Jump to content Page index

Stories from Slovenia

Giro d'Italia 2025 is coming to Slovenia

Active experiences and relaxation in spas

Potica, the delicious queen of festive dishes

Nova Gorica and Gorizia – European Capital of Culture 2025

Top outdoor adventures in the European Capital of Culture 2025 region

Explore the surroundings of the European Capital of Culture in an active way.

Active adventures around the European Capital of Culture 2025 

A visit to the European Capital of Culture 2025, Nova Gorica and Gorizia, isn’t just about cultural events. Enhance your experience with excursions and outdoor activities in the surrounding area. Discover the unique charm of the Vipava Valley, Brda and the Karst through scenic hikes, cycling routes past historic sites and landmarks, thrilling water adventures or breathtaking views from above.  

Giro d’Italia returns to Slovenia

One of the world’s three major cycling races, the Giro d’Italia, is returning to Slovenia after three years. Stage 14 will take the riders through Brda and Nova Gorica. In 2025, it’s not just culture uniting the neighbouring countries and towns – it’s also the prestigious race for the pink jersey, worn in the past two years by Slovenian champions Primož Roglič and Tadej Pogačar.

Explore

Hiking and cycling tours with a touch of history

The area around Nova Gorica offers countless opportunities for both short and long outdoor getaways. Themed trails reveal the region’s character and lifestyle, bringing you closer to its natural and cultural monuments and leading you through its rich history. Those in search of the best views will be rewarded – after a bit of effort. Discover some of the region’s most popular spots accessible on foot or by bike.

Panoramic view of rolling green hills and dense forests under a blue sky with scattered clouds.

Sabotin and the Park of Peace

The summit of Sabotin (609 m) is the meeting point of the Vipava Valley, Brda and the Soča Valley. Marked by the history of the First World War, it is riddled with caverns and trenches, and its surface is home to rich flora and fauna. The former border guard post houses a multimedia centre for visitors, where you can learn about the history of this strategic peak during the Isonzo Front. Reach the top on foot or by bike.

Climb to Sabotin

Trails from the Brda side

The stone façade of a historic church, with its arched doorway and central stained-glass window, is surrounded by sunlight and greenery.

Sveta gora (Holy Mountain)

A stunning viewpoint and pilgrimage site with a Franciscan monastery and basilica at the top, Sveta Gora is a great destination for those who want to combine outdoor activities with cultural and historical exploration. Like many peaks above the Soča River, Sveta Gora was not spared during the First World War – a history still visible through its caverns and trenches. Today, it’s a popular spot for hikers and cyclists alike.

Walking in the footsteps of the First World War

Cycling challenges among cultural landmarks

Stone tower with a flag on a hilltop at sunset, overlooking a vast landscape with fields and distant snow-capped mountains.
Photo: Jošt Gantar

Cerje

The Monument of Peace at Cerje is a key stop along the cultural-historical Walk of Peace and a must-visit viewpoint overlooking the Vipava Valley and the Karst. Within its walls, you’ll find priceless historical and artistic treasures that blend the past with the future. You can reach the scenic summit by hiking the Cerje educational trail or by bike.

Visit the Monument of Peace

Walk of Peace from the Alps to the Adriatic

This cross-border cultural trail connects preserved European First World War heritage at original locations. It takes you through a world of caverns, trenches, military cemeteries, ossuaries and open-air museums across the former Isonzo Front – while also treating you to the natural beauty of the Julian Alps, Brda and the Karst all the way to the Adriatic Sea. 

Explore

The beautiful heights above the Vipava Valley

For a more challenging hike, head to the Banjšice and Trnovo Plateaus, the edge of the Trnovo Forest or climb up Nanos. One of the most popular hiking areas is Gora, the eastern part of the Trnovo Plateau, criss-crossed with scenic trails and home to the famous rock-formed window, Otliško okno.

 

Skip carousel

Gora

The plateau with scattered houses at an altitude of between 800 and 1,000 meters offers magnificent views of Vipava Valley. Gora is a popular hiking and paragliding destination.

More

Nanos

This high karst plateau rises 1,313 metres above the Vipava Valley and offers stunning views that stretch from the sea to the Alps.

More

Trnovo and Banjšice plateaus

The Trnovo and Banjšice plateaus fascinate visitors with their abundant karst phenomena, of which the most noteworthy are ice caves. This is a paradise for those seeking a connection with the wild, a...

More

Trnovo Forest

The far northwestern edge of the Dinaric Alps surprises visitors with its geological and biodiversity richness, as well as a wide range of experiences for hikers, mountain bikers and paragliders.

More

Hiking inspiration

Still not sure where to go? Here are more ideas for hiking trips in the surroundings of the European Capital of Culture 2025.

Skip carousel

Trail along the edge of the Gora Plateau

Trail along the edge of the Gora Plateau

One of the most scenic hiking trails above the Vipava Valley, offering over 14 kilometres of stunning views between Predmeja and Col – stretching from the valley across the Karst all the way to the Gulf of Trieste and the Gulf of Piran.

More

Otlica Window

Otlica Window

Otlica Window is a natural arch over the Vipava village of Otlica. Gaze through its 12-metre-high and up to 7-metre-wide opening to enjoy panoramic views of the Vipava Valley, extending all the way to the sea.

More

The trail of two castles

The trail of two castles

This trail connects two castles in the Vipava Valley – Rihemberk Castle, still standing proudly above the landscape, and the former Dornberg Castle, where the small settlement of Tabor now lies.

More

Gradnik educational trail

Gradnik educational trail

The poetic beauty of Brda, as seen through the eyes of poet Alojz Gradnik, accompanies you along this 4 km trail from Dobrovo to his birthplace, Medana.

More

Along Vertovec’s trails

Along Vertovec’s trails

Wander among vineyards and charming Vipava villages on this easy 18-kilometre trail once used by priest Matija Vertovec, a pioneer in viticulture education in the region.

More

Cycling trip ideas

Explore a selection of exciting cycling routes in the Nova Gorica area – many of them perfect for families.

Skip carousel

Border trail

Ride the 21-kilometre cycling trail that runs along the Slovenian-Italian border and discover life – past and present – on both sides.

More

Plave–Nova Gorica cycling trail

This cycling trail along the emerald Soča River is part of a network of cross-border cycling trails. Along the way, you can admire the Solkan Bridge, pause at Trg Evrope and then cycle all the way to...

More

Cycling trails in Brda

Cycle through Brda with the scent of juicy fruit in the air. Choose between the cherry, persimmon, peach or olive route.

More

The sporty side of the European Capital of Culture 2025

Movement is an artform in itself. That is why several creative projects combining urban space, art and sports have been developed as part of the European Capital of Culture programme. One standout is Basketball in the Jungle – a uniquely designed court shaded by trees, blending sport and urban artistic expression. The project is supported by former basketball stars Goran Dragić and Luigi Datome. Another fun space is a cross-border playground for children. Both Nova Gorica and Gorizia share a passion for football and its many forms. One such variation is table football, which will move outdoors in Gorizia in summer, drawing both top football players and fans. Meanwhile, on the Slovenian side, a photo exhibition about Pier Paolo Pasolini and football will be on display. 

Visit website EPK 2025

Water adventures

Go with the flow and let the rivers surrounding the European Capital of Culture carry you into your next adventure. Whether you prefer calmer waters or adrenaline-pumping rapids, there’s something for everyone.

Skip carousel

Solkan Kayak Centre

In Solkan, the Soča River’s rapids offer thrilling water experiences. Learn the basics of paddling, go rafting through the rapids, or follow the river by boat across what was once a national border. 

More

SUP adventure on the Vipava River

Experience the Vipava River on a stand-up paddleboard. Join a guided tour to learn about life along the river, and wrap up your journey with a culinary treat in nature, featuring local flavours.

More

Lake at Most na Soči

This artificial lake on the Soča River captivates with its mesmerising colour and invites active exploration – by SUP or kayak. You can also take a scenic boat cruise or simply stroll along the themed...

More

A bird’s-eye view from a paraglider

The Vipava Valley is a popular destination for paragliders. You can take off from Kolk or Lijak launch sites and soar high above the valley. If you’re not an experienced paraglider, you can still take in the stunning views by going on a tandem paragliding flight.

Go paragliding

Experiences that combine a little bit of everything

If you’re having a hard time choosing just one activity in the Nova Gorica–Gorizia area, opt for an unforgettable combo experience that blends multiple adventures into one. This way, you can enjoy active exploration while also diving into the region’s history, culture and cuisine.

Slovenian Nova Gorica and Italian Gorizia

Slovenian Nova Gorica and Italian Gorizia

Start the day with a shot of adrenaline at the Soča Fun Park in Solkan, followed by a hearty lunch. Then it’s time to explore the cultural and historical treasures on both sides of the Slovenian-Italian border. In Solkan, admire the world’s largest stone arch railway bridge, explore Nova Gorica’s landmarks and visit Kromberk Castle. Then cross over to Italy and climb to Gorizia Castle for panoramic views of the twin towns of the European Capital of Culture 2025.

More

Adrenaline-packed hike, fly & wine adventure

Adrenaline-packed hike, fly & wine adventure

Your journey begins in Ajdovščina. Led by an experienced guide who introduces you to the area’s natural landmarks, you’ll ascend scenic trails to a mountain launch site. From there, a tandem paragliding flight takes you high above the Vipava Valley. The views from above are simply breathtaking – the Julian Alps and the Adriatic coast are all laid out before you. After an adrenaline-fuelled flight, you will land almost directly in front of a local wine cellar, where authentic Vipava wines and delicious local food await.

More

Cycling the trails of the Isonzo Front

Cycling the trails of the Isonzo Front

Your biking adventure begins with an adrenaline rush: a raft ride to the Soča Fun Park, where trained instructors guide you through a two-hour treetop adventure. Afterward, it’s time to hop on your bike and pedal up to Sabotin. There, the caretaker of the former Yugoslav border outpost – now a mountain hut and museum – welcomes you and leads you through a fascinating underground world of First World War caverns and trenches.

More

Discover the destinations surrounding the European Capital of Culture 2025

Nova Gorica and Gorizia, along with their nearby surroundings, offer a wide range of experiences for every traveller. Come and explore them in your own way.

Skip carousel

Nova Gorica and the Vipava Valley

The land of unique vines and first-rate cuisine between the Alps and the Adriatic Sea

Nova Gorica and the Vipava Valley on map
More

Brda

Sun-Kissed Wine Country between the Alps and the Mediterranean

Brda on map
More

Karst

The world of underground wonders, stunning natural phenomena and unique tastes.

Karst on map
More

Soča Valley

Escape on an active break in the picturesque world of the Julian Alps, the Triglav National Park and the emerald River Soča.

Soča Valley on map
More

Dive into Slovenia’s active adventures

Once you’ve explored the surroundings of the twin towns – European Capital of Culture 2025 – set off to discover even more of Slovenia at your own pace. 

Skip carousel

Nova Gorica and Gorizia – European Capital of Culture 2025

Two cities, countless borderless stories of culture, art, creativity and vision.

More

Long-distance trails

Long-distance trails run across mountain peaks, through valleys, all the way to the sea.

More

Top summer adventures in nature

Experience authentic nature as you embark on unforgettable adventures in Slovenia.

More

Top lowland hiking trails

Beautiful lowland trails that reveal the beauty of nature and the cultural landscape.

More

The Mediterranean & the Karst in Slovenia

Enjoy the warmth of the seaside sun caressing your skin or descend to the mysterious world of underground caves.

The Mediterranean & the Karst in Slovenia on map
More

Biking

Explore Slovenia by bike. The dynamic landscapes of Slovenia, with their countless natural beauties, are ideal for a biking holiday.

More

Hiking and Mountaineering

Slovenia is a hiking paradise. More than 10,000 kilometres of marked hiking trails.

More

Water activities

Vacation by rivers, lakes, in thermal spas or at the seaside.

More

Top educational themed trails in Slovenia

Themed trails that help you to discover the local natural and cultural heritage in a fascinating way.

More

Guided tours on rivers and lakes for the adventure you need

Discover how you can combine water experiences and relaxation in nature.

More

Stories from Slovenia

Sign up for our monthly newsletter to receive a green piece of Slovenia in your inbox, and learn about holidays, seasonal offers, upcoming events and travel options.

Share with friends

Scroll down until you see the heart icon on the left.
Click on the icon and the content will be added to favourites.
When you revisit the page (in the same browser), the content will still be saved in your favourites.
Back Next
Advanced search

Privacy settings

Essential cookies

These cookies enable the correct display of content on the website. These cookies are used to show you the appropriate version of the page for your screen size, remember your choice of cookies, and enable the services that you use on the website to function properly (login, registration, etc.). More about cookies

Functional cookies

Do you allow us to show you content from other sources on the website and remember your language selection?

Statistical cookies

Do you allow us to collect anonymised data on the viewing of our content? We will improve your user experience.

Segmentation cookies

Do you allow us to record your activities on this website? This allows us to learn about your interests and offer you the features and content about Slovenian tourism that most interest you.

Advertising cookies

Do you allow us to occasionally offer you advertising content from other websites that best match your interests?

ALMA Virtual Traveller
Which part of Slovenia would you like to explore? Reply to Alma