Cerem – Balqin – Doberdol

The hike towards the high-lying border triangle takes you across flower carpets and temporarily into former Yugoslavia territory. Along the way, you can enjoy forest fruits, admire plant life and the breathtaking views of Mt. Kolata (2.534 m). Reaching the rim of the deep cut river canyon and following the high route through a conifer forest, you notice just how much the relief changes between the Western and Eastern Alps. Slopes are speckled with alpine pastures, you can rest in one of them and meet the herdsmen over coffee and raki. In the glacial-shaped valley of Doberdol (1.750 m), animals roam the grazing grounds freely and time appears frozen. Locals still live in harmony with nature, as humankind did many years ago. This archaic place helps reset the inner compass and will surely ground your soul. In the simple shepherd’s huts, you relinquish comfort for one night, in return for warm hospitality. The family prepares the meals, and you learn more about the seasonal lifestyle of the shepherds at the bonfire.