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Discover our favourite stages on the Alpe-Adria Trail

Hike without borders across three countries and cultures
Triglav Panorama

Three countries, three cultures, one shared path. The Alpe-Adria Trail is a long-distance hiking trail of superlatives – it is a journey through the history and flavours of Europe. The trail not only passes through three countries, but also through a series of very different landscapes. But you don't have to hike all 43 stages to feel the soul of this trail. We at Eurohike Walking Holidays will show you our most beautiful stage sections on the Alpe-Adria Trail in Italy and Slovenia.

Triglav Panorama

The entire trail

Kranjska Gora - Cividale

Cividale - Trieste

Julian Alps & Wild Soča Valley

Most beautiful Places

Culinary delights on the trail

Travel stories

Questions & Answers

"I am at my destination when I am on the move."

Peter Handke

The journey is the destination: on a long-distance hiking trail such as the Alpe-Adria-Trail, it's not just about reaching the sea, but about the daily transformation of the landscape – from the eternal ice of the Großglockner to the rolling vineyards of Collio and finally the sea breeze. The writer is known for his love of nature and his descriptions of walking as a way of observing the world. He comes from Griffen in Carinthia, a core region of the trail, and has influenced the landscape of this area in his writing like no other.

 

The entire trail

The Alpe-Adria Trail truly offers an experience for hikers. Not only does it connect the cultures of three countries – Austria, Italy and Slovenia – but it is also a long history that unites these three countries and makes the hiking trail something special.

Alpe-Adria Trail: From Glacier to Sea

2.370 metres: Highest point: Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe

750 kilometers from Heiligenblut at the Großglockner to Muggia on the Adriatic

43 daily stages with approximately 17 kilometers per stage

Best time to travel: April to October

Route & Itinerary

The Alpe-Adria Trail begins at the foot of Austria’s highest mountain, the Großglockner, and stretches some 750 kilometers (466 miles) through Carinthia, Slovenia, and Friuli-Venezia Giulia, ending at the coast in Muggia. Forty-three stages connect alpine landscapes with Mediterranean charm — a long-distance trail that celebrates variety.

The paths are easy to walk and well-secured, making them suitable even for leisurely hikers and walkers. Along the way, the trail passes tranquil mountain lakes, impressive gorges such as the Soča Gorge, traditional alpine huts, and sunny vineyards leading all the way to the sea. Each stage offers a “landscape gem” — a small landmark that brings the region’s nature, culture, and history vividly to life.

Hiking Holiday 1: Kranjska Gora – Cividale

NEW TOUR: From the Triglav Mountains through the Soča Valley into Italy

The Alpe-Adria Trail stretches from Kranjska Gora in Slovenia to Italy’s Friuli region, offering a journey rich in contrasts and unforgettable highlights. Surrounded by the peaks of the Triglav Mountains, you cross the Vršič Pass to the source of the Soča River, then follow its wild, turquoise waters through a spectacular valley. Along the way, suspension bridges, the Soča gorges, and powerful waterfalls like Boka and Virje bring nature up close. Blooming alpine meadows and quiet chapels guide you onward to the sweeping ridgeline of the Kolovrat on the Italian border. The adventure culminates in Cividale, where Mediterranean flair sets the perfect finale. This tour seamlessly blends alpine scenery, historic sites, and diverse hiking trails into one unforgettable experience.

Hiking trio at the Vršič Pass on the Alpe-Adria Trail in Slovenia
Alpe-Adria-Trail: Kranjska Gora - Cividale
7 Days
Two hikers in the Soca Valley with a view of the turquoise Soca

The Highlights of your new walking holiday

  • Crossing Slovenia’s highest mountain pass – the Vršič Pass: Hike over the impressive Vršič Pass and enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the Triglav Mountains and surrounding valleys.
  • Along the turquoise Soča & over multiple suspension bridges: Follow the sparkling river, cross adventurous suspension bridges, and immerse yourself in the wild, unspoiled landscape of the Soča Valley.
  • From the mountain village Drežnica via alpine meadows to the chapel at Planica: On this stage, expect blooming alpine meadows, quiet forest trails, and a historic chapel with breathtaking views of the Soča Valley and the Julian Alps.
  • Crossing the border at Kolovrat with magnificent panoramas: Hike along the Kolovrat ridge and cross into Italy, while the Alpine landscape unfolds in all its beauty before your eyes.
Hanging bridge on the Alpe-Adria Trail in Slovenia
Hiking trail in Kranjska Gora

Did you know?

The daily stages generally take 4 to 7 hours and traverse well-maintained, highly varied mountain paths, trails, and gravel roads. Solid basic fitness and endurance are recommended, as well as surefootedness on steeper or narrower sections. Many stages can be shortened using public transport or hiking buses. This tour is ideal for mountain hikers who want to combine nature experiences, historic sites, and the unique character of the Alpe‑Adria Trail.

Hikers in Slovenia on the Soca River
Three hikers on the Vrsic Pass with an imposing mountain backdrop
Mountain range in the Julian Alps
Cividale del Friuli
Hikers in Cividale del Friuli

Hiking Holiday 2: Cividale – Trieste

Along the Italian-Slovenian border

Starting point of this walking tour is Cividale del Friuli, located between the South Alps and the Adriatic Sea. The long distance path starts in Carinthia and leads via Slovenia to Friuli-Venetia Giulia and therefore leads through three cultures. This section of the 3-country trail offers a lot of culture and landscape: pilgrimage village Castelmonte, Cormons, Karst and Brda as well as the goal, former Habsburg town Trieste.

View of a harbour on the Rilke hiking trail in Friuli Venezia Giulia
Alpe-Adria-Trail, Cividale – Trieste
8 Days
Hikers in front of Trieste Town Hall

The highlights of this walking holiday

  • The Lombard town of Cividale: The tour begins with a wonderful view over the Friuli plain and the Slovenian Brda region. Enjoy the unique view with a glass of wine in Prepotto.
  • Historic sites: The route from Gradisca to Duino is marked by traces of the First World War. Particularly impressive is the underground waterways from the catchment area of the Isonzo!
  • In the footseps of Rilke: Austrian poet Rainer Maria Rilke penned parts of his ‘Duino Elegies’ at the Duino Castle.
Two hikers with backpacks standing on ornate metal bridge in Cividale del Friuli, with historic buildings and bell towers in background.
Hikers in the vineyards of Collio

Did you know?

One the day of your arrival to the pilgrimage town of Prepotto in the province of Udine, you should definitely take a walk in the picturesque village and surrounding vineyards. Over the next few days, there are five to seven hour hikes through the Lombard town of Cividale and on to Šmartno and Trieste. The tours lead along well developed paths and through forests and meadows. After an average of 17 kilometres per day, you can enjoy Italian pasta in the evening!

Three hikers with backpacks and trekking poles on rocky trail overlooking the Adriatic Sea near Trieste, Italy.
The Soca near Grudnica
Coastal panorama near Trieste
The Soca River at Sagrado
Cividale del Friuli

Hiking Holiday 3: Julian Alps & Wild Soča Valley

National Park & much water

The Julian Alps are a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers. In the heart of the region lies Triglav National Park, where majestic peaks rise above dense forests and crystal-clear lakes. Lake Bohinj captivates with its tranquil beauty and pristine nature, while Bled, with its picturesque lake, famous island church, and hilltop castle, is a popular destination. Here, stunning landscapes meet cultural treasures. A standout highlight is the turquoise Soča River, whose distinctive color and purity captivate both hikers and water sports enthusiasts. Along the river, you’ll encounter breathtaking waterfalls and deeply carved gorges that resemble natural masterpieces. Whether you're hiking through verdant forests, swimming at the “Caribbean” beaches of the Soča, or enjoying the serenity of the clear lakes, you'll be in close contact with unspoiled nature.

The Alpine country in the heart of Europe is pristine, charming and picturesque. A hiking tour in Slovenia will surprise you - the dreamlike nature, the culinary specialities and the imposing Triglav National Park will enchant you!

Hikers on the Vrsic Pass with the mountain panorama in the background
Julian Alps & Wild Soča Valley
8 Days
Four hikers with backpacks posing at Vršič Pass in the Julian Alps. Behind them, dramatic mountain peaks and forested slopes under cloudy skies.

The highlights of this best-selling hiking holidays

  • The lakes & castles of Bled: Lake Bled is the majestic centerpiece of its namesake village, cradled by soaring mountains that rise dramatically around it. At the heart of the lake lies a charming island crowned by an exquisite church, creating a breathtaking backdrop for stunning photographs. Opposite the lake, the magnificent Bled Castle perches atop a rocky cliff, providing spectacular panoramic views of the enchanting landscape that unfolds below.
  • Mystical atmosphere at the Virje waterfall: The waterfall stands approximately 12 meters tall, captivating visitors with its crystal-clear waters that cascade into a natural pool below. The surrounding area offers a breathtaking landscape adorned with lush forests and dramatic rock formations, where the thundering falls create an almost magical atmosphere. The combination of nature's grandeur and the mesmerizing sound of rushing water envelops you in a serene yet exhilarating experience, making the Virje Waterfall a true marvel of nature.
  • A picturesque train ride through the Julian Alps: On Day 5, your adventure begins with a train journey from Most na Soči. As you travel, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of beautiful valleys and the longest railway bridge in Slovenia, making for a scenic and memorable experience. The stunning landscapes unfolding outside your window will set the perfect tone for the day's explorations.
Two hikers with backpacks viewing Virje Waterfall in Soča Valley. Moss-covered rocks cascade into a clear green pool surrounded by forest.
Man standing in crystal-clear turquoise Soča River near Kobarid. White rocks and dense green forest line the riverbank.

Did you know?

Information about the Bled loop tour:
Hiking in Triglav National Park offers a thrilling variety of experiences, with daily stages stretching up to 22 kilometers. For the hikes, where you might spend up to seven hours on your feet, good physical fitness is essential, along with surefootedness and a head for heights. Alongside traversing valleys, alpine meadows, and mountain passes, you'll also venture across exhilarating hanging bridges. Your travel package includes all necessary transfers, and our dedicated team will take care of transporting your luggage, allowing you to focus entirely on the adventure ahead.

Two women hiking with poles on gravel riverbank of Soča River in Julian Alps. Mountains and forest visible under blue sky.
Historic stone arch bridge spanning turquoise Soča River near Tolmin. White buildings and forested mountains of the Julian Alps under cloudy sky.
Collie dog standing on wooden footbridge with cable railings, surrounded by lush green vegetation in the Julian Alps near Soča Valley.
Female hiker with backpack standing on rocky shore of turquoise Soča River in Julian Alps. Suspension bridge spans across river above.
Lake Bohinj with turquoise water, sandy beach with swimmers, forested shoreline, and Julian Alps mountains under blue sky with clouds.
Three hikers with backpacks standing at wooden viewpoint overlooking forested mountains in the Julian Alps near Bovec, Soča Valley.

The Most Beautiful Places Along the Alpe-Adria-Trail

Virje Waterfall

The Virje Waterfall in the Soča Valley impresses with its wide, twelve-meter-high curtain of water that plunges into an emerald green pool. Surrounded by moss-covered rocks and dense forest, it is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the region.

Hikers in Bovec

Soča Valley

The Soča Valley enchants visitors with its emerald green river, which winds its way crystal clear through wild gorges, over bright gravel banks and past alpine meadows, framed by the peaks of the Julian Alps. Suspension bridges cross the picturesque river at regular intervals.

Two hikers crossing a suspension bridge over turquoise Soča River in Trenta, Julian Alps. Mountains and forest visible in background.

Triglav National Park

Home to waterfalls, the turquoise Soča River, and Slovenia’s highest peak—the 2,864-meter (9,396-foot) Triglav—this is the country’s only national park in all its splendor. A true paradise for nature lovers.

The Vrsic Pass in Triglav National Park

Cividale del Friuli

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the heart of Lombard culture. The old town, with its famous Devil’s Bridge and charming winding streets, radiates the spirit of Italian dolce vita.

Cividale del Friuli

Gradisca d'Isonzo

Gradisca d'Isonzo charms visitors with its well-preserved Venetian fortifications and historic streets, which tell of its turbulent history on the border with Slovenia. Stroll through the old town and treat yourself to a cappuccino in the piazza. 

View of Monte Quarin

Trieste

This lively Adriatic port city blends its Austro-Hungarian past with Italian flair and Mediterranean ease. From the very first espresso at Piazza Unità d’Italia, you’ll feel it: you’ve arrived.

Hikers in front of Trieste Town Hall

Our Eurohike Walking Holidays – on the Alpe-Adria Trail or on sections of it

All trips on the Alpe-Adria Trail

Culinary delights along the trail: A feast for the palate

The Alpe-Adria Trail is not only a journey for the legs, but also for the stomach. The region offers an exciting mix of Alpine heartiness and Mediterranean lightness. As our trips also extend to Cividale del Friuli and even to the port city of Trieste, this diversity is also reflected on the plate.

  1. Slovenia: Be sure to try the Krainer sausage or the sweet štruklji (pastry rolls). In the Soca Valley, the Soca trout (Soška postrv) is an absolute must. You should also definitely try the Bovški sir (Bovec cheese). It is strong and tells of the herbs of the Julian Alps.
  2. Friuli & Trieste: This is where indulgence reigns supreme. A glass of wine from the Collio region, accompanied by wafer-thin San Daniele ham and rounded off with a classic espresso in Trieste – it doesn't get any better than this.

 

Krainer sausage arranged in a horseshoe shape on a wooden board with fried potatoes, accompanied by a small bowl of spices and a knife.
Glass of white wine on a restaurant table with blurred diners in the background. A wooden tray with napkin and water glass are nearby.
Seafood platter with grilled prawns and three portions of octopus garnished with pomegranate seeds and olive oil on white plates.
Slice of Bled cream cake with layers of puff pastry, vanilla custard, and whipped cream, dusted with powdered sugar on a white plate.
Two buckwheat dumplings with crispy onions and creamy soup in orange bowl. Fresh salad and wine glasses visible in background.
White traditional Slovenian guesthouse Gostilna Pri Planincu from 1903 with outdoor seating under red umbrellas and guests dining.
White plate with rolled pasta topped with creamy mushroom sauce and herbs, served on a wooden table. A terracotta bowl with soup is visible above.
White plate with pastries, ice cream in a ceramic bowl, and chocolate sauce decoration on a restaurant table with water glasses.
White plate with grilled ćevapčići, golden fries, sliced onions, red ajvar sauce on lettuce, served on wooden table in Soča Valley.

Travel stories on the Alpe-Adria Trail and Julian Alps

Hikers on an alpine meadow from Steeg to Landeck
Lifestyle & Health
Long-distance hiking with pleasure
There are journeys that change us. Journeys that are not measured in kilometres, but in moments: the first glimpse of a quiet valley, the feeling of warm mountain sunshine on your face, or the gentle rhythm of your footsteps that suddenly becomes meditation. This is exactly what long-distance hiking is all about, one of the most original and at the same time most modern forms of travel. More and more people are discovering the joy of travelling slowly. Trails that stretch over days or even weeks not only give us impressive landscapes, but also something that is often lacking in everyday life: time. Time for yourself, time for real thoughts, time for nature.
Crossing the Alps on the E5 for families
Top Beginner Tours for Multi-Day Long-Distance Hiking
Long-distance hiking is more popular than ever. Across all directions, a diverse network of trails winds through Europe, offering a fantastic selection of routes for both leisurely hikers and ambitious trekking adventurers. The spectrum of long-distance trails ranges from breathtaking coastal paths and challenging Alpine crossings to meditative pilgrimage routes. Looking to start long-distance hiking? That’s a fantastic idea! In this article, we present the top beginner tours for multi-day long-distance hiking.
Mountain range at the Vrsic Pass
A Wonderful Hiking Getaway in Slovenia
Untamed, picturesque, and spectacular—these three words perfectly capture the mountain world of the Julian Alps. No wonder Slovenia has become a true hotspot for outdoor adventurers in recent years. Hikers will find everything they could wish for: breathtaking nature, scenic trails, and a boundless sense of freedom.  Join us as we explore the Julian Alps and the wild Soča Valley. Let yourself be inspired and immerse yourself in stunning mountain landscapes and rushing waters.
Hiker on a mountain in front of the sea
Must-Hike Trails: The Most Stunning Hiking Trails in Europe
Throughout Europe, a diverse range of hiking routes, officially marked long-distance trails, certified climbs, and various other paths stretch across the continent. Each one offers its own unique features and stunning highlights. We've selected four particularly impressive routes from the extensive network of trails, focusing on some of the most famous and popular ways in Germany, Austria, Great-Britain and Spain that we highly recommend exploring. Additionally: Take a look at our hiking holidays 2025 and set your sights on distant horizons.
Hiker on a hiking trail
Team on Tour
Eurohike backstage
Unknown Friuli – a new Eurohike destination
Friuli is, admittedly, a relatively unknown region in Italy. Even the region's full name, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, means very little to most Alpine walkers. So, what exactly makes this region so exciting? Why should you consider a walking tour in Friuli-Venezia Giulia? We take you along on the development process of our new hiking tour "Friuli - From the Alps to the Adriatic Sea".
Hiking with a view to the Carnic Alps
©
Kärnten Werbung Carlo Spaliviero
Time for New Paths
One of the most important components for a successful hiking holiday is the precise selection of hiking paths. The routes should not only be signposted well, but also ensure the right form of active movement, tailored to the respective level of difficulty. For easier maneuvering, we have assigned our individual hiking tours general levels of hiking. Ranging from moderate walking to trekking you can hike on our holidays on easy-to-walk, well-developed paths or experience routes which require good stamina, a head for heights and surefootedness from experienced mountain hikers. Either way, you will experience the most beautiful hiking trails in Europe on our hiking tours with luggage transfer, entirely at your own pace and hiking rhythm. With their wealth of experience and insider knowledge, our experienced experts in product management and our professional travel specialists ensure that you can enjoy precisely these special hiking trails – far away from the crowds. So let’s go and set off on the most wonderful hiking paths in Austria, Germany, Spain and Italy.
View over the Hagener hut
Team on Tour
Travel report: The crowning stage from Lake Königssee to Lake Wörthersee
Especially now in the warmer months, a mountain hiking tour past idyllic alpine landscapes, through imposing gorges and along beautiful lake areas offers just the right variety. A hike in the high Alpine regions is the perfect opportunity, especially at this time of year, to switch off and recharge your batteries. Thanks to the pleasant temperatures in the higher regions, it’s the perfect time to enjoy it. On many of our hiking tours in Austria and Germany you can experience summer freshness in the mountains by foot while discovering nature in the high mountains. Verena didn’t want to miss out on this adventure and decided to embark on the crowning stage of one of our active tours. She tells us what she experienced and what her absolute highlights were on this stage. Here you will find fantastic insights and impressions of one of the most beautiful stages on our hiking tours across Europe: the crowning stage of the mountain hiking tour from Lake Königssee to Lake Wörthersee, 10 days.
Hiking tour Alpe Adria Trail with seaview
This is how beautiful a hiking holiday in Friuli-Venezia Giulia is
If you are looking for a destination for a successful hiking holiday that combines active and healthy outdoor activities with wonderful moments of pleasure you will definitely find it in the beautiful Friuli-Venezia Giulia in Italy. If you combine these special features with a wonderful natural landscape and lots of well-marked hiking trails, you can label it the perfect active travel destination with a clear conscience. Our Eurohike team has packed the most beautiful hiking routes in Friuli-Venezia Giulia into pleasant hiking tours for you, always taking care to show you the tastiest treasures of the region. And there will be plenty of time for that, because everything else is already taken care of with Eurohike Wanderplus. Form the detailed travel documents, the luggage transfer and our on-site support, the hotels and traditional accommodation, to being available on our service-hotline. On a hiking holiday without luggage, you can discover the beautiful Friuli-Venezia Giulia on foot – probably the most beautiful form of active holiday.

Questions and Answers about hiking the Alpe-Adria-Trail

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The Alpe-Adria Trail starts at the foot of the Großglockner in Carinthia, in the village of Heiligenblut. From there, the long-distance hiking path leads through three countries – Austria, Italy and Sloveni – in 43 stages.

The best time to travel for a hiking holiday on the Alpe-Adria-Trail is, depending on the tour, from April or May or June to September, October or even into November.

The Alpe-Adria 3-Country Round Trip and the Alpe-Adria-Trail Slovenia fall under our hiking category mountain hiking, the Alpe-Adria-Trail Italy under the category hiking. The routes lead you over well-marked hiking paths, as well as mountain, forest and meadow trails. With a good basic level of fitness, our hiking tours on the Alpe-Adria-Trail are guaranteed to be a successful active experience.

The entire route covers approximately 39,000 meters of elevation gain and around 40,000 meters of elevation loss. On our hiking tours, you can choose between different sections, allowing you to experience the Alpe-Adria Trail individually.

On the daily stages of our hiking tours on the Alpe-Adria-Trail, you cover between 10 and 29 kilometres of hiking per day, depending on the journey. Note: some of the daily stages can be shortened using public transport.

On our hiking tours on the Alpe-Adria-Trail you will spend the night in cosy hotels and accommodation.

Your luggage is collected from your accommodation each morning between 8 and 9 a.m. and will be waiting for you at the next hotel in the evening (between 4 and 7 p.m.), allowing you to hike completely relaxed, carrying only light day packs.

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