Location and Overview
The Bled–Jesenice road, traversing the Kosmačev Preval mountain pass, is situated in northwestern Slovenia. The route connects the well-known town of Bled with Jesenice, passing through the settlement of Cesta v Radovno. The road lies within the boundaries of Triglavski narodni park (Triglav National Park), Slovenia’s only national park, and follows the Radovna Valley for most of its length. The area is characterized by alpine landscapes, river valleys, and proximity to the Julian Alps. An interactive map showing the route can be found at the end of this article.
Road Characteristics and Riding Experience
This mountain pass road extends for approximately 16.4 km (10.2 miles), with the majority of its length running adjacent to the Radovna River (about 72%). The road is predominantly narrow to moderately wide (with middle width for about 55% of the route), and features a single lane throughout (about 90%). The surface is asphalt and is generally of very good quality, offering a smooth ride with only minor imperfections. The route is moderately curvy, presenting a mix of gentle and tighter bends, making it suitable for riders who appreciate technical, but not extreme, cornering. Elevation ranges from 614 m (2,014 ft) to 846 m (2,776 ft), with the highest point at Kosmačev Preval (837 m / 2,746 ft). The road passes through inhabited areas for roughly a third of its length, providing occasional glimpses of rural Slovenian life.
Natural Features and Points of Interest
The route’s defining natural features are the Radovna Valley and the Radovna River, both of which accompany the road for most of its journey. The valley is known for its tranquil landscapes and is part of the Triglav National Park. The road also briefly passes through the Stresena dolina valley. The surrounding Julian Alps, a subrange of the Alps, provide a dramatic backdrop. Notable nearby attractions include the town of Bled, famous for its glacial lake and island church, and Jesenice, a historic industrial town. The road’s passage through the national park means riders are likely to encounter pristine forests, alpine meadows, and opportunities for wildlife observation.
Access, Closures, and Regulations
The Bled–Jesenice road via Kosmačev Preval is open to motorcycles and is a popular route for local and visiting riders. As a mountain pass within Triglav National Park, the road may be subject to temporary closures due to weather conditions, particularly in winter months when snow and ice can make the pass impassable. There are no permanent restrictions for motorcycles, but riders should check local sources for updates on seasonal or event-related closures. The maximum speed limits along the route are 40, 50, and 60 km/h (25, 31, and 37 mph), depending on the section and proximity to settlements. Riders are advised to respect posted limits and be mindful of wildlife crossings, especially within the national park boundaries.
Tolls, Fees, and Further Information
There is currently no toll or entrance fee required to ride the Bled–Jesenice road via Kosmačev Preval. However, as the route passes through Triglav National Park, certain parking areas or specific attractions within the park may charge fees. Toll and fee conditions may change in the future, so it is recommended to consult the official Triglavski narodni park website or the Slovenia road tolls information page for the latest updates. For general information on Slovenian road regulations and tolls, riders can refer to the Slovenia road tolls information portal.