Call us biased, but Slovenia must be one of the most beautiful countries, and the Škofja Loka region is one of its most picturesque areas. The best way to experience the breathtaking views, pristine nature, kind folks, and delicate flavors is – you’ve guessed it – by bike!
The Hidden Hills Trail is a 240-kilometer-long circular route designed for e-bikes that connect four regions. We’ve picked four themed reasons why this might be one of the best bike trails in Slovenia.
The highest points of the Hidden Hills Trail
The 33 km (21 mi) long Stage 4 begins at the Soriška Planina Ski Resort (1550 m) and ends on Blegoš (1562 m), both peaks bookending the six-hour journey. It’s not the easiest section, but the effort is worth it. You’ll spot the Alps if the weather is fair, cycle through remote valleys with exciting histories, cross the border between Upper Carniola and The Littoral (which used to divide the Kingdom of Yugoslavia and Kingdom of Italy), soak in the freshest air and see mysterious villages that witnessed crucial moments of history. You’ll cruise, put the pedal to the metal, and, we’re sure of it, forget to breathe as you take in the vistas.
Forts and Cheese
Stage 6 of the Best bike trail in Slovenia – HHT is all about history and dairy. It’s 29 km (18 mi) long and more forgiving in terms of difficulty. It usually takes five hours to finish and shows you the historical line of WWII-era fortifications and weaponry designed to stop the Italian and German invasions. You’ll then ride through quiet villages and visit two expert cheesemakers. The cheese dairies Bogataj and Pustotnik are known for their farm-to-table products and centuries-old traditional methods. Since cheese also benefits cyclists, savoring it won’t be just a treat for your taste buds.
Five churches, five Instagramable spots
If you’re into the cultural heritage and beautiful houses of worship, the Hidden Hills Trail includes five charming churches. They’re not interesting just for their architecture but also for their unforgettable locations.
St. Oswald above Škofja Loka is a Late Gothic church known for its 16th-century frescoes and a view of the Karawanks in the North and the Ljubljana Marsh in the south. You’ll visit it during the seventh stage of the Hidden Hills Trail.
Our Lady of Sorrows on Bukov Vrh offers a lovely view of the Alps and the hills of Škofja Loka and Cerkno. Pilgrims used to visit it as a cure for headaches!
The Church of the Holy Cross on Križna Gora (literally The Cross Mount) is famous for its art, but mostly for the spectacular views of the Škofja Loka Hills and the Kamnik-Savinja Alps. Fun fact: the church has three golden altars!
The Three Kings Church offers an incredible view of the Alps, and if you look close enough, you might spot Triglav, Ratitovec, and Krn.
The Church of St. Thomas is the star of this list as it’s the most Instagrammed church in Slovenia. You’ll see why.
Dip your toes or go for a swim
Some of the Hidden Hills Trail stages offer excellent opportunities to cool down with a quick dip. Frolicking in water is possible near the beautiful Visoko Manor, in Praprotno and the thermal water of Kopačnica. Bring your swimsuit!
These are just a couple of highlights of the Hidden Hills Trail, but it’s just a beginning. Either you take the entire trail or cherry-pick the stages, you’ll experience tranquility and perhaps a moment of zen. See you!