After a long rainy period and rather cold weather for this time of year, the sun finally shone again and the real summer turning point arrived. Temperatures soared and summer feelings quickly came to the surface. My son had a tournament on Sunday morning, so my wife and I had the morning free. We decided to spend that pleasant Sunday morning on the bike. We didn't have time to go somewhere far, so we chose a cycle route in our neighbourhood. And this is also one of the most beautiful and picturesque cycling routes in Slovenia, which took us through the beautiful nature along the Soca River.
The start of the cycle route is in Nova Gorica, or more precisely in Solkan, a town adjacent to Nova Gorica in western Slovenia. The cycling route along the Soca River between Solkan and Plave runs right next to the Soca River. It is just over 9 kilometres long in one direction and runs along the right bank of the Soca River. The path is well-maintained and safe, so you can relax and enjoy the beautiful views of the Soca River and the surrounding mountains.
The trail is easy and therefore suitable for all ages, fitness levels and families with children. The trail is mainly flat, with small ups and downs. Construction started at the end of 2013 and was delayed until 2016 due to the unfavourable and unpredictable geological conditions on the route. The cycle path was officially opened in 2016, when it was fully asphalted and landscaped. A wooden fence was erected to protect us cyclists from accidentally riding into the river 😊 The path runs along the railway line connecting the towns of Nova Gorica and Jesenice. It is part of a European project and was built with European funding.
We started cycling from our home. We cycled to Solkan, where we crossed the Solkan Bridge, and descended to the cycle path along the Soca River, considered by many to be one of the most beautiful rivers in the world.
I have cycled here many times, and I can even say that it is one of my favourite cycling routes, because of its proximity to my home and, of course, above all because of its beauty. As it runs mostly under the slopes of the Sabotin hill, it offers pleasant cycling in the shade, even in summer.
After a few kilometres, you reach a narrow tunnel where a cycle path runs under the railway. Caution is needed here. There is a steep ramp in front of the tunnel, suitable only for experienced cyclists. For others, there are steps to carry the bike. There are no such obstacles further along the route.
As I have already mentioned, our cycle path runs along the railway line connecting Nova Gorica with Jesenice. This railway line was built between 1900 and 1906 as a link between central Europe and the Adriatic Sea, running from Prague to Trieste. It is still in use today, as witness the train I shot as it came past us. Unfortunately, I was not lucky enough to take a picture of the steam train that carries tourists between Bled and Nova Gorica in the summer season.
The whole time we were cycling we could enjoy the view of the Soca River. Although I must admit that the Soca River is more beautiful in its upper reaches, it is also a feast for the eyes here. I really feel that it is like a magnet that attracts our eyes, which cannot be distracted from its beauty.
This is also evidenced by the photos below, which I took towards the end of the route. My wife and I took a 10-minute break before cycling home. We stopped in the shade by the river, took a breather and enjoyed this picturesque view of the Soca River and its unspoilt green surroundings. Simply beautiful and a real balm for the soul. And above all, super relaxing!
There are also rest areas along the way with tables, benches and drinking water if you want to rest more comfortably.
On our way back home we made a small detour. We didn't turn off the Solkan Bridge, where we joined the cycle path at the beginning of our route, but continued straight on, towards the Italian border. A few metres before the border, we turned right and descended towards a new footbridge, where we crossed the Soca River again. The Soca was quite watery and wild, which is not unusual after almost three weeks of rain. After all, this is also the kayaking course for the World Youth Cup.
Cycling between Solkan and Plavany offers a great way to keep fit and healthy. In the fresh air and beautiful nature, we feel refreshed and energised. Whether cycling alone or in company, you are sure to create unforgettable memories and return to this wonderful route again and again. At least that's how it is for me!
Thanks for reading,
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Best regards, 
