Brestovec, Kremenjak e Trstelj

This loop itinerary winds through the ridges and forests of the Gorizia-Slovene Karst, touching on two iconic peaks: Kremenjak and Trstelj, both spectacular viewpoints.

The first striking moment of the tour is the crossing of the Brestovec gunboat tunnel, a military work of the Great War. Long and carved into the rock, the gallery can be traveled by saddle or on foot, does not require a headlamp thanks to the illuminated trail markers, and provides a unique thrill between history and adventure. The interior museum installations are striking: elevation profiles of the battle zones, human figures at natural height, tomb crosses--all made of sheet iron...

Halfway down the gallery is a staircase leading outside to the ridge of the mountain, from which to admire the Vallone.

After a quick descent you leave Italian territory and continue into Slovenia, skirting the edge of the karst plateau toward Kremenjak. Kremenjak, just above the village of Jamiano, offers breathtaking views of the Gulf of Trieste, ranging from Croatia to the Venice lagoon. It is one of the most striking natural balconies in the area. The watchtowers remind us how closely guarded the Italian-Yugoslav border was, a dividing line between two ways, from here the famous Iron Curtain passed!

The route continues through dense forests and cart tracks until we reach the summit of Trstelj (624 meters), the highest point of the Slovenian Karst, where a wide 360-degree panorama opens up, with views of the Julian Alps, the Soča and the Adriatic. Just downstream there is a hut where you can refresh yourself before tackling the challenging descent to the Vipava Valley.

The route alternates between single track, fast gravel and short technical sections, with evenly distributed climbs and fun descents. It is suitable for trained bikers with good basic technique and a desire to explore historic and natural landscapes.

The Brestovec gun gallery:

Kremenjak summit viewpoint:

Trstelj summit: