Trekking in Slovenia: essential routes among lakes, mountains and magical forests

Slovenia is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets. With its fairytale landscapes, an impeccable network of marked trails and a culture deeply connected to nature, this small country offers some of the best trekking routes on the continent.

From alpine peaks to glacial valleys, emerald lakes and forests where silence is almost sacred, walking in Slovenia is a transformative experience for any hiking enthusiast.

Why choose Slovenia for trekking

Slovenia is located in the heart of Europe and is one of the greenest countries on the continent: more than 60% of its territory is covered by forests. With only 2 million inhabitants, it offers a sense of peace and connection with nature that is difficult to find in more crowded destinations. In addition, its small size makes it easy to move from one place to another and combine different landscapes in the same trip: the Julian Alps, Karavanke, glacial lakes, caves and ancient forests.

The Slovenian trail system is exceptional: more than 10,000 km of perfectly marked and maintained routes, many of them with mountain huts (called koča) where you can sleep, eat traditional dishes and meet other hikers.

Essential trekking routes in Slovenia

1. Triglav National Park and the ascent of Mount Triglav
The heart of trekking in Slovenia is in Triglav National Park, the country’s only national park, named after the country’s highest mountain, Mount Triglav (2,864 m), a national symbol that even appears on the flag. Climbing it is almost a rite of passage for any Slovenian.
The ascent can be done in 2 or 3 days, sleeping in one of the refuges such as Dom Planika or Kredarica. The last part includes passages with chains, so it is recommended to have experience or be accompanied by a guide.

2. Valley of the Seven Lakes
Also within Triglav Park is this 2- or 3-day circular route, which passes through a succession of glacial lakes surrounded by pine trees, alpine meadows and limestone mountains. The route begins at Lake Bohinj, one of the most beautiful in the country, and can end in the Trenta Valley, passing through refuges such as Koča pri Triglavskih jezerih.

It is ideal for those looking for a mid-mountain trek, without the technical demands of climbing Triglav, but with picture-postcard landscapes at every stage.

3. The Red Alpine Trail
This long-distance trail crosses the entire Alps, and its Slovenian section is one of the most spectacular. From the Jezersko Pass to the Soča Valley, it is more than 120 km long and can be done in stages. It requires a good level of fitness, but rewards you with constant views of peaks, valleys and virgin forests.

4. The Soča Valley Route
This gentler trek follows the course of the almost unreal turquoise Soča River. Ideal for families or those who prefer more relaxed stages, this route can be done in several days or in sections. Along the way, you can see waterfalls such as Boka, hanging footbridges, traditional villages and World War I trenches.
In addition, the valley offers many complementary activities such as rafting and mountain biking.

5. The Slovenian Mountain Trail (Slovenska planinska pot)
This is the mother of all treks in Slovenia. It is a route of more than 600 km, with 80 stages crossing the entire country, from Maribor to Ankaran on the Adriatic coast. It can take weeks, even months, to complete, but it is also possible to do just a few stages.

Along the way, you can get your passports stamped at the refuges, similar to the Camino de Santiago, and it is an excellent way to discover Slovenia’s natural diversity.

Practical tips for trekking in Slovenia

• Recommended season: June to September, when the refuges are open and there is no snow at medium altitudes.
• Mountain huts: There is no need to bring a tent, as there is an extensive network of well-managed mountain huts with beds, food and drinking water.
• Equipment: Mountain boots, waterproof clothing (the weather can change quickly), walking sticks and a map or GPS.
• Safety: On more technical alpine routes, it is advisable to go with a guide or have high mountain experience.
• Respect for nature: Slovenia is a country that is very committed to the environment, so leave no trace, stay on the trail and always pick up your rubbish.

A destination to return to

Slovenia is not just a place to tick off your list. It is a country you will return to. The friendliness of its people, the tranquillity of its trails and the variety of its landscapes make each route unique. Whether you want to climb Triglav, walk among alpine lakes or follow the course of a crystal-clear river, trekking in Slovenia is an adventure that will remain etched in your soul.