or buy supplies along the route.
• Weather-Appropriate Clothing: The weather in Slovenia’s hills can change quickly, so it’s wise to pack a light rain jacket and arm warmers. Even in summer, the higher elevations can be cooler, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.
• Basic Repair Kit: Flats and mechanical issues are rare on these well-maintained roads, but it’s always a good idea to carry a spare tube, tire levers, and a pump.

5. Why This Route Should Be on Your List

The Ljubljana-Turjak-Bloško Jezero-Rakitna Loop is a must-ride for any serious cyclist visiting Slovenia. It offers a perfect combination of challenging climbs, beautiful scenery, and fast descents, all within easy reach of the capital. The route’s quiet roads and stunning landscapes make it a favorite among local cyclists, and its accessibility from Ljubljana makes it an excellent choice for visitors.

Whether you’re looking to push your limits on the climbs or simply enjoy a day out in the Slovenian countryside, this loop has something to offer. From the historic Turjak Castle to the tranquil Bloško Jezero and the exhilarating descent from Rakitna, every part of this route is designed to showcase the best of Slovenia’s natural beauty.

So, load up the GPX file, prepare your bike, and get ready to experience one of Slovenia’s top cycling routes. It’s a ride you won’t forget.