Hiking Juliana Trail – Northwest
Walk through the stunning Tolmin gorge
Deep canyons with thundering rapids
Listen to the sound of the mighty Boka Waterfall
Visit WW1 fortifications at the Isonzo front
Swim in crystal clear alpine lakes First Hand Experience
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Departure
Daily from May 9 to October 10, 2026
Duration
8 days / 7 nights
Starting Point
Tolmin
Total Distance
104 km
Activity Level
Hiking
Famous Walking Trail Around The Julian Alps
The Walking Juliana Trail – Northwest offers one of the most immersive ways to experience Julian Alps hiking and discover why it ranks among the best hikes in Slovenia.
This 8-day self-guided journey combines crystal rivers, alpine meadows, and traditional mountain villages, making it one of the most popular Slovenia hiking tours.
Itinerary
Your Slovenia hiking tour begins in the lively town of Tolmin, the gateway to the Soča Valley. After arriving, take some time to explore the narrow medieval streets or relax by the Tolminka River. Tolmin sits at the southern tip of Triglav National Park, where the emerald waters of the Soča carve deep gorges through limestone rock. A short walk brings you to the Tolmin Gorges, an impressive natural wonder of turquoise pools, caves, and steep cliffs. It’s a perfect warm-up before you officially start walking the Juliana Trail the next morning. Overnight in Tolmin.
Today’s section of the Juliana Trail leads from Tolmin to Kobarid, a route full of history and dramatic scenery. The path meanders through quiet meadows and small hamlets, with the Julian Alps always on the horizon. Along the way, you’ll pass World War I heritage sites and the Kozjak Waterfall, hidden in a narrow gorge surrounded by moss-covered walls.
Arriving in Kobarid, visit the Kobarid Museum, which tells the moving story of the Isonzo Front, or simply enjoy a glass of local wine while looking across the Soča Valley. This stage truly captures the essence of hiking in Slovenia — a blend of nature, history, and peace.
The third day is one of the highlights of your Julian Alps hiking journey. The trail follows the course of the Soča River, one of Europe’s most beautiful alpine rivers. Wooden suspension bridges cross its clear green waters, and the valley is framed by towering peaks like Kanin and Rombon. The trail passes through small alpine settlements, where time seems to slow down.
As you approach Bovec, the adventure capital of Slovenia, you’ll feel the energy of this outdoor paradise — the perfect spot for rafting, canyoning, or simply relaxing in the sun. The views along this section make it one of the best hikes in Slovenia, combining mountain panoramas with the sound of rushing water.
Leaving Bovec, the Juliana Trail climbs gradually towards the higher mountain villages that rest beneath the mighty Mangart and Jalovec peaks. You’ll follow scenic roads and forest paths lined with wildflowers, passing through the tranquil village of Kal Koritnica before reaching Log pod Mangartom. The setting here is spectacular — steep cliffs and cascading waterfalls dominate the horizon, while the mountain air feels crisp and clean.
Spend the evening enjoying local dishes made with alpine herbs and cheeses, and let the stillness of this remote corner of the Julian Alps sink in.
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.
Upon arriving at the pass, you’ll cross the border into Italy. The highlight of the day awaits at Lake Raibl. Today, you can relish the serenity of this nearly extinct village while sipping on a cappuccino. Following the Rio Fredo River, you’ll make your way to Tarvisio, where you’ll spend the night.
This last section of the stage goes along a busy road, but a bypass car transfer is available.
Following breakfast, the day’s hike begins with a leisurely stroll along the former railway path, 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, offering a perfect opportunity to refresh yourself before visiting Zelenci, the source of the Sava River.
Your overnight stay will be in the charming town of Kranjska Gora.
Your final day on the Walking Juliana Trail – Northwest is a fitting grand finale. The trail descends gently through rolling hills, forest tracks, and picturesque villages before reaching Lake Bled, one of the most iconic destinations in the country. The first glimpse of the turquoise lake and its tiny island church feels almost dreamlike.
Celebrate your achievement with a walk around the lake or a traditional cream cake known as kremšnita in a lakeside café. Finishing your journey here feels symbolic — you’ve followed the rhythm of the mountains and rivers, ending where beauty and serenity meet.
Completing the Walking Juliana Trail – Northwest section means you’ve experienced the very heart of Julian Alps hiking — from wild gorges and emerald rivers to charming alpine villages and peaceful meadows. This route offers a perfect mix of challenge and comfort, solitude and connection. Every village welcomes you with genuine hospitality, and each stage reveals another side of hiking in Slovenia, a country where nature still sets the pace. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just someone who loves walking through landscapes full of life and tradition, the Juliana Trail proves why it’s considered one of the best hikes in Slovenia. More than just a path, it’s a journey through the soul of a region where mountains, water, and culture intertwine. Among all Slovenia hiking tours, few routes capture the essence of the land so completely — a trail that invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and feel part of something timeless.
Price
Price per person based on two people sharing:
Date of Day1 sets the trip's season.
(Currency converter)• Seven nights accommodation in hotels 3*/4* and guesthouses 2*/3* in two bedded en-suite facilities room, on basis of bed & breakfast.
• Luggage transfer – one piece per person, max 23 kgs / 50 lb. Lufthansa airline dimensions, every additional piece 30 EUR per trip, payable on spot.
• Tour description and maps in GUIBO application electronic form. One download per adult person. Every additional access 15 EUR.
• Local tourist and other taxes.
• Personal welcome meeting upon arrival.
• Backup service (hotline) during the trip.
- Single travelers – Applies when a person travels alone. Includes single room supplement.
Season A 380 EUR
Season B 415 EUR - Single room – Applies when a person is traveling together with other persons in a party.
Season A 290 EUR
Season B 325 EUR - Printed information package in English including route notes and corresponding maps delivered upon arrival – 30 EUR.
Price per person per night.
- 4* Hotel in Bled
Season A: Double Room 110 EUR. Single room 210 EUR.
Season B: Double Room 125 EUR. Single room 215 EUR.
- Children up to 12 years when sharing room with parents 30% discount on basic price
- Third adult in the room 10% discount on basic price, only third person.
Entrance fees, lunches, dinners, additional transfers, not mentioned in tour program.
Route Profile
Difficulty: 3/4 – Challenging
More demanding hikes with some long walking days and often a longer trip duration. Tough underfoot in places with changing terrain, prolonged climbs and steep hills. Designed for experienced walkers looking for a challenge. The average total daily ascent ranges between 400 m and 800 m.
Tour Highlights
Take a trek around the beautiful Julian Alps of Slovenia on this popular hiking tour. The circular trail leads you around the north-western section of Triglav National Park, offering the best alpine views Slovenia has to offer. Alpine enthusiasts will be enchanted by the stunning mountain scenery, food lovers can enjoy some of Slovenia’s best traditional dishes, and history buffs will find many locations connected to important events of WW1 & WW2.
Accommodation
Helia is committed to promoting responsible travel. In our journeys, we prioritize the use of small, genuine hotels and guesthouses imbued with local character, often run by local families.
- Day 1: Hotel Dvorec 3* in Tolmin
- Day 2: Hotel Hvala 3* in Kobarid
- Day 3: Hotel Alp 3* in Bovec
- Day 4: Hotel Alp 3* in Bovec
- Day 5: Hotel Edelhof 4* in Tarvisio
- Day 6: Hotel Kompas 4* in Kranjska Gora
- Day 7: Hotel Savica 4* in Bled
Travel Options & Local Transfer
Starting point of this trip is Tolmin in NW Slovenia
Getting there...
By plane: closest airport is Ljubljana (LJU). Several airlines serve it (check connections here). From the airport, you can travel to Tolmin via Ljubljana City by bus (change once, takes about 5 hrs) or book our transfer – please ask us for a favourable quote! Next good option is Trieste airport. From here you can take a train/bus to Slovenia and Tolmin or we transfer you – see here below.
By train: Tolmin has a railway station at nearby (5 km) Most na Soči on the Jesenice – Nova Gorica mainline. There are a few trains per day and the trip over the vintage railway line is quite spectacular. From the railway station, you can take a local bus to Tolmin or we transfer you, see here below.
By bus: there are a few buses per day to Ljubljana and to Nova Gorica (if you fly to Trieste airport).
By car: take exit Lesce from A1 motorway Ljubljana – Jesenice. Long term parking is available in Bled, but has to be booked in advance, please consult us.
... and away
By plane: closest airport is Ljubljana (LJU). Several airlines serve it (check connections here).
By train: From Bled you can travel by train to Austria, Italy and Ljubljana. The town has two railway stations: Lesce-Bled on the Villach – Ljubljana mainline, 4 kms from town centre, you’d need to take a local bus or we transfer you, see here below. The other option is Bled-Jezero on the Jesenice – Nova Gorica sideline; only a few trains a day. 2 kms away from town centre.
By bus: Flixbus stops in Bled
Available Transfers
Raibl to Tarvisio (on Day 5)
1–3 persons 60 EUR
4–8 persons 70 EUR
Ljubljana Airport to Tolmin
1–3 persons 180 EUR
4–8 persons 210 EUR
Trieste Airport to Tolmin
1–3 persons 170 EUR
4–8 persons 190 EUR
Most na Soči Railway Station to Tolmin
1–3 persons 25 EUR
4–8 persons 35 EUR
Bled to Ljubljana Airport
1–3 persons 90 EUR
4–8 persons 130 EUR
Bled to Ljubljana City
1–3 persons 130 EUR
4–8 persons 170 EUR
All prices per transfer, one way. Price includes transport of bikes.
Rental Bikes
Helia bikes are available in different sizes and unisex frame model: