Itinerary Details
MT Sobek: Slovenia Julian Alps Hiking
Day 1 Welcome to Ljubljana
Arrive at the capital of Slovenia, Ljubljana. One of the hippest cities in Europe, this charming place is reminiscent of Prague — only without the crowds. The city is so small you can explore most of the sights on foot and enjoy strolls along the lovely Ljubljanica River. With lively bars, cafes and art galleries, the green city of Ljubljana is a great hideout from big and crowded European capitals. Meet your guide in the afternoon for a trip overview and welcome dinner.
Accommodation: Hotel Lev
(D)
Day 2 Set Out for Enchanting Triglav National Park
2.5-hour private van transfer
4 hours/4 miles hiking with 1,540' elevation gain/loss
Visit the Vrata Valley in the heart of Triglav National Park. Often thought of as the most beautiful alpine valley in Slovenia, this glacially carved wonder is home to the magnificent Pericnik Falls. Hike at the base of Slovenia's famed 3,280-foot climbing wall, the north face of Mt. Triglav—the highest peak in the Julian Alps. Keep an eye out for daring climbers at this mecca for the alpinist community as the sounds of Bistrica Creek accompany you on your trek. After today's hike make for Gozd Martuljek, a small village by the ski-resort town of Kranjska Gora.
Accommodation: Hotel Spik
(B, L, D)
Day 3 Hike from Vrsic Pass to Scenic Sleme
4 hours/4 miles hiking with 1,540' elevation gain/loss
Start the day with an unforgettable drive to Vrsic pass on one of the most scenic mountain roads in the Alps. Catch your breath at 5,285' before starting to hike amidst the jaw-dropping beauty that surrounds you. Climb through a small spruce forest to wildflower strewn valleys. Reach Sleme and experience sweeping views that on a clear day extend into Italy and Austria. Opportunities abound to discuss the weight of geological and human history, from the age and formation of the mountains to the impact of WWI on the area. In the afternoon there is an optional walk to the turquoise spring of Sava River. Alternatively, take advantage of the hotel's swimming pool and spa amenities. Dinner tonight will be a feast at a local restaurant specializing in typical regional dishes from Wiener schnitzel to mouthwatering strudel and ricotta dumplings.
Accommodation: Hotel Spik
(B, L, D)
Day 4 Climb Dramatic Vosca Mountain Ridge
2-hour private van transfer
4.5-5 hours/6 miles hiking with 2,400' elevation gain/loss
Head into the Karavanke Alps today, one of the three magnificent mountain ranges that comprise the Slovenian Alps. Towering peaks rest just across from this mountain ridge hike with fairy-tale meadows and lovely forests. The trail guides you to Vosca peak where views extend across three countries: Slovenia, Austria, and Italy. In the late afternoon you have time to explore Kranjska Gora, an 11th-century town with a contemporary take on Oberkrainer architecture. This region is known today for its polka music and Traditional dances.
(B, L, D)
Day 5 Explore Stunning Vintgar Gorge & Visit Lake Bled
35 minutes Kranjska Gora to Lake Bled and 30 minutes Lake Bled to Lake Bohinj
3 hours/4.5 miles hiking with 400’ elevation gain/loss
Today you will hike into a magical gorge, carved by the rushing Radovna River, whose crystal waters still flow at the bottom of this emerald canyon. Vintgar Gorge is home to over 600 species of plants, plentiful bird life, and dramatic limestone geology. Follow the mile-long river along moss-draped canyon walls, entering a shady forest which later opens to beautiful vistas of the Julian Alps. Spend a few hours exploring legendary Lake Bled, strolling past Vila Bled—once the home of royal dynasties and residence of Yugoslav president Tito—for an excellent view of the picturesque island with its revered church. Continue to Lake Bohinj, ringed with delightful villages and your beautiful base for treks in Triglav National Park.
Accommodation: Hotel Bohinj
(B, L, D)
Day 6 Trek to the Breathtaking Triglav Seven Lakes Valley
1-hour private van transfer
8-9 hours/11.5 miles hiking with 2,500’ elevation gain/loss
In the early morning begin hiking high above Bohinj. The trail climbs uphill through a pine forest leading to the heart of the dazzling Julian Alps. Passing by shepherds' cottages and green meadows, reach the picturesque valley of Seven Triglav Lakes, also known as the Kingdom of the Goldenhorn. Watch for ibex, chamois, and birdlife along the trail or just marvel at the superb scenery.
Accommodation: Hotel Bohinj
(B, L, D)
Day 7 Ascend Brda Mountain
2-hour private van transfer
5 hours/7.5 miles hiking with 2,250’ elevation gain/loss
Begin your day with a hike up Brda Mountain, nestled in the heart of the Julian Alps. The trail winds gently through lush alpine meadows and quiet patches of forest, gradually revealing sweeping views of the surrounding peaks, including the majestic silhouette of Mount Triglav, Slovenia's highest mountain (9,396'). At the top, a broad, grassy ridge is the perfect spot for a picnic lunch in the crisp clean air. Return to Bohinj for the evening.
(B, L, D)
Day 8 Travel to the Soca River Valley & Krn Mountian
1.5-hour private van transfer
4 hours/4.5 miles hiking with 900’ elevation gain/loss
Today you travel to the Western side of Julian Alps by auto train and enter the awe-inspiring valley of the green Soca River, one of Slovenia's most pristine natural places and a region rich in culture from artisan cheese makers to the remnants of World War I. Remote villages and meadows still tended by shepherds nestle below the distinctive peak of majestic Krn Mountain. Hike up to an alpine meadow below the peak to visit one of the most interesting cheese communities in Slovenia, and take in stunning views of the Soca Valley, with its river winding beneath the cliffs.
Accommodation: Hotel Sanje OB Soci
(B, L, D)
Day 9 Follow Trails in the Beautiful Soca Valley
1.5-hour private van transfer
2-3 hours/3.5 miles hiking with 300’ elevation gain
After breakfast, hike into the Soca Valley, following the Soca River through unspoiled parts of Triglav National Park. Known as "The Emerald Beauty," it's one of the few rivers in the world that retains its alpine color throughout its entire length. Famous for the WWI Battle of Isonzo, vividly described in Ernest Hemingway's novel "A Farewell to Arms," Soca is now known as a playground for hikers, cyclists, and water enthusiasts. Relish an unforgettable farm to table lunch with a local family who grow organic vegetables and craft artisan goat and sheep cheese.
Accommodation: Hotel Sanje OB Soci
(B, L, D)
Day 10 Return to Ljubljana & Depart
2-hour private van transfer
Depart for Ljubljana, arriving midday. Flights home should depart no earlier than 3pm.
(B)
