Adventures between Heaven and Earth
An active getaway to the Vipava Valley and Gemona
Welcome to the paradise valley for active people! The Vipava Valley is famous as a winegrowing region with the greatest range of outdoor activities in this part of Europe. The destination is particularly known for its excellent conditions for paragliding, attracting pilots all year round. In cooperation with paragliding clubs and tourist organizations from the area around the Italian town of Gemona, it offers even more opportunities for active leisure in pristine nature and for exploring the diversity of the two regions.
Unforgettable outdoor experiences
Have you come to cycle, try out hundreds of hiking trails, or enjoy excellent trail running routes? In the Vipava Valley you can do it all, literally all year round. Does the sight of colourful parachutes in the sky tease excitement? Make your wish come true! In tandem with a seasoned pilot you can fly across the sky, or try a proper hike & fly adventure. At the newly opened Lijak Green Information Center, just below the popular Lijak takeoff site, you can get all the information you need and book a flight. Your companions, who may prefer to remain on solid ground, can experience a virtual paragliding flight from three different takeoff points, including one above Gemona in Italy. When you are done paragliding in the skies above the Vipava Valley, you can also go for tandem paragliding or hike & fly adventures above the countryside around Gemona, which is only an hour's drive away.
Sporty vacations: more days, more fun
Just one look at the verdant and colourful landscape will convince you this is a paradise for seekers of active living. High plateaus rise above the Vipava Valley on one side, while pleasant vine-covered hills surround it on the other. Diverse cycling and hiking trails lead in all directions. Which one to choose? Browse the Vipava Valley Outdoor web app, showcasing almost 100 different trails. That's why you should stay a day longer and experience the authentic countryside vibe, find the most beautiful views, and take the time to see the sights. In the countryside accommodations, the locals will pamper you with their hospitality and provide tips for discovering lesser-known trails. If you decide to also explore the surroundings of Gemona, don't miss the numerous trails between Gemona, Venzone, Bordano, and Montenars, as well as the gravel roads along the Tagliamento River where you can cycle carefree. Water sports on the most scenic parts of the local rivers and lakes offer a great deal of fun. At both destinations, you can rent a bike and cycle the countryside with an experienced guide.
Cycling between the local attractions
The best way to discover the Vipava Valley and its attractions is by bike. Embark on a cycling trip among the castles and forts of the upper Vipava Valley. From the Lanthieri Mansion in the town Vipava, you will ride through old villages to the mighty medieval Rihemberk Castle, and then onward to Ajdovščina where you can see the remains of the ancient Roman fortress Castra. On the other side of the valley, you can choose a more challenging route to Mount Sveta Gora, a famous pilgrimage centre offering a magnificent view. The cycling ascent to Sveta Gora is considered one of the most strenuous in Slovenia. For an easier route, cycle to the neighbouring Sabotin Hill where the Peace Park has been set up in memory of the First World War. In the vicinity of Gemona, you can also cycle along the traces of the Great War, for example from the fort on Mount Ercole to the fort of Osoppo or along the paths between Bordano and Cavazzo. Some trails follow the sites of impressive reconstruction after the earthquake that severely damaged this region in 1976.
Explore and taste
Welcome to cycling from flavour to flavour! Cycling enthusiasts can enjoy double the pleasure in the Vipava Valley, discovering the magical landscape while indulging in local delicacies. Choose one of our Bike & Taste guided experiences and set off on an adventure that will impress all your senses. If you decide to explore the local flavours on your own, don't forget about the welcoming wine cellars, agritourism farms and restaurants along the cycling trails throughout the valley. Here you can taste traditional home dishes such as prosciutto from the Vipava Valley, vegetable soups and štruklji. Your hosts will always take the time to share with you their personal stories, closely linked to local traditions. We recommend visiting a wine cellar at the end of your cycling tour and arranging safe transport back to your accommodation. In the Gemona area, active adventures likewise continue at the table. Agritourism farms, mountain dairies and homesteads welcome you with authentic delicacies. Fresh cheeses, honey, dry meats, craft beer and products with the Slow Food seal offer a prime opportunity to taste the uniqueness of this region.
For more information about experiences and accommodation in the Gemona area visit: https://visitgemona.com
