Julian Alps

Slovenia's Julian Alps hold a chain of emerald lakes carved by glaciers, with Bled being the most famous — but the secret is how few people visit the others like Bohinj, which offers the same stunning vistas and trails without the summer crowds. It's a pristine natural escape still off the main tourist circuit outside of Bled.

Easiest airports to fly into:

• Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport (LJU)

Local buses connect Bled and Bohinj frequently for a few euros. Renting a car offers the most flexibility for exploring the wider Julian Alps and Soča Valley. Cycling paths are extensive around the lakes.

Food €20–35/day

• Kremna rezina

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• Kranjska klobasa

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• Jota

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• Prekmurska gibanica

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• Ajdovi žganci

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Slovenia cherishes its clean natural environment; locals are fiercely proud of it and expect visitors to respect trails and waste disposal. Many mountain huts offer simple, hearty meals and act as social hubs after a day of hiking.

Best in Summer

Summer: warm and sunny days around 22–28°C, pleasant evenings, with occasional thunderstorms.

• waterproof hiking boots for mountain trails
• swimsuit for lake dips
• daypack for excursions
• layers for changing mountain weather
• reusable water bottle