Vrsic Pass (North side)

Vrsic Pass (North side)

The Vršic Pass is Slovenia’s highest mountain pass, situated at 1,611 meters in the heart of the Julian Alps. Geographically, it serves as a critical link between the Sava and Soca valleys, cutting through the rugged limestone peaks of the Triglav National Park. Historically, the pass is defined by the "Russian Road," constructed during World War I by Russian prisoners of war to supply the Isonzo Front. A poignant reminder of this history is the Russian Chapel, a small wooden structure built by the prisoners to honor their fallen comrades who perished in a 1916 avalanche during the road’s construction.

For cyclists, the Vršic Pass is a legendary and grueling ascent, often featured in the Tour of Slovenia. Starting from Kranjska Gora, the climb spans approximately 9 kilometers with an average gradient of 8%, featuring 24 iconic, numbered hairpin bends that are uniquely paved with cobblestones, requiring both high power and careful bike handling. Once at the summit, the descent toward the Soca Valley offers another 26 hairpins, providing a total of 50 switchbacks that make it one of the most technical and rewarding alpine climbs in Europe.