BELA KRAJINA REGION:
WINE & WILDERNESS
ALONG THE RIVER KOLPA
OVERVIEW
BELA KRAJINA REGION
Bela krajina is a region in the southeastern part of Slovenia, ruled by a karst landscape covered with a dense virgin forest, with the crystal clear and warm River Kolpa known as 'the longest Slovenian riviera'.
The region is known for its protected landscapes, rafting down the Kolpa, and keeping old traditions alive with numerous unique festivals and events. Quite a few of these celebrate the top-quality wines produced on the hills encircling Bela krajina.
A weekend tour (with 2 circular routes) is a good start to get the feel of this part of Slovenia.
Podzemelj - Metlika - Semič - Krupa - Podzemelj
Podzemelj - Vinica - Lahinja - Črnomelj - Podzemelj
TIME
2-4 days
April - October
LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY
3/5
rolling, hilly terrain
Suitable for all types of cyclists
SURFACE
80 % paved
20 % gravel
BICYCLE
A hybrid bike
A mountain bike
TAKE WITH YOU
A spare inner tube
A puncture kit
Water
THE BLUE ROUTE
Podzemelj - Metlika - Semič - Krupa - Podzemelj
The route (marked blue on the map) is not signposted, although there are signs leading to some of the sights which can help you along the way.
It runs for 36 km (22 miles).
It includes 300 m (984 ft) of elevation gain.
THE GREEN ROUTE
Podzemelj - Vinica - Lahinja - Črnomelj - Podzemelj
The route (marked green on the map) is not signposted, although there are signs leading to some of the sights which can help you along the way.
It is 63 km long (39 miles).
The elevation gain is 360 m (1,181 ft).
