Alps and Adriatic

A few days of cycling brings the riders to Krakow, an amazing repository of monasteries, palaces and churches. This section continues after 2 well-deserved rest days in Poland’s ancient capital and heads south to begin the climb up and over Central Europe’s highest mountain range, the Tatras. At the top of the climb, the cyclist will cross the border into Slovakia, a country of hill side villages and fiery Slivovitz, a traditional plum brandy! The expedition now heads east across rolling hills to the country’s vibrant capital, Bratislava.

The route now heads into Slovenia. This tiny country has it all – spectacular scenery, fine local wine, historic towns and picturesque villages. The route takes them through the spa town of Moravske Toplice and Ptuj, the oldest city in the country, dipping down through the hills into Slovenia’s green capital, Ljubljana for a rest day before heading west towards Italy. This part of the route is very challenging. The tough climbs, however, are followed by some spectacular passes and epic downhills. The day into Venice is memorable as the riders trade their bikes for boats and enjoy a sightseeing trip into the city, marking the end of this scenic section.

Highlights

• Pierogies & Vodka
• Tatra mountains
• Slovenian countryside
• Venice