Exploring the Vrhnika–Žiri Road: A Technical Overview for Motorcyclists
The route connecting Vrhnika and Žiri in Slovenia offers motorcyclists a moderately curvy ride through the heart of the country's hilly landscape. This article provides a technical breakdown of the road, its features, and considerations for those planning to traverse this stretch on two wheels.

Location and General Overview

The Vrhnika–Žiri road is situated in central Slovenia, linking the town of Vrhnika to Žiri. The route passes through the settlement of Smrečje and traverses a region characterized by rolling hills and forested areas. This corridor serves as a connector between the Ljubljana Basin and the Poljane Valley, making it a practical choice for riders seeking to explore the less trafficked interior of Slovenia. An interactive map showing the road can be found at the end of the article.

GoogleStreetView of random point on the road. To view more details and more GoogleStreetView locations use HelmTube roads explorer map.
Infographic showing the distribution of road widths, lane counts, and tarmac surface quality ratings of the road.

Road Characteristics and Riding Experience

The Vrhnika–Žiri road extends for approximately 6.2 km (3.9 miles), with an elevation range from 354 m (1,161 ft) to 708 m (2,323 ft). The road is surfaced with asphalt of moderate quality, generally rated as fair to good. Riders will encounter a moderately twisty alignment, offering a mix of gently curved and sharper bends, suitable for those who appreciate a dynamic but not overly demanding ride. The road maintains two lanes throughout its length (about 100%), with the majority being of medium width (about 57%) and a significant portion classified as wide (35%). Narrow sections are virtually absent. About 37% of the route passes through inhabited areas, providing occasional glimpses of rural Slovenian life.

The road's total length and the distribution of corner types—gentle, mid, and tight—as a percentage of the route. The portion of the road that runs through inhabited areas.
Road elevation profile: Graphical representation of elevation changes between point A and point B along the road.

Tourist Attractions and Points of Interest

One of the notable features along this road is its proximity to local viewpoints, offering riders opportunities to pause and take in the surrounding landscape. While the route itself does not pass directly by major tourist attractions, the nearby settlement of Smrečje and the towns of Vrhnika and Žiri provide access to regional points of interest. Vrhnika is known for its historical significance and natural sites, such as the Technical Museum of Slovenia in Bistra, while Žiri is recognized for its traditional lace-making heritage. The road's alignment through hilly terrain also means that several unofficial viewpoints can be found along the way, offering panoramic vistas of the Slovenian countryside.

Road Closures and Seasonal Considerations

There are no permanent closures for motorcycles on the Vrhnika–Žiri road. However, as with many rural roads in Slovenia, temporary closures may occur due to maintenance work, local events, or adverse weather conditions, particularly during winter months when snow and ice can make the route hazardous. Riders are advised to check local traffic updates before departure, especially in the colder season.

Tolls, Fees, and Additional Information

The Vrhnika–Žiri road does not currently require the payment of a toll or entrance fee for motorcycles. Riders should note that toll conditions may change in the future, and it is advisable to consult the official DARS website for the most up-to-date information regarding road charges in Slovenia. The route is generally open year-round, but weather-related disruptions are possible, particularly in winter.

This is an interactive map — you can zoom, pan, and explore the road in detail. Check out the HelmTube Roads Explorer map to discover more great roads nearby Vrhnika–Žiri Road.