Julian Alps Traverse Trek (Self-guided)
Life Adventures - 8 days
-
Regular days with
- 10 - 15 km per day
- 500 - 1000m ascent per day
- T3 Trails
Overview
Route
What's the plan?Day 1: Arrival day in Kranjska Gora
Welcome to Kranjska Gora! A small alpine village surrounded by mountains. After checking in at the accommodation and an introductory briefing from us, you will have the rest of the day free to explore the immediate surroundings on your own. Relax at the breathtaking Jezero Jasna (a mountain lake) or take a first hike to the Zelenci nature reserve. You will spend the night in a hotel in Kranjska Gora.

Day 2: Kranjska Gora (806m) - Tamar Valley - Slemenova Spica (1911m) - Vrsic Pass (1611m) - Postarski dom na Vrsicu (1688m)
14.7 km | 4-5 hours | Level: Moderate | ↑ 1200 | Trail type: One way
From Kranjska Gora you hike to the end of the Tamar Valley, where an ascent to Slemenova Spica (1911m) awaits you. The views from the summit are stunning. Not so much because of the huge panoramic views, but mainly because of the peaks of several Julian Alpine giants in the immediate surroundings. Once recovered, you descend via the Vrsic Pass (1688m) to your accommodation for the night.

Day 3: Postarski dom na Vrsicu (1688m) - Sedlo Planja (2349m) - Pogacnikov dom na Kriskih podih (2050m)
8.5 km | 4 hours | Level: Moderate | ↑ 650m | Trail type: One way
Today you pick up the trail again from the Vrsic Pass, not far from your accommodation. The first destination is Sedlo Planja (2349m), the view from the summit does not disappoint. In the immediate surroundings you will also find several Alpine lakes, definitely worth a visit. After exploring some of the surroundings on your own initiative, you descend to Pogacnikov dom na Kriskih podih (2050m), your accommodation for the night.
Day 4: Pogacnikov dom na Kriskih podih (2050m) - Mount Bovski Gamsovec (2391m) - Koca na Dolicu (2151m)
9.9km | 4-5 hours | Level: Difficult | ↑ 1100m | Trail type: One way
Today is all about Mount Bovski Gamsovec (2391m), perhaps the most underrated mountain peak in the Julian Alps. After an intensive climb to the summit, you can enjoy views of the various valleys and rivers in the area. The famous North Face of Mount Triglav is also easy to spot. You continue your route to Koca na Dolicu (2151m) where you can enjoy a well-earned rest.

Day 5: Koca na Dolicu (2151m) - Optional: Mount Triglav (2864m) - Triglav Lakes - Koca pri Triglavskih Jezerih (1685m)
7.8 km | 2-3 hours | Level: Moderate | ↑ 220m | Trail type: One way
After a good breakfast, you are faced with an important choice to make; will you climb Mount Triglav (2864), the roof of Slovenia? Should the answer be yes, you will be on the road for about 4 hours longer. Be sure to ask about climbing equipment options; the last part to the summit is along via ferrata. You descend again by the same route to reach Koca na Dolicu (2151m) again. You continue the planned route along undoubtedly the most beautiful route in the Slovenian mountains - the route through the Triglav Lakes Valley. You will pass many lakes and eventually arrive at Dvojno Jezero and the neighbouring mountain hut where you will spend the night.
Day 6: Koca pri Triglavskih Jezerih (1685m) - Crno Jezero (1416m) - Bogatinsko sedlo (1800m) - Krnsko Jezero (1385 m) - Planinski dom pri Krnskih jezerih (1385m)
15.8 km | 4-5 hours | Level: Moderate | ↑ 600m | Trail type: One way
Today's route takes you past Crno Jezero (1416m), the Black Lake freely translated. From here, the trail ascends to the Bogatinsko Sedlo (1800m), where you will find former Italian military barracks ruins from 1930. You cross the saddle (sedlo is saddle in Slovenian) to descend all the way to Lake Krn (Krnsko Jezero), the largest alpine lake in the Slovenian mountains. Although swimming in the lake is not allowed, you can relax by the lake and enjoy stunning views. It is not a far walk to your accommodation for tonight, it is right next to the lake.
Day 7: Planinski dom pri Krnskih jezerih (1385m) - Mount Krn (2244m) - Tolmin Gorge - Hotel in Tolmin
24.1 km | 7-8 hours | Level: Difficult | ↑ 1000m | Trail type: One way
In terms of distance, this day is the most intensive, so you will be on the road for up to 7-8 hours. You climb to the top of Mount Krn (2244m). From this mighty mountain you can see the sea, at least with clear weather. Many World War I relics, such as tunnels and bunkers, can still be seen on the mountain. You then descend and reach the valley. Before the hike is over, you will visit the beautiful Tolmin Gorges, a natural masterpiece of the Tolminka River, which has carved a deep gorge in the rock. You stay overnight at a hotel in Tolmin.

Day 8: Tolmin - Bled
After breakfast at the hotel, take the train back to Bled, where the trip concludes. Optionally, you can rent a bike here. You've made it!
What's Included
Included:
√ Transfers
All transfers according to the itinerary are included in the trek:
√ Travelguide
We will provide you with a travel guide with a detailed itinerary and route instructions, and all vouchers for accommodations. The booklet also includes maps with marked routes.
√ Introductory briefing
On the first day of the trek, we will meet you in Kranjska Gora for an introductory briefing where we will explain all the details of the trek and we will answer all your questions.
√ Accommodation in B&B
On the first and last night you will stay in a B&B with breakfast included.
√ Accommodation in mountain huts (half-board)
Breakfast and dinner are included and will be provided at the mountain huts during the trek.
√ 24/7 Emergency number
There is an emergency contact number available 24/7 in case of an emergency. We will be available to assist you during the whole trek.
√ Walking Equipment (optional)
7-day rental of walking equipment is included in the price of the trek. You are welcome to bring your own trekking equipment. However, if you don't have the necessary items, we can provide them for you. Our package includes hiking poles, a backpack, a helmet, and a basic rain jacket. If you need our trekking equipment package, please request it when you book this trek.
√ Bike rental
On day 8 you will enjoy a bike ride at lake Bled. This ride is included in the price of the trek.
√ Fees and Taxes
The tourist tax and VAT are included in the price of this trek.
Excluded:
× Flights
The total amount excludes flights to and from Slovenia. You will also have to make your way to the starting point of the trek.
× Guide
This trek is a self-guided tour. We will provide you with a booklet with detailed information about the route and you will do the trek on your own. If you need any help, there is an emergency contact number available 24/7 where you can call to get assistance.
× Lunch
Lunch is not included in the price of the trek. You will find plenty of cozy restaurants to enjoy in the cities. During your days in the Alps, you will be able to purchase food in the huts.
× Luggage transfer
You will have to carry all your luggage and gear from one accommodation to another in your backpack on the walking tour.
× Sheets at the huts
Purchase of single-use sheets at the huts (2,50 EUR/set). The use of sleeping sheets is obligatory at the huts. You can either bring your own or buy single-use ones. Blankets are provided free of charge at the huts.
× Accommodation before and after the trek
Before and after the trek you have to take care of your own accommodation.
× Personal expenses
All personal expenses such as drinks at the bar, washing and other similar expenses are for your own account.
× Travel Insurance Including Repatriation
Your international travel insurance is your own responsibility. It is important that your travel insurance also covers trekking trips. Discuss your itinerary with the insurance company before you travel to Slovenia.
× Via Ferrata Gear
Should you wish to climb Mount Triglav but do not have the right materials, you can rent them additionally for EUR 30 per person. This is not included in the price.
Accommodation
Accommodation
During this trek, you will stay overnight in hotels and mountain huts. For the two hotel nights, a double room with breakfast in a 3-star hotel is booked. In the mountain huts you will sleep in dormitories, expect 5 to 30 beds. Most mountain huts do not have hot water, keep that in mind.
Day 1: B&B in Kranjska Gora
Day 2: Postarski dom na Vrsicu (1688m)
Day 3: Pogacnikov dom na Kriskih podih (2050m)
Day 4: Koca na Dolicu (2151m)
Day 5: Koca pri Triglavskih Jezerih (1685m)
Day 6: Planinski dom pri Krnskih jezerih (1385m)
Day 7: B&B in Tolmin
Packing List
Packing ListWe 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!
FAQ
FAQWhat is the weather like?
Never underestimate extreme and unpredictable mountain weather. Come prepared for any weather conditions. Keep in mind that you will spend your days high in the mountains. Even in the hottest summer days, the weather in the mountains can change quickly. Thunderstorms are relatively common in July and August. They develop rather quickly, but usually build up in the late afternoons and evenings, so it is best to start hikes early in the morning.
The climbing season for hiking in the high Julian Alps is from July through September. Summer weather in the mountains is quite cool; when it’s pushing 30°C on the Slovenian plains, it may be just 10°C above 2000 meters. It often drops below freezing at night, and snow may persist in nooks and crannies throughout the year. Weather on the mountain is highly variable, bringing unexpected wind, rain, and even snow.
What are the prices of food and drinks at the Huts?Most meals and drinks in mountain huts have regular prices, but water, soft drinks and beer are more expensive than in the valleys. Here are some examples:
Coffee - 2 eur / 1,5l bottled water - 4,40 eur / Beer - 4 eur
Goulash - 8 eur / Veggie/meat stew - 6 eur / Sandwich - 4,50 eur
Please note that the huts don't accept credit card payments! Cash only.
How demanding is the tour?
The hike is considered a challenging activity with an optional demanding climb to Mt. Triglav. Although certain parts of a trail may seem easy due to low incline, they do demand a high level of endurance and can be challenging for those, who are not used to longer hikes. The optional climb to the summit of Mt. Triglav is via Ferrata (Italian for “iron way”), which is an extremely steep climb on steel ladders and steel wires and is not recommended for people, who are not in good physical condition or are afraid of heights. The climb is also not recommended for children younger than 15 years and pregnant women.
Tipping in Slovenia
During this self-guided trip, there won't be a guide to tip at the end of your trek. However, private drivers will take care of your transfers and you will be eating at restaurants and mountain huts. Tipping is not obligatory in Slovenia, but it is always appreciated if the service provider did a good job. A tip of 5 to 15 percent is greatly appreciated in restaurants. The same percentage applies to the trekking guide if you decide to climb Mt Triglav.
Safety
SafetyOur treks in Slovenia and Croatia are absolutely safe. We will give an introductory briefing on day 1 and we will provide you with a booklet with detailed itinerary and route instructions, vouchers, contact numbers and other needed information. Moreover, a 24-hour helpline is available for you during the whole trek in case of an emergency. We will be there for you every step of the way!
Via Ferrata
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!
Life Adventures
Life Adventures & Bookatrekking.com
Life Adventures has been Bookatrekking.com's preferred partner in Slovenia for the Self Guided Treks since 2019. Katarina and her team are operating from their office in Bled and they have excellent knowledge of the region, especially the Julian Alps and Mount Triglav. Arranging the local logistics, but also showing the hidden gems of their country is one of their specialities.
If you book your tour through Bookatrekking.com, we will be glad to help you with making the right choice and advise you in the best way possible. Once the booking is made, we leave Life Adventures to do where they are best. Arrange your accommodations, routes, and all other travel plans to make your hiking trip in Slovenia an unforgettable experience!
How to Book
How does it work?
On Bookatrekking.com you can find and compare the adventures of your dreams. Is this trekking adventure your match? In that case, you can proceed to book. For the self-guided treks in Croatia and Slovenia, you can book your trek by paying 15% of the total amount. However, 30 days before your trek, you must pay the remaining 85%. If you book within 30 days of your trip, then you must pay the full amount.
This is so because the trekking companies must pay for the accommodation and transfers beforehand in order to secure your spots.
Bookatrekking.com uses only the safest payment methods. Once your booking has been received, your place is reserved, your place is safe and you can look forward to your chosen trekking.
After you have made your booking, you will receive an e-mail confirmation with all the necessary information and the contact details of the trekking company. If you have any questions or if you want to clarify something, you can obtain information directly from the right person. Of course, you can also always ask us your question. Send us an e-mail on support@bookatrekking.com
The trekking company will also receive your details and can therefore always contact you and provide you with extra information.
Cancellation Policy
Bookatrekking.com is dedicated to providing the best possible experience for you. We understand that life can be unpredictable and that plans may change. In recognition of this, we have created a flexible cancellation policy for our trekkings. You may cancel your trekking reservation free of charge if you notify us at least 14 days prior to the scheduled departure date. If you cancel within 14 days of your start date, you will lose your deposit.
Is it not quite clear yet or do you have questions? Please contact us via support@bookatrekking.com. We are happy to help you.
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