Slovenia: Wine & Wellness Cycling Escape

Welcome to Slovenia’s oldest city, Ptuj, a charming blend of history, culture and relaxation. Once you arrive, take time to explore this beautifully preserved town set along the Drava River. The magnificent Ptuj Castle dominates the skyline, offering panoramic views over the city’s red rooftops, vineyards and gently rolling countryside. Wander through the narrow cobbled streets, where small cafés, art galleries and wine bars invite you to pause and soak up the relaxed atmosphere.

Ptuj is a city steeped in history, with Roman roots and centuries of winemaking tradition. You can spend the afternoon visiting its local museums, or simply strolling by the riverbank. In the evening, unwind at the renowned Ptuj Thermal Spa, where warm, mineral-rich waters provide the perfect start to your wellness-focused holiday. This is your time to slow down, settle in, and prepare for the beautiful days of cycling ahead.

Your first full day of cycling begins along the scenic Drava Cycle Path, following the peaceful course of the river towards Maribor, Slovenia’s second-largest city and one of its most vibrant cultural hubs. The route offers a wonderful mix of countryside views, vineyards and charming villages, giving you a taste of Slovenian rural life.

When you reach Maribor, you’ll find yourself in a city that perfectly blends modern energy with deep-rooted tradition. Wander through the old town’s cobbled streets and squares, lined with colourful facades and inviting cafés. The highlight here is the world’s oldest grapevine, Stara trta, which still produces grapes after more than 400 years. It’s a fitting stop for wine lovers and a chance to sample a glass of the local Maribor white.

On your leisurely ride back to Ptuj, take time to stop at one of the family-run wineries scattered along the route. Many offer tastings or small local snacks, giving you an authentic insight into Slovenian hospitality. After a full day of scenic riding, relax once more at Ptuj’s thermal baths or enjoy a quiet evening meal in town.

Today’s ride takes you deeper into Slovenia’s countryside, weaving through a landscape of rolling fields, small vineyards and tranquil riverside villages. The route to Radenci is peaceful and moderately challenging, with a few gentle climbs rewarded by wide views across farmland and forested hills. Along the way, you’ll encounter locals tending their gardens and farms, and perhaps stop for lunch in a small village inn serving regional dishes.

The region you cycle through is known for its exceptional produce, including the famous pumpkin seed oil, which you’ll likely encounter in both salads and souvenirs. As you approach Radenci, the landscape begins to open up, and the relaxing rhythm of the spa town becomes apparent.

Radenci is world-renowned for its mineral-rich springs and spa heritage, dating back to the 19th century. Take advantage of the opportunity to relax in one of the wellness hotels or thermal pools. Whether you prefer a quiet swim, a massage, or simply resting among the surrounding parklands, this evening offers the perfect recovery after a satisfying day of exploration.

Today’s circular ride leads you along the Mur Cycle Path, one of the most beautiful routes in the region. You’ll cross into Austria to reach the spa town of Bad Radkersburg, passing through the Styrian volcanic region — a fascinating landscape shaped by centuries of geothermal activity. The route is mostly flat and peaceful, following the curves of the river through meadows and forests.

Bad Radkersburg itself is a delight to explore, with its baroque town centre, cobbled streets, and welcoming cafés. Take time to wander through the historic old town or sit by the main square to enjoy a coffee and pastry. For lunch, try a local restaurant or tavern offering Styrian specialities such as hearty soups, smoked meats and freshly baked bread. Wine lovers will want to sample the crisp Styrian white wines that have made the area famous.

The return journey to Radenci offers more scenic cycling through fertile fields and quiet lanes. Once back, enjoy another relaxing evening at the spa or perhaps a gentle walk through the town before dinner.

Today’s stage is one of the tour’s most memorable highlights. You’ll ride through the enchanting wine hills of Jeruzalem, an area renowned for its breathtaking beauty and rich viticultural history. The route unfolds across rolling hills, where terraced vineyards form graceful patterns across the landscape. Every turn reveals a new view — a church spire here, a farmhouse there, all surrounded by vines stretching into the distance.

The small pilgrimage village of Jeruzalem is your focal point today. The baroque church and nearby wine cellars evoke a deep sense of tranquillity, making it easy to understand why this area has become a favourite among wine enthusiasts. You’ll stop at a local winery to learn about traditional Slovenian winemaking and, of course, to taste a glass or two of the local vintage.

The day concludes in the vineyard village of Kog, where you’ll spend the night at a traditional winery. Dinner is included, allowing you to enjoy regional dishes and fine wines in a warm, rustic setting surrounded by vines. This evening truly captures the spirit of Slovenian hospitality.

This morning’s ride begins with sweeping views of the Jeruzalem hills before leading you toward the Croatian border. The terrain is a mix of gentle slopes and quiet roads that wind through farmland, vineyards and small chapels that seem to appear at every turn. You’ll cross briefly into the Medjimurje region of northern Croatia, where the countryside feels untouched and peaceful.

The roads here are lined with traditional kleti (wine huts), where you might stop for a short rest and sample a local wine. Returning to Slovenia, the landscape begins to change noticeably as you enter the Prekmurje region. The hills flatten out, giving way to open plains that make for easy, relaxing cycling.

Your destination, Moravske Toplice, is known for its unique black thermal mineral water and one of Slovenia’s best spa complexes, Terme 3000. After this cross-border cycling stage, you’ll have well-earned time to rest, unwind and enjoy the wellness facilities. Whether soaking in the thermal pools or treating yourself to a spa therapy, it’s the perfect way to close a rewarding day.

Your final cycling day takes you across another border, this time into neighbouring Hungary. The terrain remains mostly flat, making it an easy and enjoyable ride. Along the way, you’ll pass through small Hungarian villages where local crafts are still a part of everyday life. One of the highlights is visiting a local pottery workshop, where you can watch artisans at work and pick up handmade souvenirs.

As you return to Slovenia, stop by the Bukovnica Reservoir, a serene natural area surrounded by forest. It is said that the area contains dozens of energy points believed to have healing and soothing effects. Whether you believe in their power or simply enjoy the tranquillity, it’s a wonderful place to rest and reflect.

The ride back to Moravske Toplice is gentle and peaceful, giving you one last chance to appreciate the region’s natural beauty. In the evening, perhaps enjoy a farewell dinner and a final soak in the thermal pools before preparing for your journey home.