As we reflect on our recent journey to Slovenia, it’s amazing to recall the countless moments of beauty, adventure, and connection we shared. This adventure was truly special, allowing us to experience all we had hoped for and more. While the trip may have ended, the memories remain vivid, transporting us back to the breathtaking Eastern Alps, delicious cuisine, stunning waterfalls, scenic glacial valleys, and the rich Alpine culture of Slovenia.
Monday, July 8th
We began our journey in the charming capital city of Ljubljana, settling into the cozy Slamic B&B. This was the first opportunity for our group to meet in person, share introductions, and discuss our motivations for embarking on this trip. We also met our incredible in-country guides, Ivana and Primoz, and reviewed the exciting plans for the week ahead. That evening, we enjoyed a memorable meal at Manna Restaurant in the old city before resting up for the adventures to come.
Tuesday, July 9th
A gorgeous summer morning greeted us as we left the city and traveled northeast through Kamnik, Gornji Grad, and Luče. Our first hike took us to Velika Planina, one of Europe’s best-preserved herding communities. After an hour of hiking, we stopped for a break at Domžalski Dom Na Mali Planini, our first traditional mountain hut. Lunch at Fanni’s farm was a delightful spread of buckwheat groats, sour milk, homemade cheese, and tea. In the afternoon, we descended from the high mountain plateau and checked into Hotel Plesnik in the stunning Logarska Dolina Valley. Dinner at Pension Na Razpotju capped off a day filled with incredible views and a warm welcome to the mountains.
Wednesday, July 10th
With clear skies and warm weather, we embarked on a hike to Slap Rinka, our first of many beautiful waterfalls. Continuing above the falls, we reached the Okrešelj Valley, where some paused at the mountain rescue hut while others ventured further into the glacial valley. After a fulfilling day of hiking and soaking in the spectacular mountain scenery, we returned to Hotel Plesnik. That evening, dinner at Plansarija Logarski Kot provided a hearty and home-style meal. The natural pool and spa at Hotel Plesnik offered a relaxing end to the day. Interestingly, a storm later washed out the bridges we had crossed earlier, reminding us of the region’s dynamic environment.
Thursday, July 11th
Another sunny day awaited as we set out to hike Raduha Mountain in the eastern Kamnik-Savinja Alps. Standing at 2,062 meters (6,765 feet), the mountain provided a challenging ascent and our first “proper” summit of the trip. The blooming wildflowers and visits from curious yellow-billed choughs added to the experience. After a steady descent, we treated ourselves to a cold drink and chocolate at Planinsko Društvo Luče. A refreshing dip in the chilly Savinja River provided the perfect cool-down before dinner at Govc Vrsnik.
Friday, July 12th
After saying goodbye to the Logarska Valley, we headed west toward Bohinj. Along the way, we enjoyed breathtaking views from a panorama road that briefly took us into Austria before returning to Slovenia. By noon, we arrived at the Vintgar Gorge for a leisurely hike through this stunning natural wonder. Following lunch near St. Catherine’s Church, we continued west, catching our first glimpses of the Julian Alps. Upon reaching Lake Bled, we indulged in the famous Bled Cream Cake despite a little rain. That evening, we settled into Hotel Jezero in Bohinj and enjoyed dinner at Danica Restaurant.
Saturday, July 13th
For some, this was a rest day, but most of the group opted for a hike through the Mostnica River Gorge, a cool retreat on a hot summer day. We passed through the village of Stara Fužina, once known for its ironworks, and enjoyed lunch along the north side of Lake Bohinj. The afternoon offered free time, with many choosing to swim in the lake before dinner at Pr’ Pristavc.
Sunday, July 14th
With rising temperatures, we sought cooler conditions on a high-altitude hike to the Seven Triglav Lakes. Our first stop was Koča na Planini pri Jezeru, a picturesque mountain hut, before continuing to Koča na Triglavskih Jezerih for lunch. This area’s Alpine meadows, wildflowers, and huts were a true highlight, bringing the legend of Zlatorog, the Goldenhorn, to life.
Monday, July 15th
We bid farewell to Lake Bohinj, Slovenia’s largest lake, and set off for the Vrata Valley. Our goal was to see the north face of Triglav, Slovenia’s highest mountain at 2,864 meters (9,396 feet). The steep hike through a beech forest culminated in lunch at Bivouac VI Podna. On the descent, some of us cooled off in the icy waters of Triglavska Bistrica. That evening, we checked into Pr’ Gavedarjo in Podkoren and dined in Kranjska Gora, famous for its World Cup skiing.
Tuesday, July 16th
The day began with a scenic drive to the Vrsic Pass, also known as the Russian Road. Splitting into two groups, some hiked to Slemenova Špica while others tackled a route through Vrsic, Bavha, and Sovna Glava. Both hikes rewarded us with “Sound of Music”-worthy views. In the afternoon, we visited the Soca River, where a few brave souls swam in the icy water. Crossing into Italy briefly, we ended the day with a delicious dinner in Kranjska Gora at Okrepcevalnica Lačni Kekec.
Wednesday, July 17th
The trip concluded with a bittersweet farewell as we departed for the airport. Some travelers returned home, while others extended their stay in Ljubljana.
This journey through Slovenia’s Julian Alps was unforgettable. We are deeply grateful for your enthusiasm, laughter, and camaraderie, which made this trip so special. Thank you for joining us on this adventure!
