At a Glance
Experience an otherworldly adventure in the heart of the peaceful Julian Alps. Encounter scenery that defies reality in this vibrant hub including Mount Triglav and the glacial lakes of Bohinj and Bled. Hike through beautiful meadows and see the exceptional nature embedded in the Triglav National Park and the Karavanke Mountain Range with adventures spread across a detailed itinerary for 8 blissful days in Slovenia.
During the week you’ll enjoy 5 varied walks, both inside the national park and on the more distant peaks of the beautiful Karavanke Range. Taking in beautiful wild meadows, along the shores of the lakes, through thick forest and across wild open mountain ridges. Your adventure begins at Radovljica, the town of beguiling adventures on the doorstep of the Julian Alps. Transverse across the renowned Lake ...
Trip Highlights
|
|
What's Included
- All breakfasts and 3x dinners
- 7 nights accommodation in a family-run pension with ensuite facilities on a twin share basis
- 5 days centre-based walking, 1 free day
Itinerary
Making your own way from the airport, your adventure begins at your hotel in the charming town of Radovljica, located in the upper Carniola region of northern Slovenia. This charming town is located on the Sava River terrace just a few kilometres from the famous Lake Bled, which marks a great base for exploring the nearby Karavanke Alps and the Julian Alps on foot. Meet your tour leader who will give a welcome briefing about the upcoming week and a great opportunity to mingle with your fellow travelers. The remote Pension Kunstelj, a charming hotel in Radovljica, just a short distance to the northeast of the capital, Ljubljana, is a family-run guesthouse, and our home for the rest of the week. Settle in and treat yourself to culinary delights from around the world as well as traditional Slovenian specialties made with ingredients straight from the garden, on-site, or in the local restaurants nearby. Unwind in the garden or take in the breathtaking views of the crystal clear Sava River and the Julian Alps presented right from the comfort of your balcony. All rooms are provided with en suite facilities to ensure we experience utmost comfort throughout our stay. |
Approx. 16 km (10 miles), 6 hours walking, Elevation gain: 250 m (820 ft), Elevation loss: 300 m (984 ft) After a hearty breakfast, take a stroll directly from the pension to discover our stunning surroundings. The beautiful village of Radovljica will be thoroughly explored today. Radovljica, a medieval town at the meeting point of the Sava Bohinjka and the Sava Dolinka, dates back to the ancient days (1296). It's prided as the country's sweetest town which is filled with traditional inns, galleries, and churches. It's also surrounded by excellent views of the Southern Limestone Alps Mountain Range and the largest moats found in the country. |
||
The local area is extremely captivating, with small chapels, charming villages, thick woodlands, and a lovely river. Our trail will be decided by our leader based on the day's weather conditions, but we are most likely to trail Lake Bled, the only natural island in Slovenia; a perfect warm-up through mild sloppy farmland and pretty villages. Following our thrilling adventure of Radovljica, we return to the guesthouse for a delectable dinner then, we unwind into the evening. |
Approx. 12 km (8 miles), 5 hours walking, Elevation gain: 450 m (1476 ft), Elevation loss: 450 m (1476 ft) This morning, we continue further to Gozd Martuljek, a village that breathes with the mountains; to hike into the majestic Martuljek Gorge. We are rewarded with a beautiful view of the Špik mountain range as we traverse the small village of Gozd Martuljek. Mount Špik, which rises to a height of 2472 meters and is dubbed the Slovenian Matterhorn, is one of the Julian Alps' most stunning mountains, and the majestic Martuljek range is also dominated by its pyramidal summit. Our forest trail leads us out of the valley and into Martuljek Gorge, where we slowly begin our ascent along the quiet stream until we reach the Lower Fall, which cascades down into the valley. We follow the winding route through the forest to arrive at our resting spot, Lipovceva Hut, where we take in the picturesque scenery of our surroundings. The charming Lipovceva Hut is well-known for its natural open kitchen, which features scrumptious homemade mountain soups and juices prepared from pine, elderflower, and berries. From here, we ascend to the magnificent Upper Falls while passing a monument dedicated to Slovenian climbers. This is an exciting hike into the gorge that can be enjoyed in all weather and provides some lovely views of two stunning waterfalls. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at your convenience, you can relax in the solitude of your lodging, go out to treat your taste buds to mouthwatering cuisine, or socialize with other tourists. |
Approx. 14 km (8 miles), 6 hours walking, Elevation gain: 650 m (2133 ft), Elevation loss: 650 m (2133 ft) Today, we set out early to ascend into the peak of the mighty Golica through the Karavanke Mountain Range. The natural and official border between central and western Europe, where Slovenia, Austria, and Italy converge, is defined by this Karavanke Mountain range. Together with stunning vistas of two very different nations, this area is also home to a plethora of alpine fauna and flora, including more than 1200 different plant species to discover. In the company of the fresh, alpine air and a small stream following your steps, we aim for Golica (1836 m), which is a portion of Slovenia's longest ridge (120 km) and one of the less-traveled trails in the region. Golica is well-known for its slope covered in daffodils, which when they bloom, astound hikers. This is why the Slovenes regarded it as one of the nation's most picturesque regions. Retreat to the hotel to relax and take in the spectacular views offered by the stunning surroundings of the hotel from the luxury of your doorstep. Meals are on you today, so take the opportunity to sample the many delectable regional specialties on offer at nearby restaurants. |
Today is a free day and the entire day is yours to enjoy at your convenience. There are several eye-catching tourist options available in Radovljica for you to explore throughout the day. (All activities are at own expense). Visit the beekeeping museum (Cebelarski Muzej), which houses a sizable collection of exquisitely decorated beehives; to witness bees in action and learn more about Radovljica's legacy of beekeeping and honey production. If you're up for additional adventures, spend some time in Linhartov Trg imagining life as a local, experience a sense of time travel while exploring Thurn Mansion, do some soul searching, or simply take in the serene atmosphere at the sacred Parish Church of St. Peter. Alternatively, you can explore beyond Radovljica; it only takes a few minutes by bus to reach Lake Bled, where you can rent rowing boats and canoes for leisure. Others might want to continue further to explore Ljubljana, the Slovenian capital. A visit to the Postojna Cave Park, one of Europe's largest cave systems, is also a common option. Unwind back at the hotel, the perfect spot to unwind after a busy day of activities. |
Approx. 12 km (8 miles), 5 hours walking, Elevation gain: 300 m (984 ft), Elevation loss: 300 m (984 ft) This day begins with an easy but wonderful stroll around Lake Bohinj's shoreline. Trailing this winding route, we cover the entire Lake Bohinj, as well as the charming village of Ribcav Laz and its well-known St. John the Baptist church. Open views extend all the way to Mt. Triglav, Slovenia's tallest mountain, with stunning views of other mountains nearby to take pleasure in. Despite being in a valley, Lake Bohinj is nestled in the middle of a mountain ring, so there are plenty of breathtaking sceneries to admire. On a day when the weather is bad, our alternate route will take us through the Mostnica Gorge; this is considered a favorable trail because it is less exposed. After our descent, we return to our guesthouse where your well-prepared room awaits. Unwind and have a relaxing shower to wash away the tension from today's hike, then stroll just a short distance to any local restaurant for a great treat. |
Approx. 12 km (8 miles), 6 hours walking, Elevation gain: 450 m (1476 ft), Elevation loss: 450 m (1476 ft) After a peaceful night's rest, settle in for a delicious breakfast before we set out on a trip to discover the majestic Pokljuka Plateau on foot. Visible from Lake Bled lies the lovely Pokljuka Forest region. It is a largely desolate area that is home to alpine cows, rolling pastures, shepherds' cottages, forest trails, and some magnificent open vistas of the nearby summits. Pokljuka is a place where time stops still, allowing wildflowers to bloom, get to see the high plateau's distinctive flora and fauna and a plethora of birdlife in this region. Numerous routes offer a variety of options for today's hike. The weather and the group's ability during the week will be taken into consideration by our guide while choosing the route we follow. Come evening, we get together for a special farewell meal. Today, we have the option to decide where we will have our final dinner according to our collective preferences. |
Savour a relaxing breakfast, a perfect time to reflect on your incredible journey before you bid farewell and make your own arrangements for your onward travel. Alternatively, airport transfers can be arranged at an additional cost, please contact us. NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation. |
Dates & Prices
Please contact us for private departures and group bookings. Single Supplement is available on request.
More Info
The departure and finish point is Radovljica
Major commercial flights provide convenient access to Radovljica. The closest major airport is Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport and is 32 km from the center of Radovljica.
Airport transfers are not included. Joining location starts in your accommodation in Radovljica making your own arrangements there. Alternatively, airport transfers can be arranged at an additional cost, please contact us.
The walking level on this trip is rated Level 3 Moderate
Level 1 Leisurely: Experience is not necessary; anyone fit and healthy enough to complete a weekend walk will thrive. Walks are often optional. Trails are seldom flat, so expect a reasonable number of ascents and descents. You normally walk for two to five hours per day; daily ascents will likely be around 985ft to 1,640ft (300m to 500m), perhaps with the odd day around 1,970ft (600m).
Level 3 Moderate: Expect easy, medium-length walks or harder, shorter walks. Some experience is useful, but not essential. Good health and reasonable fitness are important. There will be walks at higher altitudes and some longer, harder days. Generally, though, the underfoot conditions will be fair. A walking day is normally five to seven hours; daily ascents will likely be around 1,640ft to 2,625ft (500m to 800m), perhaps with the odd day around 2,955ft to 3,280ft (900m to 1,000m).
Level 5 Challenging: Fitness is vital with extended walking in mountainous terrain. You might also experience high altitude, challenging climates and remote locations. Trekking experience is desirable, but not vital if you are confident in your physical condition. Walking days are usually between six and eight hours, although they may be longer for passes or peaks. Daily ascents can be around 2,955ft to 3,280ft (900m to 1,000m), perhaps with the odd day around 3,610ft to 3,940ft (1,100m to 1,200m).
Level 7 Tough: Trekking experience is essential and preferably at altitude. You need complete confidence in your ability to trek for many days over difficult terrain. You may encounter extreme altitude and weather conditions and may need to use ice axes and crampons. Stamina is essential as walking days last six to nine hours (sometimes more on occasions). Daily ascents will likely be around 2,955ft to 3,280ft (900m to 1,000m), perhaps with the odd day around 3,610ft to 3,940ft (1,100m to 1,200m).
Split and optional grades: Where a trip falls between two grades, an intermediate or ‘split’ grade is used. For example, Level 2 (Leisurely/Moderate). Occasionally there are optional ascents available; in this case, the grade will be highlighted.
Slovenia has a mixed alpine climate with summer temperatures in the range of 18 to 25ºC. In the mountains cool mornings are normally followed by warm pleasant days, with temperatures in the Alps being ideal for walking. During summer months afternoon showers of rain cool down the humidity, giving way to clear skies and pleasant temperatures.
All walks will be on well maintained paths, although some may be have loose stones underfoot. Each day there will be some ascent and descent (maximum of 700m, average of 500m). Generally you should expect to walk between 4 to 6 hours a day, plus stops.
Transfers to and from the walks will be by public transport, where available and practical, alternatively a private minibus will be provided.
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.
Payment Detail
All pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.
A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 90 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 90 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.
Single Supplement
All accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.
General Cancellation Policies
- Outside of 90 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee
- Within 90 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited
- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption
- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurance
Please Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.
Liability
The participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.
Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.
Child Policy
Please consult travel consultant on age limit.
Changes to Itineraries
Local conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.
Changes in Prices
While we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age Limits
You need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
Cancellation by The Tour Operator
The tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a tour with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the tour has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any tour up to 60 days prior to departure if the minimum number requirement of 4 is unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the tour or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.
Force Majeure
'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.
Evacuations
In rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.
In the genuine spirit of expedition travel, we encourage exploration and adventure offering flexibility in challenging environments. This itinerary is only a guide and is subject to change due to weather, sea and other conditions beyond our control.
For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.
Travel Insurance
In view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.