Sooner or later, you’ll come across a debate on sports in Slovenia. How could you not? Slovenia is a very sporty nation. More than two thirds of citizens are regularly involved in a physical activity. We admit that it’s difficult to stay indoors if a wonderful and varied landscape is calling to us through the window to go outside and providing us with a number of possibilities for outdoor activities.
The Slovenian sporting spirit is further displayed at important sports competitions where we heartily cheer for our athletes. And these competitions come in large numbers. Not many countries can boast such an impressive proportion of medals won at the largest competitions (in various sports) per capita as Slovenia. Because we love sports, we are also very enthusiastic about organising sports competitions, especially those at the highest level.
In 2023, Slovenia hosted its first Nordic World Championship, the biggest winter sporting event on Slovenian soil, and a year later, young Nordic athletes competed in Planica for the junior champions titles.
Planica is traditionally the annual venue for the conclusion of the Ski Jumping World Cup, and between 22 February and 5 March 2023, the valley below Ponce was the venue for the biggest sporting event in Slovenia's history - the FIS Nordic World Ski Championship.
During the ten days of competition, Slovenia crowned new world champions in cross-country skiing, Nordic combined and ski jumping. And what made the Nordic Championship so special? Here are some of the figures that demonstrate the high expectations.
Planica offers a fairytale-like setting in all seasons. It is part of the Triglav National Park, the only national park in Slovenia where nature conservation and coexistence is a fundamental goal. In order to preserve as much as possible of the valley’s pristine beauty, the organisers of the Nordic Championship have placed an extremely strong emphasis on sustainability. The organisers' aim was to create an event with almost zero waste, with the lowest possible carbon footprint. To this end, they have developed very detailed sustainability standards, which will also form the basis for national guidelines for "outdoor" sustainable sport events.
Only a limited number of competing team and TV crew vehicles will have access to the valley. A circular bus transfer from Kranjska Gora to Planica will be organised for visitors.
Parking areas will be arranged on the meadows surrounding Rateče, Podkoren and Kranjska Gora, which will later be restored to their previous condition and enhanced with plants.
Only a limited number of competing team and TV crew vehicles will have access to the valley. A circular bus transfer from Kranjska Gora to Planica will be organised for visitors.
Planica is synonymous in Slovenia with sporting events. Each year, for the finals of the Ski Jumping World Cup, Planica attracts more than 60,000 viewers from many countries who come to see the breath-taking jumps of the world’s best ski jumpers. In recent years, Planica has also established itself as the organiser of cross-country skiing competitions, to which the modern Nordic Centre has greatly contributed. But when the competing and fan frenzy dies down, there’s still much to see in the valley below the Ponce mountains. There are countless possibilities for outdoor activities throughout the year.
Two former ski jumpers, friends and world-class athletes have accepted the challenge to compete in the quiz and test their knowledge of Slovenia. Primož Roglič exchanged his jumping skis for a bike and Robert Kranjec was an exceptional ski jumper, who has made history with his long jumps and was a favourite of not only Slovenian sports fans, but also of many others around the world. Who will be the best in our sports duel?
Planica is part of the Kranjska Gora destination, which is known around the world for its many winter sports competitions. In addition to ski jumping in Planica, there’s also the Vitranc Cup for male Alpine skiers. Once the organisers take down the venues of winter competitions, Kranjska Gora continues to be a popular destination for active visitors. In winter, it’s perfect for family skiing, cross-country skiing and other winter activities, and, in the warmer months, Kranjska Gora attracts hikers and cyclists. It’s also developing into a paradise for foodies, as it has a restaurant adorned with the prestigious Michelin star.
What is the common denominator of Tadej Pogačar, Primož Roglič, Luka Dončić and Janja Garnbret? They’re all globally recognised athletes who come from Slovenia. They’re also the ambassadors of Slovenian tourism. But they’re not the only ones. There’s a number of other sportspeople who have written or are still writing, not only Slovenian, but global history in sports. Where does the secret lie? They have good bases, persistence and diligence that are also reflected in the organisation of top competitions in Slovenia.
When snow covers the landscape, Slovenia turns into a true winter wonderland. Step into it actively. Grab a pair of skis or venture out on a hike in the snow-covered landscape. Everyone can find good reasons to enjoy activities in the snow.
Top Slovenian cyclist Primož Roglič likes spending time in the snow in wintertime when he’s not pushing the pedals on important cycling races. Check out the favourite winter activities of his family and perhaps you’ll get an idea about how to spend your winter break in Slovenia.
MoreTop Slovenian cyclist Primož Roglič likes spending time in the snow in wintertime when he’s not pushing the pedals on important cycling races. Check out the favourite winter activities of his family and perhaps you’ll get an idea about how to spend your winter break in Slovenia.
MoreCross-country skiing is one of the most popular activities among the Slovenians, proof of which is that you can find well-maintained cross-country trails in many places all over Slovenia. Everyone can enjoy cross-country skiing: true cross-country enthusiasts as well as beginners.
MoreWinter has its charms. A stroll in the snow-covered countryside instils peace and fills you with energy. So put on your winter hiking boots or your snowshoes and take a hike along the snow-covered plains. Discover your winter fairy tale in the middle of pristine nature.
MoreIn Slovenia, distances between individual parts of the country are very small. Ski resorts are also relatively close to each other and connected by the single skiing ticket. Most of the ski resorts are family-friendly. In addition to skiing, you can enjoy many other winter activities.
MoreA day on the Slovenian ski slopes goes by in a flash. Do you know why? Because, as well as skiing on the well-maintained slopes, there are plenty of other winter experiences to make your day on the snow even better. To make sure you don't run out of energy, indulge in culinary delights right next to the slopes, and if one day isn't enough to enjoy the snow, you can extend it by staying overnight in nearby accommodation.
MorePerhaps one can’t find it easily on a map, but Slovenia in its corner of the world provides a multitude of opportunities for active outdoor activities. Here, you can still experience a pristine contact with nature, which we are trying to preserve in all its beauty.
Discover the world of active outdoor adventures in Slovenia.
Head to Slovenia for active winter experiences on snow and ice.
Alpine Slovenia, at the heart of the mountains, along lakes and rivers. Visit Triglav National Park, Bled, Bohinj, Kranjska Gora and the Soča Valley.
Julian Alps - a paradise for active adventures and relaxation in nature.
Triglav National Park will delight you with its picturesque landscapes and unforgettable experiences!
Plan your holidays in green.
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