Hikers take to Slovenia to experience The Julian Alps & the Juliana Trail

Stretching between Slovenia and Italy, The Julian Alps are a picture-perfect mountain range that offers glorious alpine scenery for hikers and adventure travel enthusiasts.

We are delighted to welcome Katja Cuder from Turizem Dolina Soče, who has joined us as an exhibitor in the Virtual supplier/buyer Marketplace taking place 4th February 2021. Below, is more information on the stunning Juliana Trail, which they are excited to discuss further at the Adventure Travel Networking conference next February.

Tell us about the Juliana Trail

The Julian Alps are a mountainous area, located in the north western part of Slovenia, squeezed between Italy and Austria, while at the same time just a short drive to the coast and the Adriatic Sea. Even though the highest peaks in Slovenia are located here, including Triglav, Slovenia’s highest mountain, the Juliana Trail does not aim for those. Instead, it leads travellers in a respectful distance of the peaks along the edge of the Julian Alps and Triglav National Park.

The Juliana Trail is a fairly non-demanding, educational, circular trail, which offers hikers and walkers the chance to explore Slovenia’s alpine scenery which is a little less trodden than some of Europe’s other famous walks. It also includes a scenic journey on the Bohinj Railway which takes travellers back to the starting point.

The original circle of the trail with its 270 km and 16 stages was opened in autumn 2019. This year, additional 60km over 4 stages have been added. So the complete Juliana Trail now counts altogether 20 stages and no less than 330 kilometers!

What are the highlights?

Aside from the spectacular mountainous views, the Juliana Trail also offers the following

• Crystal clear waters

Along the trail, travellers will encounter numerous waterfalls (Peričnik, Kozjak, Boka), gorges (Vintgar Gorge, Tolmin Gorges) and small streams and water springs. They will also hike along beautiful rivers, such as the emerald green Soča River and the beautiful Sava River, the alpine lakes, like Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj.

• Culture and history

The trail has a number of stops along the way where travellers can learn more about the culture and the history of the region. The Soča Valley is home to remains from the Isonzo Front from the First World War. Travellers also have the option to visit the famous First World War Museum in Kobarid. In Begunje, they can visit the Avsenik Museum, dedicated to one of the biggest Slovenian musicians; while in Mojstrana they can learn all about Slovenians and mountaineering. Old historic towns, castles and churches will accompany you the whole time on the trail.

• Gastronomy experience

Every place along the trail has its own special dish; including the famous Bled cream cake. A special highlight are the vineyards in Goriška Brda, where travellers can enjoy wine-tasting of the quality local wines.

How will it be reopening up in a Covid-19 compliant way to tourism in 2021?

For the most part, travellers will be exploring the great outdoors while on the Juliana Trail. It is a perfect choice for a solo holiday, away from the big masses. The population (with exception of a few bigger towns) is scarce and there is enough personal space for everyone to enjoy some fresh air in the countryside.

The accommodation along the trail all take care of the Covid-19 measures according to Slovenian and European national standards.

How are you hoping to work with the UK market? (i.e. short/long itineraries)

The greatest characteristic of the Juliana Trail is its diversity and the fact that it can be suited for both for demanding and experienced hikers, as well as more non-experienced hikers. The trail can be fitted to your customer's personal requirements. Hikers who want a real challenge, can tackle the whole trail at once. Others, who look for a small adventure, can decide on hiking a few stages while at the same time enjoy the attractions along the way. For those who prefer shorter hikes with some easier activities along the way, can choose a few easier stages and stop in between to rest and simply relax.

In close vicinity of Juliana Trail are a number airports with good connections to the UK, such as Ljubljana Airport and Marco Polo Airport in Venice. Ljubljana airport is in near proximity to the trail, while from Venice it takes about 2-3 hours.

Accommodation is available at the end of each stage and there is always possible to find a place to enjoy a nice meal at the end of the day. For those who wish to hike more freely and lightly, daily luggage transfer service can also be booked.

Are there are any community projects in place?

For the near future, the Juliana Bike Trail is in plan, which will be specially designed for cyclists, and will take you around the Julian Alps similarly to the already existing Juliana hiking trail.

To find out more about the Juliana Trail and how it will appeal to your customers, make sure to book an appointment with Katja at the Virtual Marketplace in February.