Hiking the barefoot trail at Snovik Thermal Resort: a path to well-being and natural harmony

Terme Snovik is the highest-altitude spa in Slovenia, surrounded on one side by the Kamnik-Savinja Alps and on the other by the beautiful forests and unspoiled nature of the Tuhinj Valley, just 9 km from Kamnik and 32 km from Ljubljana, Slovenia’s capital. Their greatest treasure is the healing thermal water, rich in calcium and magnesium as well as many other beneficial minerals.

In today’s world, where we are constantly exposed to stress and daily obligations, we increasingly strive for balance between physical and mental health. In Slovenia, Terme Snovik has long been known for its unique offer of relaxation and body regeneration, as it is the only Kneipp Center in the country, where you can discover the philosophy of a healthy lifestyle through the five pillars defined by Sebastian Kneipp, the German priest and water and phytotherapy expert. Having cured his tuberculosis in youth by bathing in the cold Danube, he decided to devote his life to healing people through the use of natural elements. Kneipp’s philosophy of life is simple and suitable for everyone.

At Terme Snovik, every day is a Kneipp day. They encourage barefoot walking on specially designed barefoot trails, as walking barefoot is one of the most effective natural body therapies. So yes – they will definitely have you take your shoes off! Without trying barefoot walking, you simply can’t experience the Kneipp Barefoot Trail, named Slovenia’s Best Themed Trail of 2018. The path is based on Kneipp’s natural practices and offers visitors a chance to reconnect with nature and restore vitality.

The barefoot trail is one of the key methods that allows the body to relax, improve circulation, and restore balance.

What is the Kneipp Barefoot Trail?

It is designed according to the healing principles developed by the German physician Sebastian Kneipp in the 19th century. His approach is based on the simple yet effective use of five natural elements: water, herbs, exercise, nutrition, and a healthy lifestyle. Barefoot walking is one of the most effective natural body therapies. When walking barefoot, you always step first with your toes and then slowly place down the rest of your foot.

The 3.2 km barefoot trail is equipped with twelve exercise elements. It begins at the Kneipp platform in front of Terme Snovik. After learning about Kneipp’s philosophy of a healthy lifestyle, you’ll set out across meadows, sand, forest, and other natural materials. On the trail, which leads through the village of Snovik, you can also try other Kneipp therapies in a natural setting, such as stork walking and the hand bath – often called the “Kneipp espresso.”

The most famous Kneipp therapy is stork walking – a quick remedy for tired legs.

The trail’s stops are marked and explained. It then winds uphill through the forest, where you can feel the pleasant vibrations of nature. Walking barefoot helps your body relax while also connecting you with nature on a deeper level. If you’re the sporty type, you’ll find outdoor fitness equipment along the way; if you’re looking for pure relaxation, this is the perfect opportunity to connect with yourself to the sound of rustling leaves and birdsong. Along the trail, you’ll practice mindfulness and relaxation, learn key Kneipp treatments for everyday preventive health, and even enjoy a tasty surprise – a local snack.

For those who prefer guided experiences, from spring to autumn there are organized Kneipp adventures, including the Kneipp Family Barefoot Hike, suitable for adults and children over six. The spa has also developed an upgrade of the existing barefoot experience, awarded the “Genuinely Slovenian” quality certificate – just ask for the Kneipp Premium Barefoot Experience.

Positive effects of barefoot walking

Barefoot walking is natural reflexology that improves balance, stimulates circulation, strengthens foot muscles, and helps develop a healthy foot shape. Walking barefoot in direct contact with the ground stimulates nerve endings in the feet, which improves blood flow, promotes body regeneration, and boosts the immune system. Walking on different natural surfaces – from sand and pebbles to pine needles and grass – has healing effects, as it activates reflex points on the feet connected to various organs in the body.

The Kneipp barefoot therapy, developed at Terme Snovik following the tradition of “Kneipping,” offers numerous benefits for body and mind. Regular use of the barefoot trail helps with:

• Improved blood circulation – Walking on different surfaces stimulates blood flow, resulting in better oxygen and nutrient supply to the body. Scientific studies confirm that barefoot walking activates the muscles in the feet, improving circulation and reducing the risk of varicose veins.
• Relaxation and stress relief – Natural environments where barefoot trails are located trigger feelings of peace and quiet, which positively impact stress and tension reduction.
• Strengthening the immune system – The relaxation provided by the Kneipp trail increases the body’s resilience and helps fight disease.
• Strengthening muscles and joints – Walking on varied surfaces activates muscles and joints, improving mobility and reducing pain. Studies on different walking types, including barefoot walking, show that walking on uneven surfaces improves joint stability and strength – crucial for injury prevention.

Kneipp therapy has numerous benefits for the body and mind.

Connection with nature and inner balance

The barefoot Kneipp Trail at Snovik Thermal Resort is not just a pleasant activity but also an exceptional way to restore both physical and mental balance. Today’s world is increasingly intertwined with digital challenges and stress, and this is a great way to return to basics and reconnect with nature. Walking on natural surfaces, relaxing in healing waters, and simply enjoying the silence of nature will allow you to experience true regeneration and inner peace.

Scientific evidence supports the benefits of barefoot walking, which not only improves physical health but also contributes to better psychological well-being. So, next time you are looking for the path to complete relaxation, head to the barefoot Kneipp Trail at Snovik Thermal Resort—a path that will fill you with energy and lead you to greater well-being.

Relax and reconnect with nature.

Additional relaxation and wellness options

Terme Snovik offers many other wellness services to complement your visit to the Kneipp Barefoot Trail. From relaxing massages and Kneipp treatments to thermal water with its beneficial effects on the body, and a range of wellness programs – everything is designed to allow for complete regeneration and relaxation.

For those seeking an extra boost of energy, there’s also the option to visit the pools, where after exploring the beautiful nature you can enjoy the healing effects of water, warm up and cool down your body, and achieve even better results in restoring physical vitality.

The thermal complex also features the excellent Potočka restaurant, where you can enjoy a delicious and healthy lunch made from local seasonal ingredients, with their specialty – Tuhinj trout – available daily. And of course, you can even extend your trip with an overnight stay at the 4-star “Forest Edge Cottages,” making your hiking getaway complete.

Apartment village with stunning nature views.

Download the trail map and set off on the barefoot hiking path at Terme Snovik.