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19-Day Scenic Nature & Wild Swimming Adventure Through the Alps and Balkans

Viewed by 109 travelers

Day 1: Swiss Alps Introduction

Interlaken, Switzerland on July 26, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café de Paris

Enjoy a hearty Swiss breakfast with fresh pastries and coffee, perfectly situated near the Interlaken train station for easy access to nature excursions.
CHF15, 1h0m

9:30am

Lake Brienz Walk & Wild Swimming

Stroll along the pristine shores of Lake Brienz, with designated spots ideal for wild swimming in crystal-clear alpine waters surrounded by mountains.
Free, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Restaurant Laterne

Savor traditional Swiss dishes like Rösti and fresh trout from the local lake in a cozy alpine setting.
CHF30, 1h0m

1:30pm

Harder Kulm Panorama

Take the funicular (open 8am-9pm) up to Harder Kulm for sweeping views of Interlaken and the Eiger and Jungfrau peaks, perfect for photos and short hikes.
CHF38, 2h0m

4:00pm

Aare Gorge Walk

Reachable by local transport, explore the spectacular Aare Gorge for dramatic cliff-side paths and rushing waterfalls through narrow rock formations.
CHF10, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Husi Bierhaus

Enjoy Swiss comfort food and craft beers in a traditional atmosphere to end your first day in the Alps.
CHF35, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Interlaken

Day 2: Jungfrau Region Hiking

Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland on July 27, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel Alpenruh

Light and energizing breakfast hosted by your hotel to prepare you for a day of hiking and waterfalls hunting.
Included, 1h0m

8:30am

Trümmelbach Falls

Visit the unique glacier waterfalls inside the mountain; accessible by bus and elevator, open 9am-5pm, showcasing roaring cascades inside tunnels and caves.
CHF12, 1h30m

10:30am

Hike to Staubbach Falls

A picturesque 30-40 minute walk from Lauterbrunnen village to one of Europe's highest free-falling waterfalls surrounded by cliffs and meadows.
Free, 1h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Camping Jungfrau Restaurant

Enjoy casual mountain fare and panoramic views over the Lauterbrunnen Valley with local specialties.
CHF25, 1h0m

1:30pm

Wild Swimming at Lake Thun

Take a train to the northern shore of Lake Thun with multiple accessible beaches ideal for a refreshing swim beneath alpine peaks.
Train CHF15, 3h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Stadtkeller Interlaken

Return to Interlaken by train for traditional Swiss cuisine with live folk music to wind down after exploring.
CHF40, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Lauterbrunnen

Day 3: Lake Bled & Caves

Lake Bled, Slovenia on July 28, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at Hotel

Quick breakfast to prepare for the train and bus trip to Slovenia via Zurich and Ljubljana; efficient connections with scenic views.
Included, 1h0m

8:00am

Travel to Lake Bled

Train and bus journey southward from Interlaken over approximately 5-6 hours, passing through Austria, arriving in the afternoon.
EUR70, 5h30m

2:00pm

Lunch at Vila Ajda

Enjoy lakeside Slovenian cuisine with scenic views of Lake Bled and the island church.
EUR20, 1h0m

3:30pm

Pletna Boat to Bled Island & Swimming

Take the traditional wooden boat (9am-6pm) to the island, explore the church and swim in the refreshing lake waters encircled by mountains.
EUR15, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Park Restaurant Bled

Savor Slovenian specialties like the famous Bled cream cake and fresh trout in an elegant setting.
EUR30, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Lake Bled

Day 4: Soča Valley Adventure

Soča Valley, Slovenia on July 29, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Penzion Berc

Fresh pastries, coffee and jams to energize for the day spent in the stunning emerald Soča River valley.
EUR10, 1h0m

8:00am

Bus to Soča Valley

Use local bus services to reach hiking and wild swimming spots along the Soča River with emerald waters and dramatic mountain scenery.
EUR15, 1h30m

9:30am

Hike to Kozjak Waterfall

A short, scenic hike leads to one of Slovenia’s most beautiful waterfalls, perfect for photos and a plunge in the natural pool beneath.
Free, 2h0m

12:00pm

Picnic Lunch by Soča River

Enjoy a packed lunch by the riverbanks, soaking in the wild nature and tranquil sounds of flowing water.
EUR10, 1h0m

1:30pm

Wild Swimming and Relaxation

For the afternoon, swim in the ice-cold crystal-clear waters of the Soča or relax on pebbled beaches framed by alpine peaks.
Free, 3h0m

5:00pm

Return to Bled

Bus ride back to Bled to rest and prepare for the journey to Bosnia the next day.
EUR15, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Restaurant 1906

Dine on modern Slovenian cuisine using fresh local ingredients in a relaxed atmosphere.
EUR35, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Soča Valley

Day 5: Bosnian Waterfalls

Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina on July 30, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast & Travel

Breakfast followed by a day-long train and bus trip from Bled to Mostar, passing through stunning mountainous terrain.
BAM40, 6h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Tima Irma

Enjoy a homely Bosnian meal with dishes like cevapi and fresh salads near Mostar’s old town.
BAM15, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Kravice Waterfalls

Take a short bus and taxi ride to the spectacular Kravice Waterfalls, ideal for swimming in natural pools below cascades surrounded by lush greenery.
BAM7 entrance, 3h0m

6:00pm

Return to Mostar & Sightseeing

Explore the iconic Old Bridge and riverside markets as the sun sets, absorbing the historic atmosphere.
Free, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Sadrvan

Try traditional Bosnian grilled meats and fresh local produce in a charming setting near the Old Bridge.
BAM25, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Mostar

Day 6: Sarajevo Nature & History

Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina on July 31, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Light traditional breakfast with burek and coffee to start the busy day in Sarajevo.
Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Nature Walk at Vrelo Bosne Park

Explore this beautiful park with crystal-clear streams and waterfalls just outside Sarajevo, perfect for a gentle hike and wild swimming in the spring-fed pools.
Free, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Inat Kuća

Dine in a historic riverside house serving hearty Bosnian fare including stuffed peppers and local breads.
BAM20, 1h0m

2:00pm

Old Town Tour & Museum of Sarajevo

Walking tour of Baščaršija historic quarter with visits to museums and mosques, providing cultural context alongside nature experiences.
BAM15, 2h30m

5:00pm

Relax at Miljacka Riverbank

Enjoy a peaceful stroll and potential wild swim spots by the river flowing through the city.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Dveri

Traditional Bosnian cuisine in a cozy environment with local wines and fresh breads.
BAM25, 1h30m
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Day 7: Austrian Alps Day

Hallstatt, Austria on August 1, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast & Travel

Head by train from Sarajevo through Croatia and Slovenia to Hallstatt in Austria, travelling approximately 8 hours via connections.
EUR80, 8h0m

3:30pm

Explore Hallstatt Village

Walk this UNESCO village famous for alpine lakeside charm and mountain scenery; ideal prime spot for photos and relaxing lakeshore walks.
Free, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Gasthof Zauner

Traditional Austrian meals focusing on fresh freshwater fish and schnitzel served with mountain views.
EUR30, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Hallstatt

Day 8: Hallstatt & Dachstein Mountains

Hallstatt, Austria on August 2, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Café

Enjoy a light breakfast of coffee and pastries before mountain adventures begin.
EUR12, 1h0m

8:30am

Dachstein Krippenstein Cable Car & Ice Caves

Take the panoramic cable car to explore the Dachstein Ice Cave and Mammut Cave, open 9am-5pm, surrounded by alpine hiking trails with wild swimming spots near mountain lakes.
EUR32, 4h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Berggasthof Krippenstein

Mountain hut with hearty Austrian dishes and spectacular views ideal for resting after cave tours and hikes.
EUR20, 1h0m

2:30pm

Hiking & Wild Swimming at Obertraun Lakes

Accessible alpine lakes nearby perfect for cooling down and swimming surrounded by natural scenery.
Free, 3h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Gasthof Simony

Enjoy traditional Austrian dishes with fresh mountain ingredients to end the day revitalized.
EUR35, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Hallstatt

Day 9: Montenegro Coastal Beauty

Kotor, Montenegro on August 3, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast & Travel

Travel via train and bus from Hallstatt to Kotor by early afternoon, journey includes scenic routes through Slovenia and Croatia towards the Adriatic coast.
EUR70, 7h0m

2:30pm

Lunch at Konoba Scala Santa

Taste local Montenegrin specialties like fresh seafood and herbs from the bay area.
EUR30, 1h0m

4:00pm

Explore Old Town Kotor

Walk the medieval UNESCO World Heritage old town with fortress views overlooking the bay, perfect for a gentle introduction to Montenegrin culture.
Free, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Galion

Enjoy spectacular sunset views with Mediterranean-style dishes and fresh fish.
EUR35, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Kotor

Day 10: Bay of Kotor Wild Swimming

Bay of Kotor, Montenegro on August 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy local pastries and coffee to prepare for a day of swimming and coastal exploration.
Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Boat Excursion & Wild Swimming

Take a boat tour of the bay with multiple stops for swimming in serene bays and discovering hidden caves accessible only by water.
EUR40, 4h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Perper Restaurant

Lively restaurant right on the water serving fresh seafood and Mediterranean flavors.
EUR30, 1h0m

3:00pm

Hike to St. John’s Fortress

Climb the fortress trail for panoramic views of the bay (1-2 hours round trip), a moderate hike with stunning vistas.
Free, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Old Winery Wine Bar

Sample local wines paired with light bites, a great way to unwind after an active day.
EUR25, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Bay of Kotor

Day 11: Croatia's Plitvice Lakes

Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia on August 5, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast & Travel

Early departure by bus towards Plitvice Lakes (approx 5 hours) ensuring arrival before afternoon to explore the park.
EUR40, 5h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Licka Kuca

Taste traditional Lika region cooking near the park entrance to fuel your afternoon adventures.
EUR20, 1h0m

1:30pm

Plitvice Lakes National Park Tour

Explore one of Europe’s most beautiful natural wonders with cascading waterfalls, turquoise lakes, and accessible walking trails open 7am-8pm.
EUR45, 4h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Hotel Bellevue

Comfortable dining featuring local dishes and fresh trout caught in nearby waters.
EUR30, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Plitvice Lakes National Park

Day 12: Dalmatian Coast Wild Swimming

Split, Croatia on August 6, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast & Travel

Morning bus or train journey of roughly 3 hours from Plitvice area to the coastal city of Split.
EUR25, 3h0m

11:00am

Explore Diocletian's Palace

Visit this stunning Roman palace complex at the heart of Split with extensive historical architecture and lively city atmosphere.
Free, 2h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Konoba Fetivi

Try fresh seafood and Mediterranean dishes in a traditional Dalmatian konoba inside the palace area.
EUR20, 1h0m

2:30pm

Wild Swimming at Kašjuni Beach

Take a short bus to a calm, scenic beach inside a protected cove offering crystal-clear water ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
Bus EUR3, 3h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Villa Spiza

Enjoy fresh Dalmatian specialties in a cozy, locally loved restaurant in the old town area.
EUR25, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Split

Day 13: Hvar Island Adventure

Hvar, Croatia on August 7, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast & Ferry

Breakfast followed by ferry from Split to Hvar Island, about 1h ferry ride offering beautiful Adriatic views.
EUR15, 2h0m

10:00am

Explore Hvar Town & Fortica Fortress

Walk the historic town and hike the trail to the Fortica Fortress for panoramic views over the island and sea.
Free, 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Dalmatino

Enjoy Mediterranean and Croatian cuisine using fresh seafood and locally sourced ingredients.
EUR30, 1h0m

2:30pm

Wild Swimming at Dubovica Beach

Short taxi or bus ride to secluded pebble beach perfect for swimming in turquoise waters, surrounded by rugged coastline.
Taxi EUR10, 3h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Konoba Menego

Quaint restaurant offering authentic island dishes including home-made pasta and grilled seafood.
EUR28, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Hvar

Day 14: Return to Slovenia

Ljubljana, Slovenia on August 8, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast & Ferry Back

Morning ferry from Hvar to Split, followed by train to Ljubljana, making for a scenic travel day.
EUR40, 5h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Druga Violina

Traditional Slovenian food served in a social enterprise restaurant, near Ljubljana old town.
EUR15, 1h0m

2:00pm

Ljubljana Castle & City Walk

Explore the hilltop castle with panoramic views and stroll through the charming city center and riverside paths.
EUR12, 3h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Julija Restaurant

Dine on refined Slovenian cuisine in a lovely setting in the heart of town.
EUR30, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Ljubljana

Day 15: Triglav National Park

Triglav National Park, Slovenia on August 9, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast & Bus to Park

Travel by bus to Triglav National Park, gateway to Slovenia’s alpine wonders, open for hikes and nature swimming year-round.
EUR15, 2h0m

9:00am

Hiking around Lake Bohinj

Explore the largest alpine lake in Slovenia with easy trails, crystal blue water perfect for wild swim, and nearby waterfalls to discover.
Free, 4h0m

1:00pm

Picnic Lunch by Lake

Packed lunch enjoying nature's serenity beside pristine waters and mountain backdrop.
EUR10 (self-prepared), 1h0m

2:00pm

Waterfall Hike to Savica

Easy 1.5km hike to the stunning Savica Waterfall, one of the park’s most photographed landmarks and a refreshing place to cool off.
EUR3, 2h0m

5:00pm

Return to Ljubljana

Bus back to Ljubljana; rest after a full day of alpine adventures.
EUR15, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Gostilna As

Contemporary Slovenian cuisine with excellent wines and local ingredients in a warm atmosphere.
EUR35, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Triglav National Park

Day 16: Lake Wolfgang & Salzkammergut

St. Wolfgang, Austria on August 10, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast & Travel

Travel by train and bus from Ljubljana across Austria to St. Wolfgang in the Salzkammergut region renowned for crystal-clear lakes and alpine beauty.
EUR50, 5h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Gasthof Weißes Rössl

Enjoy traditional Austrian food with fabulous lakefront views and fresh fish specialties.
EUR30, 1h0m

2:00pm

Wild Swimming & Lakeside Walks

Relax and swim in Lake Wolfgang, known for clean waters and lush surroundings; ideal for an afternoon of natural beauty and refreshing dips.
Free, 3h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Weißes Rössl

Dinner featuring seasonal Austrian dishes with a lakeside ambiance to round out the day.
EUR35, 1h30m
Find Hotels in St. Wolfgang

Day 17: Salzburg Highlights

Salzburg, Austria on August 11, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast & Travel

Morning commute by train (approx 1h30m) to Salzburg, birthplace of Mozart with baroque architecture and surrounding mountains.
EUR20, 1h30m

10:00am

Hohensalzburg Fortress & Old Town

Explore one of Europe’s largest medieval castles and wander the charming pedestrian historic center.
EUR15, 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at St. Peter Stiftskeller

Eat in one of the oldest restaurants in Europe, enjoying classic Austrian dishes and local wines.
EUR35, 1h30m

2:30pm

Walk the Salzach River & Müllner Bräu Beer Garden

Relax near the river and try local brews with snacks at this scenic beer garden popular with locals.
EUR15, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Gasthof Goldgasse

Modern Austrian with local flair; a gastronomic end to your exploration of Salzburg.
EUR40, 1h30m
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Day 18: Swiss Return & Serenity

Lucerne, Switzerland on August 12, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast & Travel

Train trip from Salzburg to Lucerne (~5 hours) through stunning alpine regions; arrive midday for lake and mountain views.
CHF60, 5h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Restaurant Stern Luzern

Traditional Swiss food in a historic building near the lake; try local specialties like Älplermagronen.
CHF30, 1h0m

2:00pm

Lake Lucerne Walk & Wild Swimming

Stroll along the lake promenade and dip into designated swimming areas in the clean, cold alpine lake waters.
Free, 3h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Wirtshaus Taube

Enjoy a relaxed Swiss meal featuring local meats, cheeses, and freshly baked breads.
CHF35, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Lucerne

Day 19: Final Day & Departure

Zurich, Switzerland on August 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast & Travel to Zurich

Morning train to Zurich (about 1 hour) for airport access and final city stroll if time permits.
CHF25, 1h0m

10:00am

Lake Zurich Promenade Walk

Leisurely walk along the lake with beautiful mountain views in the distance, great for a last wild swim or peaceful reflection.
Free, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Zeughauskeller

Hearty Swiss cuisine in a historic armory setting, with specialties such as sausages and rösti.
CHF30, 1h0m

2:00pm

Departure Preparation

Return to hotel or head straight to Zurich Airport for onward travel.
Varies, Variable
Find Hotels in Zurich
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