Mangart

Mangart cycling delivers an unforgettable journey through the Julian Alps, straddling the border between Italy and Slovenia, with a start in the charming village of Strmec. Having cycled this climb, the experience is etched with vivid impressions. The road up is narrow, winding its way to the base of Mangart, with surprisingly light traffic—mostly sports cars and hikers, adding a quiet intensity to the ride. The ascent is relentlessly steep, with numerous sections testing your legs, yet the reward is an enormous, idyllic climb that feels both punishing and serene.

As you near the top, the route takes a dramatic turn, with the road crisscrossing itself through tunnels creating a thrilling, if slightly disorienting, finale. The summit, however, feels like a bit of an anticlimax; the road simply stops, but the view opens up to an overwhelmingly stunning panorama of the surrounding peaks. The 5-kilometer-long Loška stena Wall, Slovenia’s largest mountain wall, looms majestically alongside other 2,000-meter-high summits, framing a natural amphitheater above the deep Loška Koritnica Valley. On clear days, the vistas extend to the Fusine lakes, enhancing the ride’s visual feast.

A stop at the mountain hut on Mangart Pass, if open, offers a welcome respite to soak in the alpine scenery before the exhilarating descent back to Strmec. The winding road down is a well-deserved reward, showcasing the region’s spectacular landscape. For those eager to explore more Slovenian cycling routes, theSlovenia Travel Guide provides additional resources.

Mangart cycling is more than a physical challenge—it’s an immersive dive into the Julian Alps’ majestic terrain. Whether you’re a dedicated cyclist or seeking a unique adventure, this route blends rugged beauty with a demanding climb, leaving a lasting impression.