Travel Story Julian Alps & Soča Valley| Eurohike

From Bled to Bovec

Anja shares her experience

My first Team Member on Tour adventure is about to begin, and it’s taking me to the beautiful Soča Valley in Slovenia - a place that has been at the top of my bucket list for a long time. All the greater is my excitement to finally experience this tour myself: to explore the trails step by step, take a close look at the route planning, and personally test the carefully selected accommodations for you. I’m delighted to share my impressions from the first part of the journey, from Bled to Bovec, and to pass along valuable tips and personal insights straight from the trail.

Arrival in Slovenia

If you plan your journey to Slovenia carefully, you can start collecting special impressions right along the way: once you reach Carinthia, I recommend exiting the highway at Spittal and driving over the Wurzen Pass toward Bled. This route is not only particularly scenic but also saves you the Slovenian highway toll - providing an atmospheric prelude to what awaits you in the Soča Valley.

Upon arriving in Bled, we check into our cozy rooms at Hotel Astoria, located just a few minutes' walk from the famous Lake Bled. Afterward, we stroll down to the lakeshore, enjoy a delicious dinner at Restaurant Oštarija Peglez’n, and let the day come to a relaxed close.

On the Trail in the Heart of Triglav National Park

Off we go! The next morning, a hearty breakfast at our comfortable hotel leaves us perfectly fueled for the first stage of our journey. Our transfer arrives right on time to take us to the starting point in Kranjska Gora, where the trail toward Trenta begins. It’s hard to believe how beautiful the start is: Lake Jasna glitters in the morning sun, appearing like a true mountain jewel.

Clouds hang over the peaks like cotton candy. We hike through Triglav National Park, accompanied by the scent of lush alpine meadows and the soothing murmur of small streams. The path is leisurely, without any grueling climbs, and runs along the Vršič Pass - the highest pass in Slovenia until we reach the Postman's Lodge alpine hut.

Two hikers on wooden bridge crossing crystal-clear Lake Jasna with dramatic mountain peaks of the Julian Alps and blue sky in background.

It’s not much further now. Before we treat ourselves to a well-earned break at the hut, we tackle the final five-minute climb to the viewpoint. And I can promise you one thing: once you reach the top, a breathtaking view of the Slovenian mountains unfolds - a panorama you absolutely shouldn't miss. With these impressions in our hearts, we head back down to the hut just below, tuck into a warm barley soup and traditional Slovenian cheese dumplings and enjoy our break all the more.

From here on out, it’s all downhill, and then it’s finally there: the emerald-green Soča, which accompanies us with its crystal-clear water for the final miles. Arriving in Trenta, we check into our rooms at the cozy Apartment House DorMica. Just a few steps away, we let the day come to a close at Gostilna Metoja Božo Bradaškja - with Slovenian cevapčići and many memories of an eventful first day on the trail.

Lake Jasna with turquoise water reflecting clouds and sky, surrounded by forested shores and Julian Alps mountains in the background.

Three hikers walking through green meadow in Julian Alps with rocky peaks and forest. Sunny day with blue sky and clouds near Vršič Pass.

Wooden Russian Chapel with two onion domes in a forest clearing, surrounded by a wooden fence. Two visitors stand at the entrance.

Female hiker walking on gravel path in Julian Alps near Vršič Pass, surrounded by pine trees with rocky mountain peaks in background.

Mountain hut on a forested hilltop at Vršič Pass in the Julian Alps, with dramatic rocky peaks and green forests under a cloudy sky.

White plate with sliced dumplings covered in creamy mushroom sauce, garnished with herbs and parsley. A terracotta bowl with soup in background.

Wooden footbridge with cable railings crossing turquoise Soča River in Trenta, surrounded by lush green forest and rocky riverbed.

White plate with grilled ćevapčići sausages, golden fries, onions, red ajvar sauce, and lettuce on a wooden table in Trenta, Julian Alps.

Caribbean Vibes in the Heart of the Alps

Here’s one piece of advice I wholeheartedly recommend: be sure to pack your swimsuit in your daypack. Why this small extra is absolutely worth it? Keep reading, and I’ll tell you.😉

Backpacks on, suitcases ready for luggage transfer, and we’re already on the move. After just a few steps, several suspension bridges appear, stretching spectacularly across the emerald-green Soča River. With every step, the bridge gently sways beneath our feet while the turquoise water rushes below.

Time and again along the trail, small swimming spots appear - perfect for a refreshing break. At one particularly inviting stretch, a few hikers are already standing on the rocks. One of them lingers at the edge, looks down, gathers his courage for a moment - and then he jumps. With a cheer, he plunges into the crystal-clear water. We exchange a glance. Good thing we packed our swimsuits in our daypacks. There’s no hesitation. Backpacks off, a quick change, one deep breath - and off we go. The leap into the water is a bit of a shock: the Soča is icy cold. But as we climb back onto the shore, our skin tingles and our legs suddenly feel light as air - as if they’ve recharged with fresh energy for everything that still lies ahead.

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

Full of fresh motivation, we continue our hike. Thanks to the practical Eurohike on Tour -App, navigating the route is effortless. The app not only keeps track of recommended places to stop and points of interest but also shows the elevation profile — so we always know exactly how many miles still lie ahead.

After a few hours, we reach a second swimming spot. I instantly know that I’ve found my favorite place. Where exactly it is - and why it captivated me so completely - I’ll reveal a little later.

Three hikers with backpacks crossing a wooden footbridge over turquoise river in Lepena, Julian Alps. Dense forest and mountains in background.

Flock of white and black sheep grazing on a gravel path beside a river in Trenta valley, surrounded by green trees and mountains.

Turquoise Soča River flowing through rocky gorge surrounded by forest, with Julian Alps mountains in background under blue sky.

Two hikers resting on rocks by the Soča River in the Julian Alps. A stone bridge spans the river in the background among green trees.

Crystal-clear turquoise Soča River flowing through white limestone rocks. People rest on smooth rocks above the water in the Julian Alps.

Female hiker with blue backpack sitting on white limestone rocks beside the turquoise Soča River in the Julian Alps, surrounded by forest.

Turquoise Soča River with rocky shore and stone bridge, framed by moss-covered trees. Two people visible on rocks near the water.

Crystal-clear turquoise Soča River flowing through rocky gorge near Bovec in the Julian Alps, surrounded by dense forest under blue sky.

Wooden suspension bridge crossing turquoise Soča River in Trenta, Julian Alps. Rocky gorge with lush green vegetation on both sides.

From Bovec via Lake Bohinj to Bled

Julia shares her experience

It’s no surprise that Slovenia has become one of Europe’s trending destinations. This is already my second time in the Soča Valley, and my excitement is all the greater to tell you about the upcoming stages - from the wild and romantic town of Bovec to the refreshing shores of Lake Bohinj, and finally back to the ever-popular Bled.

Hiking to Slovenia’s Waterfalls

The weather is also on its best behavior for our third day of hiking. The sun is beaming, and after a hearty breakfast at our partner hotel, we set off full of energy. Just a few miles in, a major highlight awaits: the mystical Virje Waterfall. Tucked away below an unassuming gravel road, it thunders into an emerald-green basin—a place straight out of a fairy tale. The moment I arrived, I knew this would be my favorite spot. I’ll share more about why a bit later.

Two hikers with backpacks and trekking poles stand by a clear green pool at Virje Waterfall, surrounded by moss-covered rocks and forest.

A quick look at our app makes us even more excited - another waterfall lies right along our path. We continue the tour in high spirits and, a little later, find ourselves standing in awe before the imposing Boka Waterfall. It is one of the highest and most powerful waterfalls in all of Slovenia - a natural giant that leaves us speechless for a moment.

The Soča accompanies us again today with its brilliant turquoise water. After an eventful day, we treat ourselves to a well-earned cool-down at one of the many idyllic swimming spots. Refreshed, we finally reach today’s destination: the charming little town of Kobarid.

Three kayakers on turquoise Soča River with forested mountain slopes and gravel banks in the Julian Alps under blue sky.

Two female hikers with trekking poles walking on a pebble riverbank along the Soča river with Julian Alps mountains in the background.

Suspension bridge spanning turquoise Soča River with white limestone rocks in the Julian Alps near Trnovo ob Soči, Slovenia.

Two hikers walking on rocky trail beside turquoise Soča River near Trnovo ob Soči. Moss-covered cliff wall on right, lush forest on left.

Wooden footbridge with metal railings crossing the turquoise Soča River near Trnovo ob Soči in the Julian Alps, surrounded by green forests and mountains.

Female hiker with backpack walking on narrow mountain trail above turquoise Soča River in the Julian Alps, surrounded by lush green vegetation.

Plužna Reservoir with green water reflecting mountains and houses. Forested Julian Alps peaks rise under blue sky with white clouds.

Boka Waterfall cascading down steep rocky cliffs in the Julian Alps, surrounded by dense green forest and limestone rock formations.

Traditional restaurant with wooden balconies and outdoor terrace in Kobarid, Julian Alps. Forested mountains rise in the background under evening sky.

Seafood dish with grilled prawns and three portions of octopus garnished with pomegranate seeds and olive oil on white plates in Kobarid.

Slovenia’s Mountains and Lakes

Today begins with a special experience: an organized transfer takes us to the train station in Most na Soči, where the scenic railway is already waiting for us. The train ride winds through valleys and past the impressive peaks of the Julian Alps - a view that makes the ride fly by.

After this spectacular rail journey, we lace up our hiking boots once again. Today’s itinerary features one of the shorter stages of this Eurohike original tour. Under bright sunshine, we hike through pure nature, passing small, traditional Slovenian villages that immediately radiate a sense of peace and serenity.

Clear turquoise waters of Lake Bohinj with forested shoreline and Julian Alps mountains in the background. Small beach with swimmers visible.

Our destination today surprises us with a true gem: Lake Bohinj. Framed by towering mountains, it’s a place that instantly invites you to pause and take it all in. After the miles on the trail, we treat ourselves to a dip in the pleasantly warm water - a moment that sparks pure vacation vibes and one we won’t soon forget.

Anyone arriving at Lake Bohinj should definitely have their swimwear ready. Jumping into the refreshing water is the best possible reward after this hike!

Pure Nature Above Lake Bohinj

Our penultimate day of hiking begins with rather mixed weather. Just to be safe, we pack some warmer layers and, of course, our rain jackets - you never know what the mountains will bring. If the weather ever decides not to cooperate, by the way, you can shorten the tour by taking the hiker's bus; information is available at the hotel or the tourist office.

Hiker with blue backpack and trekking poles walking on gravel path through green meadows near Gorjuše. Traditional wooden cabin and forest in background.

From the shores of Lake Bohinj, the trail leads us up to the Pokljuka Plateau. Soon, we find ourselves hiking through dense forests - a strong contrast to the previous stages. It’s precisely this variety that makes the journey so exciting. Occasionally, the sun breaks through, revealing stunning views of the valley and surrounding peaks. Small villages dot the trail, adding their own unique charm to the tour. It’s a day that slows the pace and fully immerses us in vacation mode.

Once we reach the plateau, the vastness of the area takes us by surprise. We take a break at one of the traditional shepherd’s huts, where simple, regional delicacies await hungry hikers. That evening, we enjoy the crisp mountain air and the silence of nature - the perfect place to wind down for the night.

Two hikers with backpacks walking on a paved path in Polje with autumn trees and the Julian Alps mountain range under blue sky.

Manicured lawn with 'BOHINJ' spelled in trimmed hedges, surrounded by colorful flower beds and trees, with Lake Bohinj visible in background.

Brown goats grazing on green meadow with fruit trees and white houses in Gorjuše, Julian Alps. Forested mountains and cloudy sky in background.

Three hikers with backpacks walking on gravel road through Pokljuka plateau with grazing cows, wooden huts, and forest under cloudy sky.

Farewell to the Julian Alps

On our final day, the weather unfortunately doesn't cooperate. Rain clouds hang low over the mountains, but thankfully, our hotel organizes a transfer back to Bled for us. By the afternoon, the sun makes a reappearance, and we take the opportunity for a stroll around Lake Bled. If time allows, you shouldn't miss this loop, as the views are truly dreamy.

We end our last evening with a glass of wine and traditional cuisine at a classic restaurant. Highly recommended is The Oldest Bled Cellar - a cozy, authentic spot in an old farmhouse, whose slightly hidden location gives it a very special charm. Over excellent food and lively conversation, we reflect on the journey: so many impressions and countless experiences. A truly perfect conclusion to our adventure through the Julian Alps and the Wild Soča Valley.

Red heart sculpture on wooden pier at Lake Bled. Bled Castle sits on a forested cliff across the calm turquoise water under a cloudy sky.

Roasted lamb shank on creamy truffle puree, garnished with herbs and decorative sauce swirls on a white plate in Bled restaurant.

Wooden pergola-covered restaurant terrace in Bled with string lights, wooden tables, planters, and a chalkboard sign at the entrance.

Slice of Bled cream cake with custard and cream layers, topped with puff pastry and powdered sugar, served on white plate with sauce dots.

Slice of pistachio cake with whipped cream on white plate, decorated with red and orange sauce dots and crushed pistachios on top.

Conclusion

It’s absolutely true: with its vibrant turquoise water, the Soča Valley really does feel like the Caribbean. At the same time, as mountain lovers, we found everything we were looking for in Triglav National Park. We are confident that the "mountain hiking" difficulty level is an accurate description for this tour. Some of the stages are long and require a solid level of basic fitness, but every bit of effort is richly rewarded. We’re heading home with a wealth of memories, knowing already that we’ll be looking back on this eight-day adventure for a long time to come.

Anja’s Favorite Place

My favorite spot is located along the second stage after about 10.5 miles (17 km) and is known as the "Romantic Bridge." You can't miss it, as it sits toward the end of the day's hike. A white sandy beach glows in the distance, and we follow a small path down toward it. A suspension bridge stretches over a rock formation, with the clear waters of the Soča glittering below. We drift in the ice-cold water, making the most of this wonderfully refreshing swim break. We watch as other brave hikers jump from the rocks and simply soak in the Caribbean flair of the cove.

Female hiker with backpack standing on rocky shore of turquoise Soča River. A suspension bridge spans the river above, surrounded by forest.

Julia’s Favorite Place

The Virje Waterfall was a true highlight for me. You only have to walk a short distance down the gravel road, and suddenly you’re standing in this hidden oasis. The water cascades over moss-covered rocks into a basin that glows a brilliant emerald green in the sunlight. It’s so peaceful there - just the sound of the rushing water and a few birds in the background. We sat on the shore for a while, watching the falls and simply soaking in the tranquility. It’s one of those places where you’d love to stay for hours. Without a doubt, my favorite spot of the entire journey.

Hiker resting on rocks at Virje Waterfall in the Julian Alps. Moss-covered rocks with cascading water and green pool in Soča Valley.