Alpine skier Ilka Štuhec loves the snow. Not only when she is racing down icy hills in largest alpine skiing competitions and ranking among the best in the world, but also when she can spare a few hours to enjoy snow-covered Slovenia. Would you like to know which winter activities and destinations the lovely Maribor resident finds the most exciting? Here are some of her favourites, which she also recommends others to try out.
Ilka found her love of skiing at a very young age, as her parents were already closely connected to the sport. Her love finally turned into passion when she first skied down the white slopes of Mariborsko Pohorje. Ilka proves that you never forget your first love, as she loves to compete in the Golden Fox race in her hometown, even though it is the only giant slalom of the season in which she participates.
One of the most recognisable assets of the Mariborsko Pohorje Ski Resort is its proximity to the city of Maribor. From the white slopes you can almost ski down to the city centre. The funicular is accessible by city bus, and several hotels at the foot of Pohorje offer a wide range of wellness programmes.
Despite its small population, Slovenia is an extremely successful country when it comes to top sporting achievements. This little country on the sunny side of the Alps is an outstanding skiing destination, and it is no wonder that Alpine skiing is one of the most successful sports when it comes to medals in major competitions. In the new I feel Slovenia podcast episode, host Noah Charney welcomes Ilka Štuhec.
Ilka Štuhec also likes to visit Kranjska Gora, another well-known winter sports resort, which, like Mariborsko Pohorje, is one of the established venues for Alpine Ski World Cup races. Planica is also nearby, with its modern Nordic Centre, famous for the largest ski jumping competitions and, in recent years, cross-country skiing. It is the cross-country skiing challenges in the Upper Sava Valley in particular that Ilka recommends trying your hand at.
When the snow covers the Upper Sava Valley, the locals maintain a number of cross-country skiing trails that are suitable both for beginners and for those looking for something more challenging. The Planica area offers the longest ski runs, however, well-maintained trails can also be found elsewhere. The exceptional natural scenery certainly adds to the charm of cross-country skiing. Did you know that the Planica Nordic Centre also offers cross-country skiing in the summer?
Rogla is a popular family ski resort where you can experience much more than just good skiing. Among the many activities to make your ski day more enjoyable is dogsledding, which also delighted Ilka Štuhec. This special experience that all ages can enjoy takes you on a journey through the beautiful forests and plains of Pohorje.
The 100-hectare ski resort of Zreško Pohorje certainly offers plenty of skiing opportunities. However, there are many other experiences that add the icing on the cake to a family day out on the slopes. Here are some tips.
Although Ilka Štuhec usually races on well-maintained runs, she sometimes also likes to enjoy untouched snow. She was first introduced to cross-country skiing at her home resort of Areh and later at Kanin, Slovenia’s highest ski resort, where it is possible for her to continue training in the spring months. Slovenia offers many opportunities for ski touring that Ilka plans to try out in the future.
Ski touring allows skiers to fully experience nature in winter and endless untouched white slopes, but it also involves a number of risks. It is therefore all the more important to pay attention to several things when planning a tour.
Check and observe the weather and snow conditions. Do not go ski touring during periods of heightened avalanche risk.
Use the appropriate safety equipment and check its functioning beforehand. Use equipment and clothing suitable for winter conditions.
Go ski touring only if you have sufficient skiing/boarding knowledge and experience, are physically fit and know how to react to extraordinary conditions in the mountains.
As a competitor in fast disciplines, Ilka is no stranger to adrenaline. Even outside ski racing, she loves to seek it in exciting winter adventures. Her favourite is snowmobiling on forest roads where it is allowed. Slovenia also offers plenty of other ways for adrenaline enthusiasts to get their adrenaline pumping.
Winter in Slovenia is never boring. Snow-covered nature provides an opportunity for a variety of outdoor activities, with something for everyone.
In 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.
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.
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.
MoreIf skiing on well-maintained slopes doesn’t seem thrilling enough, you might find snow parks more exciting. You can try out new tricks on a variety of obstacles and feel the adrenaline rush through your veins. However, remember to keep your safety in mind and adapt your snow antics to your abilities.
MoreDo you like to descend on pristine snow cover? Try a ski touring experience in the Julian Alps that offers you endless joys in pristine nature and magnificent views of the winter countryside.
MoreIlka Štuhec is one of the many successful athletes who inspire both the Slovenian and international public. Many people wonder what it is about Slovenia that makes it one of the most successful countries in the world in terms of sporting achievements per capita. One of the reasons is definitely the wide range of outdoor activities available throughout the seasons.
We present some reasons why Slovenia is successful in the field of sports.
Experience the active Slovenia and get to know its sporting heart.
Head to Slovenia for active winter experiences on snow and ice.
Discover the world of active outdoor adventures in Slovenia.
Get ready to cheer on your favourites and come to the idyllic environment of Slovenia’s sports venues.
Enjoy skiing on well-maintained Slovenian ski slopes.
Privacy settings