Obkolpski Brevet

A cycling adventure through the hills of Bela Krajina, the forests of Kočevje and the picturesque Kolpa River canyon

Obkolpski Brevet: A royal stage of cycling through mysterious forests and wine-growing hills!

Are you ready for a cycling challenge that will blow you away?

Push your limits and enjoy an unforgettable experience across 217 kilometres of unspoilt nature, breathtaking views and rich history. The Obkolpski Brevet isn’t just an ordinary cycle ride, it’s an epic one-day journey through three of southern Slovenia’s most beautiful gems: the sun-drenched Bela Krajina, the mystical Kočevsko region and the wild Kolpa River canyon.

Feel the wind on your face, conquer legendary climbs and discover hidden corners known to very few!

Reasons why this will be your best cycling Saturday of the year:

  • Cycling prestige: 217 km and 2,500 m of climbing, figures that will truly test your fitness and give you an invaluable sense of triumph at the finish line.

  • Slovenia’s “Stelvio” awaits you: A true cycling ritual! The climb up Strmo Reber with its 19 numbered hairpin bends and a view that will take your breath away (if the climb hasn’t already).

  • Cultural gems right along the route: Cycle past the mysterious underground Bunker Škrilj, visit the poetic village of Vinica, and discover the centuries-old winemaking tradition in Drašiči.

  • 200 kilometres of natural scenery: A continuous ride through the unspoilt forests of Kočevje, the picturesque canyon of the clear Kolpa River, and amongst the sun-drenched Bela Krajina meadows and vineyards.

Your route to an unforgettable experience:

  1. Starting at Semič and the mysterious forests: From the mighty stone viaduct at Otovec, past the home of the black olm, all the way to the majestic Kočevje forests and the mysterious Bunker Škrilj.

  2. Adrenaline on Strma Reber and the breathtaking Kolpa River: Conquer the epic climb, snap an unforgettable photo at the summit and enjoy the wind as you descend towards the unspoilt Kolpa River.

  3. The Heart of Bela Krajina: A picturesque border crossing followed by a ride through a wonderful mix of birch forests with bracken undergrowth, riverbanks and the historic towns of Vinica and Metlika.

  4. A wine-filled finish: A sweet ending amongst the gentle hills of Drašič and a triumphant return to the starting point in Semič!

Overview of the experience in one place

Date: 19 September 2026
Start & Finish: Cultural Centre Semič (Prosvetna ulica 6, Semič)
Start time: 7.00 am – collection of cards; 8.00 am – start of the experience
Total distance: 217 .79 km
Total ascent: 2,506 m
Type of event: cycling brevet (randonneuring)
Entry fee: €30

Important notice: As the route crosses the border with the Republic of Croatia several times, don’t forget to put a valid form of ID (ID card or passport) in the pocket of your cycling jersey. A helmet and lights are compulsory!

Book your place at the start!

Registrations are open until 12 September 2026. Don’t delay – take up the challenge and be part of this unforgettable story!

[REGISTER NOW AND EARN YOUR OBKOLPSKI CERTIFICATE]

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