length
8 Days
difficulty
Moderate
trip cost
From $3395 pp
Nature Immersion
Cultural Interest
Highlights
Get Ready For
- Lively and charming Ljubljana – best explored on foot or by bike
- Stunning trails through alpine meadows, wine country and forests
- Breathtaking mountain scenery
- Iconic Lake Bled and traditional Bled cream cake
- Stunning Lake Bohinj in the heart of the Julian Alps
- The mysterious limestone Karst Plateau
- Underground world of the UNESCO-listed Škocjan Caves
- Overnight stay in an ‘organic’ hotel in the enchanting village of Štanjel
- Atmospheric alleyways in the medieval Venetian port of Piran
- Teran wine, Karst Pršut (prosciutto), olive oil and truffles
- Exceptional Slovenian hospitality
Itinerary
Daily Details
Our self-guided itinerary allows you to travel on your preferred dates (subject to availability), with private transfers and advice from our locally based staff. You’ll be picked up with a private transfer at times arranged to suit your walking pace and abilities and will have you travel by train on two sections of the trail, where you get to sit back and watch the gorgeous country side go past before starting your hike for the day. We’ll provide you with a briefing to get you started, the resources you’ll need to stay safe, luggage transfers and great accommodation for you where you’ll have breakfast provided each day.
**Please note that due to logistics this trip cannot not commence on a Tuesday.
Welcome to Slovenia! Today you make your way to Ljubljana, Slovenia’s capital city. Arrive early to explore the area. This small city hosts an array of vibrant cafes, squares, bars and shops and is best explored on foot or by bike. Perched high above the city is Ljubljana Castle, the city’s main attraction, perfect for delving into Slovenian history and admiring the superb views over the city below.
On your first evening you will meet our local representative for a welcome drink and briefing. You’ll hear more about your itinerary, what to expect along the way and you’ll also have the opportunity to ask any last-minute questions. Afterwards, feel free to head out to discover the culinary delights of Ljubljana.
Start your day in the quaint village just outside of Kranji surrounded by rolling hills and farmhouses, and follow the trail through peaceful meadows and villages, where the pace of life is slow, and the landscape is dotted with traditional homes. As you continue, the path meets the scenic Sava River, offering serene riverside views and opportunities to pause and take in the countryside’s natural beauty. Passing lush greenery, wildflower fields, and rustic farmhouses, the hike then ascends toward Radovljica, a well-preserved medieval town. End your journey by exploring Radovljica’s charming Old Town and treat yourself to a well-deserved dinner at one of the restaurants. Options include two Michelin star restaurants!
Ascent 300m / Descent 300m
Meals: B
Begin your day with a pleasant hike from Radovljica toward the famous Lake Bled, a picturesque journey through rolling hills, forests, and countryside. As you approach Bled, the iconic island church and the clifftop castle will slowly come into view. Upon arrival at the lake, you have options: for a shorter but scenic experience, take a hike up to one of the panoramic summits such as Mala Osojnica or Ojstrica, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the lake, island, and surrounding mountains. Afterward, relax by the lake or enjoy a traditional Bled cream cake at a local café while soaking in the beauty of this alpine gem.
Ascent 500m / Descent 500m
Meals: B
Start your day at Bohinjska Bistrica train station, where the Juliana Trail leads you toward the stunning Lake Bohinj, Slovenia’s largest natural lake, nestled in the heart of the Julian Alps. The trail offers a tranquil journey through alpine meadows, forested paths, and traditional villages, with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. Once you reach Lake Bohinj, you can extend your hike to explore the scenic Mostnica Gorge, a hidden gem with narrow rock formations and beautiful waterfalls. Alternatively, enjoy a peaceful walk along the lakeside trails, taking in the reflections of the mountains in the crystal-clear waters. As you wind down, head to your hotel on the lake shore to relax and soak in the serene beauty of this alpine paradise.
Ascent 400m / Descent 400m
Meals: B
Today you switch locations, leaving the alpine landscapes behind and entering the world of wine hills, which will require two short transfers and a scenic train ride.
- In the morning you will get a 10-minute transfer to the nearby train station.
- It’s then a 1-hour train ride from Bohinjska Bistrica to Solkan (your main luggage will travel with you).
- A driver will be waiting for you in Solkan and will drive you for another 30 minutes to reach the Vipava Valley wine hills where you start your hike (your driver will take your main luggage through to your accommodation for the night).
As you hike across lovely wine hills, you’ll pass through typical local villages and have the opportunity to taste some excellent local wine. In the second part of the day you will ascend to the Karst plateau – a mysterious region made of limestone and full of Karstic phenomena. Visit Stanjel, one of the cutest Slovenian villages and spend a night in a charming “organic” hotel.
Ascent 500m / Descent 400m
Meals: B
After breakfast get a short (15 minute) transfer to the nearby village of Sepulje from where you will walk across the Karst plateau. This is the land of “terra rossa” (red soil), very special Teran wine and all sorts of cured meats, dried on the strong bora wind. Walk your way across this rough terrain where water is scarce and the soil is very precious. Lots of cute local villages and many options to interact with locals and try some home-made goodies. Walk all the way back to your hotel.
Ascent 200m / Descent 200m
Meals: B
This morning you will transfer to the UNESCO World Heritage listed Škocjan caves (30 minuts away). Škocjan caves is one of Slovenia’s biggest natural treasures! You will embark on a 2-hour long walking tour through this cave system where you will be amazed by the numerous dripstones and other underground limestone formations. You will be blown away by the size of the cave, the underground river canyon and the daring trails which were built by the first explorers. Take your sweater, forget about your camera and enjoy the walk! Your driver will wait for you whilst you visit the caves and then transfer you a further 30 minutes to Izola to start your hike for the day.
Hike across the lovely hills as you finally approach the coast! Walk through the interesting Strunjan Nature Reserve and go for a well-deserved swim in the Adriatic Sea. Finish the day in a lovely coastal town of Piran and treat yourself to a great Mediterranean dinner at one of the many local seaside restaurants.
Ascent 100m / Descent 100m
Meals: B
Today your tour ends after breakfast. You may wish to consider extending your stay in the lovely town of Piran, or hire a car to further explore the wine and spa regions of Slovenia. Alternatively, Venice is just a hop, skip and jump away by ferry and another excellent destination choice.
Meals: B
Looking for more or less on your walk? We can customise and provide flexibility around your travel plans. Speak with us today to design your trip.
Map
explore
Ljubljana
One of Europe’s most liveable and ‘green’ cities, Ljubljana is best explored on foot or by bike. Explore museums, boutiques, and markets, or grab a bite to eat at one of the many cafe’s lining the river. Beautiful bridges, buildings, pillars and pyramids make for an interesting stroll around the city streets.
CLICK ON A PIN TO REVEAL INFORMATION ABOUT THAT LOCATION
Radovljica
This charming medieval town near Lake Bled has a peaceful atmosphere and picturesque streets, along with a vibrant cultural and food scene and stunning views of the surrounding Alps. Highlights include the Gothic Saint Peter’s Church and the Museum of Apiculture.
Lake Bled
Lake Bled, one of Slovenia’s most iconic destinations, is a breathtaking alpine lake surrounded by mountains and forests. Its emerald-green waters are home to Bled Island, where the picturesque Assumption of Mary Church stands. Visitors can take a traditional “pletna” boat to the island or hike up to Bled Castle, perched on a cliff with stunning views of the lake and the Julian Alps. Lake Bled is known for its serene beauty, outdoor activities, and the famous Bled cream cake (“kremšnita”).
Lake Bohinj
Located in the heart of Triglav National Park, Lake Bohinj is Slovenia’s largest natural lake. Renowned for its tranquil, unspoiled beauty, Bohinj offers crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming, kayaking, and fishing, and is surrounded by lush forests and the towering peaks of the Julian Alps.
Vipava Valley
The Vipava Valley is a picturesque wine-growing region. Its vineyards are well-known for producing crisp and aromatic wines. The valley’s landscape is marked by limestone cliffs, olive groves, and charming villages.
Štanjel
The fortified town of Štanjel is built into a hilltop and has splendid views over the Vipava Valley. The village is situated in the Karst, known for its unique limestone landscape, underground caves, and karst phenomena. Don’t miss the Štanjel Castle, a beautiful structure with a distinctive cylindrical tower.
Šepulje & Karst Plateau
The Karst region is well known for its production of Karst Pršut (prosciutto), plum brandy and Teran, a full-bodied red wine made from the local Refošk grape. There are many endearing local villages along the way.
Škocjan Caves
This immense cave system is one of the largest underground canyons in the world, with a striking array of limestone formations, stalactites, stalagmites, flow stones and what is thought to be the biggest underground chamber ever discovered.
Izola
This picturesque coastal town on Slovenia’s Adriatic coast is known for its rich maritime history, charming old town, and vibrant Mediterranean atmosphere. Originally a fishing village, Izola has maintained its authentic charm with narrow cobblestone streets, colourful houses, and a bustling harbour. The town offers a relaxed seaside experience with beautiful beaches, fresh seafood, Venetian-style architecture and a lovely waterfront.
Piran
Located on the Adriatic coast, this medieval Venetian port town is a true delight to explore. Stroll narrow lanes of the old town, discover colourful market squares, and medieval walls and savour freshly-caught seafood. The town is known for its seafood and Mediterranean cuisine. You can enjoy fresh seafood dishes at local restaurants, along with Istrian wines and olive oils.
Inclusions
What's included
- 7 nights accommodation in hotels and guest houses with ensuite bathrooms
- 7 breakfasts
- All transfers as per the itinerary (Days 2, 5 & 7)
- All luggage transfers
- Entrance fee and guided 2-hour tour of Škocjan Caves
- RAW Travel’s exclusive interactive walker’s app
- Welcome meeting and briefing in Ljubljana with our local representatives.
- 24-hour emergency support contact in Slovenia and Australia
- Single supplement – ask for a quote if you would like a single room
- Train tickets required for days 4 & 5 (to be bought at the time of travel at the station)
- Personal transfer fees not included in the above itinerary.
- Lunches and dinners
- Flights
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses
Navigation
Finding your way
Finding your way along the trails in Slovenia has become a lot easier with our exclusive APP, which has all your trip information and route guidance in one handy place. You still need to be self-reliant with wayfinding. For the best results, use a combination of road and trail signs, a backup paper map or guidebook, and our app. Knowing the daily distances, elevation changes and notable landmarks will enhance your navigation. Our app can pinpoint and confirm whether you’re still on the correct trail. Like with any phone app, it’s not intended to be used constantly as you walk. Read more about all the great features of the app and how to use it for navigation.
REVIEWS
WHAT OUR CLIENTS SAY
Exclusive Guide
get inspired
Our comprehensive Destination Guide is bursting with inspiration, travel essentials, background information and more! Essential reading to help you plan, prepare and enjoy a memorable trip in Slovenia.
Slovenia
Julian Alps and Coast – Slovenia
- Postcard-perfect setting of Lake Bled
- UNESCO-listed Škocjan Caves
- The medieval Venetian port of Piran
- Local wines and delicacies
$4,690.00
Slovenia
Julian Alps Highlights – Slovenia
- Slovenia’s best hiking trails
- The postcard-perfect setting of Lake Bled
- Local cheeses, cherries and decadent desserts
- The Julian Alps, Soča Valley and Triglav National Park
- Stunning and tranquil Lake Bohinj and quaint villages
$3,650.00
Slovenia
Triglav Hut-to-Hut Hike – Slovenia
- Enjoy the rugged landscape of Triglav National Park
- Hike through the heart of the Julian Alps
- Share amazing stories with mountain hut keepers
- Understand the area’s rich natural and cultural history
- Summit Mount Triglav (optional)
$2,095.00
European Alps
Dolomites Circular Trek
- Best of the central and eastern Dolomites
- Spectacular Cinque Torri and WWI trenches
- Italian hospitality and local specialities
- Walk with an experienced International Mountain Leader
$4,090.00
European Alps
The Mont Blanc Circuit – Tour du Mont Blanc
- Europe’s most classic mountain walk
- Experience spectacular Alpine scenery
- Walk with an experienced English speaking guide
- Trek through three countries: France, Italy and Switzerland
$5,495.00
TRIP date selection
when would you like to travel?
Please select your preferred dates for on-demand trips or select a scheduled date for group departures. If you have booked a self-guided trip please understand that because your trip date is on demand and we must check availability of all properties on your chosen dates before it can be fully confirmed