Webinar: MT Sobek Slovenia Adventure Travel Webinar

Join us for an epic adventure travel webinar on Slovenia and beyond! Meet Luka Poznic—Slovenia expert, passionate guide, and seasoned adventure leader—as he takes us deep into the heart of one of Europe’s most enchanting destinations. Hosted by Anne Wood, this inspiring session will explore the magic of the Julian Alps, the hidden wonders of Slovenia, and the region’s rich blend of nature, culture, and adventure. We’ll also highlight two more unforgettable journeys: the Alpe Adria Trail, and our exciting three-country trip through Croatia, Italy, and Slovenia. Get ready to dream big and plan your next epic escape!

Slovenia Webinar Overview

Discover the Wild Beauty and Warm Culture of Slovenia

Welcome! I’m Anne Wood, Senior Director of Trip Development and Operations here at Mountain Travel Sobek. We’re excited to share a glimpse into one of Europe’s most under-the-radar gems: Slovenia—a country packed with dramatic Alpine scenery, rich culture, and incredible hospitality.

A Landscape That Surprises

Joining us from Slovenia is our longtime local expert Luka Poznic, who has trekked across the Himalayas, cycled Patagonia, and even visited Antarctica’s penguin colonies. Yet for Luka, the journey home to the Soča Valley in Slovenia is the most rewarding of all.

Luka joins us from his cottage in the remote Soča Valley, nestled in the Slovenian Alps near the Italian border. This is a lush, green alpine landscape filled with waterfalls, dramatic limestone peaks, and crystal-clear rivers.

From his home, Luka can hike across the border for an espresso in an Italian mountain hut—a reminder of how compact and diverse the region is. This area, where Alpine nature meets Mediterranean culture, is his favorite place on earth, and a place he loves sharing with visitors.

Where Is Slovenia?

Slovenia often gets confused with Slovakia, but it’s its own unique destination in Central Europe. The country borders Austria, Italy, Croatia, and Hungary, and is incredibly accessible: just two hours from Venice, three hours from Vienna, and a short 25-minute drive from the capital Ljubljana to the Julian Alps.

Layers of History and Culture

Once part of Yugoslavia until 1991, Slovenia has deep cultural roots shaped by the Austro-Hungarian and Venetian empires, and historical interactions with the Ottomans. This blend of cultures is still visible today in the region’s diverse architecture, food, and local traditions.

Hike Slovenia

The Julian Alps, located in the eastern range of the European Alps, stretch into neighboring Italy. Unlike the rugged, glaciated peaks of the French or Swiss Alps, the Julian Alps are lower in altitude but lusher, filled with wildflowers, glacial lakes, and forested slopes.

What surprises many hikers is how quickly you ascend from leafy green valleys to sweeping Alpine views. As Anne noted, the scenery is reminiscent of the Pacific Northwest, but with a distinctly European flavor.

Whether you’re hiking along turquoise rivers like the Soča, climbing limestone peaks, or visiting secret waterfalls, Slovenia’s landscape offers diversity on par with Patagonia or the Himalayas—just in a more compact, approachable format.

Slovenia: Rivers, Glaciers, and Hidden Waterfalls

Western Slovenia, especially the Soča Valley, is known for its abundance of clean water. Most rivers are classified as Grade 1 in Europe—safe to drink and home to excellent trout fishing.

Many hikes don’t require summiting mountains to be spectacular. Gentle treks along riverbanks, to waterfalls, and up to scenic viewpoints offer unforgettable 360° views—including the Adriatic Sea to the south and Austria and Italy to the north.

Living Traditions & Authentic Culture

Beyond the natural beauty, what makes Slovenia truly memorable is its people and traditions. In the Julian Alps, you’ll meet cheesemakers who migrate with their herds seasonally, crafting fresh ricotta and alpine cheeses. Beekeeping is also a point of pride—Slovenia is famous for its organic honey, a tradition dating back to the Habsburg Empire.

More recently, a younger generation has returned to the land, growing organic vegetables and embracing sustainable farming as a way of life.

Genuine Hospitality and Rich Community Life

One of the most endearing parts of Slovenian culture is its hospitality. Visitors are often welcomed with offers of coffee, fresh eggs, or homemade meals—even by complete strangers.

Slovenia hasn’t yet become a mass tourism destination, which makes personal connections easy and authentic. English is widely spoken, and locals are genuinely curious and welcoming to travelers.

A Foodie’s Paradise

Slovenia’s culinary landscape is as diverse as its geography. In the Alps, expect sausages, sauerkraut, and Kaiserschmarrn (a thick, shredded pancake served with jam). Near Lake Bled and medieval villages, you’ll find traditional gingerbread-style cookies called lectar.

Just a short drive south leads you into the Brda wine region (called Collio in Italian), known for world-class red and white wines. Many of these are exported to Michelin-starred restaurants worldwide—but here, you’ll enjoy them at the source, paired with local produce and dishes crafted by young chefs returning from Paris, Italy, and beyond.

A Country That Feels Like a Secret Gem

Slovenia is truly compact. You can go skiing in the morning in the Julian Alps, then be on the coast by afternoon, sipping espresso in a Venetian town like Piran, where the climate may be warm enough for gelato even in February.

Coffee culture runs deep here too—Slovenians take their espresso seriously, blending Italian finesse with local passion.

At Mountain Travel Sobek, our goal is to craft journeys that combine natural beauty, meaningful activity, cultural connection, and yes—a touch of luxury. Think charming accommodations, the occasional swimming pool, and always a glass of local wine at the end of a rewarding day.

Slovenia may be small, but it delivers big experiences: from music-filled mountain huts and gingerbread workshops to the refreshing blue of alpine rivers and the soft laughter of locals sharing a homemade schnapps.

If you’re seeking a place where epic landscapes, authentic culture, and welcoming people converge—Slovenia is calling.

MT Sobek’s Slovenia Trips

MT Sobek offers several hiking and walking trips through this area that cater to a variety of interests and activity levels. Whether you’re an experienced hiker, a lover of good food, or simply a curious traveler, these trips highlight the best of the Julian Alps, the Adriatic Coast, and beyond. Here’s an insider look at some of our most beloved itineraries.

1. Slovenia Julian Alps Hiking Tour

MT Sobek’s Slovenia Julian Alps Hiking Tour has been a guest favorite for nearly 20 years. This level-4 hiking adventure offers incredible variety—from lush meadows and dramatic peaks to pristine alpine lakes. The trails are rewarding, the scenery changes daily, and the food is exceptional.

Our local expert Luka Poznic remembers hiking these mountains before Slovenia joined the EU—crossing into Italy meant navigating tricky border crossings and collecting unforgettable stories. Today, with open borders and the euro, exploring this region is easier than ever.

The Julian Alps are a mountaineer’s dream. You’ll explore Triglav National Park, visit iconic Lake Bled and peaceful Lake Bohinj, and see the towering Triglav mountain wall—often compared to Yosemite. Along the way, you’ll meet local cheesemakers and enjoy warm hospitality in traditional mountain huts.

The trip starts in Ljubljana, Slovenia’s charming, walkable capital filled with culture and history. It ends in the Soča Valley, a breathtaking region that was once the site of intense WWI battles. We visit an award-winning museum here, guided by a local curator who brings the history to life.

2. Village-to-Village Walking Adventure: Croatia, Slovenia & Italy

For a more relaxed pace, this level-2 walking adventure through Croatia, Slovenia, and Italy is a fantastic way to experience the region. Though gentler in pace, the journey is full of flavor—literally.

Starting in Croatia’s capital, you’ll travel to the Istrian Peninsula, where vibrant coastlines meet rolling green hills. Explore old Venetian towns like Rovinj, breathe in the scent of lavender and pine, and enjoy farm-to-table cuisine. A highlight is truffle hunting with a local family and their dogs—followed by generous tastings of truffle-infused cheese, risotto, and even chocolate mousse.

Inland, you’ll visit Motovun, a hilltop wine town famous for its film festival and celebrity guests like Robert De Niro. In recent years, young winemakers and olive oil producers—many trained abroad—have returned to transform the region’s food and wine scene, earning global awards.

From Croatia, you’ll continue into Slovenia’s karst region, walking through the UNESCO-listed Škocjan Caves, a vast underground canyon. The adventure wraps up in Italy with a stop in Venice and glimpses of timeless architecture along the way.

3. Alpe-Adria Hiking Adventure: Austria, Slovenia & Italy

For those seeking a moderate challenge, the Alpe-Adria Hiking Adventure is an ideal choice. It features the best sections of the famed Alpe-Adria Trail—normally a month-long trek—condensed into a 10-day experience.

The journey begins in Salzburg, Austria, followed by a scenic drive across one of Europe’s most iconic alpine roads to Grossglockner, the country’s highest peak. From there, you’ll hike past glaciers, turquoise lakes, and through quiet valleys.

Accommodations are boutique alpine lodges, where you’ll be welcomed with fresh strudel and herbs from the garden—rustic charm meets modern comfort. Then it’s on to northern Italy and finally Trieste, a city with a rich Habsburg history and an unexpected title: coffee capital of Italy. Known for its artistic and cultural heritage, Trieste offers a memorable end to this mountain-to-Mediterranean adventure.

Grand Traverse: Slovenia, Croatia & Montenegro Multi-Adventure

One of MT Sobek’s newest and most unique trips, the Slovenia, Croatia & Montenegro Grand Traverse is a two-week journey along the stunning Adriatic Coast. Originally created as a one-time, invitation-only experience, it sold out immediately. Due to popular demand, it’s now available again for 2026.

This is more than just a hiking trip. It’s a full experience of the region—combining trails, food, wine, sailing, swimming, and historic towns. From alpine peaks and sun-soaked coastlines to island hopping and cultural deep-dives, it’s the perfect blend of adventure and indulgence.

Designed by Anne Wood and co-created by Luka Poznic—who brings years of experience sailing the Adriatic and strong local ties—this itinerary offers personal touches and special access throughout.

Montenegro, in particular, is a standout. Its wild landscapes, deep canyons, and traditional shepherd culture feel worlds away—remote and untouched. But thanks to Luka’s language skills and cultural background, you’ll connect with the people in a way few travelers ever do. It’s like visiting the Himalayas, but with warm Balkan hospitality.

Meet Our Team

One of the best parts of traveling with MT Sobek is the people—our expert guides who bring our adventures to life. As we wrap up our overview of the four incredible trips we offer in the Julian Alps region, we want to take a moment to introduce some of the remarkable individuals who lead these experiences.

Get to Know Our Guides

Andrej is one of my dearest friends and a phenomenal guide. Always smiling, always positive. He’s a true outdoorsman—formerly a scout, a mountaineer, and constantly on the move. Just a month and a half ago, he was in Patagonia. Right now, he’s wrapping up time in New Zealand and will be back tomorrow. He and I spend a lot of time hiking and biking in the Soča Valley. He’s incredibly knowledgeable and full of energy.

On the left is Ivala—an experienced guide and a true renaissance woman. She majored in English at university, is an avid traveler, loves hiking, and knows her way around a wine cellar. In fact, she’s somewhat of a wine expert! She’s also a great cook and into motorbiking—she just got back from dirt biking in Vietnam. She can be completely at home in the outdoors or dressed up in the city. A really dynamic, fun person to travel with.

And then in the middle is Roman—my best friend and one of MT Sobek’s most seasoned guides. Roman has been leading trips with us for nearly two decades. We’ve done countless adventures together. He once ran a backpacker resort in Cambodia and has spent months trekking solo in the Himalayas. He’s truly lived a life of adventure.”

We receive so much feedback from our travelers about how special these guides are. They’re not only experts in their field, but also deeply connected to the regions we travel. We were one of the first U.S. companies to offer trips in Slovenia and Croatia over 20 years ago, and we feel completely at home here.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Accommodations: All of our trips are hotel-based—no huts or camping. We favor smaller, boutique-style places. For example, in the Soča Valley, we use a property that feels like a mountain lodge. Each room has a private bathroom, and most places have lovely extras like swimming pools or a bottle of wine waiting for you at the end of the day. We stay far away from large, characterless hotels. After a good day’s hike, you deserve a relaxing and comfortable evening.
• Terrain: The Julian Alps are made of limestone, so the trails are rocky in places—not technical, but not as smooth as some other alpine regions like Mont Blanc. You’ll walk on well-marked trails with occasional loose rock, especially as you get higher. I strongly recommend hiking poles. They’re widely used in Europe, even by professional mountaineers, and they make a big difference on uneven terrain. And proper hiking boots are a must—preferably with ankle support. No scrambling, no ladders, and no via ferrata. These hikes are scenic and active, but accessible.
• Are these trips suitable for first-time travelers to Europe? Absolutely! This region is often thought of as Eastern Europe,” Luka explains, “but really, we’re in Central Europe—two hours from Venice, three from Vienna. Slovenia was once part of Yugoslavia, which was a unique socialist country not part of the Eastern Bloc. That history shapes perceptions, but geographically and culturally, we sit right at the crossroads of the Alps and the Mediterranean. It’s a wonderful place to start your European travel adventures.
• Food: We absolutely accommodate vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free diets,” says Luka. “This is really common now, and we’ve always been able to make it work. Most of our meals are sourced locally—cheese from the valley, tomatoes from the neighbor’s garden, seasonal blueberries for dessert. I’m a bit obsessed with fresh food! My wife is vegetarian, so I know how important it is to eat well. While some people imagine Slovenia is all sausage and potatoes, that’s far from the full picture. The cuisine is diverse and heavily influenced by Italy. Expect salads, pastas, hearty local fare, and very little that’s bland.

Ready to Explore Slovenia?

If you’re intrigued and ready to explore Slovenia with MT Sobek, we’d love to chat. Call our team of expert Trip Consultants at 800-974-0300 to learn more and secure your spot. And to our future travelers—see you in Slovenia!

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