At a Glance
Lace up your hiking boots for an 8-day guided hike through the majestic Julian Alps of Slovenia, where every trail reveals a new vista of extraordinary natural beauty. From your single base hotel in Kranjska Gora, your expert guide will lead you through iconic destinations, including iconic Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj. This serene walking journey also ventures across the border into Italy to witness the glacial Fusine Lakes, ensuring you experience all the hidden splendours of this alpine wonderland. With a guide who knows every twist and turn, you are invited to discover the peak beauty of the Slovenian Alps. From dramatic limestone spires and mirror-like glacial lakes to tumbling waterfalls, these natural treasures are yours to discover, if you know where to look.
Your adventure begins from your base ...
Trip Highlights
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What's Included
- 8x breakfast, 2x dinner
- 7 nights of accommodations in a deluxe hotel on a twin-share basis
- Group arrival and departure transfers available
- Immersive itinerary with all transport (private minivan) and listed activities
- Expert tour leader to enhance your adventure
Itinerary
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Begin your adventure in the mountain town of Kranjska Gora, a destination for hikers and adventure seekers. Today focuses on settling in, reviewing the trip details, and meeting your fellow travelers, with most group activities scheduled for the evening. Meanwhile, you have time for independent activities earlier in the day. Handpicked for its impeccable amenities and unparalleled location, Hotel Kompas serves as the perfect gateway to your hiking adventure through the majestic Julian Alps. In the moments between trail explorations, find solace and rejuvenation in the hotel's wellness centre. Imagine yourself submerged in the tranquil waters of the pool or surrendering to the muscle-soothing warmth of the sauna. Alternatively, you might wander through the meticulously manicured gardens, where breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks await to captivate your senses. The hotel's restaurant presents a lavish array of culinary delights, thoughtfully crafted to fuel your alpine pursuits, while the elegant Ice Bar offers a refined setting to gather with your companions, sharing tales of the day's adventures over a perfectly chilled drink. Around 6 pm, greet your tour leaders and fellow travelers when the group convenes for the first time to hear about the upcoming itinerary. Your tour leader will arrange a group dinner to provide a warm Slovenian welcome. |
Hotel Kompas, Kranjska Gora
Dinner |
Approx. 18 km (11 miles), 3-5 hours walking, Elevation gain: 360 m (1,181 ft) Our first day of hiking begins with an immersive journey into the Zelenci Nature Reserve, a verdant expanse of wetlands celebrated for its unique ecosystem. Here, amidst the serene marshes, you will discover a fascinating world of carnivorous plants, listen for the calls of native frogs, and observe the diverse birdlife that finds sanctuary in this protected area. We will follow a trail along the western edge of the reserve, where our path leads us to the source of the Sava Dolinka river and the breathtaking emerald-green lake that gives the reserve its name—Zelenci translates to 'green'. From there, we continue our trek into the iconic Planica Valley, a site of international sporting fame. As we proceed, we will pass by one of the world's most renowned ski-jumping hills, a testament to the region's rich athletic heritage. Venturing deeper into the valley, prepare to be captivated by the spectacular panoramas that unfold around you. The landscape is dominated by dramatic, near-vertical mountain slopes and the pristine white limestone peaks of the Julian Alps, which sparkle magnificently under the sun. After a day spent absorbing these incredible sights, we will make our way back to Kranjska Gora on foot. |
Hotel Kompas, Kranjska GoraBreakfast |
Approx. 10 km (6 miles), 2-3 hours walking, Elevation gain: 190 m (623 ft) Our journey today brings us to the idyllic village of Gozd Martuljek, where we will embark on a memorable hike beneath the commanding, triangular spire of Špik mountain. Here, nature puts on a dramatic display with two magnificent waterfalls. The lower falls cascade powerfully through a 400-metre-long, narrow limestone gorge, while the upper falls present an even more spectacular sight, plunging over 110 metres down a sheer, white cliff face. Our trail, thoughtfully laid out with steps and bridges for easier access, allows us to safely navigate the terrain while rewarding us with exceptional views of jagged alpine peaks and the ceaseless tumble of crystalline water. After our invigorating hike and returning to our base, the remainder of the afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure. You may wish to simply relax and reflect on the day's adventure, or perhaps take the opportunity to further explore the charming alpine town of Kranjska Gora at your own pace. |
Hotel Kompas, Kranjska GoraBreakfast |
Approx. 12 km (7 miles), 3-5 hours walking, Elevation gain: 210 m (689 ft) Our day begins with a bus journey to the enchanting town of Bled, nestled on the shores of its namesake lake and framed by the majestic Julian Alps. You will have free time to explore this iconic setting; perhaps you'll choose to climb the gentle path to Bled Castle, perched on a cliff overlooking the emerald waters, or enjoy a leisurely stroll along the picturesque lakeshore. Many visitors also take this opportunity to indulge in a local speciality, the famous Bled cream cake. Later, a short 15-minute transfer brings us to the entrance of Vintgar Gorge. Here, we will follow one of Slovenia's most celebrated trails, a wooden boardwalk that crisscrosses the Radovna River. As we venture through the gorge, we will pass by miniature waterfalls and discover serene oases of crystalline water. Our walk culminates with a rewarding view of the impressive Šum waterfall, the highest river waterfall in Slovenia. Following our exploration of the gorge, we will continue to the tranquil shores of Lake Bohinj for a scenic walk before making our way back to Kranjska Gora. |
Hotel Kompas, Kranjska GoraBreakfast |
Approx. 7 km (4 miles), 2-3 hours walking, Elevation gain: 170 m (558 ft) Our day begins with a short journey across the Italian border to the glacial Fusine Lakes. We will start our hike at Lago Superiore, the upper lake, where the crystal-clear waters perfectly mirror the magnificent, snow-capped peak of Mount Mangart. From there, we will follow a scenic shoreline trail that leads us to Lago Inferiore, the slightly smaller and more tranquil of the two lakes. We will then ascend a nearby path to a viewpoint that offers breathtaking panoramic views of both lakes, beautifully framed by a dense, surrounding pine forest. After our hike, we will return to the bus and cross back into Slovenia, making our way to the Možnice Gorge. Here, the landscape transforms, revealing the vibrant emerald hues of the Soča Valley and its rugged cliffs, setting the scene for our next walk. We will follow a trail that meanders between moss-covered boulders, over charming wooden bridges, and past turquoise pools fed by pristine mountain streams. As one of Slovenia’s quieter valleys, it offers a wonderful opportunity to immerse ourselves in the peaceful beauty of the alpine scenery. |
Hotel Kompas, Kranjska GoraBreakfast |
Approx. 9 km (6 miles), 3-5 hours walking, Elevation gain: 515 m (1,690 ft) Our journey continues as the bus ascends the hairpin turns of the Vršič Pass, an engineering marvel that stands as the highest road in Slovenia, offering dramatic views at every bend. Upon reaching the summit, we will embark on a hike to Slemenova Špica. This beautiful, grassy peak is celebrated for its truly photogenic perspective of Mount Jalovec, whose majestic, pyramid-like shape has earned it the nickname "the Matterhorn of Slovenia." While the hike itself is not lengthy, the rewards are immediate and immense. We will find ourselves surrounded by a tapestry of vibrant alpine flowers and panoramic ridges that stretch across the horizon. After taking in the breathtaking scenery, we will make our way back down, returning to the charming alpine town of Kranjska Gora in the afternoon, with ample time to relax and reflect on the day's adventure. |
Hotel Kompas, Kranjska GoraBreakfast |
Approx 7 km (4 miles), 2-3 hours walking, Elevation gain: 330 m (1,083 ft) We leave Kranjska Gora, driving through the Slovenian countryside to the Kamniška Bistrica valley, where we board a cable car to the pastures of Velika Planina. The ride itself is an adventure, with vistas of the Kamnik-Savinja Alps and the valley below. Alighting at the mountain plateau, we step into a different world: a traditional shepherd’s village with unique wooden huts dotted across the verdant pastures. First, we visit the Preskar Museum, housed in a reconstructed shepherd’s hut, to learn about the traditions of the herdsmen who still graze cattle here during summer. Then, a cheese-making demonstration introduces us to trnič, a pear-shaped cheese once carved with beautifying patterns by shepherds for their loved ones. Afterward, we trek across meadows filled with seasonal wildflowers before descending by cable car. Back in Kranjska Gora, we share a farewell dinner at the hotel. |
Hotel Kompas, Kranjska GoraBreakfast, Dinner |
You’ve walked to waterfalls, navigated rivers through narrow gorges, and stood at viewpoints high in the Julian Alps, but now it’s time to begin your return journey home. Savour one last breakfast, a perfect time to reflect on your incredible journey before your onward travels. Alternatively, if you’d like to extend your adventure, please contact us. NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation. |
NoneBreakfastDates & Prices
Please contact us for private departures and group bookings. Single Supplement is available on request.
More Info
- The departure and finish point is Kranjska Gora.
- The closest airport to Kranjska Gora is Klagenfurt Airport (KLU) in Austria, located approximately 45.2 km away. Other nearby airports include Ljubljana Airport (LJU) in Slovenia, about 58.7 km away.
- Airport transfers: There will be one group transfer from the Ljubljana Airport (LJU) to the hotel, which you can join at no extra cost, provided you can be at the airport before the transfer leaves. Please contact us for the transfer times. Alternatively, airport transfers can be arranged at an additional cost, please contact us.
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.
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.
Transport: Airport transfers are in private minivans. Transfers to and from the walks are by public transport, where available and practical; alternatively, a private minivan is provided.
Suitability: All walks are on well-maintained paths, although some may have loose stones underfoot. Each day there are ascents and descents and three to four hours of walking. This tour is not recommended for those who suffer with vertigo.
Water safety: This trip includes time by a lake, river or sea, where there may be opportunities to swim. You should always seek local advice before deciding whether to swim. Open-water or wild swim spots should be treated with extreme caution.
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 100 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 100 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 100 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee
- Within 100 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 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.
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.
