Slovenian classic with two highest climbs. And snow. And views. And cramps.
This year we went for an autumn vacation to Kranjska Gora. The weather forecast was snow in the mountains for the weekend. We went anyway. After two days of rain and snow, here comes the sun behind our beautiful slovenian mountains with tops covered in snow. It was picture perfect. It looked like the weather would be nice for three days. We were hiking around for two days, then I took this cycling route called Slovenian classic.
I started in Kranjska Gora and the first task was Vrsic pass. Nine kilometers of ascent with 25 legendary serpentines to the top with exceptional views and fresh snow that fell the day before.
This is not the only ascent on this route, so I had to ride it very carefully and save energy. After a short break at the top, a descent towards Trenta followed. The way to Bovec was down the winding road all the time. I stopped there for a short coffee break and headed towards Log pod Mangartom.
From Bovec to Log, the ride was not so hard, but it was going up all the time. Just right to warm up my legs for the final climb.
Here, the slope really stands upright. The climb to Mangartsko sedlo, the highest asphalt road in Slovenia begins. This ascent is quite difficult and 18 kilometers long. There are some parts the slope is more than 15 percent.
Then the real fun began. Dark tunnels, melting water, snow, fatigue and amazing scenery.
Welcome to magnificent route of Mangart!
Welcome to Slovenia!
I couldn't get to the top because there was an avalanche across the road. I was missing another kilometer or two but I was already treading on the snow and I no longer had the will to walk to the top.
Anyway, it was AMAZING!
I will let the pictures tell the rest.
The last part was a demanding descent towards Predel, further to Tarvisio, Italy and with cramps slowly back to Kranjska Gora.
This was one of the most picturesque cycling days ever.