Walking in Slovenia: a land of diverse beauty
Slovenia, a small country nestled in the heart of Europe, is a hidden gem for hikers and nature lovers. With its dramatic mountains, lush forests, and crystal-clear lakes, Slovenia offers a diverse range of walking experiences for all abilities.
Whether you’re looking for a challenging mountain trek or a leisurely stroll through charming villages, our guidebook to walking in Slovenia will help you get the most out of your trip.
Below we have listed some of our favourite walks.
Circuit of Lake Bled (Walk 1)
Just as every Slovenian should climb Triglav if he is a true patriot, so should every visitor take this classic walk.
This is one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. It’s a magnet for poets, artists and lovers as well as those people who live too hectic a life.
Absorb the timeless beauty and the ever-changing light playing on the water. Enjoy the tranquillity of an easy, gentle stroll that relaxes the mind and soothes the soul.
Tip: this walk is no secret, and on a lovely summer’s day literally hundreds of people will make the circuit. So get up early, see the sunrise, and have it all to yourselves.
Rudno Polje – Viševnik – Blejska Koča – Rudno Polje (Walk 6)
This walk is a good introduction to the beauty and majesty of the Julian Alps.
On the edge of these mountains, Viševnik may only be a handmaiden to old ‘Three Heads’ Triglav, but the views from this 2050m summit are some of the best and most easily gained.
Soška Pot – Trenta – Izvir Soče – Trenta (Walk 12)
This walk has it all! Stunning views of the mountains and swaying suspension bridges over the aquamarine Soča River. There’s an alpine garden, natural wonders, and shady picnic spots.
Circuit from Planina Kuhinja (Walk 15)
The route follows Planina Kuhinja – Krn – Batognica – Jezero V Lužnici – Planina Kuhinja.
This is one of our favourite days out. The slopes of Krn – one huge alpine pasture, almost devoid of trees and with sweeping vistas – are a place of timeless tranquillity.
Here the only sounds you will hear are cowbells, birdsong and the tumbling of water, and occasionally the chiming of a distant church bell.
This is a long walk, but if you are in need of spiritual renewal do not miss it.
Circuit from Ski Hotel Vogel (Walk 24)
You may not consider yourself a mountain walker, but do take the cable car to the Ski Hotel and enjoy the incredible views over Bohinjsko Jezero and to Triglav and the Julian Alps.
However, the effort of climbing to the summit of a mountain is always rewarded, and Vogel will not disappoint you!
Cerknica – Velika Slivnica – Cerknica (Walk 30)
Cerknica is famous for its nearby ‘disappearing lake’. Slivnica is a superb vantage point from which to view the immensity of this natural phenomenon.
Depending on the time of year that you visit this area, you may see hay-making in progress on the dry bed of the lake.Fishermen may be about in boats enjoying their sport.
After the initial climb, Slivnica offers an easy stroll across green pastures with the lure of a refreshing drink at the dom.
The best time of year for walking in Slovenia
The temperate climatic zone in which Slovenia lies means that the winters are cold and the summers hot. In the mountains snow can fall at any time of the year, and you may find some paths still snow-covered in early June.
The warmest months are July and August. The average temperature is around 23 degrees Celsius, but these are also the busiest times, when accommodation will be at a premium.
In May and June, while some of the higher walks may have to be discounted because of snow, the fields and valleys will be a kaleidoscope of colour and activity, and the rivers and waterfalls will be at their best.
September and October are also glorious months. The mountains are usually clear of snow, the trees are ablaze with colour, and the grape and maize harvests are in full swing.
Getting around Slovenia
While the best way to enjoy Slovenia and reach all our walks easily is by car, we have also tried to cater for those who do not have their own transport.
The provincial bus service is both reliable and reasonable, and all towns are linked by the bus network.
Some walks start from town centres, but for those in more remote locations we have always indicated if buses stop nearby.
The tourist information centres will provide you with up-to-date timetables to supplement the information on the touring map.
Taxis are only available in some towns.
For those visitors based in Ljubljana, trains and buses radiate out to all regions.
Walks around Bled and Bohinj are easily accessible as a day out from the capital.
Coach tours are less than ideal for walking, but do give an introduction to this beautiful country. Many start from Bled or Ljubljana and go to some of the areas and attractions we visit on our walks.
Slovenia is a paradise for walkers. With its diverse landscapes, charming villages, and friendly people, Slovenia offers a unique and unforgettable walking experience.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner, you’ll find the perfect trail to explore in this beautiful country. Buy our guidebook to walking in Slovenia.
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