Slovenia JULIAN ALPS HIKING

Transcription

1 Slovenia JULIAN ALPS HIKING ALPINE ADVENTURE 8 DAYS July 8-15, 2018 August 25-September 1, 2018 TRIP ITINERARY

2 How we deliver THE WORLD S GREAT ADVENTURES A passion for travel. Simply put, we love to travel, and that infectious spirit is woven into every one of our journeys. Our staff travels the globe searching out hidden-gem inns and lodges, taste testing bistros, trattorias, and noodle stalls, and discovering the trails and plying the waterways of each remarkable destination. When we come home, we separate wheat from chaff, creating memorable adventures that will connect you with the very best qualities of each destination. Unique, award-winning itineraries. Our flexible, handcrafted journeys have received accolades from the world s most revered travel publications. Beginning from our appreciation for the world s most breathtaking and interesting destinations, we infuse our journeys with the elements of adventure and exploration that stimulate our souls and enliven our minds. Whether you are looking for a challenging physical expedition or a leisurely cultural exploration, Boundless Journeys has exceptional itineraries to match your sense of adventure. Insider connections. There is simply no substitute for traveling with a knowledgeable insider, and our expert local guides will open doors for you that other travelers miss, like dinner with their extended family in Peru s Sacred Valley, or meeting an art scholar in Florence. Relationships developed over many years allow you to experience our destinations through a well-connected friend. Small groups. Although the camaraderie of a group of likeminded travelers often enhances the journey, there can be too much of a good thing! We tread softly, and our average group size is just 8 10 guests, allowing us access to opportunities that would be unthinkable with a larger group. Flexibility to suit your travel style. We offer both scheduled, small-group departures and custom journeys so that you can choose which works best for you. Not finding exactly what you are looking for? Let us customize a journey to fulfill your travel dreams. Customer service that goes the extra mile. Having trouble finding flights that work for you? Want to surprise your traveling companion with a bottle of champagne at a tented camp in the Serengeti to celebrate an important milestone? There is no request that is too big or too small for our staff to handle. From your first call, we guide you through choosing your trip, provide advice on preparing for your adventure, and hold your hand until you return home. Multi-year recipient of Travel + Leisure magazine s World s Best Tour Operator ; and recognized by the editors of National Geographic ADVENTURE magazine as one of the Best Adventure Travel Companies on Earth. 2 Boundless Journeys 2018

3 Slovenia JULIAN ALPS HIKING Thank you for your interest in this fantastic journey to Slovenia. We have handcrafted this tour from our own experience and hope you fall in love with the area as we have! THE INSPIRATION FOR THIS JOURNEY Boundless Journeys is proud to be among the first to venture into the Julian Alps, an often overlooked gem of western Slovenia. Landscapes are breathtaking here, and hiking opportunities are limitless. From the cosmopolitan capital of Ljubljana and the picture-perfect Lake Bled, we set out on thrilling hikes into the remote corners of Triglav National Park and Lake Bohinj, a mountain lover s paradise of impossibly high peaks and alpine-fed lakes. Our journey continues in Bovec, Slovenia s adventure capital. From here, we ascend to a trio of glacial lakes above the tree line and marvel at the hidden waterfall of Kozjek. Along the way, Slovenian cuisine keeps us fueled during traditional farmhouse meals infused with a gourmet touch, and delightful tastings of local cheese and wine. TOC TOUR OVERVIEW... 4 THE JOURNEY... 6 ACCOMMODATIONS... 9 WHAT TO EXPECT OUR GUIDES NEXT STEPS BOUNDLESS BEYOND HIGHLIGHTS Exploring the storybook landscape of Lake Bled, with its cliff-top castle and tiny islet, punctuated with a charming bell tower Hike along impressive Vintgar Gorge amidst sheer rock cliffs carved out by the Radovna River Hiking above the tree line to the pristine Krnska Lakes, surrounded by a carpet of mountain flowers and soaring peaks Indulging in gourmet meals at the close of each rewarding day Discovering top-quality cheeses produced at high altitudes Learning about organic wine production from a Slovenian vintner

4 TOUR OVERVIEW THE BASICS Duration: Tour start: Tour end: Accommodations: 8-day trip Ljubljana Ljubljana 7 nights in charming, first-class hotels Trip rating: Easy Strenuous (See page 10 for more details) Land cost: $4,295 per person Single Supplement: First two singles per departure: $0* Additional: $495 *Must reserve at least 120 days ahead WHAT S INCLUDED Just pack your bags we ve got you covered! When you re on a Boundless Journeys adventure, every detail is taken care of for you, so you can relax and truly experience each moment. Put your wallet away, leave your travel books behind, fold up your maps, and BE there. Your Boundless Journeys adventure includes: Expert leadership All accommodations All meals Local beer and wine with group dinners All on-tour transportation All activities as noted in the itinerary All gratuities except for those for your guide and driver, which are at your discretion International airfare is not included in the price of your trip. Please contact your local travel agency or the airlines directly to make any arrangements you may need. If you would like assistance with booking your flights or other travel plans, please contact Boundless Journeys directly at for a referral to our partners who will best fulfill your needs. 4 Boundless Journeys 2018

5 ITINERARY AT-A-GLANCE DAY 1 We meet at our hotel in Ljubljana, Slovenia. This thriving capital is the new Old Europe, where the 21st century mingles comfortably with a rich blend of cherished tradition and historic architecture. Baroque splendor lines narrow alleys which were originally laid out in the Middle Ages. DAYS 2-3 From Ljubljana, our first stop is Vintgar Gorge, where we hike amidst sheer cliffs towering over the Radovna River. Our next stop is Lake Bled, where glacial waters and a tiny islet are surrounded by forest and soaring mountains. For a kingly vantage point, we visit the medieval Bled Castle, perched high on a rocky lakeside precipice. A short drive delivers us to the Pokljuka Plateau and Triglav National Park, where hulking massifs pierce the sky. Our first hike takes us to the summit of Mt. Brdo, at 6,590 feet. DAYS 4-6 After visiting the ski-resort town of Kranjska Gora, we follow one of Europe s most scenic mountain roads to Vrsic Pass. From this saddleback plateau, we walk past larch trees and tiny ponds to Sleme Viewpoint with its gargantuan walls of solid limestone. Just outside Bovec, we ll follow the trail to the glacial Krnska Lakes, surrounded by mountain flowers, pine forests, and dramatic peaks. The high-altitude farms we ll visit here produce some of the region s finest cheese. Back on the road, we drive into the emerald Soca River Valley and Bovec, the adventure capital of Slovenia. DAY 7 Leaving Bovec, we hike to the hidden waterfall of Kozjek, fed by alpine waters, before continuing on to Brda, Slovenia s wine country. Here, we ll taste some of the country s top-quality cabernet sauvignons and merlots. We return to Ljubljana for a farewell dinner. DAY 8 Our journey concludes after breakfast

6 THE JOURNEY DAY 1: Arrive in Ljubljana, Slovenia Activity Overview: Walk Activity Level: Easy Activity Length: 1-2 hours We meet at our hotel in Ljubljana, Slovenia s hip and happening capital in the country s geographic center. This is the new Old Europe, where the 21st century mingles comfortably with a rich blend of cherished tradition and historic architecture. With its artsy bohemian vibe, many have compared it to Prague, minus the crowds. We ll take in the lovely ambiance of this small city during an easy walking tour featuring its fabled Triple Bridge across the Ljubljanica River. This modest span was considered the link between Central Europe and the Balkans when it was first built in the 13th century. It was tripled in width with the addition of two more spans in 1842 to prevent traffic bottlenecks. We make our way into the Old Town, originally laid out in the Middle Ages. It s a delight to stroll past the Baroque gems that line these narrow warrens and alleys, below the imposing Ljubljana Castle, situated high on a forested hill. We ll sample Slovenian cuisine during our first dinner together at a local restaurant. Accommodation: Hotel Vander, Ljubljana Meals: D DAY 2: Vintgar Gorge and Lake Bled Activity Overview: Hiking Activity Level: Easy to Moderate Activity Length: 3 hours, 4 miles, 495 elevation gain We leave Ljubljana behind and head straight into the Alps. As a warm up we hike lush and green Vintgar gorge where Radovna River carved out its way through the vertical rock cliffs. Our trail leads us over some wooden bridges where you can easily spot trout swimming before we turn into the woods and make a nice and gentle loop with views over Bled plain. We enjoy lunch in quaint little village of Radovljica dating back to 14 century. After a delicious signature Slovenian meal, we visit Lake Bled, one of Europe s most scenic spots. Its glacial waters are surrounded by forest and soaring mountains, and its tiny islet the only natural island in Slovenia is marked by the storybook bell tower of its medieval church. For a kingly vantage point, we visit the medieval Bled Castle, perched high on a rocky lakeside precipice. From this commanding post, we get our first glimpse of the Julian Alps, tomorrow s destination. We continue on our way to Triglav National park where we finish the day at the hotel situated right next to Bohinj lake. Accommodation: Hotel Jezero, Bohinj Meals: B, L, D 6 Boundless Journeys 2018

7 DAY 3: Triglav National Park Activity Overview: Hiking Activity Level: Moderate to strenuous Activity Length: 4-5 hours, 5 miles, 2,130 elevation gain This morning, we head into the alpine splendor of western Slovenia and the Julian Alps. The Julians foothills set the stage for our first hiking adventure. A short drive delivers us to the Pokljuka Plateau and Triglav National Park. Around us, hulking massifs pierce the sky and dense forest blankets the valley. Our hike s destination is the summit of Mt. Brda, at 6,590 feet. Our trail, one of the most stunning in the Julian network, ambles past wild blueberry bushes and pristine alpine tarns. Once at the top, we ll have spectacular views of Mt. Triglav, Slovenia s highest peak at almost 9,400 feet. At the top, we ll stop for a picnic lunch in this beautiful setting. By day s end, we ll relax at our hotel, situated along the shores of pristine Lake Bohinj. During dinner at Hotel Jezero s superb restaurant, you may have the opportunity to try many regional specialities. Accommodation: Hotel Jezero, Bohinj Meals: B, L, D DAY 4: Kranjska Gora to Sleme Viewpoint Activity Overview: Hiking Activity Level: Moderate Activity Length: 3-4 hours, 3.2 miles, 1,300 elevation gain This morning we leave Bohinj behind and drive through the Julian Alps toward the Italian and Austrian borders. We stop briefly at the town of Kranjska Gora, a ski resort that hosts the annual Alpine Skiing World Cup for slalom competitions. Then we ll follow one of Europe s most scenic mountain roads to Vrsic Pass, a hairpin-strewn road which was originally built as a supply route during World War I. Today it is a boon to trekkers eager to explore this remarkable wilderness. We ll pause to walk in their footsteps past larch trees and tiny ponds to Sleme Viewpoint, which overlooks gargantuan walls of solid limestone. After a lovely picnic lunch, we continue our drive down into the emerald Soca River Valley and Bovec, the adventure capital of Slovenia. Here, we settle into our refined boutique hotel and savor a gourmet dinner. Accommodation: Dobra Vila, Bovec Meals: B, L, D DAY 5: Soca Valley and Cheese Producers Activity Overview: Hiking Activity Level: Moderate Activity Length: 3-4 hours, 4.4 miles, 1,850 elevation gain We head into the southern reaches of the Soca Valley today, a region equally awash in both beauty and history. During World War I, the Italians and Austro-Hungarians battled at the Isonzo Front, loosely defined by the waters of the Soca River (known as the Isonzo River in Italy). Ernest Hemingway s A Farewell to Arms vividly depicts the events that unfolded here. This farming area is also known for its cheeses, and some of the best Slovenian producers are located here, nestled at high altitudes where pristine grazing areas make for a topquality cheese. We hike upward to discover these remote artisans, witnessing how they make their winning products, before doing some grazing of our own on rich samples. This evening, we re treated to a dinner prepared by one of southeastern Europe s most progressive chefs, Ana Ros, at her restaurant. Accommodations: Dobra Vila, Bovec Meals: B, L, D DAY 6: Krnska Lakes Activity Overview: Hiking Activity Level: Moderate to strenuous Activity Length: 5-6 hours; 4.2 miles; 2,460 elevation gain Just outside Bovec, today s trail leads to the pristine Krnska Lakes, a trio of glacial lakes located at 4,575 feet surrounded by alpine flowers, pine forests, and dramatic peaks. The path we ll follow was built during World War I, yet despite its age, it is clear and well-marked. Here, we ll stop to enjoy a picnic lunch dwarfed by the mountains surrounding us. Accommodations: Dobra Vila, Bovec Meals: B, L, D

8 DAY 7: Brda to Ljubljana Activity Overview: Hiking Activity Level: Easy to moderate Activity Length: 1-2 hours, 2 miles, 383 elevation gain As we leave Bovec, we ll pause for a short hike into the hidden waterfall of Kozjek. This stunning cascade is fed by alpine waters, and we ll take some time to linger in its mist before continuing to Brda, Slovenia s wine country. These picturesque hills border the Collio Goriziano region of Italy, where some of the finest white wines are produced. On the Slovenian side of the border, the terroir is equally amenable to top-quality cabernet sauvignons and merlots. We ll visit with a local organic wine maker to learn about the craft firsthand, before savoring a delicious lunch, and sampling some vintages. This afternoon, we return to Ljubljana and raise a glass to our hiking adventure over a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. Accommodations: Hotel Vander, Ljubljana Meals: B, L, D PLEASE NOTE: This is a typical itinerary, and actual activities may vary to take advantage of weather conditions, local events, and to allow serendipity to play a hand in your experience. Accommodations are as outlined in the itinerary, although we reserve the right to change these should the need arise. See our booking terms and conditions for more information about our change policy. DAY 8: Departure from Ljubljana Our journey concludes after breakfast. Meals: B 8 Boundless Journeys 2018

9 ACCOMMODATIONS NIGHTS 1 & 7 Hotel Vander Krojaška ulica 6-8 si-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia Tel info@vanderhotel.com This modern-style hotel features four interconnected medieval townhouses in the heart of Ljubljana s old town, and offers a quiet riverfront location, a rooftop plunge pool, and gourmet cuisine. NIGHTS 2-3 Hotel Jezero Alpinum hoteli d.o.o., Ribcev Laz 51, 4265 Bohinjsko Jezero, Slovenia Tel hotel.jezero@cc-line.si Hotel Jezero is located by Bohinj Lake in the heart of the Julian Alps, where you can fill your lungs with fresh mountain air and admire superb sunsets over the mountains. NIGHTS 4-6 Dobra Vila Mala vas Bovec, Slovenia Tel welcome@dobra-vila-bovec.si The Dobra Vila is a well-appointed, boutique hotel just a few minutes walk from the center of Bovec. It offers an outstanding restaurant and wine list, and beautiful terraces, perfect for enjoying the magnificent views

10 WHAT TO EXPECT TRIP RATING Boundless Journeys trips are designed for energetic and flexible individuals who like to be active and have a spirit of adventure and a positive attitude. Julian Alps Hiking is rated 3+, moderate to strenuous, on a scale of 1-5 (with 5 being the most strenuous). The hikes on this trip range from 4-8 hours. The terrain is mixed, with both gradual and steep sections encountered on most days. Hikes are on unpaved paths and trails, with minimal vehicle support. Trails may be wet, slippery, steep, and/or rocky at times. Certain sections of trails maybe exposed, which may be difficult for people with vertigo. PREPARING FOR THIS TRIP It is very important that you realistically assess your physical condition with regard to the demands of this trip. The more well-prepared you are for the activities, the more you will enjoy yourself. As a general guideline, we suggest that you engage in easy to moderate aerobic activities (such as walking, hiking, jogging, or cycling) for at least minutes several times a week for 4-6 weeks before the trip. If you live in a flat area, try to incorporate some stairs into your workout, or use a treadmill with varying incline capability (consult your doctor before undertaking any new fitness program). Please contact us if you have any doubts regarding your physical match with this tour. WEATHER Being an alpine environment, weather is variable throughout the day and by elevation. A warm, sunny day in the valley can be anywhere from delightfully refreshing to downright brisk at higher elevations. Therefore, dressing in layers will be essential to your comfort. Rain is possible at any time, and weather conditions can change rapidly in the mountains, so having rain gear on hand is advisable. At the same time, the sun is strong at higher elevations, and therefore adequate precautions should be taken to prevent sunburn, even on cool, sunny days. AVERAGE TEMPERATURE ºF (HIGH/LOW) HIGH LOW June 73 F 52 F July 77 F 55 F August 77 F 55 F September 69 F 49 F You may obtain more detailed weather information on www. weatherbase.com. TRAVELER S RESPONSIBILITY Trip participants have certain responsibilities to both Boundless Journeys and your fellow travelers. This includes understanding the conditions described in the trip itinerary and making sure it is appropriate for your interests and abilities, based on a review of the trip ratings, consultation with Boundless Journeys staff, and perhaps your doctor. In addition, trip participants are responsible for preparing for a trip by undertaking the proper fitness training. At the guide s discretion, a participant may be asked to leave the trip if the guide feels that the person s further participation may be detrimental to the individual or to other trip participants. If you have any questions about the difficulty level of the trip you have chosen, please contact Boundless Journeys to speak with one of our Destination Managers. 10 Boundless Journeys 2018

11 SMALL GROUP TRAVEL Small group travel affords us the opportunity to seek out the most remote and exotic destinations on the planet. Often we are exploring these locales with just 6-12 guests. The nature of active group travel is such that not all participants have the same ability level or interests. Traveling at a pace that is comfortable for the entire group, with a spirit of flexibility and adventure are all part of this shared experience. DRINKS WITH MEALS At Boundless Journeys we believe group dinners are a time to celebrate our day, while enjoying the best of local cuisine, and good company. In keeping with this spirit, we typically include local beer and wine with group dinners. If you prefer premium wine, or liquor, please feel free to order what you like, and you may settle your tab at the end of the meal. DRINKING WATER We provide purified or bottled water on all trips; however, in an effort to reduce waste, we strongly encourage you to bring a water bottle to refill where safe to do so. This will be the case in much of Europe, as well as a few other destinations, where tap water is safe to drink. In parts of the world where water must be purified, bottled water may be our only option. Here, we do our best to provide purified water from larger containers to refill your bottles, rather than using many small single-use bottles throughout your trip. This is just one small way we strive to travel more responsibly and we appreciate your efforts in helping us to protect the extraordinary places we visit. Boundless Journeys has taken the Travelers Against Plastic company pledge to promote sustainable travel and encourage travelers to avoid buying bottled water when they travel. You can take the pledge, too, and learn more about TAP s efforts at CUISINE The experience of Slovenian cuisine is inseparably connected with the concept of gostilna restaurants, traditional places to enjoy good food and wine in good company. Gostilnas often serve dishes prepared with old recipes using local ingredients. The Slovenian countryside is dotted with small family farms, and food ingredients are relatively healthy and often organically grown. Slovenian wines, meanwhile, can enthuse even the most demanding connoisseur. Our evening meals are enjoyed at our hotels, or at some of the best restaurants in the area. Vegetarians can be accommodated with advance notice, though choices tend to be more limited. Please inform us of specific dietary restrictions by completing your Guest Questionnaire. TRANSPORTATION All on-tour transportation is provided in private, airconditioned, passenger vans

12 OUR GUIDES With a Boundless Journeys guide, your experience is that of friend and local adventurer. We believe strongly in working with local guides, experts in the areas to which we travel, and they hold the keys to unlocking the hidden delights of your chosen destination. Although you will never know they are at work the mark of a truly great leader our guides make magical things happen and add a dimension to your trip that you could not experience on your own. Over the years we have forged bonds with some of the best guides in the world, and we typically work with a small team of guides in each region. You will be informed of the guide for your trip one month prior to your departure. Here are some of the guides we work with in Slovenia. IRENA SILIC Irena hails from the southern islands of Croatia and currently lives in Slovenia. A passionate and curious traveler, she has been exploring remote regions in Asia and southeast Europe for the last 15 years. Irena knows every small corner of the Balkan region, is an outdoor and adventure enthusiast, and for as long as she can remember has spent part of each year hiking, rock climbing, and participating in summer and winter sports in the Julian Alps. With a degree in cultural studies, a passion for exploring, and her friendly nature, Irena makes the ideal traveling companion to either country. It s clear that she truly enjoys guiding and sharing this area of the world with travelers. MIHA KLANJSCEK Miha is a seasoned guide with more than 15 years of experience traveling and guiding in the Balkan countries of former Yugoslavia. He is passionate about the cuisine and nature of this region one of the most culturally, architecturally, and geographically diverse in the world. In his early years as a student of economics, Miha spent his summers on the Mediterranean Croatia, Greece, Turkey, and Egypt are all second homes to him. An adventurer by heart, Miha enjoys mountain biking, road cycling, trail running, and trekking, as well as teaching skiing in the Austrian Alps. You can hardly find a better person to show you the Dalmatian islands and amazing coastline. 12 Boundless Journeys 2018

13 NEXT STEPS TO MAKE A RESERVATION You can call Boundless Journeys at , request a reservation online, or contact your travel agent. We will confirm your spot with a deposit of $500 per person and the payment of internal airfare, payable by check or credit card. The balance for your trip is due 90 days prior to departure. ONCE YOU RESERVE As soon as you confirm your adventure, we will provide you with an extensive, detailed trip planner that includes arrival and departure instructions, a complete packing list, regional information, required documents, a reading list, and other details. TRIP CANCELLATION INSURANCE In addition to your detailed trip planner, we will you a quote for Travel Guard trip insurance. Please let us know if you would like us to purchase a policy on your behalf. If you choose to decline this service, we ask that you sign and return the Insurance Waiver included in your trip planner package. Boundless Journeys strongly recommends purchasing Trip Insurance. CANCELLATION & REFUND POLICY If it becomes necessary to cancel your trip, the following schedule applies to your land cost and is determined by the day that we receive written notification: >90 days prior to the trip will be charged $ days prior to the start of the trip will be charged 25% of the trip price days prior to the start of the trip will be charged 50% of the trip price. <45 days prior to the start of the trip will be charged 100% of the trip price. QUESTIONS? WHICH TRIP IS RIGHT FOR YOU? Adventure travel may involve exotic destinations, unusual levels of physical exertion, and activities that may be new to you. If you have any questions about the level of comfort, difficulty, or activities included on your trip, please call Boundless Journeys at , or us at info@ boundlessjourneys.com. Our travel experts look forward to helping you select the perfect adventure. VISIT US ONLINE for: additional departures special promotions detailed itineraries inspiring photography guide bios ENJOY FOOD & WINE? Check out... ITALY: Ancient Sicily Hiking ITALY: Tuscany & Umbria Walking NEW ZEALAND: Alpine & Coastal Hiking EXTENDING YOUR TRIP? Consider... CROATIA: Dalmatian Coast Kayaking & Hiking ITALY: Ancient Sicily Hiking THE ALPS: Tour de Mont Blanc Hiking PREFER A PRIVATE TRIP? The perfect option for alumni and family reunions, birthdays and anniversaries, or just to catch up with friends in fabulous destinations. Mark your calendar and leave the planning to us! Call our travel experts today:

14 BOUNDLESS BEYOND RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL At Boundless Journeys we are committed to exploring the world in a responsible way and continually seek ways to tread lightly across the unique landscapes and diverse cultures on this planet. Here are just some of the ways we aim to travel responsibly: MAKING CONNECTIONS On some of our trips, our guests have the opportunity to visit organizations working to protect the environment and improve the livelihoods of local communities. Whether it is bathing elephants at a conservation center in Myanmar, or enjoying a farm-fresh meal at a family-owned organic farm in Costa Rica, our guests form meaningful connections with the people and places they visit. GOING LOCAL Whenever possible, we use small, locally operated hotels that have sound environmental practices; groups dine at restaurants that feature fresh and authentic regional cuisine; we choose partners that strive for the highest standard of responsible practices; and we employ local guides and support local economies. CONSERVING WILD PLACES On many of our trips, we explore stunning natural landscapes where conservation is of the utmost importance. As visitors, we not only tread lightly, but actively contribute to the conservation of parks and protected areas. LOOKING FOR INSPIRATION? Here are just a few examples - one more involved, and one quite simple - of how our travelers give back to the places they have explored with us: The Botswana School Project was created in 2012 by Boundless Journeys guests who saw that there was a need for books, supplies, and computers in schools they visited in northern Botswana. A Bhutan guest donated baby outfits to families she met on mountain trails and in rural communities and schools. Two sisters who traveled to Peru donated school supply kits to a local school we visit on our Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu tour. Learn more: -travel/ PROUD MEMBERS Boundless Journeys is proud to support the following organizations and the important work that they do: 14 Boundless Journeys 2018