Bike Tour Reviews Dolomites to Trieste via Lake Bled at the Foot of the Julian Alps

★★★★★ (5/5) Christopher Schafer May 23, 2024

Wonderful cycle ride through 3 lovely countries

This was a great first bike tour. It's mostly flat and off road on paved bike trails without cars. I felt safe the entire time. Although I was a solo traveller, I met other cyclists that were on the same tour and staying at the same hotels as me which made my solo cycling tour all the more enjoyable. I highly recommend it.

What was the date of your tour?: May 2024
How many tours have you completed?: My first bike tour
Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?: As expected
Who is this tour suitable for?: First-time bike tourists, Solo travelers, Families with teens
Do you recommend this tour?: Yes

5/5 Value
5/5 Included meals
5/5 Bikes + equipment
5/5 Hotels or boat
5/5 Scenery
4/5 Ease of navigation
2/5 Tour documents
3/5 Local tour company services
4/5 Route selection

★★★★★ (5/5) Wilhelm Dannheimer 4 months ago

Well planned, supported and scenic trip

Gave the perfect balance between small towns, beautiful landscapes and technical terrain. A very well planned and supported tour. Thank you!

★★★★★ (5/5) Joseph Rinaudo 12 months ago

Beautiful scenery, very enjoyable trip

Excellent accomodation and breakfasts. Very responsive to sms. Excellent new bikes. Great staff. Marco and Neva went out of their way to ensure we had a great day when we transferred one wet day. No criticisms. Five stars in all areas. Thank you Bike Tours.

What was the date of your tour?: September 2024
How many tours have you completed?: Two
Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?: As expected
Who is this tour suitable for?: Solo travelers, Families with teens
Do you recommend this tour?: Yes

★★★★★ (5/5) Marcie Bushnelll October 2, 2024

So many amazing places, so little time . . .

Equipped with e-bikes, two panniers, one handlebar bag, a bike lock and a repair kit, we were ready to leave Toblach and head east. We had previously biked from Toblach to Lienz, so decided to take the train from San Candido to Lienz to save some mileage. The train in San Candido had steep narrow steps which we had to muscle the heavy e-bikes over, but in Lienz, the entry/departure is flat with the quais. From there is was a very pleasant ride to Oberdrauburg. Dinner at the Hotel Post was good (we were no longer on the dinner included plan) and bike storage was always in a covered area with outlets to charge the e-bikes (we carried the chargers in our panniers). The next morning we took a local bus (at the Oberdrauburg train/bus station) to the summit of the Gailberg Pass. From the bus window, I was glad we avoided the 7 km (4.2 miles) steep hairpin turn highway as it snaked it way to the summit. Arrived at Feistritz an der Gail at another Post Hotel where we enjoyed dinner and a good rest.
The next day we entered Slovenia and were pleasantly surprised at the quality of the bike paths, signage and bike refreshment places along the path. Again we opted to take the train from Jesenice to Bled to avoid some steep ascents, BUT the Slovenian regional trains are a sight to behold. Heavily graffitied and "vintage," we were thankful a young German exchange student helped us muscle the two e-bikes into an empty compartment at the back of the three wagon train. We purchased tickets for the ebikes on board (believe me when I say the trains may be old, but the ticket collectors are there for every single kilometer to collect bike fees, etc). Easier to get the bikes off than on, so when we arrived at Bled Jezero, we were relieved.
Cannot say enough good things about the Hotel Park and Bled. We opted for TWO nights and I would highly recommend consideration of same. Bled is just too beautiful to spend one short night. We reserved a wine tasting at a local restaurant (a ten minute walk from Hotel Park) and had reserved spots for the Vintgar Gorge the next morning. Easy to take the bikes to the entrance of Vintgar Gorge (again free parking). The 1 ½ hour hike in the Gorge is breath taking, but the 2 hour steep hike out (we didn't take a shuttle this time), was challenging.
Plans change and the train transfer turned into local partner taking the bikes/panniers/handlebar bag on a bike trailer and giving us tickets to a regional bus with instructions to get off at another train station 1+ hours away. Fortunately the train conductor was on the bus and assured us which station it was (everybody got off). Another couple got off two stops before us and a local rep made sure we gave him our luggage at that point. We got off at Kanal ob Soci for our ride into Gradisca d'Isonzo. We were high above the canal and it's a very industrialized zone. Perhaps the least scenic of all the days so far. At one point there was a ! sign with steps!! What? Yes, just around the corner was a series of steps and ramps to ascend a steep part of the trail. Figured out walk assist and managed to get the bikes up and over. That was a surprise.
There was some kind of HUGE market/celebration in progress with street blockages, tents, supply vans, etc. choking the streets of Gorizia. We counted ourselves lucky to have found our way out of this rather large metro area. Spent the night at Hotel Franz in Gradisca d'Isonzo and enjoyed a lovely meal at the hotel (seemed to be a local favorite).
Last day from Gradisca d'Isonzo was along the Coast highway. Had read reviews about traffic and such, but the bike lane was wide and the drivers respectful of cyclists. As we neared Trieste, more cars would be parked in the bike lanes, but we managed without incident. Upon arrival at the Trieste Centrale train station, we returned our bikes to a nearby partner location, emptied our panniers/handlebar bag into our backpacks and walked to our hotel near Trieste's pedestrian zone. Such a lively place come 7 p.m. Dined in a terrace cafe, had gelato, did some shopping and called it a successful tour. Thank you, Biketours.com for a great experience. SHOW MORE

What was the date of your tour?: September 2024
How many tours have you completed?: 10+
Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?: As expected
Who is this tour suitable for?: Solo travelers, Families with teens
Do you recommend this tour?: Yes

5/5 Value
5/5 Included meals
5/5 Bikes + equipment
5/5 Hotels or boat
5/5 Scenery
4/5 Ease of navigation
5/5 Tour documents
5/5 Local tour company services
4/5 Route selection

★★★★★ (5/5) Mary Eaman September 30, 2024

Everything was Perfect!

The itinerary was varied and beautiful, the hotels were charming and clean, the bikes were great, the support both pre trip and during the trip was fabulous. One of the best vacations ever. Thank you!

What was the date of your tour?: September 18, 2024
How many tours have you completed?: 3
Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?: As expected
Who is this tour suitable for?: First-time bike tourists, Solo travelers
Do you recommend this tour?: Yes

5/5 Value
5/5 Bikes + equipment
4/5 Hotels or boat
5/5 Scenery
5/5 Ease of navigation
5/5 Tour documents
5/5 Local tour company services
5/5 Route selection

★★★★★ (5/5) Bruce Muir 12 months ago

Cycling in heaven

Totally awesome riding with great navigation aids, awesome scenery and diversity of terrain, countryside, culture and cuisine

★★★★★ (5/5) Wendy Harris June 17, 2024

Stunning Scenery!

Almost the entire trip was on beautiful, well maintained bike trails. The scenery was spectacular during the entire ride and we loved riding from the Dolomite Mountains to the sea. The hotels were all very nice and the bikes were very comfortable. Everything was well organized and went smoothly. Great value too!

What was the date of your tour?: June 6, 2024
How many tours have you completed?: 4
Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?: As expected
Who is this tour suitable for?: First-time bike tourists, Solo travelers, Families with teens
Do you recommend this tour?: Yes

5/5 Value
5/5 Included meals
5/5 Bikes + equipment
5/5 Hotels or boat
5/5 Scenery
5/5 Ease of navigation
5/5 Tour documents
5/5 Local tour company services
5/5 Route selection

★★★★★ (5/5) Scott Reuben June 16, 2024

Amazing scenery biking through 3 countries

I have always wanted to see the Dolomites and this was the perfect tour to do so. We actually took a day before the tour started to stay in Cortina and hike. This will not disappoint you as the scenery is spectacular. Then we took a 30 minute bus to Toblach where we picked up our bikes and started the tour. Travelled through Italy, Austria and Slovenia. The food and accommodations were fabulous. The last day was a little disappointing traveling to Trieste as the route led us through some rather busy streets and on top of that it was raining. I would have preferred to take the train option. Otherwise the bike paths were fabulous.

What was the date of your tour?: June 2024
How many tours have you completed?: Perfect
Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?: As expected
Who is this tour suitable for?: Solo travelers, Families with teens
Do you recommend this tour?: Yes

5/5 Value
5/5 Included meals
5/5 Bikes + equipment
5/5 Hotels or boat
5/5 Scenery
4/5 Ease of navigation
4/5 Tour documents
5/5 Local tour company services
4/5 Route selection

★★★★★ (5/5) Harpa Sigmarsdóttir June 14, 2024

Amazing landscape

For the first three days you cycle in the beautiful Dolomites and Julian alps. The views are stunning. We only stayed one night at lake Bled, we started early in the morning so we were there at around noon so we had the whole day to explore. The next morning we took the train to Most na Soci and the trail that day was so beautiful and a lot different from the previous days. The last part of the trip, last cycling day, was very stressful because of traffic. I would prefer that the trip would end outside of Trieste, like in the village the day before cause you are riding on main road in high traffic so I didn’t enjoy the surroundings. Accommodations were all nice, very different but all nice. Loved hotel Franz in Gradisca- superb and the staff are amazing! Overall I’m very pleased with this trip and love exploring this way. Would recommend.

What was the date of your tour?: June 2024
How many tours have you completed?: 2
Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?: Somewhat easier
Who is this tour suitable for?: First-time bike tourists, Families with teens
Do you recommend this tour?: Yes

5/5 Value
5/5 Included meals
5/5 Bikes + equipment
4/5 Hotels or boat
5/5 Scenery
4/5 Ease of navigation
5/5 Tour documents
4/5 Local tour company services
4/5 Route selection

★★★★★ (5/5) Robin Jones May 24, 2024

What a beautiful trip!

Seeing the Dolomites was always something I had wanted to experience. Starting the trip in Dobbiacco Toblach allowed us to be close up and witness the beauty of this mountain range. The couple who provided us with our bikes the first day suggested riding to Cortina since the weather was perfectly sunny that day. We rode and were able to see the 3 Sisters and it was amazing! The first day of the trip which allowed us to see the Dolomites was sunny and warm despite earlier weather reports calling for rain. It could not have been a more perfect day for a ride.

We had rain for most of the following days but because it was the beginning day of the season we didn't go in expecting sunshine the entire time. Someone once told me, there are no bad days only bad gear. We had come prepared and did not regret it. Each village we stayed in was nice and the people we came in contact with were friendly and accommodating. The hotels, although many were quite simple, were comfortable and clean. The food in all establishments was good and exactly what we needed. We opted for e-bikes because of the hilly terrain and felt the bikes provided were good quality.

All in all, even in the rain it was a wonderful trip that was well planned out. We did not use the route maps the tour company provided rather we built our own in Strava. However, the people on the same tour who were using the app seemed quite happy. I'm so happy we chose this tour and look forward to many more.

What was the date of your tour?: May 2024
How many tours have you completed?: 2
Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?: As expected
Who is this tour suitable for?: First-time bike tourists, Solo travelers, Families with teens
Do you recommend this tour?: Yes

5/5 Value
4/5 Included meals
5/5 Bikes + equipment
4/5 Hotels or boat
5/5 Scenery
5/5 Ease of navigation
4/5 Tour documents
5/5 Local tour company services
4/5 Route selection

★★★★★ (5/5) Mark Lantz June 17, 2024

Beauty and culture all around

Amazing and beautiful trip. What a way to see the Dolomites. Loved our time in Bled. It was my 2nd trip and was every bit as good as the first.

What was the date of your tour?: June, 2024
How many tours have you completed?: 2
Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?: As expected
Do you recommend this tour?: Yes

5/5 Value
4/5 Included meals
5/5 Bikes + equipment
5/5 Hotels or boat
5/5 Scenery
5/5 Ease of navigation
5/5 Tour documents
5/5 Local tour company services
5/5 Route selection

★★★★★ (5/5) Christopher McAdam May 22, 2024

A great ride!!!

We loved all aspects of the ride. It was great to span 3 different countries. We were glad that we chose the 23 days in Bled, we had a fantastic free day there.

★★★★★ (5/5) Nathan Hale December 10, 2023

Beautiful!

This is a gorgeous route that really lets you see the changing terrain and cultures as you bike from the Dolomites down to the sea. It's gorgeous throughout, but the highlight is definitely Bled and we were glad to take the extra day there to explore some of what it has to offer.

What was the date of your tour?: June 2023
How many tours have you completed?: 2
Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?: As expected
Who is this tour suitable for?: Solo travelers, Families with teens
Do you recommend this tour?: Yes

5/5 Value
5/5 Included meals
4/5 Bikes + equipment
5/5 Hotels or boat
5/5 Scenery
5/5 Ease of navigation
5/5 Tour documents
4/5 Local tour company services
5/5 Route selection

★★★★★ (5/5) Gregory Lebo September 21, 2023

Awesome scenery!

This route is super scenic and the routing is easy enough to follow, especially in Northern Italy, Austria and Slovenia. The biking is easy although you may want an e-bike if you like to break away from the planned route to visit some castles along the way which are generally located at high points. The accomodations were all very nice and my luggage was reliably transported every day. It’s nice to let someone else plan the details while you concentrate on riding, taking photos, and enjoying the experience.

What was the date of your tour?: Aug 4-11 2023
How many tours have you completed?: 5
Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?: Somewhat easier
Who is this tour suitable for?: First-time bike tourists, Solo travelers, Families with teens
Do you recommend this tour?: Yes

5/5 Value
5/5 Included meals
4/5 Bikes + equipment
5/5 Hotels or boat
5/5 Scenery
4/5 Ease of navigation
5/5 Tour documents
5/5 Local tour company services
5/5 Route selection

★★★★★ (5/5) Cati September 20, 2023

Stunning, best way to travel

This was my first bike tour and, wow, it did not disappoint. Scenery from the get go was absolutely stunning. You traverse incredible border towns between Italy, Austria, and Slovenia on this entire tour, staying at lovely Inns and eating incredible food along the way. My only gripe was that the written directions were confusing at times (have given feedback) but I wouldn’t let this deter you.

What was the date of your tour?: September 2023
Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?: As expected
Who is this tour suitable for?: First-time bike tourists, Solo travelers, Families with teens
Do you recommend this tour?: Yes

5/5 Value
5/5 Included meals
4/5 Bikes + equipment
4/5 Hotels or boat
5/5 Scenery
3/5 Ease of navigation
3/5 Tour documents
2/5 Local tour company services
4/5 Route selection

★★★★★ (5/5) Karey Schoenfeld September 20, 2023

Great bike paths and scenery

The trip was great - it was a beautiful area. It was the first time we had used e-bikes, and the bikes we had were top notch. There were a few more hills than we expected, but we didn't mind with the e-bikes! The app we had for our tour was also excellent. We took the high road into Trieste to avoid the traffic, and was glad we did.

What was the date of your tour?: September 18, 2023
How many tours have you completed?: 15
Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?: Somewhat harder
Do you recommend this tour?: Yes

5/5 Value
5/5 Bikes + equipment
3/5 Hotels or boat
5/5 Scenery
5/5 Ease of navigation
4/5 Tour documents
5/5 Local tour company services
5/5 Route selection

★★★★★ (5/5) Zinta Harrington September 20, 2023

Magnificent and varied

This was our first biketour and I chose it carefully for our family of 2 adults and 2 teenagers. The route comfortable with bike paths for a good part of the way. It was exciting with 3 countries, long declines, forests, fields, Roman ruins, historic towns, fairytale Bled, majestic Trieste. The accomodation was charming and the food enticing. The support was excellent as our luggage arrived each day and the transfers were well organised.

What was the date of your tour?: September 2023
Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?: As expected
Who is this tour suitable for?: Families with teens
Do you recommend this tour?: Yes

4/5 Value
5/5 Included meals
4/5 Bikes + equipment
4/5 Hotels or boat
5/5 Scenery
4/5 Ease of navigation
5/5 Tour documents
5/5 Local tour company services

★★★★★ (5/5) Kim L. September 19, 2023

Adventure of a lifetime!

My husband and I did the self-guided tour with the extra day in Lake Bled. The logistics went smoothly. The e-bikes worked great. The accommodations were good and the scenery was stunning! We downloaded the app and were glad we brought a handlebar mount for a phone. We wish the trip was longer!

★★★★★ (5/5) Beatriz Battistella Nadas September 14, 2023

Great views, wonderful little cities

It was an excellent tour, the landscapes are stunning. The hotels are very good, with comfort and well-prepared breakfast.
The bicycles corresponded to the description, the transfers took place according to schedule.
Some stretches are a little long, on the second day's stretch for several kilometers there wasn't even a cafe or snack bar for a rest.
The day of departure from Bled has a very tight schedule, little time. The hotel has breakfast scheduled at 7:30 and we must be at the train station at 7:45, an impossible schedule to keep and, as breakfast is essential for the day's cycling, it was very bad.

What was the date of your tour?: September 2023
How many tours have you completed?: this is the 5th
Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?: As expected
Who is this tour suitable for?: Families with teens
Do you recommend this tour?: Yes

5/5 Value
5/5 Included meals
5/5 Bikes + equipment
5/5 Hotels or boat
5/5 Scenery
5/5 Ease of navigation
5/5 Tour documents

★★★★★ (5/5) Timothy Mulligan July 24, 2023

Amazingly good trip

This trip covers a lot of ground and a variety of spectacular scenery! My 4th bike trip and easily my favorite. We spent the extra day in Bled, which turned out to be a good decision and was a nice break after 3 days on the bikes.

What was the date of your tour?: June 2023
How many tours have you completed?: 4
Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?: As expected
Who is this tour suitable for?: Solo travelers, Families with teens
Do you recommend this tour?: Yes

5/5 Value
5/5 Included meals
5/5 Bikes + equipment
4/5 Hotels or boat
5/5 Scenery
4/5 Ease of navigation
4/5 Tour documents
5/5 Local tour company services
4/5 Route selection

Bike Tour Reviews Dolomites To Trieste Via Lake Bled At The Foot Of The Julian Alps