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Austria, Italy & Slovenia Alpe Adria Hiking

The Best Trails from the Alps to the Adriatic

 

Discover the highlights of the Alpe Adria, a 470-mile trail system from the Alps to the Adriatic Sea. From the highest summits down to lush valleys, past mountain lakes and aquamarine rivers, hike the trails' most beautiful stretches. Experience memorable landscapes, rich cultures, and local cuisines of three different countries - Austria, Italy, and Slovenia - and encounter landmarks such as the Garnet Gate and mountaintop Sanctuary Monte Lussari. Wrap up in the Italian town of Trieste, with dazzling Adriatic Sea vistas - the perfect ending to an extraordinary trip.

  • Take in the best of the Alpe Adria, a 43-stage trail system through spectacular wilderness

  • Soak up the fascinating culture of three different countries, Austria, Italy and Slovenia

  • Enjoy postcard-worthy views of the Grossglockner summit, the turquoise Soca River, and the romantic seaside town Trieste

Contact an Expert

Arrive:

Salzburg, Austria

Depart:

Trieste, Italy

Price: from $6,285

Duration:

10 Days

Departures:

See Dates

Group Size:

4-16 Guests

Min Age:

15 yrs

Activity:

Level 3

This is a moderate hike with moderate elevation gain. You should be comfortable hiking 7-10 miles per day over 4-8 hours. Average daily elevation gain is about 1,600 feet per day.
Learn more here.

Download Detailed Itinerary

Click here to download the Detailed Itinerary.

  • Arrive in Salzburg

    Day 1

    Start your journey in Salzburg, one of the most beautiful cities in Austria, if not the whole Alps. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mozart's birthplace, and the setting for The Sound of Music movie, Salzburg has a charming baroque Old Town with a formidable fortress looming above. Meet with your group at 3pm for orientation and welcome dinner.

    Accommodation: Sheraton Grand Hotel-Salzburg, Austria

    Salzburg's Sheraton Grand has a stellar location for walking to the Old Town, Mozarts Geburtshaus (Mozart's birthplace), and other must-see sights. Immediately adjacent to Mirabell Park - the dining room and many guest rooms gaze right into its lush gardens - this internationally renowned hotel has excellent service, great international and local cuisine, and well-appointed rooms.

    Meals: Dinner

  • Set Out on the Alpe Adria Trail

    Day 2

    After a scenic 2-hour drive from Salzburg, reach Hohe Tauern National Park to take the inaugural hike amidst its alpine meadows and peaks. Enjoy a typical Austrian lunch and then transfer to the village of Heiligenblut at the foot of Grossglockner, Austria's highest peak at 12,461 feet - a perfect starting point for the Alpe Adria experience.

    Accommodation: Hotel Laerchenhof-Heiligenblut, Austria

    At the foot of Grossglockner, Austria's highest mountain, this family-run hotel has been wowing guests for decades. Every corner of the expansive building offers panoramic valley and high-alpine views. Modern rooms are light, airy, and outfitted with local-timber and natural-material furnishings. The dining room often hosts local musicians, and the spa is a soothing retreat.

    Activity: 5 hours/ 5.5 miles hiking with 2,000' elevation gain & loss

    Transportation: 3-hours total private van transfer

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Head Toward the Pasterze Glacier

    Day 3

    Hike the first stage of the Alpe Adria trail, beginning in the village of Heiligenblut and ascending towards the mighty Grossglockner and Pasterze Glacier. Wind your way through forests, past waterfalls, along lakes and on steep hairpin bends. End the hike with panoramic views from Franz Josef Hohe, and take a 40-minute shuttle ride back to the village. In the evening, try local dishes featuring lamb and beef, which is especially tender as local farmers take their cattle up to 6,000-foot-high alpine pastures.

    Accommodation: Hotel Laerchenhof-Heiligenblut, Austria

    At the foot of Grossglockner, Austria's highest mountain, this family-run hotel has been wowing guests for decades. Every corner of the expansive building offers panoramic valley and high-alpine views. Modern rooms are light, airy, and outfitted with local-timber and natural-material furnishings. The dining room often hosts local musicians, and the spa is a soothing retreat.

    Activity: 6 hours/7 miles with 3,500' elevation gain & 600' elevation loss

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Hike Around Lake Millstatt & to Mount Steinerner Tisch

    Day 4

    Explore the area around Lake Millstatt, starting with a scenic hike to Steinerner Tisch, a massive stone table that sits 6,000 feet above the lake with stunning panoramic views. Legend has it that giants once lived in the grass-covered mountains here. Stop at the local high alpine farm to sample some of the products. In the afternoon, check into the hotel on the shores of Lake Milstatt, to enjoy a peaceful sunset and local wine.

    Accommodation: Naturhotel Alpenrose-Millstatt, Austria

    When you enter the Naturhotel Alpenrose, you will feel it: Here you can leave everyday life behind and completely relax. Even before its construction, attention was paid to natural materials, which provide a very special atmosphere, for warmth and comfort. The processed wood comes for the most part from local forests. Hand-chopped larch shingles, which were prepared by a Lungau farmer, adorn the façade.

    Activity: 4-5 hours/ 7 miles hiking with 1,600' elevation gain & loss

    Transportation: 2.5 hours total private van transfer

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Discover the Path of Love

    Day 5

    Take in fabulous views as you climb the so-called Path of Love to the Garnet Gate, an impressive Cubist sculpture at the summit that overlooks Lake Milstatt. The hike across lush alpine meadows along the Millstätter Alpe Ridge is a feast for the senses. Afterward, enjoy freshly baked bread with local spreads and salami.

    Accommodation: Naturhotel Alpenrose-Millstatt, Austria

    When you enter the Naturhotel Alpenrose, you will feel it: Here you can leave everyday life behind and completely relax. Even before its construction, attention was paid to natural materials, which provide a very special atmosphere, for warmth and comfort. The processed wood comes for the most part from local forests. Hand-chopped larch shingles, which were prepared by a Lungau farmer, adorn the façade.

    Activity: 5-6 hours/8 miles hiking with 1,600' elevation gain & loss

    Transportation: 1-hour total private van transfer

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Experience Three Countries & a Mountaintop Sanctuary

    Day 6

    Today experience how the Alpe-Adria trail connects Austria, Italy and Slovenia. Leave Austria for a 1.5-hour drive to Italy to take a gondola ride up to the start of a hike along the charming pilgrims' path to the church of Maria Lussari on Monte Lussari (5872'), and then towards a rocky amphitheater just below Cima del Cacciatore. After lunch with a view, return by gondola and do an enjoyable 1.5-hour hike in the woods along Laghi di Fusine, wrapping it up with gelato. Head towards Slovenia for well-deserved rest at the picturesque ski village of Kranjska Gora.

    Accommodation: Hotel Skipass-Kranjska Gora, Slovenia

    Nestled among mountains, rivers and lakes, Hotel Skipass is the perfect retreat in the Julian Alps. Steps from the slopes and the town center, the family-run hotel delights guests with warm hospitality, modern décor, stellar dining, and astounding views. The alpine architecture fits flawlessly amidst its rustic setting, while light-wood interiors give the ample rooms a Scandinavian feel.

    Activity: 4-5 hours/5 miles hiking with 1,000' elevation gain

    Transportation: 2-hours total private van transfer

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Hike Up the Highest Mountain Pass in Slovenia

    Day 7

    This morning, hike up to Vršic (5,285'), the highest mountain pass in Slovenia with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. On the climb along the scenic alpine trail, you might come across some mountain sheep. Later on, descend into the Soca Valley, following the stream of the turquoise-green Soca River to the town of Kobarid. Overnight in a charming villa.

    Accommodation: Hotel Dobra Vila-Bovec, Slovenia

    A delightful small hotel, Dobra Vila features rooms with smart and original décor, all offering the expected creature comforts and above-par bathrooms. The hotel's restaurant serves delicious meals on the terrace, paired with astounding mountain views, or indoors - try for a spot in the fireplace nook.

    Accommodation: Hisa Franko

    Once a roadside inn and a village mill, Hisa Franko is now home to a three-generation family who run this historic countryside estate famed for its restaurant headed up by Slovenia's star chef Ana Ros. The beautifully appointed rooms are spacious and light; some have terraces with hammocks. Guests can enjoy in-room massages, the lovely grounds, and myriad activities in the surrounding valley.

    Activity: 5-6 hours/8 miles hiking with 2,000' elevation gain & 1,000' elevation loss

    Transportation: 2-hours total private van transfer

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Explore Soca Valley & Triglav National Park

    Day 8

    Today hike in the Soca Valley, following the Soca River through unspoiled parts of Triglav National Park. Famous for the WWI Battle of Isonzo vividly described in Ernest Hemingway's novel, A Farewell to Arms, Soca is now known as a playground for hikers, cyclists, and water enthusiasts. After sampling local cheeses, end the day amongst the vineyards with some fresh-cut prosciutto and a glass of local red.

    Accommodation: Hotel Gredic-Goriska Brda, Slovenia

    Set in a 16th-century castle, the luxury Hotel Gredic sits in the heart of Slovenia's Brda wine country. The individually decorated guest rooms feature a range of amenities like Wi-Fi, A/C, and private bathrooms with heated floors. The on-site restaurant serves local specialties, the bar offers drinks and snacks, and there's a terrace with views of the surrounding vineyards.

    Activity: 2-3 hours/3.2 miles hiking with 70' elevation gain & 300' elevation loss

    Transportation: 2-hours, 45 minutes total private van transfer

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Hike in the Valley of Rosanda & End up in Trieste

    Day 9

    Last but not least, head back to Italy for a 2-hour hike in the Valley of Rosanda. This unique natural reserve is known for its karst landscape and mild Mediterranean climate. End the tour in Trieste, a fascinating city that has been on a crossroads of Latin, Slavic, and German culture for over 2000 years. For the final night together, enjoy a farewell feast of local Italian specialties.

    Accommodation: Hotel Savoia Excelsior-Trieste, Italy

    At this stunning property right in the center of town, classical elegance melds effortlessly with a contemporary edge and Italian flair. Most of the elegant rooms - all with marble bathrooms - offer sweeping views over the Gulf of Trieste; some have private balconies. Most of Trieste's attractions are just a walk away.

    Activity: 2 hours/3.1 miles hiking with 660' elevation gain & loss

    Transportation: 1-hour private van transfer

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Depart from Trieste

    Day 10

    Depart from Trieste Airport, or take a train, shuttle, or taxi to the airport in Venice.

    Meals: Breakfast

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Austria, Italy & Slovenia Alpe Adria Hiking

Download Detailed Itinerary

Click here to download the Detailed Itinerary.

What to Expect

 

Why take this trip with us?

Reason #01

We are one of a few, if not the only North American tour operator, to offer hikes along Europe's newest long-distance trail.

Reason #02

National Geographic has named the Alpe Adria trail across Austria, Slovenia and Italy one of the "World's Best Hikes."

Reason #03

Rejuvenate along the way at landscape-inspired lodgings with plenty of chances to unwind in heated pools, saunas, and Jacuzzis.

Meet your guides

Miha Klanjscek

Miha Klanjscek

Miha is a seasoned guide with more than 15 years' experience leading groups through the Balkans-one of the most culturally, architecturally and geographically diverse regions in the world! Miha first fell in love with the nature and cuisine of the region after spending youthful summers exploring the Mediterranean. He enjoys several outdoor pursuits, including mountain biking, trail running, and trekking in the Slovenian Alps. An adventurer by heart, you can hardly find a better person to show you Istrian wine routes, Slovenian hiking trails, and lively Italian piazzas. Meet Miha on MT Sobek's adventures in the region.

Primoz Kadunc

Primoz Kadunc

Primoz is a licensed mountain guide with a degree in organizational management, which he very much puts into practice while leading trips! Primoz guides MT Sobek's Istria to Venice and Alpe Adria trips and has a passion for the whole Balkan region-with a special fondness for the Slovenia Alps. In his spare time, Primoz enjoys rock climbing, scuba diving, sailing, exploring new Alpine trails on foot. He is fluent in English, Spanish, Portuguese, German, and Serbo-Croatian.

Activities

Hiking 4 to 8 hours daily through spellbinding landscapes, en route visiting scenic villages and towns, and sampling local specialties.

Lodging

Upscale city hotels, family-run inns, and alpine estates, all renowned for superb hospitality, full amenities, and top service.

Climate

The weather in the Alps is always unpredictable. We could encounter snow in the morning and sun in the afternoon. Bring layers and warm clothes.

FAQ

Who will meet me on arrival?

You will be met at the airport by an MTS representative and transferred to our hotel in the center of Salzburg.

What happens if my flights are delayed en route?

Please contact your guides at the phone number listed on the trip's Final Bulletin, sent to you 30 days prior to the trip's start date. Our guides will help you to join the group and arrange transfers if necessary.

How does this trip compare to your Tour du Mont Blanc trip?

Our Alpe Adria hike is much easier than our Tour du Mont Blanc trip. There is much less elevation gain and loss, and the days are shorter.

Can I wear trail shoes/cross training shoes on this trip?

No, we highly recommend hiking boots with ankle support for this trip.

What is the food like in this region of the world?

The food is healthy, delicious and diverse. Plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, and choices of meat, and poultry. On night 7 we eat at Hisa Franko, rated one of the top 50 restaurants in the world by Diner's Club.

If I want to take a break from hiking, can I skip a day on this trip?

You are welcome to skip a day of hiking, but you must be willing to travel in our van along with the guide(s) as they support the group and transfer luggage to the next night's hotel.

cabins and ricky ridge - Austria, Italy & Slovenia Alpe Adria Hiking
green river - Austria, Italy & Slovenia Alpe Adria Hiking
trailside toast - Austria, Italy & Slovenia Alpe Adria Hiking
couple enjoying view - Austria, Italy & Slovenia Alpe Adria Hiking
woman hiking down to lake - Austria, Italy & Slovenia Alpe Adria Hiking
sunbeam forest - Austria, Italy & Slovenia Alpe Adria Hiking
lunch spot - Austria, Italy & Slovenia Alpe Adria Hiking

Reviews from Trustpilot


Beautiful country, great food, wonderful guides.

Terry Cosgrove
MT Sobek Guest


Beautiful hiking, excellent accommodations and food, and lovely cultural experiences. Slovenia was a wonderful surprise. The guides, Miha and Ian, are smart, enthusiastic and sensitive to the needs of all of us. I had a wonderful time.

Michael Malloy
MT Sobek Guest

Trustpilot
  • 2022
  • 2023
  • Go Private
  • Go Custom

2022

The earlier you book, the more choice of available dates you’ll have and once you book, your price is guaranteed.

Scheduled Dates

  • Jun 23 - Jul 02, 2022
    $6,585 price per person dbl occ
    +$1,500 single supplement
    WaitlistConfirmed
    Contact us
  • Jul 11 - 20, 2022
    $6,585 price per person dbl occ
    +$1,500 single supplement
    WaitlistConfirmed
    Contact Us
  • Sep 09 - 18, 2022
    $6,285 price per person dbl occ
    +$1,500 single supplement
    AvailableConfirmed
    Book This Date
  • Sep 16 - 25, 2022
    $6,285 price per person dbl occ
    +$1,500 single supplement
    Available
    Book This Date

Price Includes

  • Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
  • All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
  • All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
  • Snacks and water between meals
  • Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
  • Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
  • Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
  • Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
  • All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
  • Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
  • Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
  • Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
  • Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
  • Baggage transfers and porterage

Price Does Not Include

  • International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
  • Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
  • Gratuities for MT Sobek guides and guide-drivers
  • Travel Protection Program
  • Personal expenses

Contact An Expert

800-974-0300

Need help picking your next adventure? Call us to answer your questions.

2023

The earlier you book, the more choice of available dates you’ll have and once you book, your price is guaranteed.

Scheduled Dates

  • Jun 12 - 21, 2023
    $6,495 price per person dbl occ
    +$1,500 single supplement
    Available
    Book This Date
  • Jun 22 - Jul 01, 2023
    $6,495 price per person dbl occ
    +$1,500 single supplement
    Available
    Book This Date
  • Jul 10 - 19, 2023
    $6,495 price per person dbl occ
    +$1,500 single supplement
    Available
    Book This Date
  • Sep 07 - 16, 2023
    $6,495 price per person dbl occ
    +$1,500 single supplement
    Available
    Book This Date
  • Sep 18 - 27, 2023
    $6,495 price per person dbl occ
    +$1,500 single supplement
    Available
    Book This Date

Price Includes

  • Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
  • All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
  • All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
  • Snacks and water between meals
  • Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
  • Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
  • Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
  • Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
  • All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
  • Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
  • Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
  • Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
  • Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
  • Baggage transfers and porterage

Price Does Not Include

  • International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
  • Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
  • Gratuities for MT Sobek guides and guide-drivers
  • Travel Protection Program
  • Personal expenses

Contact An Expert

800-974-0300

Need help picking your next adventure? Call us to answer your questions.

Go Private

Go Private

Gather your favorite travel companions to share an MT Sobek adventure on an easy-to-book Private departure.

Choose from the selection of dates below for your group or if your preferred date is not available, we'll create a departure just for you.

Call or email us to get the ball rolling.

*Private trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit.

Private Trip Pricing:

2022 Pricing

4 to 5 guests from $6,595 per person double occupancy

6 to 7 guests from $6,395 per person double occupancy

8 to 9 guests from $6,195 per person double occupancy

2023 Pricing

8 to 9 guests from $6,595 per person double occupancy

6 to 7 guests from $6,695 per person double occupancy

4 to 5 guests from $6,895 per person double occupancy

Additional Costs:

Private pricing excludes potential additional costs such as internal airfare, single supplement, or any park fees that may be required for the trip.

*Private trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit.

Make Your Own Dates in These Months

Price Includes

  • Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
  • All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
  • All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
  • Snacks and water between meals
  • Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
  • Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
  • Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
  • Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
  • All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
  • Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
  • Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
  • Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
  • Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
  • Baggage transfers and porterage

Price Does Not Include

  • International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
  • Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
  • Gratuities for MT Sobek guides and guide-drivers
  • Travel Protection Program
  • Personal expenses

Contact An Expert

800-974-0300

Need help picking your next adventure? Call us to answer your questions.

Go Custom

Create Your Very Own Adventure

Dreaming of an adventure designed exclusively for you? With insider access and decades of experience, our travel experts create custom tailored adventures that are perfect for families, couples, and large groups. MT Sobek's custom adventures are designed to our exacting standards and led by our award-winning adventure guides.

When to start planning? Earlier is always better when designing a custom trip. More time allows for better availability of preferred accommodations, guides and your desired activities. Ideally, start the conversation with us at least 6 months before you want to travel. If you are looking for a custom trip that departs within three months, chances are greatly diminished in securing requested accommodations and the best guides.

*Custom trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit once an itinerary is agreed upon.

Start Planning

Inspiration to Explore

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