Hiking in Slovenia - Julian Alps

Arrive in Bled and take in the atmosphere of Slovenia's most classic postcard landscape. The island with its small church situated in the middle of the deep blue lake sets the tone for the journey's exceptionally beautiful nature experiences. Stroll along the lakeside or take a shorter hike in the surroundings.

The first hike begins in the famous alpine resort Kranjska Gora by the mirror-like Lake Jasna. Here our Ingemar Stenmark took several World Cup victories. From here awaits a high alpine ascent towards Vršič, Slovenia's highest drivable mountain pass, surrounded by panoramic views over the barren peaks. The descent to Trenta meets the source of the Soča where the crystal-clear river begins its journey to the sea. A dramatic and iconic alpine landscape from first to last step.

This day you follow the Soča's most spectacular stretch – often called the valley's queen stage. You cross several suspension bridges with views over emerald green water, pass naturally formed pools and hike through verdant valleys. The narrow passages and rock formations of the Soča gorges are the day's highlight, and a dip here is unbeatable on warm days. Don't let the Caribbean-like white sandy beaches fool you: the water is fresh! The stage ends in Bovec, the center for outdoor activities in the area.

Today's start offers the Virje waterfall, a green-shimmering and almost fairy-tale-like place. A short while later, the Boka waterfall thunders down from the cliffs – one of Slovenia's mightiest. The hike continues along the Soča valley with natural pools, forests and soft meadows before you reach Kobarid, a small town with both charm and history.

A short transfer takes you to Most na Soči where you board a panoramic train that winds through valleys and over Slovenia's longest railway bridge. From Bohinjska Bistrica you walk peacefully through the Bohinj valley with its farms, meadows and villages – all the way to the magnificent Lake Bohinj. One of the country's most beloved natural jewels and your home for the night.

From the lake you begin the ascent towards Pokljuka, a large high alpine plateau known for its spruce forests, open meadows and traditional shepherd huts. It's also sacred ground for cross-country skiing in the winters. Follow winding trails between small villages, forest patches and viewpoints over the Bohinj valley. A day that captures the more secluded and peaceful side of the Julian Alps.

The hike down towards Bled leads you through varied terrain and the dramatic Pokljuka gorge. You can also choose an extra summit ascent of Viševnik (over 2,000 m), with views over the Triglav massif and the Karawanks – one of the journey's best panoramic spots. Back in Bled the journey ends with classic views over the lake and preferably a coffee break with the famous pastry Blejska kremšnita - puff pastry, vanilla cream and fluffy whipped cream.

After breakfast the journey ends, or you stay a few extra nights in Bled or Bohinj. We can also warmly recommend a visit to the intimate and beautiful capital Ljubljana, just an hour's bus ride away.