Trekking in Slovenian Mountains and Croatian Islands

Itinerary

Day 1 | Ljubljana / Bled – Karavanke Alps

Begin a 7-day journey through Slovenia’s lush Karavanke Alps, where towering peaks rise above tranquil forests and alpine meadows. We start in the heart of the mountains, hiking through dense woods and open meadows, all framed by the dramatic ridgelines of the Karavanke. Along the way, we pause for a peaceful picnic, enveloped by the sounds of nature and the grandeur of the surrounding peaks.

Our day’s goal is Mt. Stol, the highest summit of the range. At the peak, we relax in a charming mountain hut, nestled beneath the towering cliffs. As evening falls, the crisp alpine air invites rest in the cute hut, offering the perfect end to a day of exploration in the midst of Slovenia’s wild, untamed beauty.

Accommodation in a mountain hut in the Karavanke mountains.

Stats: 7 km distance, 1060 m ascent, 70 m descent.

Day 2 | The Karavanke Alps

We wake to the soft sound of sheep grazing nearby. After a hearty breakfast, we embark on our second day of trekking, following the ridge that stretches between Slovenia and Austria. On one side, the lush landscapes and rugged mountains of Slovenia unfold; on the other, the distant peaks of Austria beckon. Along the way, we pause at verdant summits, capturing photos of the grazing animals and soaking in the stunning vistas.

After a fulfilling lunch at a local shepherd’s hut, we continue our journey and arrive at a cozy mountain refuge. Here, we are treated to a stunning panorama of Mt. Triglav, Slovenia's highest peak, its snow-capped summit rising majestically above the surrounding green ridges. Encircled by pristine nature, the hut offers a peaceful retreat, perfectly situated to enjoy the untouched beauty of the mountains.

Accommodation in a mountain hut in the Karavanke mountains.

Stats: 16 km distance, 660 m ascent, 1250 m descent.

Day 3| Soča Valley (Trenta, Kobarid)

After enjoying a hearty breakfast, we make our way back down into the valley and continue toward the stunning Soča Valley, one of Slovenia’s most iconic natural wonders. Our adventure begins in Trenta, where the emerald-green Soča River emerges, cutting its way through the rugged landscape of the Western Julian Alps. We take a peaceful walk through the quiet Zadnja Trenta Valley, surrounded by towering peaks, and pause to admire the tranquil beauty of the cascading Zapotok Waterfalls. In the afternoon, we carry on to Kobarid, a charming alpine town further down the valley. With its close proximity to some of the region's most dramatic landscapes, Kobarid serves as a perfect base for discovering the Soča Valley’s untouched beauty. We take time to visit some of its most famous waterfalls, and even enjoy a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Soča River.

Accommodation and restaurant in Kobarid.

Stats: 13 km distance, 320 m ascent, 465 m descent.

Day 4 | The Julian Alps above the Soča Valley 

After breakfast, we set our sights on the mountains once more, embarking on a trek to the stunning Jezero v Lužnici (Lake at Lužnica), nestled at 1,801 meters in the breathtaking Western Julian Alps. Our journey begins at Planina Kuhinja, where the path to the lake unfolds amidst some of the most scenic terrain in the region.

This deep blue alpine lake rests in the shadow of a rugged rocky massif that stretches between Mt. Krn (2,244 meters) to the west and Mt. Peski (2,035 meters) to the east. It is one of the three Krn Lakes, with the largest and most famous, Krn Lake, being Slovenia’s biggest alpine lake. Jezero v Lužnici, however, remains one of the area’s best-kept secrets, offering a tranquil retreat far from the crowds, surrounded by the dramatic beauty of the Julian Alps.

Accommodation and restaurant in Kobarid.

Stats: 11 km distance, 940 m ascent, 940 m descent.

Day 5| Croatian island Cres

Today, we cross the border into Croatia, a Mediterranean gem along the Adriatic Sea, renowned for its crystal-clear waters, sun-drenched islands, and charming medieval towns. For the next two days, our base will be the island of Lošinj, often known as the “Island of Vitality” thanks to its lush natural surroundings, mild climate, and rejuvenating atmosphere.

From Lošinj, we’ll explore two beautiful islands, Lošinj and Cres, which are connected by a small bridge. While Lošinj captivates visitors with its lush greenery and fragrant pine forests, Cres offers a wilder landscape of dramatic cliffs plunging into the sea, rugged coastlines, and secluded coves perfect for a peaceful escape.

We begin our exploration in Lubenice, an ancient village perched high on the cliffs, where sweeping panoramic views stretch across the sea, nearby islands, and the island’s untouched, rugged landscapes. From here, we descend to a secluded beach below, where we spend the afternoon swimming in the pristine waters and unwinding in the quiet surroundings, embracing the tranquil beauty of this hidden paradise.

Accommodation in Lošinj.

Stats: 4.5 km distance, 350 m ascent, 350 m descent.

Day 6| Croatian island Cres

Today, our adventure begins on Lošinj with a morning hike through forests of pine and holm oak, leading us into areas rich with lower shrubs and the fragrant scents of wild herbs like sage and thyme, filling the air with the essence of the Mediterranean. We continue along the ridge to the summit at 588 meters, where we are rewarded with sweeping vistas of the sparkling sea and surrounding islands, their rugged beauty stretching to the horizon.

After lunch, we’ll cross back to the island of Cres and spend the afternoon swimming and exploring the beautiful “Five Coves” area, where some of the most pristine sandy beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters invite us to relax and enjoy the Adriatic at its best.

Accommodation in Lošinj.

Stats: 10.5 km distance, 480 m ascent, 480 m descent.

Day 7| Croatian island Lošinj

Our final day unfolds on the island of Cres, where we follow quiet, secluded trails through the island’s unspoiled wilderness. In one of its most remote corners, we come across St. Martin, tucked away in a peaceful forest far from civilization, offering a glimpse into the island’s rural past. Along the way, we may encounter wildlife, including the occasional fallow deer grazing quietly among the trees.

The day combines scenic hiking with refreshing swims in the turquoise waters of the Adriatic, surrounded by the rolling hills and rugged beauty of Cres and neighbouring Lošinj.

After a day of exploration, we’ll savour a delicious picnic lunch on the beach, enjoying the flavours of the island one last time before making our way back to Slovenia.

Stats: 7 km distance, 255 m ascent, 255 m descent.