Go Hiking in Hemingway’s Julian Alps

The Julian Alps, in the northwestern corner of Slovenia, were the stage of bitter fighting during World War I and it was while based in these mountains that Ernest Hemingway wrote his book ‘Farewell to Arms’. Characterised by high mountain lakes, peaceful alpine valleys and rugged limestone peaks, more recently they have become famous as a trekking destination. 

 

Our trip ascends thematic paths, including an option to climb Mount Triglav, Slovenia’s highest mountain, with plenty of time on the last days to soak up the beauty and history of the fairytale town of Bled. 

 

Lose Yourself in Bulgaria’s Stunning Rila Lakes

Calling all keen walkers seeking an alternative mountain experience, in a country that simply teems with history and beautiful natural landscapes… Each of Bulgaria’s Seven Rila Lakes is named according to its shape! Surrounded by rugged peaks and deep valleys, the chain of these glacial lakes is the jewel of the Rila Mountains. Starting at 2,100m, the lakes are found at differing altitudes and appear like large footprints leading up the mountain. 

 

Get Carried Away by Transylvania’s Legends

Transylvania’s legends are an enticing reason to explore Romania’s stunning mountainscapes and offer a unique opportunity to go hiking in Eastern Europe. The dramatic Piatra Craiului (‘royal stone’) rises sharply from the plains below offering one of the best ridge walks in Europe, while the Bucegi Mountains are home to a diverse range of landscapes, from beech forests to flower-laden meadows and high limestone cliffs. Here you will find Bran Castle, home to the fictitious character of Dracula, immortalised in Bram Stoker’s 1897 Gothic horror novel. 

 

Get Enchanted by Romania’s Monasteries & Villages

Walk through the timeless landscape of the majestic Carpathian Mountains (also known as the Transylvanian Alps) where the way of life has changed little through the centuries. Ancient villages and monasteries that you will pass while trekking include the famous Painted Monasteries of Bucovina, while you’ll also cross through pristine forests brimming with wildlife and carved wooden churches. 

 

Go hiking in Eastern Europe with UTracks >> Monasteries and Villages of Romania >> View More   

 

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UTracks offers more hiking trips in Eastern Europe besides the five mentioned in this article. If you would like to find out more and get a complete overview of our active holidays in Europe, start by having a look at our European walking holidays. 

 

For more information on the Eastern European places mentioned above, you can download the trip notes on the individual trip pages or get in touch with our travel experts around the world.