Slovenian Alpine Adventure – Self Drive

Day 1 – Arrival in Ljubljana

Arrive at Ljubljana Airport and meet your private driver for transfer to your hotel. Spend the afternoon at leisure, strolling through Tivoli Park or along the Ljubljanica River, taking in the city’s riverside cafés and relaxed atmosphere.

Overnight in Ljubljana

Day 2 – Ljubljana

Meet your local guide for a walking tour of Ljubljana. Admire the Triple and Dragon Bridges, St. Nicholas Cathedral, Congress Square, and the National Library, then ascend to Ljubljana Castle via the funicular for panoramic views over the city and distant Alps.

In the afternoon, you might rent a bike for scenic routes like the Path of Remembrance, or explore Metelkova, the city’s vibrant urban cultural hub.

Overnight in Ljubljana

Day 3 – Škocjan Caves – Predjama Castle – Soča Valley

Collect your rental car and drive to the Karst region. Explore Škocjan Caves (UNESCO), home to one of Europe’s largest underground canyons, partly by electric train and foot. Continue to Predjama Castle, a dramatic fortress built into a cliff face, famed for its hidden passages and medieval history.

Drive onwards to Bovec in the Soča Valley, where you can relax amid alpine scenery or visit Boka Waterfall, Slovenia’s highest waterfall.

Overnight in Soča Valley

Day 4 – Soča Valley Adventures

Start the morning with a choice of hikes through the Soča Valley’s stunning alpine scenery. Options include the Bovec Loop, a scenic trail circling the town of Bovec with views of the surrounding mountains, meadows, and the turquoise Soča River; a walk to the historic Kluže Fortress, perched above the river; or a trek to Krn Lake, set amidst dramatic alpine peaks.

In the afternoon, experience the emerald Soča River on a rafting adventure, navigating its clear waters and thrilling rapids. Alternatively, take a more relaxed approach with a riverside walk, photography, or a visit to a local café in Bovec.

Overnight in Soča Valley

Day 5 – Soča Gorge – Vršič Pass – Kranjska Gora – Bled

Visit Velika Soča Korita Gorge, a dramatic river gorge with emerald-green waters. Take a short walk along the gorge and, if weather permits, enjoy a refreshing swim in its natural pools.

Drive over Vršič Pass, Slovenia’s highest mountain road, offering panoramic views of the Julian Alps. Stop at the Russian Chapel, a poignant World War I memorial, and take in the alpine scenery.

In Kranjska Gora, explore Peričnik Waterfall, one of Slovenia’s tallest and most iconic waterfalls, or hike the scenic Tamar Valley, a high alpine basin surrounded by rugged peaks. Adventure seekers can try the zipline or explore the facilities at the Planica Nordic Centre, home to world-class ski jumping hills.

Continue to Bled for the evening and enjoy the picturesque lakeside surroundings.

Overnight in Bled

Day 6 – Bled

Guided tour of Bled Castle, perched above the lake, with views of the Julian Alps and lake. Take a pletna boat to Bled Island and ring the wishing bell at the Church of the Assumption.

In the afternoon, hike to Ojstrica or Mala Osojnica forpanoramic views, or cycle around the lake. Don’t miss tasting the famous Bled cream cake (kremšnita) at a lakeside café.

Overnight in Bled

Day 7 – Velika Planina – Ljubljana

Visit Velika Planina, a scenic alpine plateau known for its traditional shepherds’ huts and sweeping mountain views. Hike or take the funicular to explore the high pastures and visit the Chapel of St. Mary of the Snows. Sample local dairy products such as trnič cheese and sour milk.

Return to Ljubljana in the afternoon. Enjoy a final dinner in the city or a relaxing boat cruise along the Ljubljanica River to soak in the city’s evening lights.

Overnight in Ljubljana

Day 8 – Departure from Ljubljana

After breakfast, if time allows, enjoy a final stroll through Ljubljana’s old town or visit a local market before heading to Ljubljana Airport to return your rental car and prepare for your flight home.