Via Alpina – a long-distance hiking trail that reveals Alpine Europe

A hiking trail that broadens horizons

European countries situated in the Alpine area have various things in common. One of them is the Via Alpina long-distance hiking trail which winds through eight European countries – Italy, Slovenia, Austria, Germany, Liechtenstein, Switzerland, France and Monaco. On more than 2,000 kilometres of the trail, you’ll encounter natural and cultural gems of the Alpine world. You’ll climb from 0 to 3,000 metres altitude. The Slovenian stages will take you from the Tamar Valley in the Julian Alps to the Adriatic Sea.  

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Via Alpina in Slovenia in numbers 

Before venturing on the trail from the Julian Alps to the sea on the Slovenian section of the Via Alpina, check out some basic information about the trail.  

Length of the trail

some 230 km

Number of stages

14

Difficulty

moderate

From the Julian Alps to the Adriatic Sea while crossing the Karst 

The Slovenian section of the Via Alpina international long-distance trail starts with a stunning backdrop of mountain peaks in the Julian Alps that surround Tamar, the far corner of the Planica Valley in the utmost northwest region of Slovenia. The trail will take you to the heart of the Julian Alps and Triglav National Park in the Triglav mountain range, which boasts the highest Slovenian peak, Mt Triglav. From here, you’ll descend to Bohinj across Mt Črna Prst and Mt Porezen towards the UNESCO town of Idrija. The trail continues to the Karst and its most splendid wonders – Postojna Cave, Predjama Castle and Škocjan Caves. When hiking across the karst landscape to the sea, you’ll also visit Lipica which is known for breeding white Lipizzan horses.  

Essential stops on the way 

The picturesque route provides an array of interesting natural and cultural attractions to make your journey even more worthwhile. From the highest Slovenian mountain, past the UNESCO treasures to the mysterious Karst and onwards to the Adriatic Sea – experience it all on the Via Alpina trail through Slovenia. Here are some tips on where it’s especially worth stopping en route. 

Where does the trail take you? 

Learn about the places and destinations you’ll encounter on the Via Alpina trail in Slovenia. 

In Slovenia, everyone finds their trail 

There are more than 10,000 kilometres of them. And you’re certain to find the right one for you. A trail that will take you up to stunning views, or perhaps you’d prefer a less challenging one on which you can experience the vibe of the residents along the way.