Читать книгу Mountain Biking in Slovenia. Julian Alps - Gorenjska and Soca Valley, South, Central and North East онлайн

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But what of the riding? Well, of course, it’s fabulous. The main regions all offer something different, catering for the competent beginner to the expert. The routes in this book reflect this diversity, although the majority are aimed at the fit and competent intermediate rider. Gorenjska provides possibly some of the most spectacular scenery in the country; it’s all high mountains and lush valleys and you’ll find that each day’s ride begins with a stiff climb that can be up to 7 or 8km in length in places. The climbs tend to be done on gravel forestry tracks and they lead to fabulous views. Then, of course, you can benefit from all that climbing with an extended downhill run. It is classic alpine cross-country riding: nothing too technical but some tough physical challenges with awesome pay-offs.

The Soča Valley is a little bit different. The magnificent turquoise river defines this region and the tone of the rides change as you head further downstream. Higher up, where the river is a turbulent, troublesome teenager, you’ll still get those long, high days out in the Alps with their tough climbs and long descents. As the river calms and begins to take its time, you’ll find that the rides become a little less physically demanding (although no less rewarding). As you leave the national park, you’ll also find a little more freedom in where you can ride and a few more singletrack descents will creep in. Wherever I’ve been able, however, I have routed the trails alongside this most beautiful of rivers so that the rider can enjoy the full Soča experience.