Hiking

• Hike through Austria’s glacial valleys, Slovenia’s dense forests, and the rolling hills of Italy.

• Delve into World War I history in Slovenia’s Soča Valley and medieval Kobarid.

• Wind through karst landscapes in Italy’s Val Rosandra Nature Reserve.

TRIP TYPE: Signature Land

ACTIVITY LEVEL: Moderate

Take a walking tour of Ljubljana, then travel to the Julian Alps, crossing Lake Bled aboard a traditional boat. Hike to Martuljek Gorge, and drive into Austria’s breathtaking Grossglockner Valley. Embark on the first stage of the Alpe- Adria Trail in Hohe Tauern National Park. Hotel CUBO; Nationalpark Lodge Grossglockner Meals: 2B, 2L, 2D

The next stage of our hike climbs through diverse ecosystems in the Nockberge Biosphere Reserve. Return to Slovenia, and set out from the Alpine village of Kranjska Gora to the Vršič Pass. Trek through Triglav National Park and continue to the hamlet of Bovec. Hike at the majestic Boka waterfall and on the banks of the Soča River, winding around to the town of Kobarid, where we’ll learn about Slovenia’s involvement in World War I. Špik Alpine Resort; Hotel Soča Meals: 4B, 4L, 3D

Embark on one of the most spectacular stages of the trail through Slovenia’s lush Brda region. Cross into Italy, and transfer to the Adriatic city of Trieste. Set out on our final hike through the karst landscapes of the Val Rosandra Nature Reserve, and catch a glimpse of the iconic Lipizzan horses of the Lipica Stud Farm along the way. Return to Ljubljana on the final morning to catch your return flight home. Savoia Excelsior Palace | Meals: 3B, 2L, 1D

A National Geographic Expert, Expedition Leader, and local guides will accompany this trip.

Tara Burton has written about religion, culture, and place for National Geographic, the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, the Washington Post, and more. She grew up between Italy, France, and the United States; and has lived in Tbilisi, Georgia and Oxford, England. Tara is the author of Strange Rites: New Religions for a Godless World and the novel Social Creature. Find the departure(s) Tara will join on our website.

Dates: This expedition is offered from May through September.

Prices are per person, based on double occupancy. Single supplement applies; please see our website. Airfare is not included in the price. All prices and fares are quoted in U.S. dollars and subject to change. This itinerary is for informational purposes only and is subject to change at any time without notice.

Please note: Hikes range from 2–6 hours (2–11 miles) on moderate to steep grades. Vehicle support is provided where feasible.

Visit website for complete details and dates.

Cover: A hiker marvels at the emerald-blue waters of Slovenia’s Soča River.

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