Tadej Pogačar draws crowds to Komenda climb and sparks tourism ideas in Gorenjska

On 5 August 2026, 1,189 recreational cyclists tackled the steep Komenda climb near Krvavec in extreme heat, with seven riders drafting behind Slovenian Tour de France champion Tadej Pogačar. Pogačar started eight minutes after the main pack, finished eighth, and engaged with fans, including a helicopter arrival. German rider Frederik Niessen won the race, while Laura Šimenc Kramar was the first woman across the line.

At the nearby Eko glamping resort Krištof in Šmartno, owner Tomaž Bolka has displayed Pogačar’s bicycles on tables, extending a popular exhibition. Bolka is exploring ways to capitalize on the cyclist’s global fame to promote tourism around Krvavec, such as installing informational signs, providing free motorhome parking during the European Championships, and creating year‑round cycling‑friendly facilities. He notes that local residents and municipalities have yet to fully appreciate Pogačar’s contribution to the region.