13 cycling routes of Bela Krajina

Bela Krajina, or White Carniola, is the south-eastern corner of Slovenia, a land of gentle hills, wide valleys and the warm Kolpa river, which forms the border with Croatia. It is one of the least visited regions of the country, and for cyclists that is an advantage: roads are quiet, villages are small and traffic is light, and the pace of life suits a relaxed ride. The name refers to the white bark of the birch trees that grow throughout the region, and birch woods with bracken and eagle fern are among its characteristic sights.

The network of thirteen marked cycling routes covers the main parts of the region and offers rides for a range of abilities. Some are short loops suitable for families, running along flat valley roads between villages, while others are longer and cross the hills, with climbs and descents and long views over the countryside. They pass through wine villages, past old churches and farmsteads, and along the Kolpa, where gravel banks make attractive places to swim in summer, as the river is among the warmest in Slovenia. Routes link towns such as Metlika, Črnomelj and Semič, and the Kolpa Landscape Park, which protects the river valley and its forests, is a natural highlight.

A longer route called Via Bela Krajina links many of the region's key attractions on a circuit through the region, for those who want to ride for several days. On the way, riders can see places that bring local history to life, such as Črnomelj, where the Jurjevanje festival is held each spring, and Vinica, birthplace of the poet Oton Župančič, with its Župančič homestead. Shorter loops go to natural features such as the Divji Potok stream and a birch forest with eagle fern. The Lahinja Regional Park, with its meandering karst river, offers quiet riding, and the Šokčev Dvor in Žuniči shows a traditional farmstead.

Cycling is also a good way to sample the region's food and wine. Small producers sell honey, pumpkin-seed oil from Oljarna Pekarič and wine, and Local Honey Producers welcome visitors, while the Community Vineyard Cottage of Drašiči is a pleasant stop in the hills. The region also has 25 marked hiking trails for those who want to combine cycling with walking. The routes are free to use and can be ridden throughout the year, though spring and autumn are most comfortable. Maps and information are available from tourist offices, and bikes can be rented in some towns.