September getaways in Slovenia’s beautiful Julian Alps

If you have missed out on a summer holiday this year but looking to go somewhere special in autumn, Slovenia’s Julian Alps could be the perfect choice for your next trip - September is a great time to visit.
The region boasts some of the most magnificent scenery you will ever encounter. Besides all the great activities on offer, visitors can enjoy the serenity and natural beauty of the area - imagine the most perfect landscape paintings coming to life before your eyes.
Whether you’re looking for an active break or pure rest and relaxation, you’ve come to the right place. September is a good time to go as many of the summer crowds have dispersed and although you won’t have the place to yourself, it won’t be as busy as the high season months. You may also find that transport and accommodation prices are more attractive as we ease into the quieter, autumn period. The weather is still lovely too, but the temperature drops a few degrees and visitors usually find September more comfortable – especially for walking and hiking.
Did you know this area is a walker’s paradise?
If walking and hiking is on your agenda for your autumn getaway, you can get your fix of the great outdoors by exploring the dramatic peaks and valleys of this stunning corner of Slovenia. Encountering waterfalls and gorges along the way, your walking route will have a picture-perfect backdrop with lots of great photo opportunities along the way (nice Insta selfie?) Your holiday snaps will never look so pretty and too good not to share.
To find out more about the best walking and hiking routes in Julian Alps, look here.
Fancy an adrenaline rush?
Head to Kranjska Gora where you can run up the ski jump at Redbull Planica 400, the steepest race in Europe. Or you can join the biggest trail running event in the Julian Alps Trail Run by UTMB.
Experience Triglav National Park
One of Europe’s oldest national parks and this glorious terrain is the perfect place to get a taste of Slovenia’s jaw-droppingly beautiful scenery – especially if it’s your first trip. If you want to be at one with nature, then walking some of the trails in Triglav National Park should be top of your itinerary. More information here.
Without a shadow of a doubt, walking and hiking are big draws for visitors to Slovenia’s Julian Alps. However, if you simply want to see this beautiful part of the world but prefer less active pursuits, don’t worry - we’ve got that covered too. There are plenty of amazing things to do that will make your trip special and let you make wonderful memories you will treasure long after you’ve gone back home.


So…what can you do in the Julian Alps besides walking and hiking?
No visit to this part of the world would be complete without taking in Bled - this charming alpine resort at the edge of the Julian Alps is a must-see. Visitors can explore Bled Castle or take a boat trip out and learn all about Lake Bled’s fascinating stories and folklore which have been preserved and passed down through the ages. It’s a great way to see the area from a different perspective – from the water. It’s also an environmentally friendly mode of transport for your day out.
Another beautiful place to visit is Radovljica and you should try to spend a day in this historical town. Just a short distance from Bled, charming Radovljica is one of the best preserved towns in Slovenia. Visitors can admire the authentic architecture and soak up the atmosphere of Linhart Square. There are museums, galleries and restaurants that will offer a real flavour of the town. Add Radovljica to your itinerary - you won’t regret it.
Want to know all about the area’s history?
Don’t miss some of the best cultural attractions if you’ve got a passion for learning about the region’s past, especially WW1.
A must for any visitors is the Russian Chapel on the Vršič Pass, Kobarid Museum and the Memorial Church of the Holy Spirit in Javorca. You can also combine some walking with military history on the Walk of Peace.
Food, glorious food
Sampling the local cuisine of any country is always a tasty pastime when there’s rich, delicious foods to try. This region is no exception. Make sure you tickle your tastebuds along the way by tasting some of the culinary delights such as the famous Bled cream cake, mouth-watering štrukelj or even some of the unique cheeses of the Soča Valley and Bohinj Valley. And, for a taste of some beautiful local wines, treat your palate with a visit to the wineries in Goriška Brda.
Photo: Tomo Jesenicnik, The Julian Alps
Do you have a head for heights?
If you want to admire some really breath-taking scenery, why not take the chairlift to the top of the Straža Hill on the southeast end of Lake Bled. Or you could even take a magical hot-air balloon ride. There is also a chairlift to Vitranc mountain with amazing views of Kranjska Gora. Don't forget your camera! More information here.
Get the party started…
The summer season ends mid-September when one of the country's most unique festivals is held in Bohinj. The ‘Cow Ball’ celebrates the return of the cattle after grazing in the pastures of the Julian Alps all summer.
Visitors can join in the fun with locals for some traditional music, dancing, and good food and drink. Find out more here.
And finally, are you wondering where to stay?
The best way to source a hotel for your holiday is to browse the Julian Alps Accommodation Searcher. Please consider the responsible travel options to help preserve the environment when arranging your trip.
Go on; discover the Julian Alps this autumn – you may find it’s a place you want to return to in any season!
For everything else you need to know about a trip to the Julian Alps eplore our website.