By Bike

Day 4 – Bled to Bovec.

Here we are camped near the Soča River in the heart of the Julian Alps. Towering mountains surround us on all sides. Nearby is Triglav National Park, a wonderland of forests, deeply carved valleys, alpine pastures, jagged peaks, rocky outcrops and crystal clear waters flowing into many rivers, lakes and streams. Home to wolf, bear and lynx, and many endemic plants. A paradise for outdoor adventurers.

Sam and I set out early as usual in cool, moist conditions after another spectacular evening storm. Our first stop is Lake Bohinj, a beautiful lake just inside the park border on its south-eastern side. The sky is clear except for a single cloud that hovers over the lake. A bit too early for a dip, Sue and Liz go for a delicious swim here later on.

Our first big climb of the trip is the 13km Bohinjska Bistrica to Bohinjsko Sedlo category 1 climb, at an average incline of 6% and a maximum 13%, meaning hot and hard work!

On our descent though we’re treated to a beautiful vista of rolling hills and mountains that in winter would make ideal cross-country skiing terrain.

The remainder of the trip was hot. Really hot. 38°C hot. Luckily we found a public fountain along our path where we could cool down.

Today we saw more cyclists than we have in the whole time we’ve been here. Everywhere there were cyclists – lycra speedsters to heavily laden bike tourers, families, groups, e-bikers… So inspiring.

And beautiful limestone gorges along the Soča River.

At last! Our camp…

According to Garmin