Best of Alpe Adria: Kranjska Gora to Cividale del Friuli
Traverse the serene Lake Jasna and ascend the storied Vršič Pass, offering panoramic alpine vistas
Follow the emerald path of the Soča River through the enchanting Great Soča Gorges
Marvel at the cascading beauty of the Boka Waterfall, Slovenia’s largest waterfall
Witness the historical depth along the Kolovrat Pass, echoing tales of WW1
Cross the border into Italy, experiencing the rich cultural tapestry of the Friuli region
Conclude your journey in Cividale del Friuli, a town steeped in Lombard history
Itinerary
Your journey begins in the magical town of Kranjska Gora, an all-year-round sports hub. Nestled in the valley of the Sava Dolinka River amidst the towering peaks of the Julian Alps, it’s the perfect place to start your hike through the Alps. After getting checked in at your hotel, you’re welcome to explore the charming streets of this Alpine town and get ready to start your adventure the following day. Have dinner at one of the local restaurants and enjoy a restful night in a valley between the Julian Alps and the Karawanks.
Berghi Hotel / Hotel Alpina / Hotel Lipa or similar (depending on availability)
You’ll start your day by heading toward Lake Jasna and enjoying the panorama of the first sunlight hitting the peak of Mt. Prisojnik. Passing the lake, you’ll follow the path beside the Pišnica stream in the direction of Krnica Valley. That’s where you’ll start climbing towards Vršič Pass, one of Slovenia’s most famous alpine attractions, connecting the Sava and Soča valleys on the opposite sides of the Julian Alps. The path weaves through the shade of the forested slopes, passing the Russian Chapel before reaching the Erjavčeva mountain hut, your accommodation for the night just below the top of the pass.
Erjavčeva koča na Vršiču mountain hut or similar (depending on availability)
11 km and 780 m of elevation gain / 80 m of elevation loss
In the early morning, you can ascend to the top of the pass and enjoy the views to each side. Then, you’ll catch the bus to Bovec. You can get off the bus at any stop in the Soča Valley, from where you’ll follow the Soča Trail. The later you decide to leave the bus, the less distance you’ll have to cover to Bovec. You’ll pass the Small and Great Soča Gorge, cross wooden bridges over the river, and follow scenic forest paths before emerging into the fields where the Koritnica River flows into Soča. Now, you’re only a short way from Bovec, where you’ll check into your hotel.
13.3 km and 200 m of elevation gain / 230 m of elevation loss
Hotel Soča / Hotel Mangart or similar (depending on availability)
Today, you’ll keep following the Soča River as it flows south. Soon after leaving Bovec, you’ll pass by Slovenia’s largest waterfall, Boka. You can stop for a minute and stand in awe of this pearl of nature. As you continue your journey downriver, you’ll pass some rapids where kayakers and rafters love to challenge the river’s strength. The surroundings start slowly transitioning from the rugged mountains of the Julian Alps to the pre-alpine hills of the northern Primorska region. You’ll finish the day in Kobarid, a town steeped in World War I history, where the Kobarid Museum narrates the poignant tales of the Isonzo Front.
22 km and 425 m of elevation gain / 655 m of elevation loss
Hotel Hvala Topli Val / Apartmaji Pri Nas or similar (depending on availability)
Another long stage follows today. Journeying from Kobarid, you’ll traverse fairy-like forests and age-old, moss-draped stone structures, reaching the historic Church of St. Lawrence, a muse to the poet Simon Gregorčič, who immortalised the Soča River in his writings. The path will lead you through quaint villages beneath the southern slopes of the Julian Alps, reigned over by the magnificent Mt. Krn. After reaching Tolmin, you can explore the famous Tolmin Gorges, cut into sheer rock by the flowing water throughout centuries.
16.5 km and 150 m of elevation gain / 200 m of elevation loss
Hotel Dvorec or similar (depending on availability)
Today’s journey features a climb across the Kolovrat Pass as its standout moment. Atop the ridge, panoramic views await, offering a glimpse of distant Alpine peaks on one side, while on the other, a serene expanse reaching towards the Po Valley and the Adriatic Sea unfolds. The path once more traces the historic Walk of Peace (Sentiero della Pace) within the Italian borders. At the Passo Solarie, once a frontline, you’ll find remarkable relics of WW1 struggles, including an outdoor museum and several intact bunkers.
19 km and 1140 m of elevation gain / 710 m of elevation loss
Casa Martina / Casa Cebajova or similar (depending on availability)
The journey begins by traversing an ancient trail between the flatlands and the hilltop communities of Stregna and Drenchia. This segment meanders through former grazing areas and dense forests of chestnut trees alongside remnants of World War I defensive works. The landscape then widens, leading to the historic town of Castelmonte, home to the region’s oldest sacred site in Friuli-Venezia Giulia, offering expansive views over the Friulian plains. Soon, you’ll reach Cividale del Friuli, a key historical hub within the Lombard Kingdom‘s territories in Italy.
22.1 km and 650 m of elevation gain / 1150 m of elevation loss
Hotel Locanda Al Pomo d’Oro / B&B Domus iulii
On your last day on the tour, you can freely explore the charming Italian town until your schedule requires you to depart. The most convenient option is to take a bus to Udine, from where you can connect further. Or we can arrange a private transfer to keep you from having to take care of unnecessary logistical issues on your last day.
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Self guided
Included in price
Optional Extras
Description
Discover the highlights of the Alpe Adria trail, an extraordinary journey from the verdant valleys of Slovenia’s Julian Alps to the quaint streets of Cividale del Friuli. This remarkable route showcases the diversity of the Julian Alps, spanning across Slovenia and Italy.
From the magical town of Kranjska Gora, where the towering peaks of the Julian Alps serve as your backdrop, the trail leads you through a series of breathtaking Alpine landscapes.
Experience the pristine beauty of Lake Jasna, reflecting the surrounding mountains in its crystal-clear waters. Ascend the historic Vršič Pass, providing panoramic views that stretch across the alpine horizon.
As you descend into the Soča Valley, follow the flow of the Soča River, whose emerald waters carve through the valley, creating the mesmerising Great Soča Gorges.
This part of the journey not only highlights the natural splendour of Slovenia but also touches upon the poignant history of WW1, with trails that pass significant landmarks and battle sites.
The journey culminates in Cividale del Friuli, a town rich in history and culture, offering a glimpse into the Lombard Kingdom’s past.
For our guests, every detail of this journey is carefully planned. From arranging stays in a mix of charming accommodations along the route to providing 24/7 support, a personalised travel booklet, and GPS navigation, we ensure your experience is as enriching as it is effortless.
Join us on this cross-border exploration from Kranjska Gora to Cividale del Friuli, and immerse yourself in the unparalleled beauty of the Alpe Adria.
Map
Accommodations
Berghi Hotel
Berghi Hotel in Kranjska Gora, nestled near the Pišnica stream and forest, offers newly renovated accommodations ranging from cosy rooms to spacious apartments for up to 10 guests, with amenities like a large parking, secure bike storage, and pet-friendly policies, only 400m from the town centre.
Hotel Alpina
Hotel Alpina in Kranjska Gora is a family-friendly option located adjacent to the ski slopes, offering a variety of room types along with a spa centre featuring saunas and a jacuzzi, ideal for both winter and summer activities.
Blejska koča na Lipanci
Blejska Koča na Lipanci, perched at 1630 metres on the Pokljuka Plateau, offers expansive views towards the Bohinj mountains, making it an ideal spot for family-friendly hikes and accessible throughout the year.
Erjavčeva koča na Vršiču
Erjavčeva Koča na Vršiču, renovated in 2023 and nestled just below the Vršič Pass road summit at 1525 metres, combines historical charm from its 1901 origins with modern amenities, offering 32 beds, 28 dormitory spots, and a 100-seat dining area, making it a pivotal haven for hikers in the Julian Alps.
Hotel Soča
Hotel Soča in Bovec, awarded for its design, offers a retreat with 20 stylish rooms, a pool with mountain views, a spa, and a lobby featuring Soča Rafting Sports Center, making it an ideal base for adventure enthusiasts.
Hotel Mangart
Hotel Mangart in Bovec, located at the Triglav National Park’s edge, offers balconied rooms, a wellness area with a hot tub and sauna alongside majestic Julian Alps views, catering especially to outdoor enthusiasts.
Hotel Hvala Topli Val
Hotel Hvala Topli Val, a family-run establishment nestled in Kobarid within the Soča Valley, provides a cosy ambiance and stylish design, featuring free WiFi, a renowned restaurant specialising in Mediterranean and local cuisine, a sauna, and close proximity to the Soča River.
Apartmaji Pri Nas
Apartmaji Pri Nas in Kobarid captivates with its modern apartments, offering a unique blend of elegance and comfort, surrounded by a lush garden with a BBQ area and jacuzzi, just a stone’s throw from the Soča River for the ultimate restful retreat.
Hotel Dvorec
Hotel Dvorec in Tolmin is a historic landmark turned welcoming hotel located in the town’s centre, offering a unique stay with a 17th-century arched wine cellar, a garden, and a terrace, alongside modern amenities including free WiFi and parking, all within reach of the Soča Valley and Triglav National Park.
Casa Martina
Casa Martina in Tribil Superiore stands out with its uniquely designed interiors, a spacious terrace overlooking the lush countryside, and a location ideal for exploring the local vineyards, ensuring a distinctive and immersive stay in the heart of Friuli Venezia Giulia.
Casa Cebajova
Casa Cebajova in Tribil Superiore provides a spacious apartment with comfortable beds, a well-equipped kitchen, and a small terrace under a vine roof, offering guests the tranquillity of an almost deserted village with picturesque views and the convenience of outdoor dining.
Hotel Locanda Al Pomo d’Oro
Hotel Locanda Al Pomo d’Oro, a 12th-century establishment in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Cividale del Friuli, offers terraced accommodations with free WiFi, parquet floors, and LCD TVs in a historic setting.
B&B Domus iulii
B&B Domus iulii in Cividale del Friuli, a family-run bed and breakfast, offers air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms, free WiFi, and a daily sweet and savoury breakfast including hot drinks, homemade cakes and cold meats, all set in a historic building near the town’s key attractions.
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Things to know
Our guided walking tours are led by UIMLA or IMFGA internationally licensed guides who have completed many years of training to make your walking holidays both safe and enjoyable. They are enthusiastic individuals who are ready to share their passion for Slovenia and its rich culture and nature with you, and make your walking holiday one to remember.
We are always looking for the perfect fit for you. We use a few different accommodation providers that fit our standards but they are subjected to availability, especially in the high season. We can also adjust the holiday, keeping in mind your preferences and budget and can always find a more suitable solution for your taste.
We recommend booking as early as possible. Slovenian mountain huts are very popular and get booked up several weeks in advance, especially on weekends. If your booking is late, we will try our best to find a suitable alternative. Sometimes, last-minute spots open up. However, we cannot guarantee a free spot.
All of the huts offer vegetarian options and usually at least one vegan option. Still, kitchens high up are basic, so don’t expect too many choices. Huts generally serve authentic meals like stews, soups, and sausages. If you have strict dietary restrictions, consider bringing your own food as they can’t make a special meal per request.
If you want to, sure! We are well aware that some people love to stay in groups while others prefer some more alone time on their trip. We wanted to give you the opportunity to do things your way. It is your holiday, after all! As long as you respect the group timings and locations designated by your guide, please feel free to customize your itinerary and create your own adventure!
Depending on the tour, some of our tours go through high mountains and there is still snow in spring (sometimes as late as early June) and autumn (sometimes as early as October). Other tours don’t go as high and are suitable for spring and autumn as well as summer. Read more about hiking seasons in Slovenia.
Most of the tours can be done even in light rain, as long as you dress accordingly. It is not unusual in the summer that there are afternoon thunderstorms, so early starts are advisable. If the weather looks really bad, we will try to reschedule or propose an alternative tour.
Some of our tours are hut-to-hut tours, with overnights in authentic mountain huts. Try to pack light, only take what you really need. You need your passport or ID for check-in, and some cash is advisable if the internet is down. Bring your sleeping liner and earplugs for the night, and toothbrush and body wipes for hygiene. You don’t need slippers, they are in the hut already.
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