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Slovenia

Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj Walk

Trip code: W07SB 4.5 (20 reviews)

Self-guided walking

7 nights,
single centre

Level: 1+ & 2

Flights
available

26.0Kg CO2e

10% early booking discount on selected trips. Book by 22 Oct 2024.

SUMMARY

  • Enjoy a variety of ridge walking, alpine meadows, deep gorges and unspoilt villages
  • Based in the spectacular Julian Alps Mountain range which extend into Austria
  • Jagged peaks are softened by tranquil Lakes Bled & Bohinj, renowned for their beauty

WHAT'S INCLUDED?

  • 7 nights accommodation
  • All breakfasts and evening meals
  • Comprehensive route directions

TRIP DESCRIPTION

Most of our walking takes place in the north of Slovenia in the Julian Alps. This range forms part of the Southern Alps which extend into Austria. The spectacular mountains in this area are predominately limestone, and their jagged forms produce stunning vistas wherever you look. The area is softened by beautiful, tranquil lakes in the valley bottoms and amongst the rocky crags. Two of the largest lakes, Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj, feature on our 7-night walking holiday.

The beauty of Lake Bled attracts world-wide visitors. It is a natural mineral spa lake with its medieval castle, island with church and the surrounding Alps as a stunning back drop. Nearby is Lake Bohinj, a lake set amongst the higher mountains of the Julian Alps in the Triglav National Park. The valley floors are full of picturesque villages whose inhabitants still rely on farming and its agricultural products for their income. The Slovenes are deeply proud of their way of life, and undoubtedly you will be tempted by their food which offers a host of national dishes many influenced by the cuisine of neighbouring countries. Slovenia also produces excellent wine.

There is walking in Slovenia to challenge the most demanding of walkers as well as those who require more gentle routes. The limestone peaks give many opportunities for ridge walking with stunning vistas of local peaks and lakes. You can walk to the top of Mount Vogel (1922m) with its commanding views all the way to Italy and Austria. Helpfully, some of these high walks can be assisted by the use of a cable car.

Experience routes through the mountains built by soldiers in the First World War as supply routes for Italian and Austro-Hungarian armies fighting in the area. Explore mountain paths through Alpine meadows. Take mountain routes over rocky paths; discover deep gorges and spectacular waterfalls where for most of the year, you may be the only visitor.

There are also several routes linking beautiful, unspoilt villages either on the valley floor or on the mountain slopes. They often follow fast-flowing mountain rivers which will make their way to the Danube and the Black Sea. There is plenty here to satisfy all grades of walker.

We offer a choice of hotels on this holiday, the standard price is based on the 3 Star Hotel Tripic in Bohinj Bistrica with the possibility of upgrading to the 4 Star Hotel Jezero in Ribcev Laz.

Terrain

There are a range of walks on offer, following a mix of forest trails, mountain paths and tracks, some of which are quite stony in places. There are 13 walks available at differing levels, two of which are not suitable for those suffering with vertigo. Some of the higher level walks may not be passable in early season due to snow cover.

Read more about this holiday in our 'Unique Places To Stay' blog.

READ MORE

DAY-BY-DAY ITINERARY

 

Day 1: Arrive in either Bohinj Bistrica or Ribčev Laz

You stay at:

Hotel Tripic, Bohinj Bistrica (breakfast and evening meals included)

OR

Hotel Jezero, Ribčev Laz (breakfast and evening meals included) - a supplement applies for bookings at Hotel Jezero

You stay at Hotel Tripic or Hotel Jezero.

hotel details

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Hotel Tripic, Bohinj Bistrica

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The small 3* family run Hotel Tripic is situated in the village of Bohinj Bistrica, the centre for rural life in the upper Bohinj valley. Dating back to 1986, it features 17 rooms and 2 restaurants with a large, covered summer terrace. Breakfast is a rich buffet breakfast and dinner consists of many homemade Bohinj specialities.

All rooms feature free Wi-Fi, telephone, television and private bathroom with WC, shower and hairdryer.

Room upgrades: Please contact us for details.

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Hotel Jezero, Ribčev Laz

HOTEL WEBSITE      TRIP ADVISOR

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Situated by the shore of picturesque Lake Bohinj amongst verdant pine forest. The staff of the homely 4* Hotel Jezero will always extend a friendly welcome to guests. Featuring an indoor swimming pool, garden terrace and 2 Finnish saunas.

All rooms feature Wi-Fi, telephone, television, minibar, safe, balcony and private bathroom with WC, shower and hairdryer.

Days 2 - 7: Walks in Bled, Lake Bohinj and Triglav National Park

Walks Around Lake Bled

Between two rivers to Talež 15 KM/ 9.5 MI/ 5 HRS

This circular route from Bled will give you an ideal introduction to the area around the town. It includes a stroll through attractive meadows, visits two of the largest rivers in the area and then takes you up to a koča (hut), from where you have extensive views of the surrounding mountains and countryside.

The Lake Bled Circuit 6 KM/ 4 MI/ 1.5 HRS

Lake Bled is very beautiful and a walk round should not be missed. Mostly it is combined with our Osojnica walk, which gives the classic overview of Lake Bled, the combination giving a good introduction to the Bled area. The circuit could include a swim at the castle bathing area. Another option would be to catch a boat at the far end and visit the island of Otok. Visitors staying at Bohinj would no doubt wish also to spend some time in the tourist resort of Bled itself, making this a truly leisurely day. On the other hand, you could also combine with the walk towards Babji Zob, thereby making a much longer day.

Above Lake Bled on Osojnica 3 KM/ 2 MI/ 1.5 HRS

The most famous views of Lake Bled are from up here. The walk is very short but is steep and rough in parts; at one or two points it is briefly and slightly vertiginous. The walk starts and ends at the far end of Lake Bled so it makes sense to combine it with the Lake Bled Circuit.

Vintgar Gorge 13 KM/ 8 MI/ 3.5 HRS

Vintgar Gorge is a must-see spectacle. Vintgar Gorge is about 1.5km long and over 90m deep, with rapids, green pools and rock faces, and a surprising number of trout. The path is mostly narrow, with walkways skilfully constructed out over the river from the rockfaces and several bridges. Progress can be slow because of the quantity of sightseers, but this matters not because Vintgar should be savoured slowly.

Below Babji Zob, the Old Hag's Tooth 11 KM/ 7 MI/ 3.5 HRS

Babji Zob is a striking perpendicular rock standing out at the end of the limestone Jelovica hills, south of Bled, and is said to resemble an old woman's tooth. (The tooth is still there, but the old hag is long gone!! You will have to use your imagination!). Our walk explores the delightful countryside and villages on its slopes, and in the Sava Bohinjka valley.

Walks Around Lake Bohinj

Around the lower Bohinj Valley 17KM/ 11 MI/ 5 HRS

On the north side are excellent views of the valley and attractive alpine meadows. On the south side of the valley the route goes through relatively unwalked countryside and generally shows off the attractive Bohinj farmland, mixed woodlands and villages.

Savica Waterfall 8 KM/ 5 MI/ 2.5 HRS

A steady climb from the lake on a clear track to the parking area and restaurants is followed by a short section from the pay kiosk up 580 (!) steps to the waterfall. Our return route takes a quiet, pleasant cross-country route, but alternatives are offered. All variants of this walk can be combined with the Lake Bohinj circuit.

The Mostnica River and Gorge 16 KM/ 10 MI/ 4.5 HRS

This is a low-level walk which follows a wonderfully sculptured narrow limestone gorge with green pools and rapids before entering a lovely alpine pasture full of wildflowers. There is a shady waterfall at the far end of the walk and two cafes along the way to refresh a tired walker. The walk is either side of the gorge to maximise what can be seen. A small fee is payable for walking along the gorge.

The rocky slopes of Vogel 12 KM/ 7.5 MI/ 5 HRS OR 8KM/ 5 MI/ 3.5 HRS

This is a mountain walk with good paths. Vertigo sufferers should avoid the walk from point 1615m up to Vogel but could enjoy the lower option which does not involve scrambling. Either walk has extensive views of the Julian Alps and the Bohinj valley with those opting for the summit of Vogel also enjoying vistas to the south.

The wooded heights of Pršivec 15 KM/ 9.5 MI/ 6.5 HRS

North of Lake Bohinj is a high, wooded area rising to the peak of Pršivec, dotted with several small planinas or open pastures. One or two brief parts are exposed, so those easily prone to vertigo should give it a miss, but for those who undertake it, this route should provide a good, 'away from it all' feeling. If you have enough time you may wish to sample one of the mountain inns.

Walks Around Triglav National Park

Vrata valley and Peričnik waterfalls 17 KM/ 11 MI/ 4.5 HRS

This side valley walk, climbs from the main Sava Dolinka valley to the foot of Triglav, it is mostly easy going with the notable exception of the steep climb to the waterfalls. This is well worth the effort because you can experience the waterfalls from close range.

Pokljuka's forests and the ridge to Debela Peč 16 KM/ 10 MI/ 6.5 HRS

High above the remote Pokljuka Forest lies the attractive alpine Planina (pasture) Lipanca with its profusion of wildflowers, below the summit of Debela Peč. The path is well waymarked, steep in places, but well worth the effort for the outstanding views.

Day 8: Departure from Bohinj Bistrica or Ribčev Laz

Extending your holiday

If you'd like to extend your trip with extra hotel nights we recommend: Grand Hotel Union, Ljubljana.

hotel details

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Grand Hotel Union, Ljubljana

HOTEL WEBSITE      TRIP ADVISOR

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The Grand Hotel Union is one of Ljubljana's most prestigious hotels. Built at the turn of the century it was considered one of the finest hotels in Europe at this time with its lift, central heating and telephones (a rarity in 1905). Its hall was used as the city's concert hall for many years and its clientele has traditionally been associated with the arts. The hotel has hosted many famous pianists and singers over the years.

The rooms are all furnished in a contemporary style with satellite television, telephone and air-conditioning. The hotel has a swimming pool on the top floor that has an appealing glass roof dome.

Extra nights: Please contact us for details.

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These tour only prices are based on two people sharing. Single supplement from £214.

We can book your flights, protected by ATOL and ABTA. Please ask at time of enquiry.

As we offer a range of walking options, transfers to the start of walks are not included; a mixture of taxis and local buses can be used (payable locally).

TRAVEL DETAILS

If you choose a flight inclusive package with us, you will fly into Ljubljana airport. We can provide transfers from the airport, please contact us for details and prices.

We hold an ATOL License and are fully ABTA bonded, so you can book your flights with us in confidence. We can book most airlines and will advise you of your most convenient airport and flight options.

Flight prices vary massively and change quickly. At Headwater we will sell you your flights at the same price you can buy them yourself. We simply add £35 per person to cover your flight protection, to learn more please click here.

OPTIONAL UPGRADES
  • Flights from London or any available regional airport*
  • Airport parking and airport hotels
  • Priority at Security and Fast Track
  • Airport lounge access
  • Priority boarding and extra leg-room seats
  • Business/club/first class fares

Subject to availability and dependent on service provider, please ask at time of enquiry and book early to avoid disappointment. *Unfortunately, due to the airline themselves we are unable to book Ryanair.

REVIEWS

Everything was taken care of for us. Flights, hotels etc. All we had to do was turn up and enjoy. The hotel booked was excellent, and the area was stunning. Couldn't want anything else.

A Valued Customer, 24 Sep 2024

 

We enjoyed our first visit in September to Slovenia and found the green meadows, even after a very hot summer, and pristine villages very appealing. Bohinjska Bistrica as a base did probably entail more bus journeys but there were advantages in having two supermarkets and a lovely bakery to provide food for packed lunches; furthermore the bakery is open 7 days a week.

The Julian Alps pass is worth purchasing although it does not guarantee free fares on all the buses as you initially think. Also the bus timetables seemed a little fluid at times.

A Valued Customer, 9 Sep 2024

 

We had a good choice of walks appropriate to our abilities and inclinations. Lake Bohinj area is very beautiful and a joy to walk. As mentioned we think the better location, taking account of the vagaries of the buses, would be to stay in a hotel in Lake Bohinj.

A Valued Customer, 6 Sep 2024

 

Headwater were very helpful in arranging our holiday. Lake Bohinj is a lovely area with some fine walks. The area surrounding the hotel was busy and vibrant. It's worth using the local transport (€15 for a week in 2024-buses with flowers on).

Mr Barclay, 28 Aug 2024

 

For all the good literature provided, it was only when we got there to the location that we truly got into the detail of the walks. If we should return one day and I'm sure we will then we have some cracking walks to take us on our way and with now knowing the terrain it is a much more a win win. You don't have to have visited to enjoy these walks but heat, terrain, and having now experienced it is an added bonus.

The location, the hotels, the arrangements have all been excellent.

Conal Flaherty, 26 Jun 2024

 

Slovenia exceeded our expectations - it’s a beautiful country and the people were so welcoming. We were delighted with the hotel and the fact it was in a quieter part of the valley near to but away from eg Lake Bled. The area is great for walking and we were lucky with the weather too!

Guy Powell, 15 Jun 2024

 

Fabulous!

Charlotte Newton, 29 May 2024

 

We paired the Headwater Slovenia itinerary with the Bohinj Wildflower festival for an incredible time.

Sara Shwartz, 22 May 2024

 

Headwater looked after us well. Hotel Jezero is in a great location but the restaurant and the food were disappointing considering the amount we paid. Package holiday buffet style was not really what we were expecting. Free wine at dinner though was a novelty and saved us a bit of money! Pool very nice indeed.

Kim Hurst, 21 May 2024

 

Our overall experience on this walking holiday in Slovenia was very good - we really enjoyed our holiday. Despite a few inclement weather days (always expected in a mountainous region) we ventured every day - the scenery and beautiful countryside were excellent. The general cleanliness/maintenance, efficiency and levels service in Slovenia are to be applauded. It was also comparatively good value eg. for food, drink & local travel etc. As outlined in previous responses, we have noted a few reservations regarding the hotel dining experience included in the package - we could have used the separate 'al la carte' restaurant for a more refined experience, however this would have been at significant extra cost to us.

Andrew Dudley, 15 May 2024

 

We usually feel very confident of booking a holiday with Headwater. This time we started badly with an inexperienced agent and nearly gave up. Luckily we persevered, found an agent who understood the holiday and we had a wonderful time in Slovenia, thank you!

Patricia Snow, 7 May 2024

 

Basically a good holiday, however we should have been advised that it was too early in the season and a lot of the facilities where closed.

Alec Douglas, 19 Apr 2024

 

Excellent - I asked for the optional upgrade and a change of UK airport. Everything was quickly organised and well communicated. The hotel and its location were excellent. The walk descriptions provided were clear and the walk routes were helpfully graded and in beautiful countryside. Taxis to and from the hotel from our destination airport, Ljubljana, were on time and well driven. The whole journey went like clockwork apart from delays in passport control in Munich during our return journey.

Ian Smith, 1 Apr 2024

 

Excellent

Elizabeth Beresford, 18 Sep 2023

 

Well organised, efficient, attention to detail and personal preferences. Excellent information and communication. Good value for money.

Carolyn Annand, 8 Sep 2023

 

The standard tour was excellent but the 'tailor-made' part did not go well.

CLOSE, 26 Jun 2023

 

We had a great holiday in Slovenia. The area was stunning and the local bus made getting around easy. The hotel was comfortable. The staff were excellent, and the food was good and very plentiful- we’d challenge anyone to try and eat three courses there! The range of walks available was varied and this was really helpful as on really hot days it was good to try and stick to more shaded walks. It was good to be able to choose which walk we wanted to do on each day. We felt that the instructions for some of the walks could have been improved and moving to an app would make more sense. Keeping the time spent planning is an important part of the holiday for us and sometimes it was challenging to juggle the map, grid references and instructions. If this had been made more simple it would have made our holiday an excellent one rather than a good one.

RIXON, 16 Jun 2023

 

Ideal for independent walking (and cycling). Beautiful, peaceful and friendly country very much suited to a slow pace of life.

WHISTLER, 14 Jun 2023

 

Lake Bohinj is an excellent base from which to explore the region. Quieter and less developed than Lake Bled, it is very unspoilt and yet provides easy access to Lake Bled and the capital. One point to near in mind is that Hotel Tripic is a bus ride from the lake, so you can spend a reasonable amount of time on/waiting for buses. the other hotel (Jezera) is right by the lake and so more convenient.

COPE, 10 Jun 2023

 

The flight had been delayed for 3 hours but the transport was waiting and Hotel Tripic stayed up to welcome us and had left a meal in our room. The owner and staff were always helpful and friendly. The room was clean and comfortable. The routes for the 6 walks we did were usually clear except the one to Vogel. We then moved to Hotel Cubo in Ljubljana which was really excellent. The staff again were pleasant and helpful, the room wonderful and breakfasts were particularly special!

Mr Mullen, 1 May 2023

 


Self-guided walking

7 nights,
single centre

Level: 1+ & 2

Flights
available

26.0Kg CO2e

7 nights from £459

CHOOSE A DEPARTURE

Call: 01606 720199

 

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