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Duration
7 days
Activities
  • self guided walk
Accommodation
  • 2 nights in 2-3 star apartments
  • 1 night in a 3 star hotel
  • 3 nights in mountain hut
Meals
  • 3 Dinners
  • 6 Breakfasts

Price

$1850USD

 
 

Overview

Trip Code: UJA

Trip highlights


  • Experience breathtaking scenery of high mountain lakes and rugged limestone peaks
  • Option to ascend Mt Triglav – the highest peak in the Julian Alps
  • Stay in charming mountain hotels and rustic mountain huts
  • Visit the picturesque town of Bled

In the north western corner of Slovenia, close to Austria and Italy, are the limestone mountains known as the Julian Alps. The range was the stage of bitter fighting during WWI (with relics on the trails to prove it) and Hemingway wrote his book, 'Farewell to Arms', while based in these mountains. More recently they have become famous for the exciting trekking and climbing opportunities in what is some of the finest mountain scenery in Europe. Characterised by high mountain lakes, peaceful alpine valleys and rugged limestone peaks, the Julian Alps retain their distinctive identity and originality. The walk ascends thematic paths and passes by beautiful turquoise lakes to complete a memorable journey. An option to ascend Mt Triglav (2864m), Slovenia's highest mountain is available. There is plenty of time after the walk to soak up the beauty and history of the fairytale town of Bled nestled at the base of the Julian peaks. This is an exhilarating adventure which will appeal to alpine enthusiasts.

Trip Grading

challenging

More info about grading system

Traveller Rating

 

Make your own way to Bohinj Lake, the largest glacier lake in Slovenia at 2km wide and 6km in length. It lies in the centre of the Triglav national park and occupies a dramatic position surrounded by a spectacular mountain ridge. We recommend taking a walk around the lake or a boat ride. In the late afternoon/early evening (around 6pm) there is a welcome meeting at your accommodation in Bohinj Lake. An arrival transfer from Ljubljana airport to Bohinj can be arranged - supplement applies.

Meals:  Nil

Your main luggage will be transferred to Bovec so you will need to repack your hiking gear into your rucksack this morning. The walk begins by following the Mostnica stream to reach the Mostnica Gorge, where you will pass through a series of limestone canyons. There are some excellent views to the cascades and rapids before the trail opens out to the Voje Valley. This section of the walk passes by meadows and small settlements and then through a beautiful forest to reach the Grintovica alpine meadow at around 1170m. As you ascend the views open out to the surrounding craggy peaks. You should take a break at Vodnikov hut (1817m) where lunch can be purchased, before continuing along the flanks of Vernar peak (2225m). A further walk of just under two hours you will bring you to your overnight accommodation at Planika hut (at 2401m). Overnight mountain hut.

Meals:  B,D

This morning (early) you have the option (highly recommended) to ascend Mt Triglav which takes around 3-4 hours return. It is an intermediate level climb, not very technical, but it has some steep and exposed sections with steel ropes (ferrata route) fixed along the ridge line and steps to the top. The path is very rocky with a lot of scree. Traversing the ridgeline allows for magnificent views over the area weather permitting. If you would like to take this option it must be pre-booked and pre-paid. The guide will meet you in the morning at Planika Hut. The main walk today (5-6hrs) is to the Triglav lakes valley hut where you spend the night. The trail has some steep sections traversing narrow ledges where a handrail has been installed. As you continue you will cross the Dolic saddle (2164m), before reaching the windswept Hribarice plateau. Soon after you will enter the Triglav Lakes Valley which was formed along a geological fault. The vegetation of green meadows and scattered trees is in stark contrast to the limestone crags above. Overnight mountain hut (approx 1450m). *the main walk today is 5-6hrs, and there is the optional Via Ferrate guided climbing/hike for 3-4 hours as detailed above.

Meals:  B,D

Walking in breathtaking high country, the focus today is mountain splendour and alpine wilderness at its best. The trek continues past Komna hut toward the Bogatin saddle, an area made famous by Hemingway’s “Farewell to Arms”. Enjoy magnificent views before heading down to the Krn Lakes Hut. Overnight mountain hut (approx 1390m).

Meals:  B,D

On the final days walk you descend to Trenta Valley and walk along the Soca Trail to Bovec, with panoramic views en route. The Soca River is regarded by many to be one of the most beautiful in Europe. It flows through narrow gorges and over broad gravel beds. Its characteristic turquoise hue and the wild beauty of its rapids and ravines make it a wonderful place to explore. In the afternoon you have the option to take in some white water rafting on the Soca river (the best rafting in Slovenia!) - must be pre-booked, supplement applies. Tonight's accommodation is in a small hotel in Bovec.

Meals:  B

Transfer from Bovec to Bled by public bus (included, or a private transfer can be arranged - supplement applies. With the private transfer there will be a short stop at the source of river Soca and at the panoramic view point on the highest mountain pass of Julian Alps, Vršic). The route is scenic and through the valley of emerald Soca. The remainder of the day is free for sightseeing in and around Bled. This lovely alpine town is immersed in natural beauty. It is renowned for its climate, thermal lake waters, picturesque island and the mountains which surround it.

Meals:  B

The trip concludes after breakfast. You may choose to extend your stay in Bled to take advantage of the great outdoor activities on offer including canyoning, kayaking and rock climbing. We can assist with a private transfer to depart on request, please ask for our rates.

Meals:  B


Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.
On self guided trips, actual route information provided before departure will be more detailed.


Inclusions

  • 6 breakfasts and 3 dinners (in the mountain huts)- continental breakfasts are served and usually consist of breads, jams, coffee and tea
  • 3 nights in small family run hotels / an apartment with private facilities on a twinshare basis, 3 nights in mountain hut on multishare basis
  • Welcome meeting on day 1 (approx 6pm)
  • Luggage transfer from Bohinj to Bovec (where you stay on Day 5) - ie your main luggage is stored. You will need to carry your gear from day 2 to day 5 as there is no luggage transfer between mountain huts
  • Digital information pack including route notes, maps & GPX tracks
  • Public bus from Bovec to Bled on day 6 (or a private transfer can be arranged on request - supplement applies)
  • Tourist tax & VAT
  • Emergency contact number and 24/7 support

  • Travel to Bohinj and from Bled
  • Meals not listed as included, drinks
  • Travel insurance - mandatory
  • Guide – this is a self-guided walking holiday
  • Sleeping sheet (required for the mountain huts). You can either bring your own or buy single-use sheets at the huts(allow 3-4eur pp). Blankets are provided free of charge at the huts
  • Optional arrival transfer from Ljubljana (airport) to Bohinj - supplement applies
  • Luggage transfer days 2-5 - you will need to carry your own gear when staying in the mountain huts, including the ferrata equipment if planning to summit Triglav
  • Day 3 optional ascent of Mt Triglav - including guide and gear: helmet and harness hire - can be pre-booked and pre-paid. Can also be discussed during the welcome briefing and the ferrata equipment is at your disposal to take or not. If you are unsure about doing the summit, you need to take the equipment, because without it you won't be able to go to the summit. The equipment is not heavy to carry, most people simply clip it on the outside of their rucksacks, so it doesn't take any space. No pre-booking or additional payments are required for the equipment, only for the ascent.
  • Day 5 optional white water rafting on the Soca river - supplement applies - must be pre-booked and pre-paid (minimum 2 people)
  • Transfers by taxi or public transport if you need to skip a stage
  • A supplement will apply if you book a single room in the guesthouses
  • Items of a personal nature

Grading

challenging  

CHALLENGING – GRADE 5 Anyone undertaking a moderate to challenging trip should be aware of the physical and mental demands involved. This trip is designed for experienced walkers who are seeking a challenge. No previous climbing experience is required to undertake this trip. An above average level of fitness is required as days can involve up to 8 hours of strenuous exercise in rugged terrain. You need to be sure footed and have a head for heights as there are some steep drops close to the paths. Weather conditions may be harsh at times (even in summer when afternoon thunderstorms are common), and you will need to be comfortable managing such conditions. We suggest up to one hour of strenuous exercise 3-4 times a week. The best exercise for trekking is bushwalking/hillwalking involving relatively steep ascents and descents.


Departure dates

Daily from 20 Jun to 20 Sep

Notes

Note:
This trip is not suitable for solo travellers. Please contact our team for alternative tour suggestions.

Want to organise a private group?

Fundraising events, sporting groups, family treats; learn how you can organise a Private Group from just 6 travellers.

Priceper person from

$1850USD

Options & Supplements*
  • Optional white water rafting on the Soca river - day 5 - ppUSD$60
  • Single SupplementUSD$480
  • Optional Guided Ascent of Mt Triglav - day 3 - 1-4paxUSD$500
*Prices listed are per person

Trip reviews


Why travel with us

Making Europe Affordable

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.  

Self-Guided Specialists

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.

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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. 

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