Compiled By Jill Weldon
Photos by Dannielle Amerongen
This report is a compilation of some the favorite moments of the Group.
Our cycling adventure through Slovenia proved an unforgettable experience, covering about 1,000 kilometres and ascending 12,000 meters—an elevation greater than Everest! Thank goodness many of us had electric bikes. Having packed for a hot European summer, the third day presented a challenge. Cold, torrential rain soaked us and all of Europe! In the little old town of Ptuj, we found refuge in a local cycling store, purchasing every warm and dry item available. All kitted out, we were on the road again the next day. The cycling routes challenged us with spectacular climbs – daunting Virsic mountain pass featuring 50 switchbacks, an ascent of 1,611 meters and with one grade of 18%. The reward was stunning views on the way down …. when we dared to look!
Our group was incredibly supportive, fostering a sense of friendship and camaraderie as we navigated the mountains and valleys, cycling in sunshine along the meandering road of the green Celje valley and the crystal clear turquoise water of the Soca River, around Lake Bled and eventually along the Adriatic Sea.
Beautiful medieval villages with their alpine-style houses, red tile rooftops and vibrant red flower boxes delivered unforgettable memories as we cycled through, with the church bells loudly ringing.
We witnessed families enjoying time together, teenagers walking arm in arm, and grandmothers sharing smiles with their granddaughters — and all without a cell phone in sight. Slovenia’s breathtaking landscapes were a highlight – winding rural roads often below the Julian alps, green fields with old hay-drying racks and colourful beehives, small villages with steepled churches on distant hillsides, lush forests – 60% of the country is covered in beech and oak forests, interspersed with conifers, all selectively harvested. We marvelled at Slovenia’s national treasure, the white Lipizzaner horses, bred and trained for the prestigious Spanish Riding School in Vienna.
Fabulous food and wine was much enjoyed throughout with standout ice cream sundaes in Kamnik, wine tasting in the cellar at our first hilltop night, Vuglec Greg, and an exceptional farewell dinner and stay at 350- year old Majerija House, perched among the vineyards and featuring local Vipava cuisine, wines and our last famous struklj dessert. The finale for some was a swim in the Adriatic where we floated like tops in that very salty water! Our tour leader, Alen, and his relatives welcomed us like family, making this journey even more special. The memories we created together in this stunning country will be long remembered. sLOVEnia!