Slovenia Alps

Day 1: Welcome to Ljubljana
Day 2: Velika Planina, 6 mi. (10 km)
Day 3: Lake Bled & Lake Bohinj, 9 mi. (14 km)
Day 4: Triglav National Park, 7.5 mi. (12 km)
Day 5: Vrsic Pass and the Julian Alps, 6 mi. (10 km)
Day 6: Soca trail and the emerald Soca River, 7.5 mi. (12 km)
Day 7: Skocjan Caves and Piran, 4 mi. (7 km)
Day 8: Departure

Day 1: Welcome to Ljubljana
This evening you'll meet your tour guide and enjoy a welcome drink. This is a great opportunity to discuss your trip and get to know your fellow travelers. After, take time to explore Ljubljana's vibrant scene. You can enjoy tasty local cuisine and wine at restaurants by the river, all while admiring attractions like the iconic Ljubljana Castle, the charming Old Town, and the picturesque Tivoli Park. If your schedule allows, consider arriving a day earlier to delve into the city's historical sites and diverse architecture.

     Sample Hotel: City Hotel or uhotel

Day 2: Velika Planina, 6 mi. (10 km)
The day begins with a short drive north of Ljubljana, taking you to the picturesque Kamnik-Savinja Alps. There, your walking adventure commences with a visit to Velika Planina, also known as "The Big Meadow." This alpine pasture is Slovenia's largest and oldest active shepherds' settlement.

The traditional huts of the shepherds, or "kozolci," are integral to the local culture and landscape. Inside the oldest hut on the pastures, you'll discover the rich history and traditions of the shepherds who have called this place home.

A highlight of your adventure is the chance to prepare and taste traditional Slovenian food. This hands-on experience introduces you to the region's culinary heritage, adding a delicious dimension to your Velika Planina exploration.

You will return to Ljubljana in the afternoon and are free to enjoy the evening. (B, L)

Elevation gain: +300m / -300m
Approx. duration: 3 hours
Total transfer time: 2 hours

     Sample Hotel: City Hotel or uHotel

Day 3: Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj,  9 mi. (14 km)
Start your day with a one-hour transfer to the base of the Julian Alps to discover the beauty of Slovenia's Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj, renowned as two of the world's most picturesque lakes.

At Lake Bohinj, your walk leads through quaint villages and alongside clear streams to its beautiful shores, which are flanked by deep gorges and mountain vistas. Pack your swimsuit, as you might be tempted to enjoy a refreshing swim in the emerald waters

Following a delicious lunch, your journey continues to Lake Bled. This scenic walk leads to an amazing vantage point with panoramic views of the lake with its iconic island and medieval castle surrounded by the Karavanke Alps. You can also skip the walk and relax by the lake but don’t miss the chance to sample a slice of the famous Bled Cream Cake at a local cafe. (B,L)

Elevation gain: +400m / -400m
Approx. duration:  4 hours (split into two hikes)
Total transfer time: 1.5 hours

     Sample Hotel: Hotel Astoria

Day 4: Triglav National Park, 7.5 mi. (12 km)
Following a short drive, challenge yourself in Slovenia's unique Triglav National Park, named after the country's highest peak, Mt. Triglav, which reaches a towering 2,864 meters. This expansive national park, the only one in Slovenia, spans 880 square miles. Its pristine lakes, picturesque hiking trails, and diverse ecosystems  are a testament to the nation's dedication to preserving its natural beauty. 

Today's hike begins in a spruce forest on Pokljuka Plateau, leading to a stunning 2,000-meter peak with breathtaking views of Mt Triglav and the glacial valley below. A short walk from here, you can sample a hearty lunch at a traditional Slovenian mountain hut. 

In the late afternoon, you will have some down time. You may consider taking a traditional pletna boat ride (not included) across the lake to Bled Island, home of the Bled Castle and the Assumption of Mary Church. (B, L)

Elevation gain: +700m / -700m
Approx. duration: 5 hours
Total transfer time: 1 hour

     Sample Hotel: Hotel Astoria

Day 5: Vrsic pass and the Julian Alps, 6 mi. (10 km)
Several hikes are on the agenda today. Beginning in the Vrata Valley within the Julian Alps, your first walk features Pericnik Waterfall, a stunning natural attraction renowned for its unique double-tiered structure. Once there, cool off with a walk behind the Waterfall’s curtain. 

Next, you trek along the Vrsic Pass, Slovenia's highest mountain pass at 1,611 meters. Characterized by stunning alpine views and hairpin turns, the pass was built by Russian POWs following World War I. The breathtaking vistas of the Julian Alps accompany you ending in a delightful lunch at a mountain hut perched at the summit.

The day ends with a transfer to the Soca Valley and if time permits, a swim in the emerald-green Soca River. (B, L)

Elevation gain: +400m / -400m
Approx. duration: 4 hours
Total transfer time: 2 hours

     Sample Hotel: Hotel Mangart or Hotel Alp

Day 6: Soca Trail and emerald Soca River, 7.5 mi. (12 km)
The splendor of Western Triglav National Park is enjoyed today. 

After lunch, featuring regional specialties, try something adventurous along the Soca River with activities like rafting, canyoning, paragliding, and zip-lining. Alternatively, you might prefer a peaceful walk or enjoy a serene river spot.

Your day ends in Bovec, nestled in the Julian Alps. The surrounding serene Soca Valley was once the battleground for brutal warfare during World War I. Here you find the remnants of trenches, fortifications, and other World War I heritage sites. Spend the evening exploring the town's wartime history or just walk the charming streets and dine on traditional Slovenian cuisine. (B, L)

Elevation gain: +250m / -250m
Approx. duration:  4 hours
Total transfer time: 1 hour

     Sample Hotel: Hotel Mangart or Hotel Alp

Day 7: Skocjan Caves and Piran, 4 mi. (7 km)
In Southwestern Slovenia, the karst landscapes, celebrated for their unique geological formations, blend with the beauty of the northernmost stretch of the Mediterranean Sea along the Slovenian Adriatic Coast.

First, you explore the subterranean world of the Skocjan Caves, a UNESCO-designated Natural and Cultural World Heritage Site. The remarkable karst phenomena shaped over millennia are displayed throughout a network of underground chambers, with the longest subterranean canyon in Europe. 

Following your underground experience, you can savor the robust wines and local culinary delights of the southwestern Slovenian wine region, nestled amidst the stunning karst vineyards.  

The journey then continues to Piran, a charming coastal town on the Adriatic Sea boasting a Venetian-influenced old town, with rich maritime heritage and stunning views. Spend the evening exploring Piran's winding streets and charming squares and dine on fresh seafood dishes at local restaurants. 

Your guide leaves the group tonight and returns to Ljubljana. (B, L)

Elevation gain: +150m / -150m
Approx. duration:  3 hours
Total  transfer time: 2.5 hours

     Sample Hotel: Hotel Piran

Day 8: Departure
After a hearty breakfast, this unforgettable walking adventure in lovely western Slovenia ends. Treat yourself to a final swim in the Adriatic Sea. (B)

You will stay in centrally located 3-star or 4-star hotels. You will find the name of the sample accommodations listed in each day’s details. Please note that different group departure dates may include a different selection of hotels. Upon request, you may receive accommodation details for your preferred departure date. For your private hiking tours, we can recommend and book hotels according to your wishes. Depending on your group size, you can choose from a selection of charming boutique and family-run properties.