Julian Alps: Upper Sava Valley
The Upper Sava Valley is a breathtaking alpine corridor where the jagged limestone peaks of the Julian Alps to the south meet the steep slopes of the Karavanke range to the north. The region is a glacial landscape carved by the Sava Dolinka River, which flows through lush larch forests and emerald meadows. Centered around the town of Kranjska Gora, the valley sits at a unique crossroads just a few kilometers from both the Italian and Austrian borders. To the west, the terrain transitions into the dramatic Planica Valley, a gateway to the high-mountain wilderness of Triglav National Park. The area is defined by a striking contrast between its accessible valley floor and its formidable mountain passes. A well-maintained path, built upon a former railway line, runs the length of the valley from Jesenice to the Italian border, offering panoramic views of the Mt. Špik group. For those seeking the high peaks, the valley serves as the base for the Vršic Pass, a remarkable feat of mountain engineering featuring 50 numbered hairpin turns—many of which still retain their original cobblestones. This blend of gentle riverside scenery and rugged, high-altitude terrain makes it one of the most visually diverse regions in the Eastern Alps.
Region: Jesenice
City: Kranjska Gora
Distance: 16.96 km
Elevation Gain: 123 m
Elevation Loss: 201 m
Difficulty: 82 (Easy)
FIETS Index: 0.19 FIETS
Avg Grade: -1.35 %
Max cat climb: 5
Min elevation: 717 m
Max elevation: 860 m
Ride Category: Flat