8th Oct 2026 - 12th Oct 2026
5 days/Slovenia /Moderate
Join us on a brand new swimming adventure and explore the alpine lakes and rivers of Slovenia.
This trip has been designed with the Bluetits Chill Swimmers to allow you to dip in some of Slovenia’s most beautiful swimming and dipping spots, amongst stunning autumnal colours.
You’ll do more than just visit (and swim!) in Slovenia’s most famous Lake Bled. Each day we will enjoy a scenic journey, travelling around the edges of the majestic Julian Alps, to seek out some truly amazing dipping locations, from lakes to mountain rivers.
The Bluetits Chill Swimmers is a social enterprise committed to empowering an inclusive community of cold water dippers. They now have more than 100,000 Bluetits across the globe.
This trip has been graded as moderate, our lowest level of difficulty. You do not need to be a member of the Bluetits Chill Swimmers or a great swimmer to take part in this adventure. The Bluetit ethos is about encouraging people to enjoy the water, even if it is just dipping your toes in!
This is not a challenge, just a chance to meet some like-minded individuals for a fun swimming adventure.
You do not need to be a Bluetit or have any experience of wild swimming to take part in this adventure. It is advised that you know how to tread water to be able to get the most enjoyment out of the trip.
This trip has been graded as moderate for someone of good fitness. A Bluetit motto is ‘No Bluetit Left Behind!’ so what is most important is that you feel able to enjoy the weekend.
You will never be pressured to go out of your depth or beyond your comfort zone when it comes to swimming but you must be able to tread water in order to get the most out of this wild swimming adventure.
Temperatures can typically peak to around 16°C during the day and drop to around 5°C at night however you must be prepared for variations to this which are out of our control. Weather during the trip can be quite cool at this time of year so you are recommended to take warmer clothes – especially to warm up for after your dips!
Please note: the temperatures and conditions above are historically accurate but climate change can impact the seasons so you may experience uncharacteristic conditions during the trip which are out of our control. The guides will assess the situation and make decisions to ensure the best enjoyment and safety of the group.
The average water temperature in the area in October is around 12°C but can feel colder with historic lows of 8°C and highs of 17°C. However the weather can have a dramatic effect and the temperatures can vary.
We encourage you to take part in ‘The Bluetit Chorus’, which involves plenty of singing, shouting and the odd swear word to help your breath to acclimatise to the cold. Only you know your body, and we advise that you take things easy and allow your body and mind to acclimatise to the cold gradually.
You will be provided with locally sourced breakfasts and lunches to keep your energy levels high for each day of discovery.
Please note that dinner is not included on days 2 and 3. Local restaurants can be recommended but this will be at your own cost.
Please inform us in advance if you have any dietary requirements or preferences.
Anyone aged 18+ can take part in the adventure. You must have a good level of fitness, able to self-manage (e.g. you know how to keep hydrated, nourished, warm and dry) and be in good health. You will enjoy the trip to the fullest if you enjoy being outdoors and want to gently challenge your limits with a supportive group of people. The Bluetit values are Trust, Fun and Inclusivity, and if you share these, you will love this holiday!
Please also note that all participants must be able to swim and tread water comfortably.
You will be accompanied by a Bluetit host who is a qualified swim coach as well as a local guide who has an excellent knowledge of culture in the region. The guides are first aid trained and will support you throughout your journey.
Accommodation will be in a mix of working farms, Alpine cottages and family run hotels.
Rooms will be on a twin-share basis. There may be single rooms available, please enquire about costs and availability.
You will need to wear comfortable walking boots or sturdy trainers for when we walk to swim locations. We advise you to bring waterproofs given the inclement weather we can experience in the mountains
Normal swimwear is adequate for swimming. A tow float, swim shoes and brightly-coloured hat are essential for safety reasons. Other swimming accessories, such as wet suits, rash vests, swim shoes, gloves, goggles etc., are not essential but may make you feel more comfortable.
You will also need to bring some dry clothes to change into after your swim. Your body temperature continues to cool for 20-30 minutes after you exit the water and warming up immediately is essential. Loose-fitting clothes, such as big fleecy pyjamas and oversized jumpers, are easier to put on with numb hands and fingers. A wooly hat and big gloves or mittens are also helpful.
Please see the full suggested kit list below.
London – Ljubljana – Kranjska Gora
Fly from London to Ljubljana where we meet our local guide and set off along the northern edge of the Julian Alps to our first base, the beautiful alpine town of Kranjska Gora. Depending on our arrival time there may be the chance for a dip, before enjoying a welcome dinner this evening.
Meals: Dinner
Kranjska Gora
After breakfast we set off for a scenic drive through the Julian Alps, stopping for a swim in a valley lake surrounded by dramatic peaks. This afternoon we continue to a couple of different locations for a dip in the sapphire blue waters of the Soca River. Enjoy some free time this evening.
Meals: Breakfast & lunch
Kranjska Gora to The Lakes
Today we head off to our second base, located between Lakes Bled and Bohinj. We will stop for a dip enroute in a historical pond, whose waters are said to contain healing properties.
After settling into our accommodation there will be a chance to swim in one of the lakes later this afternoon.
Meals: Breakfast & lunch
The Lakes
Today’s highlights will be the chance to swim in two of Slovenia’s most iconic lakes, Bled and Bohinj. Indulge in the waters before we tuck into a scenic picnic lunch on the shores of the lake. This afternoon there may also be time for a river swim later in the day. This evening we enjoy a farewell meal together.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Ljubljana – UK
Depending on flight times there may be a chance for a final dip before we transfer to the airport for the return flight to the UK.
Meals: Breakfast
N.B. This itinerary may change due to weather, the ability of the group and so on. We will do our best to keep to the itinerary but we cannot be held responsible for changes outside of our control. In all circumstances your guide and tour leader will have the final say in the interest health and safety.
Total trip cost: £1,895
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