Internationale groepsreis Lakes & Mountains of Slovenia

Join the group in the early evening at the pension in Radovljica, just 20 minutes north east of the capital, Ljubljana. This is our base for the whole week. Pension Kunstelj or similar

After breakfast we enjoy a walk direct from the pension to explore our surroundings. The historic town of Radovljica dates back as far as 1296 sitting on the confluence of the Sava Bohinjka and the Sava Dolinka. The old town is full of traditional inns, galleries, churches and surrounded by the largest medieval moats in the country. The local area is extremely pretty, dotted with small churches, quaint villages, lush forests and a beautiful river. Our leader will decide the exact route depending on the weather, but walking to Lake Bled is our most likely route, a perfect warm up through gentle rolling farm land and pretty villages.

Starting at the small village of Gozd Martuljek we are rewarded with a breathtaking panorama of the Špik mountain range. One of the most beautiful mountains in the Julian Alps, Mount Špik - 2472m is known at the Slovenian Matterhorn and its pyramid summit dominates the Martuljek range. Leaving the valley our forest trail takes us into Martuljek Gorge, here we slowly start our ascent following the stream, where we arrive at the Lower Fall, cascading down to the valley. The trail snakes its way through the forest where we arrive at our rest stop and enjoy the view. Lipovceva Hut has a lovely setting and is known for its open natural kitchen with delicious home-made mountain soups and juices, made from pine, elderflower and berries. From here we head up to the stunning Higher Falls, passing a monument dedicated to Slovenian climbers. This is a lovely walk into the gorge, suitable in all weathers and offering some fine views of two beautiful waterfalls.

The Karavanke Mountains are the natural and official border between central and Western Europe where Slovenia, Austria and Italy meet. The ranges position has a great effect on Slovenia's climate - hence the soft south Slovene side in comparison to the harsh northern side in Austria. Here you can also find an abundance of alpine fauna and flora, with over 1200 different plant species, as well as having wonderful views into two naturally contrasting countries. We aim for Golica (1836m), part of the longest ridge in Slovenia (120km) and one of the least travelled trails in the area.

Radovljica itself has plenty of possibilities for the rest day. Alternatively, it's a short bus ride to Lake Bled - here rowing boats and canoes can be hired. Others may wish to take the public bus further into the capital of Slovenia, Ljubljana. Another popular alternative is the Postojna Cave Park, home to one of the largest cave systems in Europe.

Today’s walk is flat, but incredibly pretty. This circular walk takes in the whole of the lake and the pretty village of Ribcav Laz with the famous church of St John the Baptist. There are open views all the way to Mt Triglav - Slovenia's highest mountain and fabulous views of the surrounding mountains. Lake Bohinj is surrounded by a ring of mountains so even though you are in the valley there is plenty to see. An alternative route today takes us through the Mostnica Gorge; this route is more likely if the weather is poor as it is less exposed.

The beautiful forested area of Pokljuka, visible from Lake Bled, is stunning. Virtually uninhabited, it is home to alpine cows, rolling pastures, shepherds' huts, forest trails and some lovely open views of the surrounding peaks. Time stands still on Pokljuka, enabling wild flowers to flourish; the flora and fauna of the high plateau is unique to this area and bird life is abundant. There is a wide variety of trails with many possibilities for the day’s hike. Our guide will determine the route based on the weather and the group's ability during the week.

Our tour ends after breakfast.