Ljubljana–Stična
The hilly landscape of the Dolenjska region and Slovenia’s oldest monastery
Ivančna Gorica lies in the midst of the characteristic hilly landscape of the Dolenjska region, halfway between Ljubljana and Novo Mesto. The surrounding area contains several historical and natural sights of interest. The medieval Stična Abbey, still home to a community of Cistercian monks, is particularly interesting. Founded in the year 1136, this Cistercian monastery is one of the most important historical monuments in Slovenia. It was once one of the principal centres of cultural and economic life in the country. It was here that the famous Stična Manuscripts were produced. Cistercian monks still live in the monastery, which is also the home of the Slovene Museum of Christianity.
A trip to Stična and back in a single day is an option for cyclists with an extremely good level of physical fitness. Alternatively, you can cycle there and catch the train in Ivančna Gorica to return to Ljubljana. The route begins in the centre of Ljubljana, passes round the Castle Hill and continues towards Škofljica and the Dolenjska region, for the most part along quiet asphalt roads. The first larger settlement you will pass through is Grosuplje, a bustling centre of industry and small business that owes its rapid development to its proximity to Ljubljana and good road links. Between here and Ivančna Gorica, the route mainly passes through small villages and hamlets and sticks to quiet country roads and macadam tracks.
