Hike and Wild Swim in Slovenia's Julian Alps

Touch down at Ljubljana Airport, where your driver will meet you and transfer you to your hotel in Preddvor. 22 miles north of Ljubljana, Preddvor is a quaint village at the foot of the Kamnik-Savinja mountain range. It sits on the shore of the serene Lake Crnava and is popular with hikers for its scenic trails through lush valleys and forested hills, making it the perfect base for your next three nights of adventure.

Wake up in Preddvor and meet your hiking guide, who’ll be with you for the rest of the trip. Your adventure kicks off in the village of Jezersko, where you’ll hike to the summit of Goli Vrh (5,865 ft). This grassy peak offers panoramic views, with a trail winding through wildflower meadows and along a scenic forested ridge. At the top, you'll be treated to an extraordinary alpine amphitheater of surrounding peaks and jagged rock formations with a stunning view of the dramatic northern face of the Grintovci Range with its 8,200 ft peaks, plus sweeping views of the Jezersko Valley, the Karavanke Mountains, and Triglav National Park. After soaking up the scenery, head down to the heart-shaped Lake Plansar for a picnic surrounded by alpine beauty. The lush mountain pastures here are perfect for dairy farming, and the wildflowers here are said to enhance the flavor of the region’s local cheese. This afternoon, you’ll visit a local farm to taste the renowned produce and learn more about the craft of cheese making.

Head up to the winter ski resort of Krvavec and gear up for today's hike, where you’ll take on your first 6,500 ft peak of the trip. Start your ascent through lush mountain meadows, cross rocky ridges, and breathe in the clean air of the pristine forest you traverse. Above the treeline, you'll reach the summit of Kompotela (6,526 ft), where a breathtaking panorama of peaks, valleys, and rolling landscapes unfolds before you. On the descent, you’ll stop for a picnic lunch in the tranquil pastureland, taking in the peaceful surroundings of the mountains. Back in Preddvor, your guide will take you to a serene swimming spot on Lake Crnava or nearby Kokra River, the perfect place to unwind for the rest of the afternoon before returning to the hotel for dinner.

Say goodbye to peaceful Preddvor as you head into the upper Gorenjska region (6,020 ft) for a hike up Golica Mountain. In springtime, the mountain is covered in blooming daffodils, making it a favorite spot among local hikers. The trail climbs steadily onto a high ridge, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the alpine landscape on both sides. Just below the summit lies the cozy Golica Mountain hut, the perfect spot for a lunch break before heading back down. A quick drive takes you to Kranjska Gora, your base for the next few days. In the afternoon, you’ll explore some of the natural sites that Kranjska Gora is famous for, starting with Lake Jasna - where you can brave a dip in its cold, crystal-clear waters. After that, take a leisurely stroll through the Zelenci Nature Reserve, home to an emerald-green lake and abundant birdlife.

Lace up your boots for a taste of Slovenia’s Alpe Adria Trail R7, one of its long-distance alpine hikes. Starting from the hotel, you’ll head up into the mountains to tackle Trupejevo Poldne peak at 6,338 ft. After a challenging climb, you’ll be treated to an incredible view of the Spik mountain range, where dramatic rocky peaks and forested slopes stretch below. After this morning’s exertions, spend the afternoon relaxing in the alpine town, enjoying the hotel’s spa and swimming pool facilities. Tonight, you’ll head out for an exceptional three-course meal at a Michelin Bib Gourmand-recommended restaurant which highlights local and seasonal flavors.

Today's hike takes you along some of the Julian Alps' most stunning trails. Hop in the van for a short drive to the Pokljuka Plateau, an alpine pasture sitting above Slovenia's two most picturesque lakes - Bled and Bohinj. From there, you'll hike through the larch forest and up onto the rocky summit of Viševnik (6,730 ft), with up-close views of Mount Triglav and the surrounding peaks. On your descent, pass several shepherds' huts, including one turned into a cheese dairy, where livestock graze in summer. Stop for lunch at a mountain hut before heading down to the valley. In the afternoon, visit the serene White Lake (Kreda) for a refreshing swim before heading back to the hotel in Kranjska Gora.

Pack up and take a quick drive up the Vršič mountain pass, where you'll hike to Slemenova Špica on the eastern side of the Mojstrovka mountains. This scenic hike leads to a stunning viewpoint with breathtaking views of Jalovec, Mojstrovka, and Ponca peaks, as well as the picturesque Tamar Valley. After soaking in the views, head down for lunch at an alpine cabin before crossing the Italian border to visit the stunning Lago di Fusine glacial lakes - Lago Superiore and Lago Inferiore. Enjoy a swim in the crystal-clear waters or take a leisurely walk around the lake. After this brief Italian experience, return to Slovenia, where your host will drop you off at the airport in time for evening flights.