National Championship – more proof that Radol'ca is a paradise for road cyclists

Cycling isn't just an excellent form of exercise but also an opportunity to discover picturesque tourist destinations. Idyllic Radovljica is certainly one such destination, as it offers a wide range of cycling routes of various difficulty levels. Among the favourites is the climb up to Jamnik, which is popular among more experienced cyclists, whereas recreational cyclists and families enjoy cycling along macadam paths in the Radovljica countryside and the cycle routes to/from Bled. In addition to the numerous options, varied terrain and beautiful views, along the way there are also additional attractions, water fountains, restaurants and bars and accommodation, all of which is in the embrace of the wonderful varied landscape. It is precisely the latter that has long attracted cyclists of all types – from recreational cyclists to world famous names from the world of cycling who train and/or compete here – to cycle on the roads in the Radol'ca area. On 25th June 2023, for the second time, Radovljica will host the National Road Race Championship, which is confirmation that Radovljica's roads are ideal for this popular sport. The National Road Race Championship has been taking place every year since 1991 and is the most prestigious one-day cycle race in Slovenia. Among the competitors who will be trying this year to secure the title of National Champion are the stars of cycling Matej Mohorič and Tadej Pogačar – the latter will be competing for the first time after recovering from an injury sustained in Belgium.

The race will take place over a circular route with the start and finish in Vurnik Square in Radovljica. The length of one circuit is 19.7 kilometres with a height difference of 335 metres. Members of the elite category and those up to the age of 23 will have to cycle eight circuits, which means a total of 156.7 kilometres and 2,680 metres of altitude. The route does not differ much from that of 2019, when Radovljica last hosted the National Championship, which saw over 3,000 spectators turn out to cheer on the cyclists along the way.

ALONG THE COMPETITORS' ROUTE

The start and end of the route is in Vurnik Square, from where the cyclists will set off towards the countryside; first towards Zapuže, then through Mošnje and down to the Sava river valley, from where a few steep slopes await them before reaching picturesque Dobrava. Next comes a descent to the Lipnica valley and along the main road back to Radovljica. After descending to the Sava river, the cyclists will make the final climb, this time along Cesta svobode road and up the short, but exceptionally steep Kolodvorska ulica street before returning to Vurnik Square.

The first half of the route is reasonably flat and offers views of the Radovljica Plains, which are marked by meadows, orchards and fields, and from every point there are far-reaching views of the Julian Alps, with Slovenia's highest mountain – Triglav – and the magnificent Mt. Stol and the Karavanke range. After the descent to Globoko and crossing the bridge over the Sava river –  Slovenia's longest river – the flat route changes into varied terrain.

After crossing the Sava river, the second half of the route begins with a climb to Mišače and onwards over picturesque Dobrava in the Lipnica valley. The valley, which is named after the Lipnica stream, is known for its pristine nature and iron forging heritage. The latter has left its mark in the village of Kamna Gorica, which is on the route and which is crammed with characteristic features, including ironworkers' houses with carved green stone portals, narrow streets, water channels, small wooden bridges and windows with wrought iron shutters. From the village the route winds its way beneath the slopes of the Jelovica plateau, whose forest trails make it a favourite among mountain bike enthusiasts. The route then leads below Lipnica Castle before once again descending to reach the bridge over the Sava river from where it leads uphill towards the Radovljica railway station, which is located in close proximity to the old town centre of Radovljica. The highlights of the old town centre include magnificent medieval bourgeois houses, which are home to museums, handicraft workshops, excellent restaurants, cafes and the Radovljica Tourist Information Centre.

We invite you to try a circuit for yourself!