Slovenia is a green land of unique, boutique experiences, whose aim is sustainable development. We respect the legacy of our grandfathers and grandmothers and strive to preserve natural and cultural heritage for future generations. In the world’s only country that has love in its name, we are in love with the picturesque nature that surrounds us. Did you know that 13% of Slovenia’s territory consists of protected areas? These are home to many rare and even endangered animal and plant species, so it’s especially important that we act responsibly and respectfully. The largest protected area is Triglav National Park, which is also one of Slovenia’s most visited areas. So it’s good if we remind you of some rules and recommendations for conduct to ensure future generations will also be able to enjoy nature’s beauty after our visit.
Nature and its inhabitants rest in wintertime. It’s only right that we don’t bother them and are considerate towards them during our winter activities. Check out five practical tips for a responsible visit to Triglav National Park in winter.
Numerous animals hibernate or sleep during winter. Others forage for food and seek shelter in difficult snowy conditions and low temperatures. Let’s be considerate visitors and enable animals to survive winter as easily as possible.
If available, use public transport. If you venture into nature with your own car, adjust your driving to winter conditions and park only in designated car parks.
Observe the current winter conditions and choose suitable hiking trails. Keep in mind that days are shorter and weather conditions more extreme. Venture into the mountains with suitable equipment and in good physical condition.
Choose established trails for ski touring which avoid the most sensitive animal species in Triglav National Park.
In the vicinity of quiet areas, which are intended to ensure the highest level of peace and quiet for the animal world, be exceptionally considerate towards the inhabitants. Bypass them in silence as quickly as possible on maintained mountain trails.
Why take the car when you go into the wild, when you can enjoy riding a bicycle with the wind in your hair or smelling the fresh smells of the forests and meadows while walking. This way you can experience nature with all the senses. If you still need to use your own transport to get to the starting point of a climb in the mountains, for example, then park in a car park and enquire about the possibilities of using public transport, such as free buses that take you to Alpine valleys.
If it’s the adrenaline of mountain biking that’s drawing you into the wild, then choose only trails that have been reinforced. Some mountain bike trails are indicated. Riding on terrain that has not been reinforced can lead to serious consequences for the natural environment and can also trigger soil erosion. Using motor-powered vehicles (including motocross bikes and quads) is forbidden in the wild, or is limited to public and uncategorised roads that are used for public road transport.
In Slovenia we say it’s not the mountain that’s crazy but whoever goes up it. In order to tame this “madness” at least a little, we should prepare well for our trips into the mountains. Not only the summit but also the route you choose is important. The route should suit your physical condition and also check if you have the right equipment. When planning your trip into the mountains do not forget to check the weather forecast so you don’t get caught out by bad weather. Walk on well-maintained and marked paths, which you can recognise by the Knafelc waymarks (a white and red circle).
It’s hard to resist the irresistible beauty of the starry sky, which is particularly magical out in the wild. But don’t let it seduce you into sleeping under the canopy of stars just anywhere. In Slovenia wild camping is prohibited. But we do have a big selection of campsites, glamping accommodation and motorhome stopovers in a natural setting, where you will be able to satisfy your romantic soul by sleeping under the stars.
The high mountain lakes you come across on your hikes through Slovenia’s mountains are so beautiful and crystal clean that you could just run into them. But don’t do that as bathing in high mountain lakes is forbidden. Instead, admire them from the shore and breathe in their freshness and beauty. It’s better if you find your refreshing aquatic moments in natural swimming pools and swimming areas in the valleys.
When walking in Slovenian nature you will be able to enjoy the smells and colours of various flowers. Admire them and take photographs of them in their natural habitat. Where they grow is where they are most beautiful. Especially in the protected areas it’s important that plants are allowed to grow undisturbed in their natural environment as they may be rare or even endangered species. Animals that live in natural ecosystems also appreciate peace and quiet, so don’t make any noise and keep your dogs under control. Slovenian nature has a wealth of herbs and fruits but don’t forget moderation when gathering them. Gather only what you know and in the permitted quantities.
Do you know where milk tastes best? Undoubtedly on our pastures where the animals graze in the summer months. Mountain pastures retain their authenticity and this can also be tasted in the milk and dairy products. Velika Planina is best known for its pasture farming tradition, but there is also a lot of it around Bohinj. When you head off to try these authentic dairy tastes on the pastures, or when you just go past, walk only on the maintained trails and do not disturb the grazing animals. Meanwhile, keep your canine friends on a leash.
In the countryside, man and nature go hand in hand. The people who live here have coexisted with nature for generations, know its laws and respect it. In Slovenia we have four biosphere areas that belong to UNESCO’s Man and Biosphere (MAB) network. Discover this harmony and respect it. Discover the beauty of each area in an unobtrusive manner and respect the local population and its property. Do not cause any damage to the forests and meadows, and do not touch the crops and the machinery in the fields. This way the locals will welcome you with open arms.
Return from your trip to the wild with only fresh energy, photographs to remember the trip, and your rubbish. Would the remains and packaging of your snack go well with the natural beauty you see on the trip? Not very well, I don’t think. Better throw them in the bins for separate waste collection. Also ensure your visit to the wild is not disturbing and noisy. Instead, enjoy the privilege of the peace and quiet offered by nature.
What you publish on social networks can have a big impact on nature. Post photos and videos of your responsible and safe visits. Trips into the wild should not be just an uncritical pursuit of the most popular sights, but an experience adapted to yourself and a responsible experience, caught by the camera in passing. Find out where you need a permit for making a video.
We are aware that we live on a small piece of green paradise on earth. That’s why we have such a great responsibility to preserve the natural and cultural wealth for those who will come after us. This is why Slovenia chose the path of sustainability years ago. Go down this path together with us.
Slovenia is a pioneer in the field of strategic sustainable tourism development on a national level. Over 280 Slovenian destinations and tourism service providers have successfully obtained the Slovenia Green label, which reflects their sustainable approach and responsible behaviour towards the environment. Discover your favourite green corners and experiences and join us in creating a better future.
MoreSlovenia is a pioneer in the field of strategic sustainable tourism development on a national level. Over 280 Slovenian destinations and tourism service providers have successfully obtained the Slovenia Green label, which reflects their sustainable approach and responsible behaviour towards the environment. Discover your favourite green corners and experiences and join us in creating a better future.
MoreWe pride ourselves on our unspoilt nature and rich cultural heritage, which we actively protect for the generations to come. We encourage you to help us in achieving this. Follow the green guidelines for ensuring sustainable behaviour before, during, and after your visit to Slovenia, so as to have a positive impact on the natural environment and local communities.
MoreIf you decide to stay at a location or camping site for several days, you can give your motorhome some "rest" and choose a sustainable way of exploring the surroundings. Hop on a bicycle, take a trip to the city and explore its sights by public transportation, or perhaps it may be easier to rent an electric car and cruise the surrounding area.
MoreWe are proud that Slovenia ranks among the most environmentally friendly countries in the world. By implementing a number of green projects, we are making sure that it stays that way. We prioritise sustainable approaches in various areas of development, such as energy, transport, waste management, water resources management, biodiversity and tourism development.
MoreWe are aware that travel habits have changed over the past year, which is why we have decided to focus even more on sustainability and safety. When planning your next visit to Slovenia, keep an eye out for the Green&Safe label. The label testifies to our sustainable direction and high health and hygiene standards, among the first in the world to be acknowledged by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), which awarded us the Safe Travels Stamp.
MoreNature and its diversity are an inspiration for our outdoor activities, relaxation and creativity, both in the kitchen and in art. Take a walk through the vast forests, refresh yourself in its pure waters, climb the panoramic peaks and even experience excitement underground.
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