Slovenia: A Journey Through Cycling, Sports, History, and Nature

17.05.2022
4 min
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Il Tour of Italy continues its slow ascent up the boot and Sunday on blockhouse One of the first great battles of legs and mind of this Corsa Rosa has taken placeThis year's Giro will have two "outbursts" across the border: the first was the start in Hungary. The second, however, will take place during stage number 19, when the riders will battle it out in Slovenia, more precisely in the Isonzo valley.

Kobarid (Caporetto) is one of the symbolic cities of the First World War
Kobarid (Caporetto) is one of the symbolic cities of the First World War

A leap into history

The Giro caravan passing through these territories will pass through Kobarid (Caporetto), the city symbol of the Great WarA place that still holds the painful memory of one of the saddest pages of the recent past. Right on these hills, in particular on the Kolovrat, which will be a first-category GPM,the Transborder Museum opens, an open-air testimony of what the period of the First World War was like.

Among trenches, caves, caverns and artillery turrets, visitors will be able to immerse themselves in the most vivid memories. One of the most important museums dedicated to the events of the First World War has been open in Kobarid for a long time.Awarded and recognized as such both nationally and Europeanly. 

Soča Gorge, an enchanting place not far from Kobarid
Soča Gorge, an enchanting place not far from Kobarid

An immersion in nature

The Isonzo is a rather short river, measuring only 135 kilometers, rising in the Trenta Valley, in Slovenia, and flowing into the Gulf of Trieste. Although its route is short, it is rich in colors and landscapes that will leave you speechless.One of the places where the Isonzo reveals all its beauty is the Great Soca Gorge: a 750-meter long gorge where the rock has been smoothed over the centuries by the force of the water.

The river is also a destination for tourists who love the “active” holidaysIn fact, in its waters the most adventurous can try to tame the force of the Isonzo with their own kayaks. Trekking lovers can also find their own dimension here, the paths are accessible to everyone and well signposted.One of the most important is the “Path of Peace” which, at 520 kilometers, connects the Stelvio to the Marmolada, linking places and localities along the Italian-Austrian front of the Great War.

The 15-meter high Kozjak waterfall is located in the gorge of the stream of the same name.
The 15-meter high Kozjak waterfall is located in the gorge of the stream of the same name.

Sustainability Giro-E

The participants of the Giro-E will have the opportunity to pedal and discover the wonders of the Slovenian territoryDuring what will be the 16th stage of the first stage race dedicated to pedal-assisted vehicles, participants will set off from Kobarid and arrive at the Sanctuary of Castelmonte. This initiative fits perfectly with the lifestyle and philosophy of this area.In fact, Slovenia is at the forefront when it comes to sustainability and the “green” lifestyle of its cities. 

Ljubljana, the capital, was even awarded the title of Best European Destination 2022. Recognition achieved thanks to its many green areas and its attention to style and quality of life. A concept that extends throughout the country; Slovenia has been the "Green Heart of Europe" for years.

A territory of champions

Slovenia, with a population of just over 2 million, boasts a constantly growing sporting tradition. This theme is easily linked to sustainability; in fact, two-thirds of the Slovenian population participates in amateur sports.

Travel is an integral part of the life of these people and the possibilities, even from a territorial point of view, are infinite.While trekking and cycling reign supreme in summer, skiing is the most popular sport in winter.

To us cycling enthusiasts, When you put Slovenia and skiing together, the name Primoz Roglic comes to mind.. Another one related to the pedals is definitely that of Tadej Pogacar, winner of the last two Tour de France: the first was snatched in extremis from fellow countryman Roglic. In other sports, Slovenia also boasts some truly incredible talent, one of which is Luka Doncic, a basketball player who is currently putting on a spectacular show on the American court in the NBA Finals.