The roof of Slovenia and a guaranteed challenge, that's Mount Triglav (2864m)! The highest peak in the Julian Alps is Slovenia's national pride and a must for adventure-seekers. You reach the summit in just two days, stay overnight in mountain huts and finally get the chance to take out your via Ferrata equipment. That’s right, Mount Triglav is a mountain peak where you climb to the top! At least for the last 400m to the summit. Once at the top, your climbing gear can be taken off for a while and you can look for the best spot to capture the Aljaž Tower. Going for an adventure full of challenges and traditions? Then opt for a trek to Mount Triglav.
Last update: October 2022
Mount Triglav, a mythical mountain that actually has three peaks, is Slovenia's national symbol and is even displayed on its flag. The literal translation of Triglav is Three Heads, which explains it all! The climb to Mount Triglav is well known to us, since Joery lived in Ljubljana (Slovenia's capital) for a while and knows what it feels like to reach the top. 'This mountain has everything you are looking for and even offers what you are not looking for. From Vodnikov Dom I have seen the best starry sky of my life, breathtaking!' After reading this blog, you'll know if this Slovenian gem is your match.
Curious about the views from the mountain huts, check out all the options here.
Is Mount Triglav for Me?
Probably the most important question to ask, because by now you know there is also climbing to be done. But if even Joery can do it...
And so it is, because despite the challenge in the final section to the summit, it is doable for someone of average fitness. Mount Triglav has numerous excellent trails from several surrounding valleys winding to the top. It is a mountain, which should be taken seriously because of its height and steepness at the very top. The via ferrata provides an extra challenge! But what exactly does the via ferrata mean?
Via Ferrata on Mount Triglav
Via ferrata means ‘iron path’. The term Klettersteig is also used. It is a reference to permanent measures to safely traverse steep and rocky terrain, think of ladders, safety wires or metal pegs. But do you have to be a mountaineer to climb Mount Triglav?
Definitely not! You can reach the summit of Mount Triglav even without climbing experience. However, it is important that you are not afraid of heights and are comfortable in rocky terrain. Whichever route you take, the final section to the summit is always a via ferrata, with each route having its own difficulty. You will wear a climbing harness with two carabiners that allow you to secure yourself. Wear a helmet for protection from falling rocks and climbing gloves for extra grip. That's it!
Joery also remembers the via ferrata quite well: 'The last part of the route up to the summit was absolutely unforgettable. The better climbing and scrambling, I loved it! After a short night in Vodnikov Dom, we left in the dark for the last part to the summit. With hands and feet upward, I did not feel a moment of fear. I will never forget the sunrise from the summit.'
How to Get To Triglav National Park?
There are several routes leading to Mount Triglav, each with its own starting point. From the Krma Valley, you can start with several routes to the summit. At the end of the valley, you'll find the Plemenice Route, the most challenging of all. To the west of the Krma Valley is the Vrata Valley, here you can start several routes to the summit as well. Both valleys are north of Mount Triglav and begin in the village of Mojstrana. From the capital Ljubljana, you can travel here by bus and train.
South of Mount Triglav you will also find several starting points, such as Lake Bohinj or Bled. Bled is the country's most famous landmark, its fairytale scene has amazed many visitors. Bled lies at the beginning of the valley, and at the end you'll find Lake Bohinj. From Ljubljana, you have a direct bus connection to Bled, or travel by train to Lesce-Bled. Lake Bohinj is a bit more difficult to reach, Joery knows: 'Perhaps the most beautiful part of Slovenia, Lake Bohinj. I know there are several buses going to Stara Fuzina (a village next to the lake) every day, but I have never used them. Taking public transport to Bled and giving a thumbs-up waiting for a lift. I never had to wait long and I could practise my Slovenian during this half-hour ride.' Hitchhiking in Slovenia is very common and it makes your adventure a little more authentic.
And we don't want to keep Planica a secret. This ski jump complex is located at the beginning of the Planica Valley, at the end you can also start a trek to Mount Triglav. Maybe the zipline is for you, then you can experience for a moment what it is like to be a ski jumper.
Mount Triglav Hike - In 2 or 3 Days?
Such a challenge is wonderful, but how long will it take? Climbing Mount Triglav can be done in 2 or 3 days. Meanwhile, you know several starting points for a Mount Triglav climb. Whether you start in Mojstrana, Bohinj, Bled or perhaps Planica, the program often appears the same. Once you arrive at the starting point, you trek to a mountain hut below the summit of Mount Triglav for an overnight stay. The night is often short, you start the ascent of Mount Triglav early in the morning. With a bit of luck, you will reach the top at sunrise and can enjoy the view in ease.
On a 2-day trek, you descend via the same path to return to the starting point. On a 3-day variant, you cross Mount Triglav to make a loop, obviously with a second night in a mountain hut. Of course, you can explore the Julian Alps even further, for instance in 5 or 8 days.
Joery also remembers which route he took: 'We drove by car to Pokljuka, arriving at Vodnikov Dom in about 3 hours. Early in the morning, we crossed Mount Triglav to descend to Lake Bohinj via Koca na Dolicu. We actually did a 3-day trek in 2 days, completely exhausted at the end!'
Considering climbing Mount Triglav? Then get in touch here to discuss the possibilities.
Mount Triglav Guided Hike or Not?
By now, you know more about the challenge ahead. Next question to be answered: Would you like to travel independently or be accompanied by a local guide?
With a guide
We at Bookatrekking.com can imagine that you still have some doubts, especially about the last part to the summit of Mount Triglav. In that case, it's best to opt for a guided trek. A local guide who knows all the ins and outs and can support you if needed. You won't have to worry about the route to follow and you'll get to see some more hidden spots. With professional guidance, you will be led across the via ferrata section.
Without guide
If you are familiar with via ferrata, then a self-guided trek is a good option for you. You are on your own, but you will always have help available remotely. All the equipment is provided you need for the via ferrata, you will be familiar enough with it to get to the summit on your own. Still unsure whether to go with or without a guide? Then be sure to contact our trekking experts to discuss the possibilities.
Mount Triglav Guided Hike (2 days)
You've read about the different starting points, the via ferrata and the option to go with or without a guide. Now let's put the whole thing into shape. For a guided trek to Mount Triglav, opt for a 2-day trek. Click here for more information or read on for the day-to-day program:
Day 1: Ljubljana - Krma Vallei - Dom na Krederica (2515m)
12,5 km | 6-7 Hours | Level: Moderate | ↑ 1800m | Trail type: One way
Dean Strosar, your guide for this adventure, will pick you up at your accommodation in Ljubljana. After about an hour and a half you will arrive at the Krma Valley, where the climb to the summit of Mount Triglav begins. In about 5 hours you will reach Dom na Krederica (2515m), your accommodation for today. The first few metres go up gradually until you reach the forest. There you will find some steeper gradients until you leave the forest again. After about an hour and a half you reach a plateau with mighty views, a nice spot for a break?
Then you pass a second plateau, there you will find the first signs of Dom na Krederica. 1 hour to go, not too bad. Don't be mistaken, no one has ever done this in an hour. On the way, you pass a number of bottlenecks where you have to wait a bit. At some point, the zigzag path to the mountain hut looms up, which you follow to the mountain hut. Enjoy the views of the three Triglav peaks. Take a well-deserved rest!
Day 2: Dom na Krederica (2515m) - Mount Triglav (2864m) - Krma Vallei
15 km | 7 Hours |Level: Hard | ↑ 350m | Trail type: One way
Today you will get up early, because the big moment is here; the climb to Mount Triglav. Make sure you have a hearty breakfast, as this intensive hiking day is not to be underestimated. The path to the summit is steep and rocky, but with beautiful views. The guide will accompany you throughout the hike, helping you if needed. At the summit, we take some time to rest and enjoy the breathtaking views. Then we start the descent via the same path. Along the way, you'll encounter a snoring roommate who is still finding his way up, wish him luck. Via Dom na Krederica you will descend back to the starting point, after which you will be taken back to your accommodation in Ljubljana. After 9 hours of hiking, you can enjoy a well-deserved rest.
Tip: Should you have some time left in Ljubljana, visit Metelkova, a hip artist's district! In addition to old barracks transformed into studios, you'll also find an old prison. Spend the night behind bars, as this former prison now offers unique sleeping options. We will gladly advise you.
You want to spend some more time challenging yourself with via ferrata? Then the 3-day trek to Mount Triglav is a good option for you, also accompanied by a local mountain guide. Click here for more information.
Climbing Mount Triglav Without Guide (3 days)
In this 3-day self-guided program, you start and end at Lake Bohinj. Mount Triglav is your goal, but you'll also directly include the Triglav Lakes and Lake Bohinj to your adventure. And with a bit of luck, you will encounter the alpine ibex, the ultimate mountain animal and also the logo of Bookatrekking.com. Read on for a day-by-day description or click here for more information:
Day 1: Lake Bohinj - Mostnica Gorge - Dom Planika pod Triglavom (2401m)
14.5 km | 7-8 hours | Level: Moderate | ↑ 2000m | Trail type: One way
On the first day you will travel on your own initiative to Lake Bohinj. From Stara Fuzina, the village next to the lake, your trekking adventure begins. Turn onto a forest path to arrive at Mostnica Gorge after about a kilometre and a half. A beautiful gorge with clear blue water. You cross the Devil's Bridge towards the Voje Valley. There is a nice saga about this bridge, perhaps a Slovenian you meet along the way will tell you more about it. Once crossed, you continue your journey through the Voje Valley to arrive at your accommodation for the night; Dom Planika pod Triglavom (2401m) in the afternoon. After a hike of about 8 hours, you may enjoy a well-deserved rest here.
Day 2: Dom Planika pod Triglavom (2401m) - Mount Triglav (2864m) - Koca pri Triglavskih jezerih (1685m)
9 km | 5-6 hours | Level: Difficult | ↑ 500m | Trail type: One way
The next day starts early, and you face an immediate challenge! Today the via ferrata is on the programme, because only then can you reach the summit of Mount Triglav. After some supposed ticks against the butt with a rope and capturing the Alja? Tower you will start the descent towards the Triglav Lakes. This day, too, you'll be on the road for at least eight hours, so once you arrive at Koca pri Triglavskih jezerih (1685m), the shoes come off and you can enjoy a tasty štruklji. Sleep well!
Day 3: Koca pri Triglavskih jezerih (1685m) - Lake Bohinj
13 km | 5 hours | Level: Moderate | ↑ 0m | Trail type: One way
Today is already the last day of your adventure. You will encounter several more lakes along the way until you reach the Komna Plateau. You will then descend to Lake Bohinj, where your hiking adventure will end. Optionally, you can take another 20-minute hike at the end of your hike to visit the famous Savica waterfall. The approximately 5-hour hike gives you space in the afternoon to explore some more of the surroundings, after which your adventure has come to an end.
It is also possible to book this trek including accommodation before and after. Click here for more information.
Night on Mount Triglav, What to Expect?
During your ascent of Mount Triglav, you will stay in mountain huts. Mountain huts are simple, generally with fantastic mountain views, hearty cuisine and a warm atmosphere. In clear weather, you can enjoy a beautiful starry sky. The first hut of the Slovenian Mountain Society was built in 1893. Today, they manage 161 huts that accommodate more than 1.5 million hikers a year. The Julian Alps, with Mount Triglav as its highest point, has 43 mountain huts. The mountain huts are in most cases about 2 to 3 hours of hiking from each other. Wild camping is not allowed in this region, so you are bound to spend the night in mountain huts. Which mountain huts will you encounter along the way?
Dom Planika pod Triglavom (2401m)
Mountain hut Planika under Triglav, literally translated. This mountain hut has 80 seats in two different rooms. There are 82 beds divided in 10 rooms with another 41 beds in two dormitories. You can also use a shared toilet and sink with cold water only. There is a generator available, so you can also charge your electronic devices here.
Koca pri Triglavskih jezerih (1685m)
A cottage by the Triglav lakes. The restaurant has 150 seats in four different rooms. For a bit more privacy, smaller rooms are available in this mountain lodge, there are 30 beds in 13 rooms. The other 170 beds are spread across 13 dormitories. Again, there is a toilet and sinks on the ground and first floor, with cold water only. In case you forgot to charge your phone the night before, you can do that here too.
Dom na Krederica (2515m)
The highest of them all, that is Dom na Kredarica (2515m). With 300 seats and ditto beds, it is also one of the largest mountain huts in Slovenia. It is the ideal base for the climb to Mount Triglav. A chapel was erected next to the hut in 1992; every hour the bell rings. Slovenian youths with a beer too many sometimes like to abuse this in the night, then they have found the outside rope to ring the bell.
Then some general info
Most mountain huts have limited facilities, so don't expect the luxury of a hotel. Not every mountain hut is the same, depending heavily on altitude and accessibility. Nevertheless, in general there is quite a bit to say:
> Mountain huts offer a simple place to sleep in dormitories with bunk beds and simple mattresses. Room sizes can range from 2 beds to 30 beds, with the most common room size being around 8 beds.
> Most mountain huts cannot be reached by car; they are supplied by helicopter. This does affect comfort, but all the more cosy and authentic.
> The karst landscape that surrounds the mountain huts prevents the formation of surface water. So at high altitudes, there is no drinking water available. Toilets, however, are available in most mountain huts. If showers are available, be prepared to pay a few euros extra (3-5) for this luxury.
> Most huts offer food and drinks at reasonable prices. A menu of traditional Slovenian dishes such as various stews, Carniola sausage or a tasty štruklji to top it off. Joery was also served another meal at the mountain hut: 'I can also remember Jota, a savoury and affordable meal of sauerkraut and beans topped off with a pork sausage.'
> Most mountain huts that cannot be reached by vehicle are open only during the summer season. This depends on the snow, which usually disappears sometime in May or June, depending on the altitude. In September or October, most mountain huts close their doors. However, winter rooms are available for the winter months, which are unlocked rooms separate from the hut and similar to a bivouac.
Packing List for Mount Triglav
We have prepared a packing list with some essential clothing that you should include and some extras that you may find useful:
Essentials
- Walking boots (worn in)
- walking socks
- Base layer tops – ideally thermal
- Mid-layer tops (eg. fleece)
- Trekking Trousers
- Hat for warmth or shade
- Gloves
- Waterproof jacket
- Waterproof trousers
- Warm layer.
- Casual clothes & footwear for evenings.
- Nightwear and underwear
- Water bottle
- Sunglasses & sun cream
- Toiletries
Extras
- Small first aid kit
- Blister Plasters
- Insect repellent
- Electrical socket adapter
- Camera and charger
- Map and compass
- Whistle
- Book to read
- Energy snacks
- Walking poles
- Buff
Want to read more about what to pack or download a packing list? Check our blog post!
What About Costs?
To climb Mount Triglav, you should think of costs between €200 and €350. This depends on the number of days and also whether you climb the summit accompanied by a guide. Should you be on the trail with a guide, you may also tip as a sign of good service, not unusual in the trekking world. In that case, assume around €5-6 per day.
Most meals and drinks in the mountain huts have normal prices, but water, soft drinks and beer are relatively expensive. For a cup of coffee you pay €2 and for a beer about double. Enjoy a hearty meat stew for around €8 or a sandwich for €6. Note that the huts do not accept debit cards! Only cash. Don't feel the need to worry about this? Then opt for our organised treks, with and without a guide. Check out all the possibilities here!
Mount Triglav Weather, When to Go and What to Expect?
Treks to the summit of Mount Triglav are available between June and October, outside these months the mountain huts in this region are closed. July and August are the most popular months, temperatures range between 10 °C and 25 °C. The mountains provide cool air when temperatures rise in lower areas. Summer weather in the mountains is quite cool; when it heads towards 30°C on the Slovenian plains, it is only 10°C at the top of Mount Triglav. On the hottest summer days, the weather in the mountains can change quickly. Thunderstorms are relatively common during this period and they develop quickly in the late afternoon. July and August are very popular for locals, the mountain huts are pleasantly crowded.
In the pre-season and post-season (June, September and October), temperatures are slightly lower and you can enjoy the mountain trails without the summer heat or winter cold. In the early and late seasons, you will meet fewer people along the way. It is often below freezing at night and snow can remain in nooks and crannies during this period. The weather on the mountain is very variable during this period, one day it is comfortably warm, and one day later you will need a winter jacket. Make sure you are ready for that. Don't underestimate the extreme and unpredictable weather in the mountains, come prepared for all weather conditions.
How to Book?
By now it is clear to you, you want to climb Mount Triglav. In that case, you can proceed to booking, which you do directly at Bookatrekking.com. With a down payment you secure the trek, the remaining amount you pay on the spot before the trek and directly to the trekking company. We will be happy to help you make the right choice and advise you in the best possible way. Once the booking is made, the local trekking company will do exactly what they do best: give you an unforgettable experience!
Is Mount Triglav not your cup of tea and are you looking for other epic hut-to-hut adventures in the Pyrenees or the Alps? Check out one of our following blog posts:
Austria
Peter Habeler Runde
Salzburger Almenweg
Adlerweg
Switzerland
Via Alpina 1
Kesch Trek
Italy
Alta Via 1
Alta Via 2
Palaronda Trek
France
Walker's Haute Route
Tour du Mont Blanc
Tour du Mont Thabor
GR20
Hut-to-Hut in Mercantour
Spain
Carros de Foc
Porta del Cel
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