Stol (also Veliki Stol) or Hochstuhl, at 2,236 m , is the highest mountain of the Karawanks and straddles the border between Slovenia and Austria. The Slovene name Veliki Stol, meaning ‘great chair’, is derived from the visual appearance of the mountain, especially when seen from the east. The German name Hochstuhl (‘high chair’), was not introduced until the late 19th century. In previous times, the German designation was Stou, a phonetic derivation of the Slovene name.
Lake Bled and Stol in the back in the middle
We have started our walk from Valvasorjev dom (Valvasor Hut) and followed “Žirovniška pot” route to the top. It says 3h to the top, we have done it in a little over 2h without stops. You can find the description of the route here. You have to beat around 1100 altitude meters to reach the top. I have to say it is quite steep but it is an easy not demanding route. Under the small peak, there is Prešernova koča (Prešern Hut) at 2193m. On the way up and on the top you will enjoy awesome views over Bled lake, Julian Alps with Mt. Triglav (the highest Slovenian mountain) as the backdrop.
The trail starts in the woods
Bled lake in the back
If you can, grab a log and bring it to the top to the Hut for heating
Awesome views along the way
First sight of the top
The higher you go, the better the scenery…. Bled lake on the left, Mt. Triglav on the back-right, with Jesenice and Sava river on the right
Almost there… this is the saddle …10min to the top
Made it on the top! With the log for the Hut 🙂 Photo credit: Ana
Behind the small peak is the Prešern Hut
This is Austria
Lake Bled
Mt. Triglav in the back
