Slovenia & Croatia Mountain to Sea Adventure

Day 1 – Welcome to Ljubljana!

Welcome to Ljubljana, the irresistible capital of Slovenia where we’re kicking off this hiking adventure. The moment you step off the plane, one of our smiley team members will be there to meet you, ready to whisk you off to your hotel.

If you arrive in the morning, our expert guide will take you on a leisurely stroll through Ljubljana’s most beautiful parks, away from the tourist crowds, where locals typically relax. Your walk will conclude in the old town, allowing you some free time before joining the group for your first dinner together. Use your free time to explore the old town and perhaps visit Ljubljana Castle or stroll along the emerald-hued Ljubljanica River. This city is every European travel dream you’ve ever had, come true!

As the sun begins to set, it’s time to gather with your new travel companions for a welcome dinner. Amidst the introductions and laughter, you’ll enjoy a Slovenian feast fit for a Queen,  sampling local delicacies and toasting to the adventures that await. 

Your love affair with Slovenia begins tonight, and trust us, this is just the beginning.

Accommodation: City Hotel, Ljubljana (or similar)
Included: Welcome Dinner

Day 2 – Lake Bled

Rise and shine! It’s your first full day of the trip, so let’s start it with a bang. Today, you’ll explore Lake Bled, a place seemingly so perfect that you’ll think, “there’s no way it really looks like that”. Well, guess what – it absolutely does!

Today’s 10-kilometre stroll will wind through the most spectacular spots around Lake Bled. Breaking up the walk, you’ll visit a local beekeeper to learn the buzz about beekeeping and embrace your inner bee-whisperer.

Your tummy may be rumbling now, so it’s a good job you can spot a set of buildings in the distance. That’s Mateja’s Farm, and there, you’ll meet Mateja herself, who will share tales about her work and welcome you to a farm-fresh lunch. We guarantee you haven’t had farm-to-table quite like this before!

After filling your belly, a short drive will bring you to Bohinj, your cosy nest for the next couple of nights.

Hike: 10km – 3-4 hours (easy walk)
Accommodation: Hotel Jezero, Bohinj (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 3 – Lake Bohinj

Your Bohinj hotel is just a stone’s throw from the lake, and the ideal starting point for today’s 10-kilometre hike. As you wander past waterfalls, the reflections on the lake’s unbroken surface, and picturesque villages, you’ll be surrounded by the blissful singing of birds. This has got to be one of the most perfect hikes you’ve ever been on!

Now, it’s time for things to get a little… wild, because you’ll meet a local wildflower guru who will introduce you to the edible wonders of the meadows that surround you. Together, you’ll hand-pick floral delicacies and whip up a delicious, nature-inspired meal. And what’s a Slovenian feast without some local ‘žganje’ (schnapps)? 

Fear not, we’re not leading you astray – it’s just the Slovenian way of keeping the doctor away (when sipped in moderation, of course!) So, raise your glasses, and say “cheers” in Slovenian – Na zdravje!

Hike: 10km – 3-4 hours (easy walk)
Accommodation: Hotel Jezero, Bohinj (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch

Day 4 – Hiking from Kranjska Gora to Vrsic Pass

Buckle up for a short but scenic 45-minute transfer to Kranjska Gora, the starting point of your next grand adventure – the Alpe Adria Trail. The full length of this legendary trail spans over 700 kilometres, but we’re boiling it down to its very best bits. In today’s section, you’ll hike for around 5 hours, covering 12 kilometres, and 900-plus metres in elevation. It’ll definitely give you a good workout!

Entering Triglav National Park and trekking towards the Julian Alps, you’ll feel your breath sync with the rhythm of the whispering spruce, beech and larch trees. With every step, you’ll get closer to the mind-blowing Vrsic Pass. The sight of the towering Slovenian peaks and their steep limestone walls in every direction will make you feel delightfully small.

“And where’s today’s final stop”, you ask? It’s a cute little mountain hut straight out of a picture storybook, hidden away deep in the forest. Who needs a five-star hotel when you’ve got a billion-star view?

Hike: 12km – 5 hours (elevation +900m | -300m)
Accommodation: Erjavceva Koca Mountain Hut (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5 – Hiking from Vrsic Pass to Trenta Valley

Today, you’re following in the footsteps of Russian war prisoners from WWI who built this road during their imprisonment. The goal? To reach the highest point of your trip, the legendary Vrsic Pass. Pack a spare “wow” or two – you’ll need them for the 360-degree views that’ll make your head spin! 

There’s a bit of uphill walking to get here (300-plus metres to be exact), but it’s just nature’s own stairmaster. It’s the walk downhill, after, that poses the challenge, as you drop down 1,200 metres. Yep, it’s a steep descent, but with every step, the out-of-this-world Soca Valley gets ever closer. The sight of the Valley is so spectacular, it’ll make the trek feel like a walk in the park!

You’ll hike for around 6 to 7 hours over 15 kilometres today. A long day? Maybe. An unforgettable experience? Absolutely. After all, the best views come after the hardest climb!

💡Tip: Make sure you have enough memory in your camera – you’ll be kicking yourself otherwise!

Hike: 15km – 6-7 hours (elevation +300m | -1,200m)
Accommodation: Kekec Homestead, Trenta (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6 – Soca Valley

You’ll be racing out of bed this morning because it’s time to see the ‘star’ of Slovenia – the Soca River. Pronounced “Socha”, this is one of the most beautiful rivers in the world, and once you feast your eyes on it you’ll wholeheartedly agree. Without even trying, you find yourself being reminded of exactly why you’re here. This is absolutely one of those soul-soaring, life-enhancing moments by nature Herself.  

The plan today involves exploring the Soca Valley from top to bottom, marvelling at the gorgeous canyon, crossing hanging bridges, and discovering your own secret hideaways. Brave enough to dip your feet into the chilly waters, or even take a plunge in the turquoise pools? Go for it! 

Today’s trail will take your breath away – literally! Expect a 6-hour hike, covering 20 kilometres. It’s the longest walk of the adventure, but we know you’re up for the challenge.

The day also has a surprise guest – no spoilers, but let’s just say history buffs and book lovers are in for a treat. Hint: it involves a world war, a novel, and a sprightly retiree…

Hike: 20km – 6 hours (elevation +300m | -600m)
Accommodation: Hotel Mangart, Bovec (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 7 – Soca Valley to the Adriatic Sea

Ready to chase waterfalls? On day 7, you’ll start off with a hike to the enchanting Kozjak Waterfall – one of our favourite hidden gems in the Soca Valley. Next, buckle up for a scenic drive to Vipava Valley’s wine region. Here, you’ll dive into the cellars of a local winemaker, taste Slovenian wines (“oh go on then, why not…”), and indulge in a home-cooked lunch. After so much hiking over the last few days, it’s only right that you treat yourself!

This afternoon, we have another trick up our sleeves – the Skocjan Caves. Descending into this subterranean world, you’ll explore the hidden chambers of the cave, oohing and aahing at the dripstones and limestone formations. The cave’s sheer size and the roaring underground river are unlike anything you’ve ever experienced, so grab a sweater (it’s chilly down there!) forget the camera, and soak it all in.

It’s your final night in Slovenia, so there’s only one place to spend it – the gorgeous coastal town of Piran!

Hike: 30 – 40 minutes
Accommodation: Hotel Piran, Piran (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 8 – Hello Croatia!

Savour a hearty breakfast and take one last amble around the enchanting Piran, because you’re Croatia-bound today! Say “Bok” (Hello) to Groznjan, a hilltop haven in Croatia filled with artists, mediaeval architecture, romantic alleyways, and a touch of magic.

Feeling peckish after this morning’s border crossing? We’ve got you covered. For lunch today, you’ll roll up your sleeves at a local Istrian home to cook up some authentic Croatian pasta. You’ll not only be kneading dough but also learning about – and more importantly, tasting – Istria’s famed ‘liquid gold’ – their olive oil.

Later, you’ll cruise to the eye-popping town of Bale (pronounced ‘Ba-leh’), your home for the next two nights. Tucked up in bed, you’ll hardly be able to sleep with excitement. And who could blame you? You’re in a brand new country, after all!

Accommodation: Hotel La Grisa, Bale (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 9 – Bale & Rovinj

Start the day Bale-style with a leisurely cup of coffee in the morning sun. Then, it’s time to hit the road (or rather, trail) again!

You’re swapping town life for coastal vibes this morning, ambling along 8 kilometres of swoon-worthy trails by the Adriatic Sea. Sheltered by pines and serenaded by the sound of the waves, you’ll feel like you’re strolling through a dream.

It’s normally about the journey, not the destination, but you’ll rethink that when you see Rovinj. This Croatian seaside paradise will have you pinching yourself! You’ll have free time to explore Rovinj, so whether you’d prefer to head on a stroll around town or go rock climbing, it’s totally up to you.

This evening, get ready for a cheese-laden feast under the stars! The group will head to an organic cheese farm to devour a banquet of locally-produced food, and of course, cheese, as you giggle about your favourite memories from the adventure so far.

Hike: 8 km – 2-3 hours (coastal walk)
Accommodation: Hotel La Grisa, Bale (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 10 – Cres

After so much hiking on the mainland, it’s island time! Fuel up on breakfast, because you’re hitting the road towards the island of Cres – famed for its pebbly beaches, awe-inspiring griffon vultures and sheep. Lots and lots of sheep!

You’ve got a fair bit of driving today, but with scenery this stunning, you’ll hardly notice. Pulling into Cres, you’ll soon fall into the ‘no stress on Cres’ way of life. Swapping your flip-flops for hiking boots, potter around the quaint hilltop town of Lubenice, before hiking downhill to Lubenice beach. The moment your feet hit the pebbly shores and the crisp waters kiss your toes, you’ll think, “This. This is paradise.”

There’s no climb back uphill afterwards (wahoo!). That’s because we’ve arranged for water taxis to take you back to the vans. A quick hour’s drive later, and you’ll be in Veli Losinj, your island retreat for the next two nights. Croatian island life looks good on you!

Hike: 1 hour
Accommodation: Vitality Hotel Punta (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 11 – Losinj Island

Another magical day in Croatia is here, and it’s all about embracing the laid-back vibes of Losinj. You’ll hit the coastal trails straight after breakfast, but don’t let the rocky coast fool you; today’s walk is a breeze. As you stroll along, you’ll be swept away by the fragrant pine trees, and you’ll also get to cool off in secluded bays along the way. There’s something incredibly soothing about these trails – they’re like nature’s own spa. 

Prefer to take it easy? No worries – you’re welcome to spend the morning however you’d like.

After lunch with the group, it’s your afternoon… your way! Fancy some R&R? Feel free to lounge, swim, nap or enjoy a local beverage in Veli Losinj. Of course, exploring the neighbouring Mali Losinj is also on the cards. For the hardcore hikers, there’s also the option to head out on another coastal walk on the island’s west coast. Don’t mind if we do!

Hike: 3 – 4 hours
Accommodation: Vitality Hotel Punta (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 12 – Losinj Island

Your final island day is here and you may not be ready to leave yet – but don’t worry, we’ve saved some of the best for last.

For our avid hikers, we’ve plotted a journey up the breathtaking Osorscica Ridge – dare you to say that one! (Pronunciation is ‘O-sorsh-chit-sa’, but we won’t hold it against you if you don’t quite get there.) It’s a constant ascent with about 500 metres of elevation gain, but with the shade of the forest as your ally, you’ll reach the top in no time. Stunning vistas of Losinj’s and Cres’ coastlines and a confetti of islands are your rewards. High fives all round – you did it!

Not keen on hiking? No problem. You can always check with your local guide on how to squeeze the most out of your final hours here. Maybe rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore your way around the scenic coves of Veli Losinj, then meet up with the group for lunch?

Pulling into Croatia’s easy-going capital by late afternoon, you’ll round off this once-in-a-lifetime adventure with a farewell dinner at our favourite local spot, celebrating the journey’s end and the start of lifelong friendships. As you laugh over shared memories and toast to future trails, remember, this isn’t goodbye, it’s see you next time!

Optional Hike: 8km – 4 hours (elevation +500m, -500m)
Accommodation: Hotel Dubrovnik, Zagreb (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 13 – Farewell Friends

It’s been a surreal journey, hasn’t it? As you spend the morning in Zagreb, don’t forget to trade contact information and share fond farewells with your newfound friends. Then, a seamless transfer will drop you off at the airport with plenty of time to catch your flight home. Catch you on the next trail!

Included: Breakfast