Cycling Route "Female Cyclist"
Citizen Science Project
The Biciklistinja Cycling Route is dedicated to Zofka Kveder (1878–1926)—a writer, playwright, editor, cultural mediator, and committed advocate for women’s rights—and is named after her short story of the same name. The route was created in 2026, when the Republic of Slovenia declared the Year of Zofka Kveder to mark the centenary of her death.
The route passes through the present-day municipalities of Loška dolina, Bloke, and Loški Potok, where Zofka Kveder spent most of her childhood and early youth.
Hrib information board
Lož information board
Fara na Blokah information board
Napoleon bridge information board
Retje information board
Tabor information board
Na Kapli – Travnik information board
Draga information board
On the top of Hrib information board
Project leader: Prof. Dr Katja Mihurko (University of Nova Gorica)
Participating researcher: Asst. Prof. Dr Milan Mrđenovć (University of Nova Gorica)
Participating citizen researchers:
Bogdana Mohar, Vlado Mohar (leader of the literary texts research group); Marjanca Rus, Marija Montanič, Anica Car, Marija Košir, Andreja Car, Cvetka Debeljak, Andreja Bartol, Stanka Begič, Marija Potisek, Stanka Kordiš, Majda Eranovič, Marjana Pajnič, Marinka Turk, Milena Krajec, Fani Debeljak, Zvonka Košmerl, Irena Modec, Ivica Levstek, Marija Žagar
Vlado Mohar (leader of the route-planning research group); Matic Mohar, Matej Pakiž, Simon Ortan
A crucial aspect of this project is its advocacy for overcoming historical stereotypes, particularly the belief that cycling was inappropriate for women due to its association with sexual pleasure. These notions, prevalent during Kveder’s youth, were used to control women’s bodies and limit their freedom. The project seeks to challenge and revisit these ideas, encouraging reflection on the ways society historically policed female desire and movement. It aims to open a broader dialogue on gender equality, freedom, and autonomy, linking Kveder’s works with contemporary discussions on women’s rights and self-expression.
The project is grounded in the principles of citizen science, which engages the local community in both collective and individual literary analysis and interpretation. Participants will gain new skills in research and contribute to a collective understanding of Kveder’s work, deepening their connection to their cultural heritage. Participants will engage in discussions about freedom of thought, expression, and movement, linking Kveder’s historical context to today’s social issues.
In addition to its literary and social objectives, the project also emphasizes environmental sustainability. The cycling route will encourage the use of eco-friendly transportation, promoting health and well-being through outdoor activity. The route itself, which connects Kveder’s formative spaces with current cultural landmarks, symbolizes freedom of movement and women’s emancipation. It serves as a reminder of the ongoing importance of reducing pollution and preserving the natural environment, while also supporting sustainable tourism practices.
The project also strengthens community cohesion by involving citizens in creating a cultural and economic asset. By integrating the route into local tourism initiatives, the project increases the visibility of Loški Potok and surrounding areas, contributing to economic growth through cultural tourism. Collaboration with local businesses, cultural organizations, and community groups ensures the sustainability of the route, making it a lasting legacy for future generations. By celebrating Zofka Kveder’s legacy, the project fosters both community pride and awareness of gender equality, while promoting the region’s cultural and ecological preservation.
