Walking among flowering meadows and lush forests, surrounded by the majestic backdrop of Alpine peaks, alongside clear Alpine rivers – sounds like a walk in paradise, doesn't it? Well, you should know that you can experience this mountain idyll on a hike along the international Alpe Adria Trail. The 750-kilometre route connects three regions: the Austrian region of Carinthia, the western part of Slovenia and Friuli-Venezia Giulia in Italy. It takes you from the foot of Austria's highest mountain, Grossglockner, to Muggia on Italy's Adriatic coast. Part of the route also crosses Slovenian territory, taking you from the Julian Alps to the Karst. It's time to put on your hiking boots and set off on a journey through Europe's Garden of Eden.
The Alpe Adria Trail crosses the Austrian-Slovenian border in Stage 22. The Slovenian part of the route starts in Kranjska Gora, a well-known mountain sports centre famous for the Alpine Ski World Cup and Ski Jumping World Cup competitions. Crossing the Vršič Pass, the picturesque Soča Valley – home to one of the most beautiful rivers in the world – opens up before you. From the Trenta Valley, it takes you to Bovec and on to Tolmin, and in between, it will impress you with views of the incredible masterpieces of nature and the Soča River. The route then zigzags between the Slovenian and Italian sides.
It leads into the idyllic Brda (you could say Slovenia's version of Provence or Tuscany), where romantic villages perch high over vineyards, orchards and olive groves. The route through Slovenia will also take you to the Karst region and one of its greatest treasures – Lipica. Home to elegant white horses, it is considered the oldest Lipizzaner stud farm in Europe. The route continues along the karst edge towards the Gulf of Trieste and the seashore, where it comes to an end.
More at www.slovenia-outdoor.si
The Alpe Adria Trail takes you through four destinations, each with its own character, in eight stages through mainly Slovenian territory. The world of the Julian Alps is first and foremost a testing ground for active outdoor adventures, and the closer you get to the coast, the more you'll savour the culinary delights that are steeped in the Mediterranean climate.
A world-class ski centre nestled in the Julian Alps at the triple border point of Slovenia, Italy and Austria
Escape on an active break in the picturesque world of the Julian Alps, the Triglav National Park and the emerald River Soča.
Sun-Kissed Wine Country between the Alps and the Mediterranean
The world of underground wonders, stunning natural phenomena and unique tastes.
The Alpe Adria Trail is all about enjoyment. The delights of discovering natural and cultural treasures. The pleasures of tasting local cuisine. So don't feel guilty and don't be in a hurry to move on when you stumble upon breath-taking views along the way. Take the time to stop at the sights that will make your journey even more memorable.
Before you set off, it's a good idea to have a plan of where you'll eat and sleep. And even if the Alpe Adria Trail doesn't take you up the very steepest peaks, there are still a few recommendations you should follow to ensure you have a safe journey.
The Alpe Adria Trail is by no means the only long-distance route that crosses Slovenian territory. There are a number of other international long-distance trails that make a detour or two through Slovenia. In addition, there are long-distance trails that run exclusively in Slovenia. Among them is the Slovenian Mountain Trail, one of the oldest long-distance trails in Europe.
Hiking is extremely popular in Slovenia. The Alpine Association of Slovenia, which is celebrating its 130th anniversary in 2023, is one of the largest non-governmental organisations in Slovenia. In total, there are more than 10,000 kilometres of marked hiking trails in Slovenia. Every hiker is sure to find the right one for them.
Hiking trails criss-cross Slovenia, and you would be hard pressed to find a place where your hiking boots would not come in handy. Slovenia has more than 10,000 kilometres of maintained and marked trails, which is a good reason why you should explore this green country on foot. See for yourself what makes hiking Slovenia's most popular activity.
MoreHiking trails criss-cross Slovenia, and you would be hard pressed to find a place where your hiking boots would not come in handy. Slovenia has more than 10,000 kilometres of maintained and marked trails, which is a good reason why you should explore this green country on foot. See for yourself what makes hiking Slovenia's most popular activity.
MoreHiking trails connect you to nature. Every step you take is a new experience. Every breath you take is filled with the freshness and beauty that surrounds you. Every sound in nature is music to your heart. That’s why every path, no matter how challenging, is well worth the effort. Discover the ones that will capture your heart.
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.
MoreA stroll through the vineyards is an unforgettable experience, especially in autumn, when the grapes ripen and the foliage takes on warm shades of orange, yellow and red. Many hiking trails in wine-growing areas are also wine roads, where you can make a stop at wineries and combine hiking with the experience of tasting wine and local delicacies.
MoreSlovenia is intertwined with hiking trails that will bring the natural and cultural features of each region closer to you in an interesting way. They reveal interesting stories and special features of the places you visit. Some of the trails are also home to fairy-tale creatures.
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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.
There are many reasons to take hiking boots with you when you go to Slovenia. The beauty of nature and the breath-taking views from its many peaks are surely just a part of it. Even if you're not tempted to scale the highest mountains, you can find your own hike in the valleys and plains. When you run out of energy, stay in one of many welcoming mountain huts, where the atmosphere is homely and cheerful.
From the green landscape, head to rocky heights, to Slovenian hills and mountains.
Slovenia is a hiking paradise. More than 10,000 kilometres of marked hiking trails.
Triglav National Park will delight you with its picturesque landscapes and unforgettable experiences!
Discover the most interesting hiking festivals and events in Slovenia.
Julian Alps - a paradise for active adventures and relaxation in nature.
Make a stop in popular Slovenian mountain huts.
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