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The climb to Sveti Trije Kralji, a mountain settlement in the Pohorje range above Slovenska Bistrica, is one of eastern Slovenia’s most rewarding ascents. Topping out near 1,200 meters, it combines steep gradients, long stretches of forest, and the unmistakable charm of Slovenia’s central mountains. For cyclists, it offers both a serious challenge and the tranquility of Pohorje’s highlands. The ascent usually begins in Slovenska Bistrica, where the road gradually leaves the bustle of town and points firmly upward. From the start, riders are faced with steady gradients of 6–8%, interspersed with punishing ramps that bite into double digits. Unlike alpine passes where the slope is predictable, the road to Sveti Trije Kralji keeps riders guessing, alternating between demanding ramps and short breathers. Its length and steepness make it a climb that rewards patience and pacing.
As the road snakes higher, the landscape becomes more secluded. Dense beech and spruce forests line much of the route, providing shade in summer and a sense of calm isolation. Occasional clearings offer wide views of the Drava Valley and, in the distance, the rolling hills of northeastern Slovenia. Traffic is minimal, which allows cyclists to fully immerse themselves in the climb and its natural rhythm. At the summit lies the small settlement of Sveti Trije Kralji, named after its church dedicated to the Three Kings. A mountain lodge makes it a perfect spot to rest, refuel, and enjoy the crisp mountain air. In winter this is a ski area, but in summer it becomes a quiet paradise for cyclists and hikers. Sveti Trije Kralji may not be Slovenia’s most famous climb, but its steep gradients, forested solitude, and panoramic views make it a hidden gem—an ascent that leaves every rider with a sense of discovery and achievement.