1. Maraton Alpe – Slovenia’s Iconic Alpine Challenge

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Best for: Riders who want a Tour-style alpine test
Distance: approximately 130 km
Climbing: approximately 2,000 metres

Maraton Alpe is one of Slovenia’s most spectacular road cycling events, and it passes directly through the village of Luče, where Discovering Slovenia is located.

Why this event is special:

• Impressive alpine scenery

• Challenging climbs

• A real pro-race atmosphere without big-event crowds

Why stay with us:

• Shuttle service to/from the event

• Feed-zone support & mechanical assistance 

• Local knowledge

• Easy recon access to key parts of the course from Luče

Maraton Alpe is the ideal cycling event for riders who want big mountain landscapes together with authentic Slovenian culture and hospitality.

2. L'Étape Slovenia by Tour de France – Ride the Official Tour Series

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Best for: Riders wanting a professional, closed-road Tour de France experience

L’Étape Slovenia is part of the official Tour de France amateur series and attracts cyclists from all over Europe. Expect:

• Closed roads

• Big climbs

• Fast descents

• A pro-style riding experience

Why stay in Luče:

• Peaceful base before and after race day

• Shuttle service to/from the event

• Feed-zone support, bottles, nutrition etc
• Local knowledge

If you want to combine a cycling holiday in Slovenia with a full Tour-style sportive, L’Étape Slovenia is the perfect choice.

3. Maraton Franja – Slovenia’s Most Famous Gran Fondo (UCI World Championships Qualifying Event) 

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Best for: Big event lovers and those seeking Gran Fondo World Championships qualification

Maraton Franja is Slovenia’s most established road cycling event, with thousands of riders and multiple distance options. It’s a true celebration of Slovenian cycling culture.

Why cyclists love it:

• Great organisation

• Very fast course!

• Lots of atmosphere and support

Why Discovering Slovenia works well:

• Calm alpine base away from the city

• Shuttle to/from Ljubljana for the event

• Feed-zone support, bottles, nutrition etc
• Better training terrain than near Ljubljana

Combine a big event weekend with a relaxing mountain cycling break.

More Cycling Events in Slovenia

Between May and September, Slovenia hosts several smaller but excellent events:

• Local hill climb 'ascent races'

• Gran Fondos across Slovenia and Southern Austria

• Gravel & Bike Packing / Adventure Races

We can help you pick the perfect event based on your fitness, riding style, and travel dates.

Stay With Us: Event Support Packages for Riders & Groups

At Discovering Slovenia, we offer optional race-week support packages including:

✔ Start-line shuttle

✔ Feed-zone drops & on-course support

✔ Route briefings

✔ Mechanical assistance

✔ Optional coaching for pacing & race prep

✔ Training stays planned around your event

Perfect for:

• Solo riders

• Couples

• Small groups

Why Luče Is the Best Base for Slovenia’s Cycling Events

Luče is located in the Kamnik–Savinja Alps, giving you:

• Direct access to quiet alpine roads

• Beautiful climbs like Črnivec, Pavličevo Sedlo, Podvolovljek & Golte

• A peaceful, nature-rich environment ideal for recovery

• Easy access to event start lines across Slovenia

Our accommodation is designed for cyclists and athletes with:

• Secure bike storage

• Tools & maintenance kit

• Drying room & washing machine

• Multiple bedrooms & flexible group setup

• Large kitchen and living areas

• Eco-friendly heating & solar power