While there are trails you can hit around the world to immerse yourself in nature, hiking in the Alps is about to become an ultimate destination.

The country of Slovenia has opened the 186-mile Julian Alps Hiking Trail, just in time for your warm-weather getaway. The new long-distance trail takes you through alpine valleys, pastures, local towns, and small villages in Slovenia. This massive trail is the latest addition to Slovenia’s 700-plus trails that you can take around the country.

Starting in Rateče, a small town on the Italian border, the trail is divided into 16 sections of about 10 miles each. Some of the most notable sites include the Julian Alps Biosphere Reserve (UNESCO MAB) and Triglav National Park. Even though you’re in the Alps, there are still plenty of small towns to stop in for overnight accommodations or even just a place to rest or eat.

While you’re hiking along the trail, there are plenty of opportunities to discover Slovenian culture, including local myths, craftwork, and delicacies.

Hikers will also be able to access Wi-Fi along the trail and every section is marked by a railway or bus stop, for added safety.

Cite…

From the moment you touch down in Ljubljana, Slovenia you know you’re about to experience a land of the Gods.

Rich green fields spread as far as the eye can see, only broken by a spattering of wild flowers like the sprinkles on a cake. The depth and lusciousness of these fields reduce remind one childhood, and feeling a primal urge to prance through them like fields in the Sound of Music.

This is the Alpe Adria Trail, which leads from the eternal ice glacier on the Grossglockner, to the azure blue of the Adriatic Sea – a journey of discovery between borders and cultures.

Crossing between three countries – Slovenia, Austria and Italy, this “easy-to-walk” pleasure leads you through rich alpine terrain full of stunning mountain lakes. It’s no wonder the trail is commonly referred to as “Hiking the Garden of Eden.”

Life here seems so perfect, hiding away from the world. Here two old souls were living in solitude, cooking in an outdoor wood fire, and drying their washing in the crisp mountain air. Smiling and waving, you can tell they’re content. This truly is the Garden of Eden.

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