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slovene
croatien
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VELIKI VRH |
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To hike/trek in two countries with one step is a unique experience. The Karavanke Mountains are the official and natural border between East and West, Slovenia and Austria. The ridge runs along the length of Slovenia from Kranjska Gora to Maribor, covering 120kms. The highest point in the ridge is Mt Stol at 2236m.
A percentage of the ridge is split between Slovenia and Austria, the centre marking the official border line. The Kosuta ridge near Trzic and the ridge from Kranjska Gora to Bled are the only points where you can put one foot in Austria and one foot in Slovenia. Part of this is the area where the two day trek will take us. |
Not only do we get to see the contrasting views of both countries whilst hiking along the ridge but we can also indulge in the abundance of fauna and flora. The ridge is not only the separation in terrain between the north and south Alps but also the climate. The ridge acts as a barrier for Slovenia against the colder northern winds and on the other side traps the warm air, that is carried from the Adriatic, in the Alpine region.
Starting near the border tunnel in Ljubelj we make our way around the mountain of Begunjscica and through the area of Zelenica. Taking the higher trail from the meadows and pastures we leave the soft scenery behind as we ascend gradually along the first ridge towards Presernova Koca (mountain hut) situated near the higher border ridge and under the summit of Mt Stol. From Presernova Koca is one of the most scenic views in Slovenia. Offering a complete panorama of the Slovene Alpine region with the higher summit of Stol behind - the sunsets are spectacular. |
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| The start of the second day is the most demanding of the two days, as we make a short hike to the summit of Stol. However, once upon the summit we will be following the undulating ridge until we make our descent at the end of the day. The view from the summit offers a contrast between the rugged limestone on the Austrian face and the gentle lush south side of Slovenia. As we follow the contours of the ridge we have many viewpoints and interesting historical features. |
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Day 1:
Day 2:
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A moderate hike with gradual ascending trails on easy terrain. However a good sense of fitness is required as both days are long ! |
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