Slovenia is criss-crossed with hiking and mountain trails. Although many people think of the high Alpine peaks, there's plenty to see and do in the lowlands, too. Lowland hiking trails take you through picturesque landscapes, past interesting places where you can get to know the hospitable locals, their daily life and rich cultural heritage, but you won't miss out on the occasional scenic hill. Here are some great hiking ideas for a lowland hike which will surely leave a lasting impression on you. Change your perspective and enjoy a hiking experience in the lowlands.
Thinking of where to go for the weekend? Maybe with family members who are not keen on difficult and (too) long hiking challenges? Well, we have some ideas for shorter day trips through the wonders of nature.
Length: 8 km
Time: 3 h
Otliško okno (Otlica Window) is certainly one of the most fascinating natural sights of the Vipava Valley. Its outstanding view of the valley makes it a popular hiking destination. The closest access to this natural wonder is from the nearby village of Otlica, but if you fancy a bit more of a challenge, you can hike to the window along the trail from the source of the Hubelj stream above Ajdovščina. You will be rewarded with views of the Vipava Valley, the Karst and the Adriatic Sea. The well-marked trail, which follows easy terrain, is also suitable for a family trip.
Length: 37,4 km
Time: 8 - 9 h
You can take a day trip on foot or by bicycle to explore the borders of the Rudolfswerth area, as Novo mesto used to be called. The area was designated by the founder of Novo mesto, Rudolf IV of Habsburg, in the foundation charter in 1365. Most of the trail leads along the Krka River, through villages, along country lanes and past numerous wine-growing hills full of vineyard cottages, which are considered to be an ethnological peculiarity of the Dolenjska region. The trail is not too difficult, with only two climbs and a total difference in altitude of 800m.
Length: 8,1 km
Time: 3,5 h
Experience the authentic Vipava cultural and natural landscape along the typical stone paths on the slopes of Čaven, with exceptional views and experiences of Vipava life then and now. During the climb to the 900m high Kopitnik you will meet a beautifully preserved church, walk along the Napoleon Trail and get to know the only natural lake in the Vipava Valley.
Length: 7,3 km
Time: 3 h
As you drive towards the sea, the mighty Nanos plateau greets you above the typical Karst landscape. There are several access trails to its summit. Experienced mountaineers can reach Nanos from the village of Razdrto, which lies along the motorway. Alternatively, you can take an easier trail. Whichever direction you take, you will be greeted at the top by a magnificent view of the Vipava Valley and across the Karst to the Adriatic Sea on one side, and the Ljubljana Basin and the Julian Alps with Triglav on the other.
Length: 16,4 km
Time: 4 - 5 h
The trail does not have such a confident-sounding name for nothing, as you will be amazed by what you see as you wander through the hinterland of Slovenian Istria. The rugged terrain, unspoilt nature, spectacular views from the long Kuk-Lačna ridge to the Karst Edge, the interior of Istria and the Bay of Koper – all these are assets that should not be overlooked. In Hrastovlje you can also visit the Church of the Holy Trinity with its famous fresco of the Dance of the Dead.
Length: 3,6 km
Time: 1 h
The Velenje Heart Trails were named for a very specific reason, as they were originally designed for the rehabilitation of heart patients and for cardiovascular strengthening. The trails are relatively short and involve little climbing, but are just strenuous enough to strengthen the heart without risk. The Great Trail is one of the three trails along the Škale and Velenje Lakes, which offer hikers beautiful panoramic views of the lakes and the surrounding area.
Length: 7,5 km
Time: 12 h
If you are ever wandering in the Karst and come across a sheep carved in stone, follow it. This is the symbol of the village of Pliskovica and the educational trail through the Karst landscape. And where will it take you? Into the Karst commons, past endless dry stone walls built by the local people. With the help of information boards along the way, you will learn about the peculiarities of the Karst commons, the birds of the area, and will get the answer to the question of what the ponds and puddles were once used for and why they are still important today.
Length: 12 km
Time: 6 h
This circular trail reveals the wonderful world of the 4 waterfalls of Posavje and offers a great idea for a day trip. First you will reach the Bojanca waterfall, which requires a little more effort, as it is accessible via rock jumps on iron staples. The trail, which is more difficult in places, also takes you to the Pekel, Ubijavnik and Bojavnik waterfalls. A walk among the waterfalls is especially pleasant in summer, when you need more freshness.
It’s a great idea to get out into nature to calm your mind and recharge your batteries. But you can also learn something new. The thematic and educational trails combine just that – getting outdoors and exploring the natural and cultural heritage and local history at the same time. Which trail will you choose?
If you do not have the time or the fitness for several days of hiking, Slovenia has a middle option – trails in the lower areas that will give you a good workout but can still be completed in a day or two.
Length: 81,6 km
Time: 20 h / 2 days
Recharge yourself with the energy of fire, water, earth and air, the four elements that also inspire the 80-kilometre trail through Pomurje. The circular trail, loved by hikers and cyclists alike, leads through the border area of Slovenia and Hungary, where strong energy lines intertwine. So, in addition to natural, historical and cultural sights and culinary delights, you will come across three well-studied energy parks and several free spots of the earth's energy springs.
Length: 64 km
Time: 18 h / 2 days
Dare you enter the kingdom of the brown bear? Follow the symbols of the bear's paw and explore the forests of Kočevski Rog. On the trail, which is divided into 3 stages and starts at Rudnik Lake, you will encounter ancient virgin forests, the Rajhenav fir tree – the queen of Kočevski Rog, the remains of mills and the lost villages of the Gottschee Germans.
Among the trails that criss-cross Slovenia, there are also several long-distance trails. Most of them are international trails, but some of them only cross Slovenian territory. You can walk the length and breadth of Slovenia and discover its natural, cultural and culinary diversity.
If you fancy a multi-day hiking challenge, you will also find interesting trails in the lower parts of Slovenia that are worth taking the time to explore. And it is worth the effort, because at the end of your hiking adventure, you will be rewarded with great memories and unforgettable experiences.
Length: 159 km (Slovenian part)
Time: 7 days
The Slovenian Dinaric Karst hiking trail to Croatia is a delight, with deep forests and meadows, beautiful Karst phenomena and waters that often disappear underground to create works of art. The Karst caves and intermittent lakes here are a world-renowned phenomenon. The trail leads past fascinating castles, through pretty villages and up to rocky peaks that offer exceptionally beautiful views. The unspoilt nature also surprises with its rich flora and fauna. A beautiful world worth exploring on foot.
Length: 110 km
Time: 4 days
Number of checkpoints: 7
The circular trail through the Primorje-Notranjska region takes its name from one of the best-known literary heroes, Martin Krpan, who was characterised by his strength and courage. Let these virtues help you on your multi-day adventure past intermittent lakes, Karst caves, castle ruins and preserved mansions. On your way through the woods, across meadows and pastures, you might meet a deer or a fox, or even a bear if you are really lucky.
Length: 189km
Time: 8 days
Number of stages: 12
Length of stages: 8 – 26km
If you want to escape the urban rush for at least a few days, the Loka Mountain Trail is the right choice for you. It will take you through the idyllic Loka countryside, which does not skimp on the beauty of nature and the romance of remote settlements surrounded by green hills. Here, time stands still so that you can once again enjoy the simplicity and the genuine relationship with nature and people. Along the way you can meet warm-hearted people, discover life on remote farms, taste local cuisine, enjoy green views and experience the rich hiking tradition in the hilly foothills of the Alpine world.
Total length: 750km
Average time of stages: 6 h
Number of stages: 8 (in Slovenia)
The Alpe Adria International Trail is all about enjoyment. Although the Slovenian part of the trail starts in the Julian Alps, it gradually leads you to the Karst and on to the coast. Each stage leads along a marked trail that can be taken in either direction. There is always something to eat along the way, and each stage ends in a place with suitable accommodation.
Length: 200km
Time: 12 days
Are you ready for a unique hiking experience from Bizeljsko to Kum, the famous peak in Zasavje? The Zasavje Mountain Trail is a mountain circuit connecting Zasavje and Posavje. It mostly leads you through urban valleys and secluded plateaus, and along the way you can relax in 12 mountain huts and village inns. There are 19 checkpoints with stamps along the trail.
With its diverse terrain, Slovenia has the potential to enchant you and satisfy your hiking desires. Whether you discover the country on foot or by bike, you can see and experience much more than you would otherwise. So, take your time, put on your hiking boots or hop on your bike and enjoy the outdoor activities.
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Slovenia is a hiking paradise. More than 10,000 kilometres of marked hiking trails.
How to see Slovenia on foot? Refer to this publication to find detailed descriptions of individual trails around Slovenia and the accommodation selection in particular areas.
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