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Hiking Slovenia and the Julian Alps
Destination: Slovenia
| Activities: Hiking and Culture
Slovenia's dramatic mountain landscape is a hiker's paradise. Known for magnificent snow-capped peaks, deep gorges, and impressive limestone towers, the Julian Alps are less trammeled but no less beautiful than other European Alps. Tucked between Italy, Austria, Hungary, and Croatia, Slovenia is also known for traditional alpine villages, complete with gothic castles, karst limestone, and a culture and cuisine that is fascinating.We'll spend time hiking in the little known Logarska Valley, Lake Bohinj and the Julian Alps, and the Soca Valley, and have time to learn about cultural traditions and sample local cuisine.Long hidden behind the iron curtain and then one of the first provinces of the former Yugoslavia to declare independence, Slovenia is only now gaining the world's attention. The combination of a well-developed tourist infrastructure and unspoiled charm make this the perfect time to explore Slovenia. Maximum group size: 13
Highlights
- Hiking among high mountain lakes and through peaceful alpine valleys, surrounded by jagged limestone peaks
- Sampling local cheese, Slovenian red wine, and Bled cream cakes
- Spending time in the Logarska Valley, a still quiet part of Slovenia
- Marveling at the amazing views that are everywhere
Departures and Prices
| July 08 to July 17, 2024 |
| $5195.00 - Limited Availability |
| Book Now |
Inclusions
- 1 - 2 local Slovenian English-speaking mountain guide for 8, and an AGC guide for more than 8
- Nine nights lodging in twin/double rooms with private toilet and shower
- All meals from dinner on Day 1 through breakfast on Day 10
- All transport during the trip in 9 person vans
- Group airport transfer at 1 p.m. on Day 1
What's not included: Travel to and from Ljubljana, alcoholic beverages and snacks, guide gratuities, travel insurance, and optional activities at Bled Lake
Trip Documents
Trip Info
On this trip we combine hiking with time for cultural experiences. Most of our hikes are 4 to 7 hours with a lot of elevation gain, with one more challenging hike and options to extend the hiking on several days. Hiking experience is necessary as the terrain of Slovenia is dominated by uneven and rocky uphill terrain. This trip is rated 4. Prior to beginning the trip, participants should be engaged in aerobic conditioning for at least 40-50 minutes 4-5 times a week. Additional endurance exercise (e.g. going for a 2-hour hike once a week) and/or strength training is usually required.Rating: 1 2 3 [4] 5.
Our trip combines 4-6 hours of hiking on most days in the mountains and valleys of the Slovenian Alps. In addition to hiking you will learn all about Slovenian history and culture and sample traditional Slovenian cuisine.
We will be staying in double occupancy rooms with ensuite bathrooms at 3-star hotels throughout the trip. All accommodations and details will be sent with the Pre-Departure document 6 months prior to the departure date. All lodging has been chosen for its comfort, convenience, and welcoming staff.
Below is the proposed itinerary for the trip. As is true on any adventure travel trip, plans for any specific day may be modified due to weather considerations, unforeseen circumstances, new opportunities, and group interests.
DAY 1
Consider coming a day early to have time to explore the charming city of Ljubljana with its medieval bridges and quaint, narrow streets along the Ljubljana River. Lively with bars, cafes, and art galleries, the green city of Ljubljana is a welcome contrast to big and crowded European capitals. It is reminiscent of Prague —without the crowds— and is easy to navigate on foot. Many people speak English
Otherwise, Day 1 is the day you arrive in Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia. If you would like to take advantage of the planned group transfer from the airport to the trip hotel, please plan your flight to arrive by 12 noon in order to make the group transfer time of 1:00 p.m. Our first group meeting is at 4 p.m. at our hotel. After introducing ourselves, our guides will give an overview of the trip and provide details about the first hike and what to bring in our daypack. Then we'll go out for the first of many delicious dinners! (D)
Otherwise, Day 1 is the day you arrive in Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia. If you would like to take advantage of the planned group transfer from the airport to the trip hotel, please plan your flight to arrive by 12 noon in order to make the group transfer time of 1:00 p.m. Our first group meeting is at 4 p.m. at our hotel. After introducing ourselves, our guides will give an overview of the trip and provide details about the first hike and what to bring in our daypack. Then we'll go out for the first of many delicious dinners! (D)
DAY 2
We'll leave Ljubljana after breakfast and drive for about an hour north to the Velika Planina. Literally meaning "big pasture", it is a high mountain plateau located in the foothills of the Kamnisko-Savinjska Alps, the southeastern outpost of the Alpine range that stretches across central Europe. Here the best-preserved herdsmen settlement in Europe is located. In addition to rich alpine flora, grassy slopes, karst sinkholes, and larches and pine trees, the distinctive conical shape of the buildings are unique to this area. We'll hike up through the forest to reach expansive green meadows, with the limestone peaks of the Kamnisko-Savinjska Alps seeming almost within reach. We'll eat a delicious picnic lunch with the music of cowbells playing in the background as we look over the valley below. We might get the chance to supplement our lunch with a bit of fresh local cheese and the sour-milk that is made in the area.
After our hike it's a 1-2-hour drive to the Nature Park Logarska Valley, a remote and little visited gem situated right on the Austrian border where we'll spend 3 nights.
Hiking: 7 miles, 1,500-foot elevation gain and loss, about 4 hours. Overnight: Logarska Valley.
Note: Hiking times listed are approximate and do not include rest breaks, lunch, etc. "Time on trail" will be typically be 1-2 hours more than the indicated hiking time. Sometimes we have lunch at a mountain hut, which takes longer than having a picnic lunch. (B, L, D)
After our hike it's a 1-2-hour drive to the Nature Park Logarska Valley, a remote and little visited gem situated right on the Austrian border where we'll spend 3 nights.
Hiking: 7 miles, 1,500-foot elevation gain and loss, about 4 hours. Overnight: Logarska Valley.
Note: Hiking times listed are approximate and do not include rest breaks, lunch, etc. "Time on trail" will be typically be 1-2 hours more than the indicated hiking time. Sometimes we have lunch at a mountain hut, which takes longer than having a picnic lunch. (B, L, D)
DAY 3
The Logarska Valley is little known outside Slovenia and thus retains its original quiet and charm. It’s a place of striking contrasts where pointy white limestone peaks loom over the soft green glacier valley. Known for its clean mountain air and fertile soil, Slovenians looking to escape the bustle of city life have moved here and organic farming has become extremely popular. The area is also known for a special breed of indigenous sheep, called Jezersko-Solcava, and weaving is popular among women. Today we hike right from the hotel to the Rinka Waterfall, the highest of the 20 waterfalls in the valley, following a fairy-tale like trail along a clear stream. This area was a favorite of noble families of the Austrian empire and may become one of yours too.
Hiking: 6 - 8 miles, 1,110-2,300-foot elevation gain and loss, 3-6 hours. Overnight Logarska Valley. (B, L, D)
Hiking: 6 - 8 miles, 1,110-2,300-foot elevation gain and loss, 3-6 hours. Overnight Logarska Valley. (B, L, D)
DAY 4
Our final hike in this area is a climb of Mount Raduha, which is separated from the rest of the Alps Massif by the River Savinja. Situated right on the border with Austria, this Eastern part of Kamnisko-Savinjske Alps offers untouched nature. Our loop hike begins in the forest and then climbs up to a grassy ridge that leads to the limestone peak. The views in all directions from the summit are amazing! We may have the company of sheep at lunchtime. Tonight, we'll have dinner at an agriturismo where we'll replenish our energy with mouth-watering homemade delicacies.
Hiking: 5 miles, 2,000-foot elevation gain and loss, about 4 hours. Overnight Logarska Valley. (B, L, D)
Hiking: 5 miles, 2,000-foot elevation gain and loss, about 4 hours. Overnight Logarska Valley. (B, L, D)
DAY 5
Today we bid a fond farewell to the Logarska Valley and continue to the jewel of the Julian Alps, Lake Bohinj. Our road today is spectacular, offering great views of the Kaminske Alps and even a (very) short visit into Austria before crossing back into Slovenia over the Jezersko Pass. It's about a 2.5-hour drive to Vintgar Gorge on the Radovna River, a popular scenic attraction for local and international tourists. The gorge cuts through limestone walls and the path follows a series of wooden bridges and walkways and ends at the Sum waterfall. Leaving the river gorge (and becoming far less crowded), the trail ascends through open forest to the chapel of St Catherine and a view over the entire area of Bled. We'll have lunch at a cafe here before finishing our loop hike and making the short drive to Lake Bled, known for a medieval church located on a tiny island in the middle of the lake, silhouetted against the high peaks of the Julian Alps. We'll take a walk along the lakeshore before a further 30-minute drive brings us to Lake Bohinj, the largest lake in Slovenia and one of the most beautiful.
Located in the center of Triglav National Park and ringed by the Julian Alps, Bohinj is the alpine center of the country and our base for the next three nights. It is also a great place to take a day off from our planned itinerary if you choose. With its relaxing alpine environment, it offers a wide range of activities such as swimming, kayaking, biking, or taking the cable car up Vogel.
Hiking: 4 miles, 1,100-foot elevation gain and loss, plus about a mile at Lake Bled (flat), about 3 hours total. Overnight Bohinj. (B, L, D)
Located in the center of Triglav National Park and ringed by the Julian Alps, Bohinj is the alpine center of the country and our base for the next three nights. It is also a great place to take a day off from our planned itinerary if you choose. With its relaxing alpine environment, it offers a wide range of activities such as swimming, kayaking, biking, or taking the cable car up Vogel.
Hiking: 4 miles, 1,100-foot elevation gain and loss, plus about a mile at Lake Bled (flat), about 3 hours total. Overnight Bohinj. (B, L, D)
DAY 6
Today we hike to the Seven Triglav lakes area, a land known for its spectacular beauty. This is the most challenging hike we'll do, and the unsurpassed beauty of the area make it well worth it. After a short drive to the trailhead, we start our hike on a wide but steep trail through pine forests, eventually reaching shepherds' cottages and green meadows, and then continue into rocky terrain above tree line until we reach the Valley of Seven Triglav Lakes, also known as the Kingdom of Goldenhorn. We'll have lunch at a mountain hut before retracing our steps (greeting the cows grazing in the high pastures). This may be the perfect night to taste some traditional specialties, such as home-made cheese and a glass of Slovenian Brandy at a local restaurant.
Hiking: 10 miles, 2,500-foot elevation gain and loss, about 6.5 hours. Overnight Bohinj. (B, L, D)
Hiking: 10 miles, 2,500-foot elevation gain and loss, about 6.5 hours. Overnight Bohinj. (B, L, D)
DAY 7
This morning we set out on foot from our hotel and follow the Mostnica River up the Voje Valley gorge. The trail is rocky and rooty, but not steep, and there are plenty of photo opportunities along the way. After stopping for coffee or tea and strudel at a mountain hut at the end of the gorge, we return to Lake Bohinj and you have the option of walking around the lake or spending the rest of the afternoon on your own, perhaps swimming or kayaking. The northern side of the lake is the quietest as it is furthest from the road and the trail follows the shoreline closely, leading us to secluded bays. If you choose to opt out of the last 3 miles (which is mostly along a quiet road), you can take an electric boat back across the lake.
Mostnica Gorge hike (from hotel): 5 miles RT, 700-foot elevation gain and loss, about 3 hours.
Hike around Lake Bohinj (essentially flat): north side - 3 miles (~1.5 hours) or entire lake - 6 miles (~2.5 hours). Overnight Bohinj. (B, L, D)
Mostnica Gorge hike (from hotel): 5 miles RT, 700-foot elevation gain and loss, about 3 hours.
Hike around Lake Bohinj (essentially flat): north side - 3 miles (~1.5 hours) or entire lake - 6 miles (~2.5 hours). Overnight Bohinj. (B, L, D)
DAY 8
Leaving Bohinj this morning, we drive around the east side of the Julian Alps to Kranjska Gora. First, we'll take a side trip to the end of the Vrata Valley to do a loop hike directly under the North face of Mount Triglav, the highest peak in Slovenia. We may spot rock climbers scaling the sheer cliffs or hikers returning from the summit (a summit hike takes 2-3 days). We'll have lunch about halfway through our hike near an unstaffed mountain shelter (a "bivouac"). A section of the trail after lunch involves making our way across a small boulder field. Our hike finishes alongside the Bistrica River, and we may want to dip our feet in the rushing glacial waters. On our way out of the valley to the main road, we'll stop to see the Pericnik waterfall. From there it's less than an hour's drive to Kranjska Gora. Although particularly known for winter sports, Kranjska Gora is also an active town in summer, with outdoor cafés and many hiking options nearby.
Hiking: 4.6 miles, 1,900-foot elevation gain and loss, about 4 hours. Overnight Kranjska Gora. (B, L, D)
Hiking: 4.6 miles, 1,900-foot elevation gain and loss, about 4 hours. Overnight Kranjska Gora. (B, L, D)
DAY 9
We start our day by driving the winding road to the historic Vrsic Pass (about a 30-minute drive). The pass used to be the border between Italy and the Austro-Hungarian Empire, and the road was built by Russian prisoners of war during World War I. Next we'll descend the pass (by vehicle) to the Soca Valley and hike a section of a nature trail that begins at the source of the Soca river and connects old footpaths and secluded spots. We'll end our day back in Kranjska Gora where we'll share a final farewell dinner, lifting our glass of Slovenian wine in a toast to the people we've met and everything we've done.
Hiking: 3.5 miles, 1,300-foot elevation gain and loss, about 3 hours. Additional hiking along the Soca River as time allows. Overnight Kranjska Gora. (B, L, D)
Hiking: 3.5 miles, 1,300-foot elevation gain and loss, about 3 hours. Additional hiking along the Soca River as time allows. Overnight Kranjska Gora. (B, L, D)
DAY 10
Your adventure ends this morning as we depart for the Ljubljana airport after breakfast. The airport is about an hour's drive from Kranjska Gora. We'll arrive by 10 a.m. and you can plan flights out after 12 p.m. If you want to get an earlier flight, we can arrange a private transfer (additional cost). And if you want to spend extra time in Ljubljana, our guides are happy to drop you off in the city afterwards. (B)
4.8
(49 reviews)
5
4
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*These are the unfiltered reviews of women who have been on this trip in answer to the question "What made this trip special for you?". We take reviews very seriously and often tweak itineraries based on feedback. Please feel free to contact us about any questions you have.
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Kathy G.
8 months ago
The women on the trip, the views, and learning about a land I had not previously known a lot about. The 13 ladies on the trip really made it a joyable experience.
Karen G.
8 months ago
The scenery and the good company.
Tasha H.
8 months ago
Gorgeous views, smart guides, great food, nice people.
Tracy H.
9 months ago
Beautiful country, great food, great women travelers
Karen R.
9 months ago
Slovenia is a gorgeous country and I am so glad I got to explore part of it.
Denise M.
9 months ago
All three guides made the trip special for me. I was woefully unprepared for the physical rigor of the trip (totally my fault.) Each guide however, was encouraging, patient, taught me techniques to lessen the pain in my knees, and successfully helped me to deal with my fear.
Juana B.
4 years ago
Susan C.
4 years ago
Slovenia is beautiful. Any problem I had with hiking was due to my own physical shortcomings. I was unable to appreciate all the hiking and views during this visit, but intend to visit Slovenia when I am feeling physically and mentally competent.
Karen D.
4 years ago
Nancy M.
4 years ago
Magnificent scenery, cohesiveness of group, competence of guides, interwoven culture and history from the guides, well organized, good itinerary,, flexibility to change plans as needed, women from all different background..all interesting, intelligent, entertaining, humorous, good food, especially breakfast and lunch, with few excellent dinners, accomodations.
Sherri W.
4 years ago
Amazing itinerary, guides, accommodations and country.
Cynthia C.
4 years ago
Erika D.
4 years ago
Highlights were great organization team, pleasant companionship, great hikes and great meals.
Maria P.
4 years ago
I loved learning about Slovenian food, wine and culture while having the opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of the country with experienced and very capable guides.
Melanie K.
4 years ago
The highlights were many: the beauty of Slovenia, the alpine meadows were spectacular, being surrounded by mountains, the wild flowers. Each day was different, challenging, and exciting.
Julie Z.
4 years ago
Good company (as promised!) and really good guides.
Janet S.
4 years ago
The scenery was incredibly beautiful. I thoroughly enjoyed the company of the intelligent, well-educated, fun-loving women who made up our group. The local guides and the AGC guide were the best.
Karen D.
4 years ago
Allison E.
5 years ago
Hiking, scenery, food, guides, itinerary
Deborah D.
5 years ago
The great knowledge and help from Carrie White and fellow guides. The beautiful country and hiking.
Mary S.
5 years ago
Great guides, people, hikes, food and conversation.
Rachel W.
5 years ago
I wasn't expecting the beauty Slovenia offers. We were lucky to have 4 sunny days to start the trip which helped as well. The women on the trip were all unique and wonderful, several of them I will stay in touch with. It was a good mix of individuals. Guides exceeded all expectations and went above and beyond every day.
Lavina L.
5 years ago
The Solvenian guides went above and beyond each time as necessary. The hikes were stunning. The food delicious. The "surprises" delightful. Superb overall experience.
Marie B.
5 years ago
Great teamwork between the guides especially the local guides. Provided options about the plan for the day. What Primoz called the master plan😀The Julian Alps is breathtakingl. The food, accommodation and overall the wonderful and exciting group of women. So far this is my favorite trip.
Doris E.
5 years ago
Great group of fun loving women with shared love of the outdoors and adventure travel Competent
Nancy P.
5 years ago
Excellent guides Wonderful group of women Some memorable meals Beautiful country Great hikes
Carol K.
6 years ago
The entire experience was awesome. It totally exceeded my expectations. The preparation information was very useful. The Slovenian guides were amazing. Their love of their country and their ability to share their knowledge of history, culture, language, hikes was incredible. I loved learning about Slovenia. I loved being outside all day. The variety of the hikes and experiences was incredible. As it was my first trip I thought we were so lucky to have Barbara and Primoz, ( that they almost "made the trip", but those who had previous trips, said this high level of guides is characteristic of AGC. It was a total vacation in that the guides arranged everything
Nancy K.
6 years ago
I loved it and I love AGC. I only wish that the hiking had been more challenging. Coming off Peru and Wells Grey, I thought this trip should have been rated. 3/4
Diane M.
6 years ago
Lori M.
6 years ago
Beautiful area great guides good food, fantastic hiking
Catherine G.
6 years ago
Great hikes and company,
Marie C.
6 years ago
The northwest portion of Slovenia that we visited was absolutely spectacular. The hike up Mt. Radhua was quite difficult and unfortunately was on the 2nd day before everyone was acclimated to hiking here (I would rate it a level 4) but ultimately everyone completed it. There was another hike described as difficult mostly due to the length (10 miles total) but we were given the option of an alternative which I took advantage of along with 2 others and I was happy with my choice because this allowed us to visit an awesome waterfall that was much larger than normal for this time of year because of all the rain they have had.
Karen H.
6 years ago
The guides were amazing! Slovenia is an incredible country. Hiking was spectacular. Scenery was beautiful. From overall, down to every little detail, it was a fabulous. I don't have enough superlative's to describe this trip. It was a 5 !!
Stacey H.
6 years ago
Slovenia is a beautiful country. Our guides from AGC and Slovenia were fantastic and did everything possible to make our trip as wonderful as they could. The mixture of hiking with site seeing and information about the country was perfect.
Nancy K.
6 years ago
I've been on other trips rated a 4.... and do not believe that this one was the same level as the others. A few days, the hikes were more at a 3 level. I know that the trip was a 3 last year. To be more realistic about the hiking experience, I would advocate to list as a 3/4 trip.
Cathy M.
6 years ago
Trip was magnificent and I would have given it a 5 but on the other 2 trips that I have been on with AGC we have had time at the end of the day , usually 2 or more hours to relax and unwind before dinner. That was not the case on this trip on most days and on only one day was this unavoidable. The lodging, hiking itinerary , locations, food and quality of guides was outstanding. With a more careful attention to time on our hikes this would have been a perfect trip. Our Slovenian guides were of exceptional caliber and extremely knowledgeable and patient with our daily garage of questions about their country.
Cathy J.
7 years ago
Nancy F.
7 years ago
The hiking and guides
Sylvie H.
7 years ago
Great trip! Well organized, amazing local guides, nice cultural exposure and interactions, especially in relation to food, lore and location. Loved hiking everyday and the pace, difficulty level and diversity of hikes. Nice diversity of locations to be in as well.
Rita A.
7 years ago
Well planned itinerary including variety of hikes and additional activities. Good interaction of women in group. Competence of native guides with Trek Trek.
Suzanne E.
7 years ago
The hiking along with the local guides who did a fabulous job, the camaraderie of the group and the beauty of the country.
Katherine H.
7 years ago
June W.
7 years ago
First three night in Logarska Valley! Unbelievable scenery and the hotel (except the pool construction) was great! Really, REALLY hated the change in hotels at the end of the trip to a big chain Ramada Inn--or something like that...it was awful and not at all keeping with the spirit of the trip.
Anne A.
7 years ago
Slovenia is a dream destination. The scenery is stunning, the country small enough that getting from location to location doesn't take much time, the food is fresh/wholesome
Kathleen L.
7 years ago
The entire trip was great. The trek guides were amazing!! Best group of women I've traveled with
Christine B.
7 years ago
Great hikes, great locations.
Dagi M.
7 years ago
Great hikes and hike leaders
Mary M.
7 years ago
The Slovenian tour guides were outstanding. So was the Itinerary.
Joann S.
7 years ago
fantastic guides from trek trek that went way beyond in seeing that we had the proper hike for the weather, that we looped where possible be it on trail or road so we could see as much as possible, that we didn't miss outstanding apple tart at a particular hut, that all our questions were answered, no matter the subject. they really felt like they were part of the group and loved being with us. conveying all that was going way beyond the usual guide job description.
- Where do we eat?
Breakfasts will be buffets at the hotels where we're staying. Dinner is in restaurants; sometimes you'll order off the menu, other times you'll have a choice of vegetarian or non-vegetarian entree. Lunches may either be picnics or in restaurants. -
What dietary preferences or restrictions can you accommodate on this trip?
Vegetarian and vegan options for this trip are available but may be more limited than you are used to. If you are concerned about having enough protein during your trip, plan to bring some plant-based protein sources such as nut butter, instant dried hummus, or high-protein energy bars. If you cannot eat gluten or if you have other dietary restrictions i.e. vegan, you will need to bring some supplemental food with you. -
I will be coming by myself. Do I need to pay a single supplement?
You only need to pay a single supplement if you want to guarantee you have your own room. Otherwise we’ll pair you up with someone and then switch roommates every time we switch lodging.
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