To be completely candid, I had been eyeing this particular peak for quite a few years. A moderately challenging day hike in the Julian Alps, it promised enchanting vistas of a pristine lake. Mt. Jerebica, a stunning hike throughout, truly exceeded expectations when it revealed its magnificent perspective on the glacial Rabeljsko Jezero (Lake of Predil) from a height of a thousand meters.

However, despite my deep connection to the mountains, Jerebica had always eluded me until recently. A couple of years back, I attempted to conquer it but fell short due to insufficient preparation. A single wrong turn early on in the trail could lead you into a labyrinth of expansive Karst holes and crevices rather than to the lush grass-covered peak overlooking the turquoise lake. Nevertheless, when I finally triumphed over Jerebica, the experience left me utterly awestruck. Here's everything you need to know about this captivating hike near a picturesque lake.

Driving through seemingly deserted villages en route to the Lake of Predil, nestled in a forested and mountainous landscape, I opted for the quicker of the two hiking routes to Jerebica. This 2,126-meter peak, straddling the border between Slovenia and Italy, can be accessed from both countries. Both routes offer stunning views, but the key distinction lies in their lengths, depending on whether you start from Slovenia or Italy.

Starting from Ljubljana, my journey took roughly an hour and a half (an hour from Bled) to reach the Italian trailhead, which I favored. Conversely, opting for the Slovenian side would add an extra 40 minutes to the drive (20 minutes each way) and extend the hike by over 3 hours. Personally, I found the added length unfeasible. Nevertheless, if you happen to be in the Soča Valley, consider hiking Jerebica from the Slovenian side, as it is said to be exceptionally beautiful.

Additionally, the Italian trail was noted as less challenging compared to the more exposed Slovenian path, making it suitable for my canine companion. A brief stop at the Lake of Predil revealed the rugged northeastern side of Mt. Jerebica, towering a thousand meters above the valley. As I continued along the lake toward the trailhead, the mountain's demeanor shifted to a more inviting and verdant appearance.

The trail, which commenced a few hundred meters past the Lake of Predil, immediately began a steep ascent through a lush beech and fir forest, later transitioning into splendid meadows offering breathtaking views of even higher mountains across the valley. A couple, who had been slightly behind me on the same trail, began to catch up. Normally, I'd have been too competitive to let them pass, but in this enchanting setting, I was captivated by the beauty around me. The golden sunlight filtered through the tall trees, casting a shimmer on the smooth beech trunks. In the distance, the majestic 2,753-meter Montaž and 2,666-meter Viš stood tall, dominating the Jezerska Dolina (Val Rio del Lago in Italian), while the colossal 2K wall with the 2,208-meter Rombon loomed above the Možnica Valley. All this beauty, coupled with wildflower-strewn meadows, created a truly magical atmosphere.

I sat amidst the wildflowers, gazing at the mountains in awe, and let the couple pass. As I reclined on the soft grass, basking in the warm morning sun, the silence enveloped me, and my mind found perfect equilibrium in the stillness. I lingered in that empty meadow for quite some time, pondering the couple who had swiftly reached the summit of Jerebica. It was a blessing that they hurried ahead.

During my ascent to the summit, I took a brief detour to 2,008-meter Gorenji Rob, another charming grassy peak with stunning 360-degree views of the Julian Alps. However, it didn't provide a sneak peek of Lake Predil, a privilege reserved solely for those who reached the pinnacle of Jerebica.

The trail to Jerebica was not technically challenging, though there were a few spots where I had to use my hands to navigate safely. Remarkably, my furry companion effortlessly traversed all the tricky sections, wearing a subtle smile of satisfaction. Upon reaching the summit, I was left speechless. The glacial lake sparkled a thousand meters below, appearing smaller from a distance but equally awe-inspiring. Surrounded by steep emerald mountains that stretched endlessly in all directions – Slovenia, Italy, and even Austria in the distance – the turquoise-hued Lake of Predil seemed so surreal that it felt like a scene from a fairy tale. Pure and utter perfection.