We rate this trip as moderate, with 1 strenuous day. Most days include 3-5 hours of walking or hiking, averaging 1100 feet of elevation per day. The exception to this is one day of trekking into Triglav National Park. You will cover 9.5 miles and gain 4200 feet of elevation. You should be capable of hiking 7 hours over some rocky trails and steep ascents and descents. You should be capable of hiking at up to 7000 feet above sea level.
Previous hiking experience is beneficial. Most days include moderate hikes, with rocky paths. The trails in Slovenia are made mostly of limestone, which creates some uneven terrain. One day of this trip will be particularly strenuous as you ascend into Triglav National park for your overnight at a mountain hut. Expect to hike about 9.5 miles with several very rocky sections on this day.
In general, you'll want to be capable of 1000 feet of ascent in 1.5 hours. Some guests like to hike faster and wait at scenic spots, while others prefer a more leisurely rhythm. Our guides ensure everyone enjoys the journey safely and comfortably.
Luggage transfers are provided between your hotels, with the exception of one night at the mountain hut. Luggage can't be driven up to the hut, so for that night you'll carry overnight items in your backpack (a change of clothes, rain jacket, toothbrush, and a lightweight sleeping bag liner or sheet).
Yes, we highly recommend hiking poles. Most days on this trip include rocky, uneven terrain. The Julian Alps are made of limestone, which creates rocky trails. You'll also encounter a few steep ascents, which will be made easier with poles.
Pack for adventure! You'll want to bring hiking clothes, a few nicer outfits, rain gear, a daypack, and trekking poles. For the one hut night you'll want a lightweight sleeping bag liner or sleep sheet. Your guides will supply first aid gear, navigation tools, and trail snacks. About a month before the trip, you'll receive your tour documents which include a detailed packing list.
This trip includes 3 different accommodations. The first is a very nice hotel in Bovec, where you'll spend 3 nights. The next accommodation is a rustic mountain hut where you'll stay overnight on your trek through Triglav National Park. This hut has private bedrooms with bunk beds, and shared bathrooms. We stay here to get a remote, un-plugged experience in the alps before descending towards Bled, where you'll stay in another very nice, 5-star historic hotel on the lake.
Yes! In addition to scenic hikes, you’ll enjoy some sightseeing excursions and cultural activities. We’ll visit waterfalls, a castle, and the iconic church on Bled Island. A highlight for many guests is our apiary visit, where we learn all about the importance of Slovenian beekeeping and try some delicious local honey. In addition to all of that, you’ll be treated to fantastic meals and local specialties along the way.
Yes! On days 5 and 8, dinner with the group is not included. This will give you a chance to enjoy some time on your own, take a break, relax, or do some extra exploring. Your guide can of course assist you with dinner recommendations.
We pre-book 7 guest rooms at each hotel on the trip, which means we can have up to 14 guests (up to 2 guests per room). Some travelers prefer private rooms, so this usually evens out to an average of 10 guests in a group. We need a minimum of 6 guests to run the tour.
Our tour prices are based on two guests sharing a hotel room. For those traveling solo or who don't want a roommate, the single supplement charge covers the cost of the "other half" of your hotel room.
We recommend flying into the Venice Marco Polo international airport. On Day 1, your group will meet outside the Hilton Garden Inn Venice Mestre San Giuliano, for a shuttle to the start of your tour in Bovec, Slovenia. Your guide will be waiting for you in Bovec. The Hilton Garden is conveniently located near the airport, so guests can choose to fly in that morning and head straight to the hotel, or book a room the night before if they fly in early.
There are multiple ways to get to the Hilton Garden Inn from the Venice Marco Polo airport. You can book a taxi, take public transportation, or use the hotel shuttle service. To book a spot on the hotel shuttle, email reception in advance (we'll provide that info a month before your trip). The shuttle costs 20 euro. If you’re taking public transport, bus line 5 stops directly outside of the hotel!
On Day 8, you'll have a farewell lunch with your guide in Postojna, Slovenia. After this, a shuttle is provided to take you back to your hotel near the Venice airport. Dinner is not included that night - you can choose to eat at the hotel and go straight to bed if you have an early flight, or venture out into Venice if you have the time. The next morning, your hotel will provide a shuttle to the airport. Sign up for a shuttle time when you check in to the hotel. The earliest shuttles leave at 7:00am. If you need to leave earlier, you may book a taxi or take the local bus, which stops right outside the hotel.
You can get by pretty well with English, and your guide, a local Slovenian, can help with translation where needed. However, we always encourage learning a few polite words and phrases in the local language while traveling. Say “hvala” for thank you, and “Zdravo” for a formal hello.
Tips are always appreciated but not required. Alpenwild guides work hard to ensure your experience is extraordinary; tips are a thoughtful way to express your gratitude. It's customary to give your tip in cash at the end of the tour.
We rate this trip as moderate, with 1 strenuous day. Most days include 3-5 hours of walking or hiking, averaging 1100 feet of elevation per day. The exception to this is one day of trekking into Triglav National Park. You will cover 9.5 miles and gain 4200 feet of elevation. You should be capable of hiking 7 hours over some rocky trails and steep ascents and descents. You should be capable of hiking at up to 7000 feet above sea level.
