Where the Julian Alps meet the Adriatic Sea, ancient footpaths weave between 300-year-old wine cellars, pristine alpine lakes, and sage-scented Mediterranean islands. Each run in this cross-cultural odyssey ends somewhere magical: at a hidden waterfall, a mountaintop hut serving hearty specialties, or aboard a chartered boat in crystal-clear waters where farm-fresh feasts and world-class wines await.
Wake up to a farm-fresh breakfast and spectacular morning views of the Julian Alps before beginning our first run. The route follows the incomprehensibly blue Soca river by way of historical footpaths and magical forest trails. This run is quite technical, but the views make it all worth it – take your time, and bring a camera! After a picnic lunch and a dip – err, ice bath – in the river you can choose to go raft the Soca (highly recommended!) or just take the afternoon to relax and indulge in the peaceful surroundings. That evening we’ll enjoy another magical sunset as our hosts treat us to a gourmet cook-out for dinner.
After a light breakfast we’ll start running right from our front door to a gorgeous hidden waterfall and the supposed source of the Soca River. After showers and a relaxed lunch in this idyllic valley we’ll pack up and head for wine country! Our home for the next two nights is a beautifully restored 300 year old farmhouse nestled in the vineyards that also happens to be home to one of the top hyper-local dining experiences in the country.
After a light breakfast we’ll head up, up, up Nanos, a flat-topped mountain that presides over the valley and which acts as a literal climate barrier between the Mediterranean breezes to the south and the alpine environment to the north. Although we will drive you much of the way up there is still a good amount of climbing ahead – get ready to hike, and to enjoy 360 degree views while you’re doing it! The run finishes at a traditional mountain hut serving up hearty local specialities, and you’ll have some downtime back at the farmhouse afterward. That evening we head to another nearby village to visit a local family’s 700 year old wine cellar and enjoy a feast prepared right there in their home – with plenty of homemade wine of course!
Today’s run is for the road runners! We’ll begin early in the nearby village of Stanjel, overlooking the sweeping Vipava Valley. The run begins at a castle and finishes back in the vineyards near our farmhouse, taking in the idyllic farmland, rolling hills and postcard-perfect villages of the area along the way. Breakfast will be waiting at the finish line, then we’ll pack up and head to Croatia! Our destination is Cres, an island where the sheep outnumber the humans and the air smells of sage and lavender, and we’ll be hosted at the farm of a wonderful local couple who will treat us to an incredible dinner in a setting that you’ll never forget.
Get ready – today is the big run! Those who run the full route will cover nearly the full length of the island via both trail and road, featuring sweeping views of the crystal clear Adriatic Sea and picture-perfect ancient villages, and those who choose a shorter distance will also hit the highlights. Finish at our house with a locally-sourced gourmet lunch and a short rest before the ultimate recovery activity: cruising around the Adriatic on a chartered boat! Enjoy the sea breeze, plenty of opportunities to jump into the crystal clear water, a fresh-caught meal cooked right onboard and a sunset that you’ll never forget.
After an optional morning recovery run around the farm, we’ll enjoy a big brunch before packing up and heading back to the ferry, and back to Slovenia. Our destination is Ljubljana, the charming capital of Slovenia (also a “Green Capital” of Europe), where you’ll have the remainder of the day to explore on your own: sample gelato, sit at a riverside cafe, visit museums, or simply wander around – the city center is car-free! – and soak it all in.
Enjoy a leisurely wake-up before a mid-morning departure to our final run at stunning Lake Bohinj. The route is part trail along a dramatic river gorge and part cruise around this pristine alpine lake, finishing with time to swim, relax and enjoy a picnic at a small beach. Afterward we’ll head back to the city (stopping along the way at Slovenia’s most-photographed spot) for a chance to clean up and gather for a special final dinner together. Then, spend the evening however you wish: go out and enjoy the nightlife (everything is walkable!) or settle in for a good night of sleep.
The run tour price includes pre-trip communication & guidance, airport transfers, all accommodation, most meals (one dinner excluded), transportation, drivers, experienced running guides, organized supported runs, river rafting, a chartered boat trip on the Adriatic (9-day version only), sightseeing entry fees, and Rogue Expeditions swag.
Almost everything is covered for your Alpe Adria running adventure!
The cost does not include flights, alcohol, travel insurance, tips, or personal purchases. One dinner in Ljubljana is also excluded, allowing you to explore local dining options.
The main difference is that the 9-day tour includes both Slovenia and Croatia, while the 7-day tour focuses solely on Slovenia. The 9-day tour also includes a chartered boat trip on the Adriatic, which is not part of the 7-day itinerary. Both tours offer a comprehensive Alpe Adria running experience, with the 9-day option providing additional coastal adventures in Croatia.
We keep flights separate to allow for flexibility in travel arrangements. Participants are responsible for arriving in Venice no later than 12pm on arrival day and departing no earlier than 12pm on the final day.
While there’s no set requirement, we recommend being comfortable with an 8-10 mile (13-16 km) trail run for the best Alpe Adria running experience. All routes are adjustable, and there’s no pace pressure. The itinerary lists daily maximum run distances, which can be shortened as needed.
Expect a mix of dirt paths, rocky trails, river paths, grassy meadows, and some asphalt. The region isn’t flat, so prepare for hills. We recommend practicing on uneven terrain and packing trail shoes for your Alpe Adria running adventure.
Your Alpe Adria run tour includes river rafting, wine cellar visits, historical tours, exploring Ljubljana, sailing the Adriatic (9-day trip only), and plenty of time to indulge in local food and drink traditions.
Enjoy a mix of beautifully restored farmhouses, friendly boutique hotels, and mountain chalets. We use unique, small-scale, and family-run establishments for an authentic experience with local impact.
May and September offer great running conditions with highs around 75°F / 23°C and lows around 50°F/10°C. Expect warmer temperatures on the coast and cooler in the mountains. Rain is possible, so pack a rain jacket and warm layers.
Food is a highlight of the Alpe Adria running tour! Enjoy regional specialties including house-made pastas, cured meats, cheese platters, fresh salads, truffles, local olive oils, fresh bread, rich desserts, and local wines. Meals range from B&B breakfasts to gourmet picnic lunches and multi-course dinners
Common dietary restrictions are easily accommodated. If you have a combination of special requirements, please contact us before registering to ensure the trip is a good fit for you.
We’ve done our best to create a cancellation policy that balances flexibility with our advance costs. For detailed information on cancellations, transfers, and refunds, please review our full Booking Terms & Conditions. We strongly recommend obtaining travel insurance to cover potential cancellations.
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