Kamnik-Savinja Alps

A wonderful Alpine world just a stone's throw from the cities.

A leap from city to mountain paradise

What's so special about the Kamnik-Savinja Alps? Stunningly beautiful green valleys, led by the extraordinary Logar Valley, surrounded by a mighty mountain backdrop of more than 30 two-thousanders, where life retains its authenticity and time stands still. Here, people still place great value on tradition and are happy to bring it to the attention of visitors. The mountain villages of Jezersko and Luče reflect the harmonious coexistence of nature and man. Hiking and biking adventures during the year are replaced in winter by skiing pleasures in the popular ski resorts of Krvavec, Golte and Velika planina. The magic of nature, where a wealth of clear and healthy waters flow, and where cattle still graze on the flourishing Velika planina, is only minutes away from the urban streets of major cities with rich cultural and historical heritage – the capital Ljubljana as well as Kranj and Kamnik.

Here I learned almost everything needed to climb much more notorious mountains. The advantage of the Kamnik-Savinja Alps lies in their variety and manageability.

Marko Prezelj, mountaineer, mountain guide and photographer, the only four-time winner of the Golden Ice Axe mountaineering award

The Kamnik-Savinja Alps in numbers

The mountain chain of the Kamnik-Savinja Alps in northern Slovenia, with its varied and in many places innocent appearance, offers a true paradise for exploring and enjoying mountain landscapes. It is characterised by highly diverse relief, with typical glacial and river valleys that cut into the heart of the mountain group. Here are some interesting facts about the Kamnik-Savinja Alps that you may not have known.

Altitude

Highest peaks over 2,500 m above sea level, 30 peaks over 2,000 m

Highest peak

Grintovec 2,558 metres

Vegetation

¾ of the area forested

Total length of ski runs

32,5 km (Krvavec, Velika planina)

Highest altitude farm in Slovenia: Bukovnik, Solčava (1,327 m)

Second highest pillar in Slovenian caves: A sinter column in Snow Cave (Snežna jama) on Raduha (21 m)

The highest mountain karst plateau in Slovenia: Velika planina (1,500 m)

Destinations in the Kamnik-Savinja Alps

From charming towns to idyllic mountain villages and hamlets – get to know the destinations in the area of the Kamnik-Savinja Alps.

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Upper Savinja Valley

An idyllic valley with an incredible natural backdrop where time stands still.

Kamnik

A charming medieval town nestled in the Kamnik-Savinja Alps.

Cerklje na Gorenjskem

Your first contact with Slovenia and its green Alpine landscape when you step off the plane.

Jezersko

A green valley and mountain pass where nature is at its most beautiful and preserves its traditional character.

Preddvor

A mountain spa town with romantic castles and Črnava lake below Storžič.

Luče

One of the most beautiful and authentic mountain towns with a rich tradition.

Sights worth visiting

The Kamnik-Savinja Alps area has many hidden cultural and natural treasures. Get to know the ones that are particularly worth a visit.

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Planšar Lake (Planšarsko jezero)

This heart-shaped lake was dammed by locals to commemorate the former large glacial lake that gave the place its name. Today it is a popular excursion destination and a starting point for a range of outdoor activities.

Črnava Lake (Jezero Črnava)

The small artificial lake at the foot of Storžič takes its name from the dark forest. There is a walking trail around the lake, which leads partly along the Little Forest Nature Trail.

Snow Cave

The highest located and oldest tourist cave in Slovenia, dating back 10 to 12 million years.

Rinka Waterfall

Embraced by the two-thousand-metre high Kamnik and Savinja Alps, at the top of Logar Valley, you can find the breath-taking and majestic 90-metre Rinka Waterfall.

Strmol Castle

This is one of the oldest and best-preserved castles in Slovenia.

Velika Planina

An easily accessible high-mountain plateau, where real shepherds can be seen on green pastures, and the pleasant aromas of sour milk, žganci and mountain tea are wafting from the typical cottages (“bajta”).

Safety comes first

Mountains and hills with their wild beauty and extensive views attract numerous mountaineers and hikers. But safety must be observed. When venturing on a hike, use suitable hiking equipment, check the weather forecast and choose the trails suited to your physical fitness.

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Active leisure opportunities all year round

The Kamnik-Savinja Alps are magnificent at any time of the year. Mountaineers are attracted by the mighty two-thousanders and picturesque valleys, biking enthusiasts by the panoramic trails, and fishermen and water adventurers by the clear waters. And when snow covers the landscape, a new range of opportunities for enjoying the outdoors opens up.

Hiking trails among friendly people

A dense network of marked hiking trails leads you to the most beautiful corners of the Kamnik-Savinja Alps, which you can experience in the company of experienced mountain guides on multi-day tours. While on popular mountain tours, you can enjoy refreshments in mountain lodges, where you will be welcomed by friendly caretakers. On themed hiking trails, discover the life and stories of the places at the foot of the mountains, where tradition is still highly respected by the locals.

Hiking trails among friendly people

Biking feats enhanced by spectacular views

There are plenty of opportunities for road cycling and mountain biking, but the rugged terrain means that the more demanding cyclists will enjoy it the most. The most popular among road cyclists is the scenic 130-kilometre route of the Marathon Alpe, which takes one around the Kamnik-Savinja Alps. Mountain bikers will enjoy the rugged terrain of scenic roads and cart tracks.

Expansive views from the two-thousanders

The grey rocks of the mighty two-thousanders attract hillwalkers and mountaineers who want more arduous mountain challenges. Grintovec, 2,558 metres high, reigns supreme among the more than 30 two-thousanders, while other popular mountaineering spots include Storžič, Kamniško sedlo and Skuta. You can experience a bit of mountaineering adrenaline on the via ferrata of Češka koča (Czech Lodge), which is considered to be one of the most difficult in Slovenia and should not be underestimated.

Clear Alpine rivers are a paradise for adventure lovers

The abundance of water resources in the Kamnik-Savinja Alps opens the door to many water experiences. Walking or cycling along the Alpine rivers and lakes will fill you with fresh energy. On hot summer days, enjoy refreshing adventures and take advantage of the lively rapids for adrenaline-pumping rafting and kayaking. Perhaps you’ll be tempted by more tranquil moments along the water and try your luck at fly-fishing.

Clear Alpine rivers are a paradise for adventure lovers

Winter fun in the snow

In the Kamnik-Savinja Alps, you can enjoy the joys of skiing at Krvavec, the high-altitude ski resort closest to the capital, as well as at several smaller ski resorts. The snow-covered slopes are also perfect for sledging, while the wide white fields invite you to go cross-country skiing. There's also plenty of terrain for touring skiers, ice climbers and snowshoe hikers. And the youngest will be delighted by the numerous ice-skating rinks.

Gliding on the wings of thermals

The Kamnik-Savinja Alps are a popular paragliding launch area, as the starting points are quickly and easily accessible. The breathtaking views and favourable thermals attract paragliders from Slovenia and abroad. The conditions for gliding are excellent and also enable tandem flights. Popular take-off points include Krvavec, Potoška gora and Sv. Lovrenc nad Bašljem, near Preddvor.

Tips for the most beautiful experiences

The natural features together with the rich traditions and culture create the perfect setting for unforgettable experiences in the Kamnik-Savinja Alps. Get to know the character of the places below Slovenia's second highest mountain range and enjoy the beauty of nature.

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The authentic life of mountain villages

Did you know that there are two places in the Kamnik-Savinja Alps that form part of the international network of mountain villages? They are distinguished by the authenticity of the villages themselves and of the life therein, without mass tourism, but they nevertheless offer a wide range of experiences.

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Luče

The pleasant mountain village of Luče is situated in the Upper Savinja Valley under Mt Raduha. It will entice you with its rich ethnological heritage, and it’s also an excellent starting point for climbing...

Jezersko

A green glacial valley that is a paradise for all who seek tranquillity in the mountains. The harmony between humans and nature is shown here in all its glory.

Tastes from beneath the Kamnik-Savinja Alps

From dairy delicacies to delicious meats, from sweet to savoury – find dishes with an Alpine twist to suit your taste. You're most likely to find them at Slovenia’s hospitable tourist farms.

Zgornjesavinjski želodec

This geographically protected cured meat made from high-quality pork and bacon is an exceptional cured meat product with more than 400 years of tradition.

Mohovt

A semi-cured cottage cheese spread with added cream, salt and caraway seeds, often served as a side dish with cured meats.

Maslovnik or masunjek

A traditional shepherd's dish made from sweet and sour cream mixed with a little white, buckwheat or corn flour.

Trnič

A savoury pear-shaped cheese decorated with carved "scripts", typical of the pastoral tradition of Velika planina.

Posmodúla

A typical Preddvor cake made from the remains of bread dough, coated with cream or lard spread and sprinkled with herbs and a slice or two of onion.

Cottage cheese strudel with tarragon

Fresh cottage cheese and herbs are the basis for a traditional mountain strudel prepared by homemakers from the slopes of Krvavec.

Plan your holiday in the embrace of the Kamnik-Savinja Alps

Take a relaxing break in the shelter of unspoilt nature, flanked by mighty Alpine peaks, or wander through charming towns rich in history? Take a look at the range of experiences that will turn your holiday into an unforgettable (mountain) fairy tale.

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Where to stay?

There's so much to experience in the Kamnik-Savinja Alps, you'll want to stay longer. Find the accommodation that suits you best.

Aužlak House.Apartments

TripAdvisor traveller rating Tripadvisor rating: 5.0

Glamping Resort Ljubno

Počitniška hiška Pod skalco

Alpske sanje Chalet

TripAdvisor traveller rating Tripadvisor rating: 4.1

Wellness Hotel Montis

96 Reviews

TripAdvisor traveller rating Tripadvisor rating: 4.6

Prenočišča Pri Cesarju

26 Reviews

Tourist Farm Trebušak

Apartmaji Otočec

TripAdvisor traveller rating Tripadvisor rating: 4.8

Penzion Repnik

50 Reviews

Apartma in sobe Jakob

Apartma Žirovnik

Glamping Golice

Images of the Kamnik-Savinja Alps as seen by visitors

Visit our Instagram profile @FeelSlovenia and share impressions, photos and videos from your trip to the Kamnik-Savinja Alps with #feelsLOVEnia and #myway.

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Enhance your view of Slovenia's beauty

The Kamnik-Savinja Alps are a good starting point for exploring other parts of Slovenia.

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Alpine Slovenia

Alpine Slovenia, at the heart of the mountains, along lakes and rivers. Visit Triglav National Park, Bled, Bohinj, Kranjska Gora and the Soča Valley.

Ljubljana & Central Slovenia

Liveliness of the capital and nature hikes – to primeval forests.

Regions

In its small corner of the world, Slovenia is the only European country lying at the crossroads of the Alps, the Mediterranean, the Karst and the Pannonian Plain.

Green story of Slovenia

Plan your holidays in green.

Countryside

The countryside – in the middle of nature, with locals, and enjoying local food.

Mountains

The most beautiful views await you on the tallest peaks.

Top 10 sights

Must-see attractions in green Slovenia!

Food and wine

Love is experienced through the stomach.

Stories from Slovenia

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Kamnik-Savinja Alps

A leap from city to mountain paradise

The Kamnik-Savinja Alps in numbers

Destinations in the Kamnik-Savinja Alps

Sights worth visiting

Safety comes first

Active leisure opportunities all year round

Tips for the most beautiful experiences

The authentic life of mountain villages

Tastes from beneath the Kamnik-Savinja Alps

Plan your holiday in the embrace of the Kamnik-Savinja Alps

Where to stay?

Images of the Kamnik-Savinja Alps as seen by visitors

Enhance your view of Slovenia's beauty

Stories from Slovenia

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Kamnik-Savinja Alps

A leap from city to mountain paradise

The Kamnik-Savinja Alps in numbers

Destinations in the Kamnik-Savinja Alps

Sights worth visiting

Safety comes first

Active leisure opportunities all year round

Tips for the most beautiful experiences

The authentic life of mountain villages

Tastes from beneath the Kamnik-Savinja Alps

Plan your holiday in the embrace of the Kamnik-Savinja Alps

Where to stay?

Images of the Kamnik-Savinja Alps as seen by visitors

Enhance your view of Slovenia's beauty

Stories from Slovenia

The form contains errors

Share with friends

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Functional cookies

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