Slovenia, Croatia & Montenegro Grand Traverse Multi-Adventure Tour
This professionally designed itinerary takes you on a captivating odyssey through the enchanting landscapes of Slovenia, Croatia, and Montenegro. Soak up Slovenia's natural wonders, tracing the shores of stunning Lake Bled, summiting a craggy Triglav National Park peak in the Julien Alps, hiking the spectacular Soca River Valley, and sampling artisan cheese and wine along the way. Cross to Croatia to paddle the sparkling Adriatic, then travel inland to marvel at UNESCO-listed waterfalls in Plitvice National Park and climb to iconic Anica Kuk. The Adriatic calls you back to the coast to discover the Dalmatian islands through hikes, culinary delights, and historical treasures. Immerse yourself in Dubrovnik's beauty and past, then it's off to Montenegro's gorgeous Bay of Kotor and more storybook villages and hiking through diverse and spectacular landscapes.
This professionally designed itinerary takes you on a captivating odyssey through the enchanting landscapes of Slovenia, Croatia, and Montenegro. Soak up Slovenia's natural wonders, tracing the shores of stunning Lake Bled, summiting a craggy Triglav National Park peak in the Julien Alps, hiking the spectacular Soca River Valley, and sampling artisan cheese and wine along the way. Cross to Croatia to paddle the sparkling Adriatic, then travel inland to marvel at UNESCO-listed waterfalls in Plitvice National Park and climb to iconic Anica Kuk. The Adriatic calls you back to the coast to discover the Dalmatian islands through hikes, culinary delights, and historical treasures. Immerse yourself in Dubrovnik's beauty and past, then it's off to Montenegro's gorgeous Bay of Kotor and more storybook villages and hiking through diverse and spectacular landscapes.
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Highlights
Experience sensational hikes from the Soca River Valley to the rocky spires of spectacular Julien Alps - with visits to Lake Bled and the Baby of Kotor
Paddle along the rugged Croatian coastline of the Adriatic on crystal-clear waters
Summit Mt. Debela Pec and Mt. Ilija for picturesque panoramic views
On arrival to Ljubljana, the charming capital of Slovenia, you will be met by an MT Sobek representative and transferred to your hotel. The Ljubljanica River winds through the charming medieval old town with its picturesque squares—the heart of city's cultural life, bustling with cafes, restaurants, and boutiques.
Accommodation: Hotel Lev-Ljubljana, Slovenia
Transportation: Private airport transfer
Meals: Dinner
Hike Around Lake Bled & Cruise on the Lake
Day 2
Today, travel to lake Bled, famous for the tiny islet in the center of the lake punctuated with a church tower. Enjoy a scenic warm-up hike around the lake, getting your first glimpses of the lofty Julien Alps. Relax in the afternoon with a traditional Pletna boat ride to the lake's small isle and enjoy views over Bled Castle, guarding the lake from its clifftop perch. Admire the historical Austrian Habsburg architecture as you stroll around Bled.
Accommodation: Hotel Triglav-Bled, Slovenia
Activity: 3.6 miles of hiking with negligible elevation gain or loss
Transportation: 45-minute transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hike Triglav National Park & Summit Mt. Debela Pec
Day 3
After a hearty breakfast, depart for the Julian Alps and sensational Triglav National Park. The goal for today is to summit Mt. Debela Pec (6,650'). Hike a steady ascent on switchback trails through lush forests and rugged terrain. The final push over rocky paths amidst karst and dwarf pines is challenging but the effort is well worth it as the peak offers spectacular views of Triglav National Park and Mt. Triglav, the highest mountain in Slovenia.
Accommodation: Hotel Triglav-Bled, Slovenia
Activity: 5.4 miles of hiking with 2,360' of elevation gain
Transportation: 25-minute transfer each way
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hike through the Soca River Valley
Day 4
Travel along the enchanting Julian Alps, crossing the Vrsic pass (5,285'), which was once on the border line between Italy and Austro-Hungarian Empire. Revel in breathtaking views and with a bit of luck you will see dozens of delicate alpine flowers. Today's trek starts in the remote Soca River Valley, an alpine valley surrounded by high peaks. Discover a hidden waterfall before connecting to the Soca Trail, which traces the emerald river of the same name. On the way, stop by a local artisan cheese makers to try their gourmet sheep cheese! In the late afternoon, chase the sunset on the gorgeous Mangart Saddle, a mountain pass with incredible views. Savor a gourmet dinner after today's effort.
Accommodation: Hotel Sanje ob Soci-Bovec, Slovenia
Activity: 9 miles of hiking with 350' of elevation gain
Transportation: 1.25-hour transfer, 20-minute transfer, 30-minute transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Taste the Flavors of Vipava Wine Country
Day 5
For your final hike in the Alps, take a short hike to Kozjak, one of Slovenia's most beautiful waterfalls. This part of the Soca Valley was once an infamous WWI Isonzo Front battlefield, where Ernest Hemingway got inspiration for his novel Farewell to Arms. Travel by road further south to the Vipava Wine Country, a scenic hilly region rich in vineyards, orchards, and medieval towns. Visit a local winemaker and enjoy a farm-to-table lunch followed by a tour of the underground wine cellars, tasting some exquisite local wines. Finish the day on the Adriatic Sea in the Venetian town of Piran, catching the golden afternoon light.
Accommodation: Hotel Piran
Activity: 2.7 miles of hiking with 300' of elevation gain + 2 miles
Transportation: 25-minute transfer, 1.5-hour transfer, 1.25-hour transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Cross into Croatia & Paddle a Kayak on the Adriatic
Day 6
Stretch your legs with a morning tour of Piran, learning about the town's rich history and wandering narrow winding streets. Travel to the border and cross into Croatia, continuing to Rovinj, a town renowned for its beauty, built by the Venetians. After a briefing, get ready for a sea-kayaking adventure on the Adriatic's crystal-clear waters! Paddle along the rugged coastline and secluded bays with chances to spot sea turtles and silvery fish. Finish the day checking in to a small comfortable boutique hotel in the small medieval village of Bale.
Accommodation: Hotel La Grisa-Bale, Croatia
Activity: Sea kayaking on the Adriatic
Transportation: 1.25-hour transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Explore Plitvice Lakes National Park
Day 7
Say farewell to the Adriatic for a short while and travel inland to Plitvice Lakes National Park, one of the most beautiful and biodiverse landscapes in Europe. This UNESCO World Heritage site is famed for its cascading waterfalls, crystal-clear lakes, and lush greenery. The trail meanders along turquoise lakes and passes through dense forest with views (of course!) of luminous waterfalls. Hiking through this extraordinary scenery unveils the true beauty of Croatia's oldest and most famous natural park. Stay close by the park tonight.
Accommodation: Plitvice Inn
Activity: 6-9 miles of hiking
Transportation: 3-hour transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hike to Anica Kuk in Paklenica National Park
Day 8
This morning, travel to spellbinding Paklenica National Park and begin your hike among the dramatic rock formations of Velika Paklenica canyon. As you ascend, the path winds through a dense forest of beech and pine, arriving at Paklenica Hut. The next leg takes you to the base of iconic Anica Kuk, a towering cliff—the tallest in the Velebit mountains— where you're rewarded with breathtaking views of the sheer rock face and the expansive valley below. After your hike, drive to UNESCO-listed Split, a city once strongly influenced by the Romans and later by the Venetians. This is culturally the richest part of the Adriatic where you'll discover the Diocletian Palace built in finest limestone and marble in the 3rd century AD. From this coastal city, cross a short expanse of the Adriatic to the island of Brac.
Accommodation: Hotel Puteus Palace
Activity: 7.2 miles of hiking with 1,300' of elevation gain
Transportation: 1.25-hour transfer, 1.75-hour transfer, 30-minute ferry ride, 25-minute transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Savor Brac Island's Landscapes & Flavors
Day 9
Discover Brac, the largest of Dalmatian islands, starting today's walk in the hidden bay of Blaca and hiking up through pine trees, aromatic flowers, and the scents and sights of the sea to the 450-year-old hermitage, which is on UNESCO's shortlist. Enjoy a fire-cooked lunch of local specialties in a Dalmatian stone village. Fortified with a healthy meal, continue to the top of Mt. Vidova, the highest peak of the Adriatic islands, and enjoy the view down to the Zlatni Rat, often referred to as the Golden Cape or Golden Horn, a narrow spit of beach piercing the azure waters of the Adriatic. Tonight's dinner is on your own. Your guides are happy to recommend the best restaurant for your culinary experience.
Accommodation: Hotel Puteus Palace
Activity: 6.6 miles of hiking with 1,100' of elevation gain
Transportation: 30-minute transfer each way
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Culinary Tour of Brac with Wine Tasting
Day 10
Enjoy a relaxed morning in the delightful historical town of Pucisca, exploring Brac's pristine coves where turquoise waters lap against rocky shores, and do some virgin olive oil tasting. Then travel to the Peljesac peninsula, almost an island itself, with a narrow link to the mainland. This small paradise is lush with orange, pomegranate, and fig orchards, not to mention vineyards producing Dingac, one of Croatia's best wines. Sample local wines and visit a traditional konoba (tavern) to indulge in local fare before settling in Orebic.
Awake in Orebic, an enchanting small town on the fertile Peljesac peninsula where some of the finest centuries-old villas in Dalmatia are beautifully preserved. Head out on a hike through vineyards, passing an old Franciscan monastery, and continue uphill in the shade of Allepo pine forest. As you near the top of Mt. Ilija, the highest peak on Peljesac, the scenery changes to barren rocky terrain. At the summit, marvel at panoramic views of the many islands of Dalmatia. In the afternoon take a break by the hotel's pool before cruising across the channel to the island of Korcula, once home of Marco Polo. Listen to stories of the past while walking through this magical old town, then return to Orebic.
Accommodation: Hotel Crystal
Activity: 6.5 miles of hiking with with 2,840' of elevation gain (option for an easier hike in the foothills of Mt. Ilija)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Explore Historic Dubrovnik & Cross into Montenegro
Day 12
Today set off to the very southern tip of Dalmatia to visit Dubrovnik, the “Jewel of the Adriatic.” Here massive stone walls meet with crystal clear blue waters to shelter the impressive UNESCO-listed town. Explore its exquisite, red-roofed stone architecture in churches, monasteries, and palaces. Learn about its history of shipbuilding and spice trade with the Far East. Travel to the border and enter Montenegro, continuing to the stunning Bay of Kotor, and old town recognized by UNESCO for its artistic and commercial history and restored monuments. Walk along Kotor's fortified walls, getting views of the bay before arriving at your boutique hotel in the center of old town.
Accommodation: Hotel Vardar
Transportation: 1.75-hour transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hike through Scenic Lovcen National Park
Day 13
Begin the day with a drive inland to the village of Njegosi, famed for their air-dried ham, cheese, and honey. This village was the birth place of Montenegro's most renowned poet and monarch Petar Njegos. From here, hike through the hills of Lovcen National Park on a karst plain and forested trails to the top of limestone Mt. Lovcen, where you will have impressive views over Kotor bay and Montenegro's coastline. After your descent, the road takes you to the former royal capital of Montenegro, the town of Cetinje, which has a fascinating history as a stronghold as the Ottoman Empire pushed into Montenegro. Travel down a serpentine road with 25 curves and stunning views just as the sun sets.
Accommodation: Hotel Vardar
Activity: 4 miles of hiking with 1,990' of altitude gain
Transportation: Total of 3.5 hours transfer with hiking and touring breaks along the way
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Return to Dubrovnik & Depart
Day 14
After breakfast it's time to say farewell to Montenegro and this thrilling adventure. Transfer to Dubrovnik airport for homeward bound flights.
MT Sobek has been operating expertly crafted trips in Europe for over 40 years.
Follow local professional guides as you enjoy stunning landscapes, culinary specialties, and warm hospitality. Come away knowing the people as well as the place.
Hikes take travelers through hard-to-find orchards, vineyards, hillsides, and medieval villages across 3 countries in a well-paced 9 days.
The best people to immerse you in a destination are the ones who live there, which is why we feature local Adventure Guides on our trips. Here are a few that you might meet on this adventure.
Roman K.
After finishing his studies in Chinese language and culture, Roman spent three years exploring Asia before returning to his homeland of Slovenia. To keep the adventure alive, he became an outdoor guide over 10 years ago and enjoys discovering the hidden corners of Slovenia and nearby Croatia. Roman loves to combine his extensive outdoor experience with his passion for gourmet extravaganzas of Balkan cuisine. He is well known for his personal touch and good sense of humor.
Ziva L.
A lifelong traveler, Ziva immerses herself in local cultures, from cooking classes to vibrant markets. Her passions span hiking, skiing, cycling, yoga, and running. Summers find her surfing South American waves; winters, skiing Slovenia's Julian Alps. Having lived in Slovenia, Peru, Croatian islands, London, and Berlin, she’s full of incredible stories — and always ready to hit the dance floor to Latin beats.
On arrival to Ljubljana, the charming capital of Slovenia, you will be met by an MT Sobek representative and transferred to your hotel. The Ljubljanica River winds through the charming medieval old town with its picturesque squares—the heart of city\'s cultural life, bustling with cafes, restaurants, and boutiques.
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[DayTo] => 11
[Headline] => Summit Mt. Ilija for Views of Dalmatia
[ActivityOverview] => 6.5 miles of hiking with with 2,840\' of elevation gain (option for an easier hike in the foothills of Mt. Ilija)
[EstimatedLength] =>
[ActivityLevel] =>
[ItinBlock] => Awake in Orebic, an enchanting small town on the fertile Peljesac peninsula where some of the finest centuries-old villas in Dalmatia are beautifully preserved. Head out on a hike through vineyards, passing an old Franciscan monastery, and continue uphill in the shade of Allepo pine forest. As you near the top of Mt. Ilija, the highest peak on Peljesac, the scenery changes to barren rocky terrain. At the summit, marvel at panoramic views of the many islands of Dalmatia. In the afternoon take a break by the hotel\'s pool before cruising across the channel to the island of Korcula, once home of Marco Polo. Listen to stories of the past while walking through this magical old town, then return to Orebic.
[Breakfast] => 1
[Lunch] => 1
[Dinner] => 1
[Travel_Type] =>
[Quotation] =>
[Quotation_Attribution] =>
[Quotation_Location] =>
[Itinerary_Location] =>
[Latitude] => 42.975
[Longitude] => 17.168
)
[11] => Array
(
[DayFrom] => 12
[DayTo] => 12
[Headline] => Explore Historic Dubrovnik & Cross into Montenegro
[ActivityOverview] =>
[EstimatedLength] =>
[ActivityLevel] =>
[ItinBlock] => Today set off to the very southern tip of Dalmatia to visit Dubrovnik, the “Jewel of the Adriatic.” Here massive stone walls meet with crystal clear blue waters to shelter the impressive UNESCO-listed town. Explore its exquisite, red-roofed stone architecture in churches, monasteries, and palaces. Learn about its history of shipbuilding and spice trade with the Far East. Travel to the border and enter Montenegro, continuing to the stunning Bay of Kotor, and old town recognized by UNESCO for its artistic and commercial history and restored monuments. Walk along Kotor\'s fortified walls, getting views of the bay before arriving at your boutique hotel in the center of old town.
[Breakfast] => 1
[Lunch] => 1
[Dinner] => 1
[Travel_Type] => 1.75-hour transfer
[Quotation] =>
[Quotation_Attribution] =>
[Quotation_Location] =>
[Itinerary_Location] =>
[Latitude] => 42.424
[Longitude] => 18.77
)
[12] => Array
(
[DayFrom] => 13
[DayTo] => 13
[Headline] => Hike through Scenic Lovcen National Park
[ActivityOverview] => 4 miles of hiking with 1,990\' of altitude gain
[EstimatedLength] =>
[ActivityLevel] =>
[ItinBlock] => Begin the day with a drive inland to the village of Njegosi, famed for their air-dried ham, cheese, and honey. This village was the birth place of Montenegro\'s most renowned poet and monarch Petar Njegos. From here, hike through the hills of Lovcen National Park on a karst plain and forested trails to the top of limestone Mt. Lovcen, where you will have impressive views over Kotor bay and Montenegro\'s coastline. After your descent, the road takes you to the former royal capital of Montenegro, the town of Cetinje, which has a fascinating history as a stronghold as the Ottoman Empire pushed into Montenegro. Travel down a serpentine road with 25 curves and stunning views just as the sun sets.
[Breakfast] => 1
[Lunch] => 1
[Dinner] => 1
[Travel_Type] => Total of 3.5 hours transfer with hiking and touring breaks along the way
[Quotation] =>
[Quotation_Attribution] =>
[Quotation_Location] =>
[Itinerary_Location] =>
[Latitude] => 42.424
[Longitude] => 18.77
)
[13] => Array
(
[DayFrom] => 14
[DayTo] => 14
[Headline] => Return to Dubrovnik & Depart
[ActivityOverview] =>
[EstimatedLength] =>
[ActivityLevel] =>
[ItinBlock] => After breakfast it\'s time to say farewell to Montenegro and this thrilling adventure. Transfer to Dubrovnik airport for homeward bound flights.
[Breakfast] => 1
[Lunch] => 0
[Dinner] => 0
[Travel_Type] => 2-hour transfer
[Quotation] =>
[Quotation_Attribution] =>
[Quotation_Location] =>
[Itinerary_Location] =>
[Latitude] => 42.56
[Longitude] => 18.261
)
)
[ActivityHighlight] => This is a moderate-to-strenuous hike with an average elevation gain and loss of 1,000 feet per day. You should be an experienced hiker who is comfortable hiking 5-10 miles per day on uneven terrain, up to 2,800 feet in elevation gain with options to skip or shorten hikes. Hiking poles are recommended.
[Trip_Level] => 4
)
Activity Level
This trip is rated activity level 4. This is a moderate-to-strenuous hike with an average elevation gain and loss of 1,000 feet per day. You should be an experienced hiker who is comfortable hiking 5-10 miles per day on uneven terrain, up to 2,800 feet in elevation gain with options to skip or shorten hikes. Hiking poles are recommended. Learn more about activity levels here.
Activity Snapshot
Day 2
3.6 miles of hiking with negligible elevation gain or loss
Day 3
5.4 miles of hiking with 2,360' of elevation gain
Day 4
9 miles of hiking with 350' of elevation gain
Day 5
2.7 miles of hiking with 300' of elevation gain + 2 miles
Day 6
Sea kayaking on the Adriatic
Day 7
6-9 miles of hiking
Day 8
7.2 miles of hiking with 1,300' of elevation gain
Day 9
6.6 miles of hiking with 1,100' of elevation gain
Day 11
6.5 miles of hiking with with 2,840' of elevation gain (option for an easier hike in the foothills of Mt. Ilija)
Day 13
4 miles of hiking with 1,990' of altitude gain
*Mileage and elevation change information is approximate and may vary slightly depending on trail conditions, weather, and route adjustments, and the guide’s discretion.
Accommodations
A great mix of attractive modern hotels and boutique countryside inns with wellness amenities and fairy-tale scenery.
Located in the charming medieval town of Bale in the southwestern Istrian peninsula, Hotel La Grisa is a delightful hideaway. Guest rooms come equipped with a seating area as well as A/C, Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TV. Some rooms have a free-standing bathtub, while others come with a walk-in shower or corner bath.
A stroll away from the lake and the town center, the recently renovated Hotel Triglav has well-equipped guest rooms with the full range of amenities and beautiful lake views. Guests enjoy the many on-site facilities, including a piano bar, wine cellar, a fireplace lounge, and a modern spa center.
Hotel Lev is ideally located near the old town, so guests can walk to Tivoli Park, Ljubljana Castle, the Central Market, Prešeren Square, and other sights. The hotel boasts modern accommodations in a sleek building. It also features an à la carte restaurant, a breakfast room and a bar, as well as a wellness and fitness center.
At this modern guesthouse, accommodation is basic and clean in small, private guest rooms with en suite bathrooms. There is also free Wi-Fi, TV, and air conditioning.
Just steps from the sea, Hotel Piran boasts traditional architecture, originally built in 1913. Small, clean, simply furnished rooms include an ensuite bath and a view of the sea. Taste the flavors of the Slovenian coast in the restaurant, and sample local vintages in the wine shop. Massage service is available to soothe aching legs.
Enjoy a scenic location and an authentic experience at Plitvice Inn. Savor beautiful views of the mountains and garden, which is fringed by leafy forest. Rooms are small and clean with ensuite bathrooms and terraces to take in the mountain air. The inn is known for its outstanding breakfasts—the perfect way to start your day.
Stay in a renovated palace, originally built in 1467, now a 15-room boutique hotel on the island of Brac. A walled garden surrounds a swimming pool with loungers and umbrellas. Rooms are cozy and comfortable with a nod to the building's history. Many offer views of the harbor and all include air conditioning and Wi-Fi. The onsite restaurant and wine bar are sure to tempt you.
Located at the entrance to the old town of Kotor, Hotel Vardar invites guests to sit on the terrace and look out on the historic main square. Spacious and comfortable rooms have all the modern amenities and city views across narrow lanes. An onsite restaurant, Turkish bath, sauna and massage service complete the experience.
Hotel Crystal is a modern haven, centrally located in town yet a short walk to the sandy shores of the Dalmatian coast. Spacious air-conditioned rooms with breezy balconies and plush bedding offer a tranquil retreat after a day of adventure. Relax on the terrace, enjoy the garden, unwind in the sauna, or perhaps take a dip in the seasonal outdoor pool. Experience the hotel's seamless service throughout your stay.
Weather
The weather in September is usually warm enough to wear short sleeves through the day and some warmer layers in the evening.