Make your own way to Tolmin, a small town at the southern gateway to the Julian Alps and your starting point for the Juliana Trail. If you arrive early, take the opportunity to visit the impressive Tolmin Gorges, where the Tolminka and Zadlašcica rivers have carved narrow channels through the limestone. Settle into your hotel and prepare for your first day's walk through the Soca Valley.

Meals:  Nil

Your first walk follows the left bank of the beautiful Soca River, instantly recognizable for its striking turquoise water. Walk beneath the imposing Krn massif as the trail leads north through the peaceful landscapes of the Soca Valley to Kobarid. The town has a fascinating, if sobering, history and was at the center of the fierce battles fought along the Isonzo Front during World War I. Its award-winning museum provides an excellent introduction to this chapter of European history. +180m/591ft, -130m/427ft

Meals:  B

Continue north through the spectacular Soca Valley on the longest walking day of the trip. The route passes the emerald pool of Kozjak Waterfall, hidden within a rocky gorge, before continuing through landscapes that formed part of the World War I front line. Later, enjoy views towards the impressive Boka Waterfall before reaching Bovec, a lively mountain town surrounded by the high peaks of the Julian Alps. Often described as Slovenia’s outdoor adventure capital, Bovec is the hub for activities in the Upper Soca Valley, with rafting, kayaking, canyoning, ziplining and other outdoor pursuits available in and around the town. Its relaxed center is also a great place to enjoy a drink or meal after your walk and soak up the atmosphere of this active mountain community. Ascent/Descent: +460m/1,509ft, -230m/755ft

Meals:  B

Leaving Bovec, follow the valley of the Koritnica River through an increasingly dramatic mountain landscape. Pass through the Kluže Gorge and historic Kluže Fortress, strategically positioned above the river and built to control this important route through the mountains. Continue upstream to picturesque Log pod Mangartom, a small alpine village beneath the rugged peaks surrounding Mangart. At the end of the walk, transfer back to Bovec for the night. Ascent/Descent: +250m/820ft, -70m/230ft

Meals:  B

Return by transfer to Log pod Mangartom and set out on one of the most rewarding stages of the trip. Climb toward Predel Pass, surrounded by views of the high Julian Alps including Mangart and Jerebica, before crossing the border from Slovenia into Italy. Descend past beautiful Lake Raibl (Lake Predil), whose clear alpine waters sit beneath steep forested mountains, then follow the Rio Freddo valley toward the Italian mountain town of Tarvisio. Ascent/Descent: +690m/2,264ft, -590m/1,936ft

Meals:  B

Leave Italy behind today as you follow the route of an old railway line back across the border into Slovenia. The easier gradients make for enjoyable walking through a landscape of forests, meadows and mountain villages. Pass through Ratece, where you can stop to sample local food, before visiting the Zelenci Springs, the remarkable emerald-green source of the Sava Dolinka River. Continue beneath the mountains to Kranjska Gora, one of Slovenia's best-known alpine towns. Ascent/Descent: +210m/689ft, -150m/492ft

Meals:  B

Your final walking day begins amid classic Julian Alps scenery. From the Kranjska Gora area, enjoy impressive views toward the distinctive peak of Špik from Srednji Vrh before joining the old Jesenice–Tarvisio railway route toward Mojstrana. The walking provides a gentler finale after the mountain stages earlier in the trip. From Mojstrana, transfer to Lake Bled, where you can celebrate completing your journey beside one of Slovenia's most recognizable alpine lakes. Lake Bled is one of Slovenia’s most picturesque alpine destinations and the end point of your Juliana Trail walk. Framed by mountains and forests, the glacial lake is known for its island church, traditional wooden pletna boats and medieval castle perched high above the shoreline. Spend time exploring the lakeside paths, enjoying local cuisine or relaxing in a thermal spa to celebrate the end of a rewarding walking holiday. Ascent/Descent: +240m/787ft, -390m/1,280ft

Meals:  B

Your trip concludes after breakfast. If time permits, extend your stay to continue exploring Lake Bled, perhaps visiting Bled Castle before continuing your onward travels.

Meals:  B