A Must-Ride Route for Road Cyclists Visiting Slovenia

If you're a road cyclist visiting Slovenia, there's a high chance you've heard of the legendary Mangart Saddle and Vršič Pass. These two climbs offer some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Julian Alps and are a must-do for any rider seeking a challenge. However, our experience on this ride taught us a valuable lesson: pacing and fueling are everything.

The Route: Kranjska Gora – Mangart Saddle – Vršič Pass

Distance: ~110 km
Elevation Gain: ~3,000 m
Notable Climbs: Mangart Saddle (2,072 m), Vršič Pass (1,611 m)
Best Season: Late spring to early autumn (June – September)
Starting Point: Kranjska Gora
Surface: Paved road, but sections may have rough patches

The Ride Begins: Fresh Legs and High Spirits

We rolled out from Kranjska Gora, a picturesque alpine town famous for skiing in the winter and cycling in the summer. The morning air was crisp, and the excitement was high as we made our way toward Mangart Saddle, Slovenia’s highest paved road.

The first few kilometers were smooth, and the gentle gradients lulled us into a false sense of security. Fueled by adrenaline, we pushed too hard too soon—a rookie mistake that would cost us later.

Climbing Mangart: A Stunning but Brutal Ascent

As we ascended Mangart Saddle, the landscape transformed into an alpine wonderland. The switchbacks carved into the cliffs offered dramatic views of the surrounding mountains, making every pedal stroke feel like a dream… until reality hit.

What Makes Mangart Saddle Special?

Length: 12 km
Average Gradient: 9%
Max Gradient: 14%
Tunnels: Several dark, narrow tunnels – bring lights!
Scenery: Simply breathtaking, one of the best in Europe

Halfway up, the early effort started to take its toll but I thought it wasn't a big deal since I tryed to pace - thats the word "I tryed". We reached the top, the spectacular views almost made us forget how drained we were—almost.

The Mistake: Poor Fueling Strategy

We spent some time at the summit, taking in the panoramic views of the Julian Alps. However, we made a critical mistake: we didn't refuel properly. A couple of bars and a quick sip of electrolytes weren’t enough to replenish what we had burned on the climb.

The Descent & The Reality Check on Vršič Pass

The descent from Mangart was exhilarating. Semi smooth tarmac, fast corners, and stunning scenery made it one of the best downhills I’ve ever ridden. But the real challenge was still ahead—Vršič Pass.

Vršič is the highest mountain pass in Slovenia, with 50 hairpin turns (24 on the northern side, 26 on the southern). Climbing it after Mangart was a brutal wake-up call.

What Makes Vršič Pass a Tough Climb?

Length: 9 km
Average Gradient: 8%
Max Gradient: 12%
Cobbled Hairpins: The northern side has cobbled switchbacks – be prepared!

We were going to hard on the "flat" to Vrsic pass. By the time we hit the base of Vršič, I was in a false pretence that I felt strong and first couple of kilometers flew by. Then reality hit I was completely empty. My legs were heavy, my energy was gone, and every pedal stroke felt like a battle. The lack of proper fueling after Mangart had left me in the dreaded bonk zone.

The climb felt endless. Each switchback was a test of willpower, and the cobbled sections didn’t help. But we pushed on, grinding our way to the top, driven by sheer determination (and the thought of a cold drink at the summit). My time was twice as long as my best time.

The Final Lesson: Always Pace & Fuel Smartly

Reaching the top of Vršič Pass felt like a victory, but it was a painful one. If there’s one thing I learned from this ride, it’s this:

Pace yourself. Mangart is long and steep—going too hard early will cost you later.
Fuel properly. A couple of energy bars are not enough for a ride like this. Plan for real food and hydration stops.
Be ready for changing weather. Even in summer, the weather in the Alps can change quickly—bring a windproof layer.

Would I Do It Again? Absolutely!

Despite the suffering, this ride was one of the most epic days I’ve had on the bike. If you're visiting Slovenia and looking for a bucket-list cycling route, Mangart Saddle and Vršič Pass should be at the top of your list.

So next time you ride in the Alps, remember: pace smart, fuel wisely, and enjoy the incredible roads Slovenia has to offer! 🚴‍♂️🇸🇮

Have you tackled Mangart or Vršič? Share your experience in the comments!

Top Tip: Lake Jasna in Kranjska Gora is cold AF but for a cyclists adfter a ride like this, feels like a breath of fresh air!

#CyclingSlovenia #RoadCycling #MangartSaddle #VrsicPass #JulianAlps #CyclingLife