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Experience the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Slovenia on this self-guided walking journey along the southern section of the Juliana Trail, a long-distance trail designed to showcase the landscapes, culture and traditions surrounding the Julian Alps. Rather than climbing Slovenia’s highest peaks, the Juliana Trail follows scenic valley paths, forest trails past historic villages, allowing walkers to experience the region at a slower and more immersive pace. Beginning beside the iconic waters of Lake Bled, the route leads through the forested Pokljuka Plateau, into the heart of Triglav National Park and along the shores of Lake Bohinj before crossing alpine passes and stopping in traditional mountain villages to reach the emerald-green Soca Valley. Along the way, you’ll encounter welcoming local communities, traditional mountain farming regions and ever-changing views of Mount Triglav and the surrounding Julian Alps. With comfortable accommodation, luggage transfers, a navigational app and 24/7 support included, this journey offers a rewarding way to explore one of Europe’s most scenic long-distance walking trails at your own pace.
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Day 1
Arrive Bled
Arrive in Lake Bled, one of Slovenia’s most picturesque alpine destinations and the starting 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 before the walking begins.
Meals: Nil
Day 2
Begin walk to Goreljek (Pokljuka High Plateau) (7hrs)
Your first full day on the trail leads from Lake Bled into the forested landscapes of the Pokljuka Plateau. Walking through spruce forests, alpine meadows and quiet mountain hamlets, the route gradually climbs onto this peaceful high plateau within Triglav National Park. Goreljek provides an ideal overnight stop surrounded by nature and fresh alpine air. 21km/13mi, +880m/2887ft, -120m/394ft
Meals: B
Day 3
Descend on forested trail to Ribcev Laz in the Bohinj Valley (7hrs)
Today’s walk descends from the forested Pokljuka Plateau into the spectacular Bohinj Valley, with ever-changing views of the Julian Alps along the way. Pass through traditional alpine villages and peaceful mountain pastures before reaching Lake Bohinj, Slovenia’s largest glacial lake, set within the heart of Triglav National Park. 24km / 15mi, +180m / 591ft, -910m / 2986ft
Day 4
A gentler pace walk through the Bohinj Valley to Bohinjska Bistrica (2.5hrs)
An easier walk today, with time to relax this morning with a visit to the local alpine museum or a stroll along the lakeshore or even a boat trip. Alternatively after the walk you can relax in Bohinjska Bistrica ahead of the more challenging stages in the days following. The trail takes you through rolling pastures and traditional alpine villages as you make your way to Bohinjska Bistrica, a charming mountain town known for its wellness and spa culture. 9km / 5.6mi, +140m / 459ft, -160m / 525ft
Day 5
A challenging stage with sweeping Julian Alps views enroute to Podbrdo (5hrs)
Today’s stage is one of the more challenging sections of the trail, rewarded with superb alpine scenery and expansive mountain views. Climb steadily through forests and former high-country pasturelands toward Baška Sedlo pass, where panoramic views across the Julian Alps provide a memorable highlight of the day. Along the way, mountain huts offer the chance to take a break for a traditional snack before the trail descends through peaceful alpine landscapes to the small village of Podbrdo. 13.7km / 8.5mi, +750m / 2461ft, -760m / 2493ft
Day 6
Follow quiet trails to Grahovo (6.5hrs)
Today’s route explores one of the quieter and more peaceful sections of the Juliana Trail, following scenic paths high above the Baca Valley through forests, alpine meadows and small hillside villages. Far from the busier alpine centres, this region offers a slower pace and a more traditional side of rural Slovenia, with beautiful mountain views accompanying much of the walk. Along the way, you’ll experience the warm local hospitality and authentic character making it a favourite section for many. 17.1km / 10.6mi, +750m / 2461ft, -960m / 3150ft
Day 7
Make your way to the Soca Valley and the delightful town of Tolmin (8hrs)
An early start is recommended today, your final day on the south east section of the Juliana Trail. The route leads through the quiet hills above the Soca Valley, an area where natural beauty and history are closely intertwined. Forest paths and rural tracks pass old wartime sites, small villages and viewpoints overlooking the emerald-green Soca River below. As you descend toward Tolmin, the landscape gradually takes on a more Mediterranean feel, with warmer air, changing vegetation and dramatic limestone scenery. On reaching the Soca River, there may be the opportunity to join an optional boat excursion for a different perspective of the valley’s striking turquoise waters. Near Tolmin, you can also visit the impressive Tolmin Gorges and nearby waterfalls, where narrow rock canyons, clear pools and rushing water create one of Slovenia’s most beautiful natural settings. 24km / 15mi, +930m / 3051ft, -1050m / 3445ft
Day 8
Trip concludes
Your trip ends after breakfast. Alternatively continue along the northern section of the Juliana Trail.
What's included
What's not included
GRADE 3 - Along paths that are well defined and clearly marked. You should be able to walk for up to 6-8 hours a day over hilly to steep terrain. Most days involve between 17–24km / 10.5–15mi of walking, with several sustained ascents and descents of up to 930m / 3051ft and 1050m / 3445ft respectively. Trails include forest paths, alpine tracks, rural roads and uneven mountain terrain, with some longer days requiring endurance and steady pacing. Weather conditions may be harsh at times (even in summer), and you will need to be comfortable walking in such conditions. A good level of fitness is required and prior experience is advisable. As with all of our trips it is important that you are well prepared. We suggest that you undertake regular exercise – swimming, cycling, and jogging, two to three times a week for three months prior to your departure.
Per Person, Twin Share
Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
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We offer different levels of accommodation and comfort so that even the most budget conscious can treat themselves to active holidays on Europe's most celebrated tracks and trails. Our trips are great value for money because you only pay for what you want.
Our wide range of self-guided itineraries embody the UTracks philosophy of exploring Europe your way. We handle the logistics so all that's left for you to do is enjoy exploring Europe at your own pace. Most depart daily with a minimum of two people, meaning maximum flexibility.
With close to 400 trips in almost 50 countries, including the largest range of bike & boat holidays in Europe, we're confident that we can organise an Alps walk, Camino de Santiago or Via Francigena experience, Food Lovers' trip or a tour in a lesser-known pocket of Europe that you will love.
7Days
Moderate to Challenging
8Days
Moderate
Introductory to Moderate