The Tour of Slovenia
The Tour of Slovenia is the most important cycling event in the country, which for more than three decades has connected different regions and spread the word about the beauties of Slovenia. Novo mesto has a special role in this, as it has most often hosted the start or finish of stages – a total of 33 times, of which 28 times as the final destination.
Novo mesto, as the hometown of the organizer, the Adria Mobil Cycling Club, plays a key role in the organization and execution of the race. Besides the sporting aspect, the event also brings economic and promotional benefits to the city. Broadcasts of the race on international television networks, such as Eurosport, allow millions of viewers worldwide to get to know Novo mesto and its landmarks.
In addition, the race encourages the local community to actively participate. In Novo mesto, fan zones are set up during the race, where residents and visitors gather and cheer together for the cyclists. In recent years, Trška gora has also been included in the final stages of the race, where cyclists overcome a short but steep third-category climb before the finish in Novo mesto.
Many fans gather along the route and encourage the cyclists. For visitors, the climb to Trška gora during the race is a special experience, as they can see with their own eyes the efforts of the cyclists on the demanding terrain and enjoy exceptional views of the Dolenjska region. In addition, local providers often prepare fan zones with refreshments and local wines, which further enriches the experience. The Tour of Slovenia, with its passage over Trška gora, thus combines sport, nature, and local culture, which contributes to the recognition of the region and its characteristics.