Current as of: April 25, 2024 - 11:16
Lakes & Mountains of Slovenia Trip Notes
- Ways to Travel: Guided Group, Private Group Adventures
- Destination: Slovenia
- Programmes: Walking & Trekking
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Activity Level:
3 out of 7 - Moderate
- 8 Days: Land Only
- Ages: 16+
- Trip Code: TVL
- Carbon Footprint: 14kg CO2e
Trip Overview
Discover some of the most beautiful scenery in Europe on a walking adventure in the Julian Alps
For a walking getaway in Europe without the tourist masses, look no further than the jagged limestone peaks of the Julian Alps. The most easterly extension of the great Alpine range contains some of the best scenery and hiking in Europe, with Mount Triglav (the highest peak in Slovenia) at the centre and the glacial lakes of Bohinj and Bled far below. During the week, we enjoy five varied walks, both inside the national park and on the more distant peaks of the Karavanke range, taking in wild meadows, lake shores, thick forest and wild open mountain ridges.
At a Glance
- Seven nights in a family-run pension
- Five days of walking, one free day
- Group normally 4 to 16, plus leader. Minimum age: 16
- Altitude maximum: 6,020ft (1,835m); average: 3,280ft (1,000m)
- Travel by private minibus
- Not recommended for those who suffer with vertigo
- Option to travel by train to your adventure
Highlights
- Discover Triglav National Park and the Karavanke mountains
- Embark on varied walks over mountains and through forests
- Enjoy a free day to explore Lake Bled or historic Ljubljana
- Stay at a traditional 19th-century Alpine pension
Is This Trip for You?
This trip is graded Activity Level 3 (Moderate). For more on our trip gradings, visit our Activity Level Guidelines page.
All walks are on well-maintained paths, although some may have loose stones underfoot. Each day there will be some ascent and descent (maximum: 2,295ft/700m; average: 1,640ft/500m). Generally, you should expect to walk between four and six hours a day, plus stops.
Adult min age: 16
Min group size: 4
Max group size: 16
Itinerary
Land Only
- Start City: Radovljica
- End City: Radovljica
Land Only Itinerary
Fly to Ljubljana; transfer to Radovljica
We have a late-afternoon arrival at our pension in Radovljica, just 20 minutes’ northeast of the capital, Ljubljana. This is our base for the whole week.
Start Radovljica
Join the group in the early evening at the pension in Radovljica, just 20 minutes’ northeast of the capital Ljubljana. This is our base for the week.
A day exploring the local area direct from the pension
After breakfast, we leave the front door of the pension to explore our surroundings. The medieval town of Radovljica dates back as far as 1296, sitting on the confluence of the Sava Bohinjka and the Sava Dolinka. The old town is full of traditional inns, galleries, churches and surrounded by the largest medieval moats in the country.
The local area is extremely pretty, dotted with small churches, quaint villages, lush forests and a beautiful river. Our leader will decide the exact route depending on the weather, but walking to Lake Bled is our most likely route, a perfect warm up through gentle rolling farmland and pretty villages.
Hike into the Martuljek Gorge, visiting two waterfalls en route
Starting at the small village of Gozd Martuljek, we are rewarded with a panorama of the Špik mountain range. One of the most beautiful mountains in the Julian Alps, Mount Špik (8,110/2,472m) is known at the Slovenian Matterhorn and its pyramid summit dominates the Martuljek range.
Leaving the valley, our forest trail takes us into Martuljek Gorge, where we slowly start our ascent following the stream, arriving at the Lower Fall, which cascades into the valley. The trail snakes through the forest arriving at our rest stop where we can enjoy the view. Lipovceva Hut has a lovely setting with an open natural kitchen serving mountain soups and juices made in-house from pine, elderflower and berries.
From here we head up to the Higher Falls, passing a monument dedicated to Slovenian climbers. This is a lovely walk into the gorge, suitable in all weathers and offering fine views of two beautiful waterfalls.
A picturesque walk in the Karavanke mountains to the peak of Golica
The Karavanke mountains are the natural and official border between central and western Europe and the meeting point of Slovenia, Austria and Italy. The range has a great effect on the climate of Slovenia, hence the soft southern Slovene side in comparison to the harsh northern side in Austria. Here we find an abundance of alpine fauna and flora, with more than 1,200 plant species, plus wonderful views into two naturally contrasting countries. We aim for Golica (6,023ft/1,836m), part of the longest ridge in Slovenia (75mi/120km) and one of the least travelled trails in the area.
Free day for optional activities including riding horses, rafting, visiting Bled or the capital Ljubljana
Radovljica itself has plenty of possibilities for the rest day. Alternatively, it’s a short bus ride to Lake Bled, where we can hire rowing boats and canoes to explore. Alternatively, take the public bus into the capital of Slovenia, Ljubljana. Another popular alternative is Postojna Cave Park, home to one of the largest cave systems in Europe.
A gentle and scenic hike around the shores of Lake Bohinj
Today’s walk is flat but incredibly pretty. This circular route takes in the whole of Lake Bohinj and the pretty village of Ribcav Laz, home to the well-known church of St John the Baptist. There are open views all the way to Mount Triglav, the highest peak in Slovenia. Lake Bohinj is also surrounded by a ring of mountains so even though you are in the valley there is plenty to see.
An alternative route today takes us through the Mostnica Gorge; this route is more likely if the weather is poor as it is less exposed.
A day walking on the Pokljuka Plateau
The beautiful, forested area of Pokljuka, visible from Lake Bled, is stunning. Virtually uninhabited, it is home to alpine cows, rolling pastures, shepherd huts, forest trails and lovely open views of the surrounding peaks. Time stands still on Pokljuka, enabling wildflowers to flourish; the flora and fauna of the high plateau is unique to this area and bird life is abundant. There is a wide variety of trails with many possibilities for the day’s hike. Our guide will determine the route based on the weather and the group’s ability during the week.
Transfer to Ljubljana, fly to London.
The morning is free for us to relax at our base or by the lakeside of Bled. Before departing for the airport.
End Radovljica
Our tour ends after breakfast. We bid a fond farewell to our pension, which may well feel like a second home by now, and begin our return journey home.
Ascents, descents and distances
All ascents, descents and distances listed above have been measured by our local partners or tour leaders, in many cases with satellite-based mapping software. Please note, different GPS measuring devices can give differing results, particularly on winding paths or in mountainous terrain. Measurements stated throughout these trips notes are given to help you understand the types of terrain and distances you will encounter. Timings stated will vary depending on the pace of your group.
Accommodation
Pension Kunstelj, a two-star pension in Radovljica
We stay in Pension Kunstelj, which dates to 1873 and is run by the fourth generation of the Štiherle family. The 10-room accommodation sits in the most protected historic town in Slovenia, Radovljica, where there are plenty of restaurants and bars for the nights when dinner is not included.
It has a large terrace with views across the valley to the surrounding peaks, including Triglav in the far distance, and to the rear of the property is a large vegetable plot, where you might see staff picking fruit and salads for dinner in the evening. The family also keep bees, whose honey is sold locally.
Single supplement from USD 390
Food & Drink
All breakfasts and three dinners are included.
The location where the group will have their third dinner will be decided on tour according to the group’s preferences.
- Breakfast: Continental with tea, coffee, cereal, bread and a selection of meats and cheeses, jams and yoghurt.
- Lunch: Will usually be in a mountain hut. Options can be limited, but all meals are cooked from scratch using fresh local ingredients and will include hearty soups and juice made from wild berries and elderflower.
- Evening meal: This will consist of three courses. The main dishes can be risotto, cheese dishes, fish, spaghetti and grilled meat. The guesthouse uses delicious salads and vegetables from the gardens plus other locally sourced produce. Three dinners at the pension are included, for the other nights you’re free to enjoy the restaurants in Radovljica.
Vegetarians are well catered for, but please let us know in advance if you have any dietary requirements.
Transport
Airport transfers will be in private minibuses. Transfers to and from the walks will be by public transport, where available and practical; alternatively, a private minibus will be provided.
Weather & Seasonality
Slovenia has a mixed alpine climate with summer temperatures of 18C-25C (64F-77F). In the mountains, cool mornings are normally followed by warm pleasant days, with temperatures in the Alps ideal for walking. During summer, afternoon showers reduce the humidity, giving way to clear skies and pleasant temperatures.
Joining Instructions
Joining Instructions
Start hotel: Pension Kunstelj, Gorenjska cesta 9, 4240 Radovljica
Phone: +386 4 531 51 78
Recommended arrival time: Check-in is normally from 3pm. There will be a welcome briefing in the evening, but if you miss it the leader will update you separately
Airport: Ljubljana Airport (LJU)
Getting to the start hotel
The start hotel is approximately 25 minutes’ drive from the airport. Exodus provides one group arrival transfer from the airport, which is timed to coincide with the arrival of a chosen flight from London, UK. You may join this transfer at no extra cost, provided you can be at the airport before the transfer leaves. Speak to your sales representative for the group arrival transfer times or to arrange a private transfer.
If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.
Catching your return flight
There’s a group departure transfer to the airport for customers who Exodus booked onto a chosen flight to London, UK. Please speak to your sales representative if you wish to join. If the group departure transfer does not suit your flight time, speak to your sales representative to arrange an alternative transfer.
Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers will be sent to you as part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent.
Location start: Radovljica
Location end: Radovljica
What To Take
Essential Equipment
- Backpack
- Strong walking boots with good ankle support and sturdy soles
- Water bottle
- Waterproof jacket
- Warm jacket/jumper
- Sunglasses
- Sun hat
- Sunscreen
- Waterproof trousers (pants)
- Warm hat and gloves
Optional Equipment
- Telescopic trekking poles
- Swimwear
Practical Information
Visa
Slovenia
Travellers from the UK, US and EU normally do not need a visa to enter Slovenia. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.
Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.
- Australia: www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/europe/slovenia
- Canada: www.travel.gc.ca/destinations/slovenia
- United Kingdom: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/slovenia/entry-requirements
- USA: www.travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Slovenia.html
Vaccinations and Health
Slovenia
There are no required vaccinations. However, you may want to consider vaccinations for tetanus, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, rabies and tick-borne encephalitis (TBE). Please confirm with your doctor or travel clinic.
Ticks are known to be present in this region and can carry lyme disease, tick-borne encephalitis and other diseases. Please take care to protect yourself. You can read more about ticks here.
If you’re a UK citizen, please note that your UK-issued European Health Insurance Cards (EHIC) are still valid and offer the same cover as the Global Health Insurance Cards (GHIC) in the EU. This gives you medical care at a reduced cost, and in some cases for free, in many European countries, but should not be considered a substitute for adequate insurance. Once your EHIC has expired, replace it with a GHIC.
Local Time
Slovenia's time zone: Europe/Ljubljana (UTC +02:00)
Electricity
Slovenia's electricity: Plug types C (two round pins) and F (two round pins) – 230V, 50Hz
Money
Slovenia's currency: Euro (EUR)
ATM Availability
There are ATMs in Radovljica, Ljubljana and Bled. Most places will accept credit cards but not all. It is advised to carry some cash. We do not recommend travellers cheques.
Extra Expenses & Spending Money
You will need extra money for your lunches on each day and dinners on four nights. Allow approximately €10-€15 for lunch and €15-€25 for dinner. Drinks other than tap water are not included on nights where dinner is included. Wine and beer at the pension is €3.50.
Mostnica Gorge, which we may visit on Day 6, is a protected park and entrance is €4.
Optional excursions for Day 5
- Visit to the Postojna Caves: Allow €250 per group (maximum: eight people) depending on the number of people who wish to visit. This includes transport and a guide. Entrance to the caves is extra at €30 per person.
- Boat ride on Lake Bled: €12 or €7 per hour for a rowing boat
- Return train or bus to Ljubljana: €12
- Horse riding: €60 for two hours
- Guided biking day including bike: €85 per person
- Rafting: €45 per person
Tipping
This is entirely at your own discretion. However, as a guideline, we recommend €15-€20 per leader per week.
People, Places & Planet
We work hard to create trips that have a positive impact on the people and places we visit and look after the planet we explore. Learn more about our sustainable travel ethos and practice here and find out about the work of the Exodus Travels Foundation here.
Some sustainable travel highlights of this trip include:
People
How this trip helps improve life for local communities.
- Local guides keep you well informed about local traditions and cultural-social sensitivities.
- This trip brings income and opportunity to the destination community through the inclusion of locally owned hotels, restaurants, and other enterprises, and by championing locally produced food wherever possible.
- Lunches are catered by local families that run the mountain huts.
- Read more about our other initiatives here.
Places
How this trip helps protect and conserve local landscapes and nature.
- By travelling in a small group, we ‘tread lightly’ to minimise our impact on local resources and the environment.
- We work with our partners on the ground to proactively reduce waste; this includes eliminating all single-use plastic water bottles by providing refills for reusable bottles.
- We only walk on official paths that have, for the most part, been constructed to be resistant to erosion.
- Recycling and waste management are well established in the areas we operate.
- We rewild 1,075sqft (100sqm) per passenger to compensate for all trip and flight emissions.
- Read about our commitment to nature protection and restoration here, including our rewilding commitment for every customer who travels with us.
Planet
How we seek to keep the carbon footprint of this trip low.
- Accommodation and restaurants in the itinerary use locally sourced food which has not been transported long distances.
- Solar and wind power are used in the mountain huts.
- As this is a walking holiday, it provides a low-impact way of exploring the destination.
- Read about our climate action here, including our carbon reduction and compensation commitments.
Tips for sustainable travel on this trip
- Leave no trace: We do all we can to ensure we leave no rubbish in the wild and beautiful places we visit; we ask that you do the same. If there are no recycling facilities in-country, consider bringing recyclable materials home with you.
- Plastic waste reduction: Please bring a reusable water bottle on this trip, also consider avoiding single-use hotel toiletries, which generate a large amount of plastic waste.
Important Information
Water safety
This trip includes time by a lake, river or sea, where there may be opportunities to swim. You should always seek local advice before deciding whether to swim. Open-water or wild swim spots should be treated with extreme caution. Information on how to keep yourself safe while swimming is shown here.
Important Information
Your safe participation
When booking this trip, you should be confident in your ability to participate in all activities described in these Trip Notes. If you have any doubt about your suitability, please call the Exodus office and ask to speak to one of the experts on this itinerary.
Although our leaders are well trained to deal with different capabilities, if they have any concerns about someone’s ability to safely take part in an activity, or their impact on other people’s enjoyment, we authorise them to take necessary action which, in some circumstances, may involve asking someone to miss that activity.
By booking this trip you agree to our Booking Conditions which clearly state that our leaders have the authority to do this. In these rare instances we will ensure anyone sitting out is safely provided for and offered alternative options where possible. Refunds will not be provided for activities missed and customers may be liable for additional costs incurred.
How to Book
- Check availability: Go online to check availability, or contact us by phone or email.
- Secure your place: You can provisionally hold a place on this trip, usually for between three and seven days.
- Complete your booking and payment
When you’re ready to book, go to our website for online bookings, book over the phone or you can complete a booking form (available online or on request by calling us). We accept all major credit and debit cards, or you can pay be cheque.
After booking
You will receive your booking confirmation letter and invoice, which includes extra information and guidance about your travel arrangements.
Full joining instructions, including local emergency numbers and details of how to reach the start point, will be sent to you approximately two to three weeks prior to departure. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier, please contact our office or your travel agent.
Trip Note validity
These Trip Notes are valid from the “Current as” date on page one. They will occasionally be updated after booking and before departure; if there are any updates that significantly impact the inclusions or itinerary, customers will be written to separately. They will also receive a link to the most up-to-date Trip Notes with their Final Joining Instructions before travelling.
The information in these Trip Notes is given in good faith. Where differences exist between the Trip Notes and our current brochure or website, the Trip Notes supersede the brochure and website. All holidays can be subject to unexpected changes; to enjoy them you should be prepared to be flexible where necessary. Occasionally, it may not be possible to follow the itinerary as planned. This may be for a variety of reasons – climatic, political, physical or other. In these circumstances we will make the best-possible alternative arrangements that maintain the integrity of the original itinerary.
Licensing
Exodus is fully licensed and bonded as a tour operator. We hold Air Traffic Organisers Licence (ATOL) number 2582, issued and bonded with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). We are also bonded to the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and we are members of the Federation of Tour Operators (FTO) and ABTA – The Travel Association. This means you can book your Exodus holiday with confidence, as all money paid to us for your trip is fully protected.