Zgornje Javorje
This climb is part of Koroška region. Zgornje Javorje, above the Selška Valley, is a steep cycling climb through forests and meadows. Historic rural scenery, gradients above 12%, and sweeping alpine views make it a hidden Koroška jewel.Average gradient: 5.3%
Elevation difference: 951m
You start at 664.8m and finish at 1170.0m
Athletes climbed: 35 View on Strava
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Zgornje Javorje – A Steep Road into Koroska’s Pastoral Beauty
The climb to Zgornje Javorje, a small settlement tucked into the Škofja Loka hills, is one of those rides where every turn of the pedals feels like stepping deeper into both nature and history. Known locally for its steep, winding road, the ascent offers not only a physical challenge but also a glimpse into the rural life that has shaped this region for centuries. The climb usually begins from the Selška Valley near Železniki. Right from the valley floor, gradients demand respect, often holding between 8–10% with punishing ramps beyond 12%. Cyclists quickly learn that this is no gentle climb—its irregular rhythm, sharp switchbacks, and relentless pitches make it a true test of stamina and pacing.
Cycling Zgornje Javorje – A Ride Back in Time
The surroundings are where Zgornje Javorje reveals its character. The road threads through dense spruce forests, opens into meadows dotted with hayracks, and passes wooden farmhouses that seem unchanged for generations. Historically, this area was tied to ironworks and farming, and the quiet hamlet at the summit still reflects that authenticity. It feels like pedaling back in time, away from modern bustle, into a landscape where traditions linger. On clearer days, riders are rewarded with sweeping views across the Selška Valley, stretching toward the Julian Alps and Karawanks. In autumn, golden forests frame the ride, while in spring, blossoms transform the meadows into a patchwork of colors. The tranquility and lack of traffic add to the climb’s meditative quality, making the effort all the more rewarding. Cycling Zgornje Javorje is not about ticking off a famous alpine pass—it’s about experiencing Slovenia’s hidden soul. Steep, scenic, and steeped in history, it offers one of the purest climbing experiences in Koroška.
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