Tiny unspoiled Slovenia may well be Europe’s greatest secret! From the capital, Ljubljana, “the next Prague,” to a serene countryside of picturesque medieval villages locked in a bygone age, this destination has it all. Our tour takes in the wonders of Slovenia’s western regions, where some of the country’s most attractive scenery is found: the mountain enclave of the Julian Alps, especially rich in endemic flora and a number of jewel-like lakes, including the fairytale setting of Lake Bled (complete with quintessential castle); the Soca Valley, with its exquisite alpine scenery and dreamy turquoise-green river; the evocative Karst country, a limestone plateau that’s home to the famous Skocjan Caves, old stone churches, and luscious ruby-red wines; and the Adriatic Coast, where you’ll visit the Venetian harbor town of Piran, sitting at the tip of a narrow peninsula. There’s much to see in this part of the world, and now is the time to go, before it becomes discovered by the crowds!

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

• Hike in the heart of the Julian Alps and Triglav National Park—not yet discovered by the crowds
• Visit the picturesque lake village of Bled, the karst wine country, and the Skocjan caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Gorgeous sweeping views of mountains, lakes, and vineyards

DAY 1

Meet in Ljubljana, Slovenia. Walking tour of the old part of the city, with its quaint narrow streets and medieval bridges.

DAY 2

Hike in the Kamnisko-Savinjske Alps, where we may meet shepherds and see their unique conical-roofed huts. Drive to Bohinj, set near a lake in Triglav National Park.

DAY 3

Climb Debela Pec (6,611'), with its wonderful views of Mount Triglav (9,396'), Slovenia’s highest mountain. Return to Bohinj via Bled, the most picturesque lake in Slovenia.

DAY 4

Today you’ll hike in the heart of the Julian Alps, passing shepherds’ cottages on the way to the summit of Ticarica (6,795') with a breathtaking view of Seven Triglav lakes.

DAY 5

Free day in Bohinj to try canyoneering (definitely one of the highlights in this part of Slovenia), canoe around the lake, take a walk, or tackle the mountain bike trails.

DAY 6

Drive to the Soca River Valley for a hike to Sleme and a picnic beside a small glacial lake. Continue to Kobarid.

DAY 7

Hike to Krnska Lakes (4,544') in the upper Soca Valley, with its views of white limestone peaks. This is the westernmost part of Triglav National Park where the battles of WWI took place, vividly described in Ernest Hemingway’s A Farewell to Arms.

DAY 8

Hike to a hidden waterfall, then take a picturesque drive across Goriska Brda, a hilly area bordering Italy that produces the country’s best fruit and wine. Visit local wine makers and sample delicious red wines, then drive to Piran, on the Adriatic Coast, and explore its tangle of streets in the old town.

DAY 9

Head to the underground world of the Skocjan Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and walk through their labyrinth of underground passages. We’ll spend the afternoon in the Karst area, where hospitable villagers, amazing rock formations, a pleasant climate, and superb cuisine give the region a special charm, thenreturnto Piran in the evening.

DAY 10

Hike in Rakov Skocjan Regional Park. Return to Ljubljana and depart.

Stay a Little Longer

Prefer a Group Adventure?
This trip is also available as a group departure. Check out Europe, or other independent travel on your own. We also offer a two-day extension to South Bohemia: visit the fairytale castles and enchanting towns of South Bohemia, including magnificent Hluboka Castle; the exquisite medieval jewel of Cesky Krumlov; the spa town of Trebon; and the Renaissance city of Telc, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 2 days.

Why Mountain Travel Sobek is Your First Choice for Adventure

Mountain Travel Sobek is the pioneer in active adventure travel. No other adventure travel company can lay claim to that title. We were the first to take Americans trekking in Nepal, raft the wild rivers of Africa, and open up many previously inaccessible corners of the world to curious travelers. We set the standard for adventure travel and have a strong reputation for excellence that we do everything we can to maintain. Since we are the leading adventure company, we have a lot to live up to, so we make sure we provide safe, quality trips and the best customer service to our passengers.

References

Don't take our word for how great our trips are. We'll be happy to provide you with references of satisfied past travelers. Just give us a call at 1-888-MTSOBEK (687-6235).

Questions?

Feel free to call us at 1-888-MTSOBEK (687-6235) if you still have any questions or concerns. We're here to help you.

Note on Itinerary

Although we will do our very best to adhere to the itinerary schedule as listed, it is subject to change for numerous reasons beyond our control. Please read the Limitations of Liability and Booking Conditions in the four-page Participant Information Form.

This itinerary has been carefully designed for optimal value. You may wish to combine this tour with another or add extensions at the beginning or end of your trip. However, if you wish to customize this tour, other terms and conditions apply (ask us about information on customized adventures). Travel Agent commissions or any type of other discounts do not apply to this tour.

Conditions of Participation

Your participation on a Mountain Travel Sobek trip is subject to the conditions stated in the four-page Participant Information Form, which includes the Agreement and Release from Liability and the Booking Conditions. We urge you to read this information carefully, and to call us if you have any questions.

Note on Services

We often use local suppliers who provide services that may include transportation, equipment, logistic support, and other services (hotels, restaurants, etc.). We do not own or operate these independent suppliers. We work with service providers who share our commitment to safety and quality, and work closely with them to develop itineraries unique to Mountain Travel Sobek.

Ready to go? Signing up is easy!

Just call us at 1-888-MTSOBEK (687-6235) or make a reservation request online. Immediately after we receive your deposit, we will request your preferred dates. Upon confirmation (usually within four business days), we will send you a packet with all the information you need to get ready for your trip, including clothing recommendations, suggested reading lists, and other details.

Approximately 30 days before your departure, we'll send you detailed, step-by-step instructions, with emergency contact numbers, a detailed map, and other important information. Upon arrival at your destination, you will be met by your in-country host who will help orient you and describe what to expect in the week to come.