JulianapadagenNoordwest

Let's hit the trail! The initial leg of the Juliana Trail heading towards Kobarid traces the left bank of the Soča, a striking turquoise river that surges through the valley. This walk closely follows the river, occasionally veering into the woods at the base of the formidable Krn massif. In the small church at Vrsno, a tribute to the memory of Slovene poet Simon Gregorčič can be found. He foresaw the tragic events of WWI in this picturesque valley. By evening, we'll reach the historic town of Kobarid. By evening we will reach the historic town of Kobarid. There will be enough time to visit the famous museum of the First World War or to walk to the Italian ossuary above the city.

Today's hike takes you through the narrow gorge of the Soča. The first stop is at the majestic Kozjak Waterfall, which cascades 15 metres down into a beautiful emerald pool inside a stony chamber. The trail then slowly ascends towards the course of the river past Trnovo to Srpenica. As you meander along the Soča near Žaga, it is worth moving away from the route and climbing to a lookout point under the mighty Boka waterfall, the largest-volume waterfall in Slovenia. At the highest water level of the Kanin abysses, Boka certainly deserves the title "Slovenian Niagara". Across the former front line of the First World War, you will reach the idyllic alpine town of Bovec.

Today you leave Bovec and Soča and head west. In the Kluže gorge, you can admire the mighty Austrian fortress which blocked the road towards the interior of Austria. Part of the Juliana Trail also leads through the fort. Following the goat paths, over streams and torrents, the trail continues upstream until reaching your ultimate destination, the idyllic village Log pod Mangartom. After the hike you are transfered back to Bovec.

Car transfer to Log pod Mangartom. The first part of the day starts with a slightly more demanding hike. From Log the trail ascends through the mountain village of Strmec to the Predil pass. The effort will be rewarded with magnificent views of Mt. Mangart and Mt. Jerebica. Upon arriving at the pass, you'll cross the border into Italy. The highlight of the day awaits at Lake Raibl. The nearby town, sharing the same name, was once a bustling mining hub where the Counts of Celje excavated lead ore in the adjacent Raibl Mines. Today, you can relish in the serenity of this nearly extinct village while sipping on a delightful cappuccino. Following the Rio Fredo River, you'll make your way to Tarvisio, where you'll spend the night. 

Following breakfast, the day's hike commences with a leisurely stroll along the path once occupied by a railway, leading you back towards Slovenia. As you bid farewell to Italy, your gaze will be drawn to the commanding presence of Four-Finger Mountain. Upon reentering Slovenia, the formidable Mt. Mangart will once again come into view. The village of Rateče is renowned for its excellent inns, providing a perfect opportunity to refresh yourself before setting out to visit Zelenci, the source of the Sava River. Your overnight stay will be in the charming town of Kranjska Gora.

The last day of the walk offers a million-dollar view from the start. From Srednji Vrh, you'll be treated to a sweeping panorama of the Špik mountain group, displaying its majestic beauty in all its grandeur! After descending into the valley, follow the former Jesenice - Tarvisio railway, now converted into a cycling and hiking trail, all the way to Mojstrana. There you will be collected and after a short transfer you will be in Bled. Bled sits gracefully on the shores of a stunning glacial lake. Witnessing its enchanting island church and the commanding clifftop castle at either sunrise or sunset reveals why it has earned its place as one of Slovenia's most cherished attractions. Embark on a leisurely stroll around the lake.

Departure after breakfast.