You will frequently hear among Slovenians that, when the forecast is for a sunny weekend, they want to spend it actively in nature. Slovenians are most certainly one of the most hiking-oriented nations, and the popularity of hiking has intensified in the past few years. Hiking trails are spread throughout the country and it’s quite difficult to find a spot where hiking boots won’t come in handy. Slovenians are a daring nation and do not stop when faced with great challenges, so we’re also among the world’s leading countries in alpinism. And what is it that most tempts hikers to hit the trail?
There is a saying in Slovenia, i.e. “The mountains are not crazy, but those who climb them are.” Therefore, it is very important to ensure your own safety when going into the mountains. Use the appropriate equipment, check the weather and snow conditions and choose trails that suit your physical condition. If this is your first time going into the mountains, it’s recommended that you are accompanied by a mountain guide.
Slovenia itself is a land well worth exploring. Each and every corner reveals amazing details that you can best explore and experience on foot. The mountain peaks command stunning views that make your every effort on the way up well worthwhile. The lower hills also offer amazing perspectives on the countryside, and even wandering through the lowlands from villages to cities has its charm. One of the advantages of hiking in Slovenia is also short distances, because it only takes a couple of minutes to take you from the city bustle to the nearest hiking trail.
Slovenians have hiking in their genes. Even before organised hiking and mountaineering activities, our ancestors climbed steep slopes for hunting, gathering wood, mining ore and other essential tasks. The Slovenian Mountaineering Association, the predecessor of the current Alpine Association of Slovenia, was founded 130 years ago and now counts more than 60 thousand members and is considered one of the largest sport organisations in Slovenia.
When you go on a hike, follow the markings along the path. This way you won't get lost and you will arrive at your destination safely. The best-known is the Knaflič markings (white dot in a red circle), which are celebrating their 100th anniversary this year! The markings are drawn on large trees, rocks and other suitable and visible places along the trail. There are also signposts at crossroads that indicate the level of difficulty and the estimated walking time. There are special markings for European and thematic trails, some of which are additionally marked with their logos.
Slovenia covers an area of more than 20 thousand square kilometres and has almost 10 thousand kilometres of marked trails. The high alpine world and hills cover 70 percent of Slovenian land. The landscape stretches from the coastal region over the karst edge to the moderately high mountain region and high mountain region to a 2,864-metre altitude, which is the height of the peak of Slovenia’s tallest mountain, Triglav. Long distance trails have a special character as most of them are part of international long distance trails which take you to panoramic peaks and through lowlands.
To make your hiking tours easier, there are many mountain huts located along the major trails. There are 179 mountain huts, bivouacs and shelters in the Slovenian mountains and hills where you can relax and shelter from unpleasant weather conditions. You can enjoy authentic local dishes, especially stews, in many mountain huts. Some even offer sleeping accommodation. Stop at inns along the trails in the lowlands and find specialised hiking accommodation. Currently, there are 52 providers of such accommodation in Slovenia.
One of the unwritten rules of etiquette in the mountains is saying hello, so you’ll find complete strangers greeting you along the trails. The relaxing alpine climate and nature obviously have a beneficial impact on hikers because the atmosphere in this mountainous world is friendly and relaxing. This can be especially felt in the mountain huts, where you will experience warm hospitality and quite often hear cheery songs.
When climbing high mountains or hills, you need to have the appropriate equipment and be in a fit physical condition, consider the weather conditions and also act appropriately. Take a look at some unwritten rules of behaviour that you should consider while visiting our mountains.
Greet and respect other hikers and mountaineers whom you meet along the way, even if you do not know them.
What you bring to the mountain, take back to the valley. Always clean up your waste, take it back with you to the valley and dispose of it in the appropriate waste bins.
Stick to the regulated and marked paths, do not destroy plants, and refrain from making a lot of noise that might disturb the animals in this natural environment.
Walk carefully and be alert for rockfalls. If a rockfall occurs, loudly warn any other hikers beneath you about the danger of falling rocks.
When you encounter hikers at exposed spots, it is polite to find the safest spot to pass, even if it means that you have to take a few steps back.
Hiking and mountaineering in Slovenia have a long and rich history. With their unique climbs, top Slovenian alpinists have ascended to the peak of world alpinism in recent decades. This rich mountaineering and alpinist history can be discovered at the Slovenian Alpine Museum in Mojstrana. You can also try to find your way out of a bivouac, take a virtual tour of the highest peaks or even try ziplining from the peak of Mt Triglav – virtually, of course.
Hiking has always been in the hearts of Slovenians. The charm of hiking in Slovenia is not only that you get to walk the trail for the first time, but that you’ll want to return to rediscover the joys and surprises nature offers and be inspired to explore further.
Explore the diversity of the Slovenian landscape along the long distance trails that connect various parts of the country. These take you from the mountains to the seacoast, across hills and plains, and past Slovenia’s natural and cultural attractions. Most long distance trails are part of an international network of trails that connect several European countries. The longest trail that runs across Slovenian territory, as well as the oldest European long distance trail, is the Slovenian Alpine Trail.
MoreExplore the diversity of the Slovenian landscape along the long distance trails that connect various parts of the country. These take you from the mountains to the seacoast, across hills and plains, and past Slovenia’s natural and cultural attractions. Most long distance trails are part of an international network of trails that connect several European countries. The longest trail that runs across Slovenian territory, as well as the oldest European long distance trail, is the Slovenian Alpine Trail.
MoreThere are numerous hiking trails spread across Slovenia. There’s a trail for every taste. Some offer beautiful experiences of unspoiled nature. Enjoy the natural beauty, the richness of alpine flora and fauna as well as unforgettable views along the trails in Triglav National Park. Search for the hidden treasures of the Kamnik and Savinja Alps and the Karavanke mountain range. Discover the picturesque moderately high mountain area of Pohorje and its features.
MoreOne of the reasons why we strive for the heights is to enjoy the beautiful views of the world beneath us. Such sights are worth every effort and drop of sweat, awakening feelings of limitless horizons and freedom. These views are captured in our hearts and cameras, finding their way onto social media. See some of the most inspiring views on our Instagram profile.
MoreSlovenia’s cities are only a stone’s throw away from nature.
MoreAlthough most hikers love going to the mountains, the lower areas of Slovenia also have their charm. These offer less demanding trails that are perfect for family wanders through nature., What will you choose – trails in the shelter of green treetops or vineyards, along picturesque rivers, or amidst the mysterious rocky masterpieces of nature?
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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.
Although we often go hiking or head out into nature to find peace and relaxation, our steps are much easier when taken in great company. You can attend various hiking festivals and other events in spring and autumn, where it’s possible to take part in authentic local activities, discover the natural and cultural heritage and have a wonderful time.
You will find pleasant accommodation in specialised hiking facilities, mostly hotels.
Looking for an idea about how to invigorate your active break in Slovenia? View unique Instagram Stories about active outdoor activities @FeelSlovenia.
Get away from your everyday cares and return to the embrace of nature. Hiking trails take you over plains and up hills, and everywhere you’ll find a wealth of panoramic views to enjoy. Themed trails will help you to learn something new about the local natural and cultural heritage.
The most beautiful views await you on the tallest peaks.
Head to green forests. You can hike on easy trails or you can be challenged by high mountain peaks.
Take a hiking adventure in the lowlands of Slovenia. Interesting walking, thematic, educational, and mountain trails can be found everywhere.
Go on a hike with your children. Numerous arranged walking trails and marked mountain trails await you.
Make a stop in popular Slovenian mountain huts.
Discover some of the most interesting trails with beautiful views.
Take time to browse through the interactive version of the Slovenia Outdoor. When picking outdoor activities, Slovenia, a country with four distinct seasons is always the right choice. Your favourite form of exercise might sometimes be linked with high mountains, at other times with the seaside, or perhaps with river valleys, or vine-growing hills. Explore the green playground of Europe. Choose your activities for health and wellbeing.
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