This self-guided five-day tour through the Slovenian Alps is perfect for independent adventure-seekers who want to spend their vacation hiking and trekking through gorgeous mountain scenery. The itinerary starts in the lively capital of Ljubljana before taking you into the Alps to meet shepherds and cheesemakers—and of course, taste fresh dairy products while you're at it. Your trek will take you up the lonely summits and grassy slopes of the Slovenian Alps, and you'll spend each night at a small mountain cabin. Finish your trip on the lovely shores of Lake Bled, and don't forget to ring the wishing bell!

Highlights

  • Treat yourself to delicious Bled cream cake on the shores of the lake
  • Visit the emerald waters of the Vintgar Gorge 
  • Hike through the Julian Alps and its postcard-perfect scenery
  • Take in the views at Lake Bled

Brief Itinerary

Day Highlights Overnight
Day 1 Arrive in Ljubljana Ljubljana
Day 2 Hiking in the central Julian Alps Bled
Day 3 Hike Through the Triglav Lakes Valley Triglav Lakes Valley
Day 4 Hiking through Alpine pastures Bohinj
Day 5 Exploring Lake Bled & Departure  

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Ljubljana

Ljubljana castle
Ljubljana castle

Welcome to Slovenia! Once you land at Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport, a driver will pick you up to take you to your accommodation. Get settled with a welcome drink before heading out to explore Ljubljana's lively city center.

First, stroll down the main street along the banks of the Ljubljanica River, which is lined with lots of small boutiques, outdoor cafés, and wine bars. Ljubljana is one of the greenest cities in Europe and is just the right size to explore on foot or by bicycle. You'll have the chance to see Ljubljana Castle, churches, parks, and more. As you explore more, you'll notice the work of modern architect Jože Plečnik all around the city, including the National Library, Central Market, Triple Bridge, and Plečnik's own home-turned-museum, all of which sit under the watchful eyes of the city's many signature dragons.

When you get hungry, head to the Central Market to sample local cuisine at one of the many stalls.

Day 2: Hiking in the Central Julian Alps

The Julian Alps

In the morning, you'll be transferred to the trailhead in Triglav National Park, where we will begin your journey through a dense, fairytale spruce forest. The trail takes you up to several viewpoints, where you'll be able to see the highest mountains in the Julian Alps and the Bohinj Valley. After a full day of hiking, your luggage will be waiting for you at your hotel in Bled, where you can spend the rest of the evening relaxing. The entire hike is about six miles (10 km) long and takes about six hours. 

Day 3: Hike Through the Triglav Lakes Valley

View of the Julian Alps
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Today you'll leave the quiet meadows behind to step into an imposing landscape of limestone mountains. You'll hike to the top of Mt. Triglav’s southern "neighbor" and walk through the Triglav Lakes Valley before reaching the hut where you will be sleeping, which is near the shores of one of the valley's seven lakes. The hike takes about seven hours and is about 8.5 miles (14 km) long. 

You'll also have the option to summit Mt. Triglav on your own or with a professional IFMGA licensed mountain guide.

Day 4: Hiking through Alpine pastures

The peaceful pastures of Slovenia

Today you'll leave the high peaks behind to walk through serene Alpine pastures, where you'll see shepherds, and cows quietly munching on grass. You can also try some home-made dairy products before getting a ride to the stunning shores of Lake Bohinj, where you'll swim in its crystal clear waters.  You'll reach your accommodation in Bohinj in the late afternoon, and you can spend the evening relaxing or enjoying the area.

The hike is about 6 miles (10 km) long and takes about four hours to complete. 

Day 5: Exploring Lake Bled & Departure

View of Lake Bled

Spend today exploring the area around Lake Bled. One option is to ride a bike through the countryside and stop at the Vintgar Gorge to enjoy the view. Another option is to row a boat to the island in the middle of Lake Bled and ring the wishing bell. 

In the afternoon, your driver will take you back to Ljubljana Airport to catch your flight home. Have a good trip! 

Map

Map of Hut-to-Hut Hiking in the Slovenian Alps- 5 Days
Map of Hut-to-Hut Hiking in the Slovenian Alps- 5 Days