Best off the beaten path hiking routes in Slovenia

Mali Golak from Tiha dolina, Ajdovščina

Distance: 8,8 km
Elevation: 590 m
Duration: 2,5h
Highest point: 1,495 m
Difficulty: medium

• The hiking trail starts in Tiha dolina near the sports park, heading toward Korenina.
• A moderate ascent follows along a marked trail toward the Golaki, with a few forest road crossings, then continues through the woods.
• The trail leads to a larger clearing with an information board, up to a ridge, and past a karst sinkhole.
• At the junction, take the less-trodden path, which later joins the trail from Iztok’s Hut.
• At the summit of Mali Golak, you’ll be greeted by stunning views of Triglav, the Alps, the sea, and the Po Plain.

Between vineyards and waterfalls, Vipava

Distance: 6 km
Elevation: 310 m
Duration: 1,5h
Highest point: 237 m
Difficulty: easy to medium

• A perfect starting point for visitors who appreciate local charm and a fine glass of wine.
• The trail is suitable for beginner hikers, families, seasoned walkers, and anyone seeking stunning views of the Vipava Valley, the village of Slap, and hidden corners waiting to be discovered.
• The entire route winds through vineyards surrounding the village of Slap, with scenic viewpoints offering breathtaking vistas of the Vipava Valley.
• Along the way, you’ll come across hidden spots where you can admire the Kolokovšček and Slap waterfalls and other cascades, rapids, and natural wonders.

Talež and Tolsti vrh, Bled

Distance: 6.2 km
Elevation: 468 m
Duration: 2h 50 min
Highest point: 883 m
Difficulty: medium

• The hike to Talež and Tolsti vrh suits hikers with moderate fitness, including families with children who are used to walking in the hills.
• The trail starts at the bridge over the Sava Bohinjka River in the village of Ribno, just south of Bled.
• It leads through the forest to the renovated hunting lodge on Talež, where you can take a break and enjoy views of the Sava Bohinjka Valley, Lake Bled, the Julian Alps, and the Karavanke mountains.
• From the lodge, continue westward to reach Tolsti vrh.

Peč and Rudnica from Stara Fužina, Bohinj

Distance: 8.1 km
Elevation: 416 m
Duration: 4h
Highest point: 942 m
Difficulty: medium

• A circular hiking trail from various starting points offers views of nearly every corner of Bohinj and the surrounding mountains.
• Rudnica got its name from the ore that was once mined there. From the edge of the clearing that the trail crosses, the ore was lowered into the valley by cable car and used to extract iron and aluminum.
• The trail is also known for its rich plant life, especially the Bohinj iris, a symbol of the International Wild Flower Festival held in Bohinj every spring.
  From the top of Rudnica, you can enjoy a bird’s-eye view of Bohinj.

1. Circular trail to the Solčava Yew Tree, Logar Valley-Solčavsko

Distance: 2.5 km
Elevation: 186 m
Duration: 1h 15min
Highest point: 830 m
Difficulty: medium

• The trail to the Solčava yew is a circular themed hiking trail that winds through the forests and meadows of the Solčava region.
• It is moderately difficult and suitable for all generations—perfect for anyone looking to spend time in a peaceful, natural setting.
• Along the way, you’ll discover stories of the locals and the cultural identity of Solčava.
• The Solčava yew is between 700 and 900 years old, making it one of the oldest trees in Slovenia.
• Benches next to the yew offer a place to rest and breathe in the fresh mountain air.

2. Fairytale Forest Trail of Logar Valley, Eco House Na razpotju

Distance: 1 km
Elevation: 416 m
Duration: 30min-1h
Highest point: 804 m
Difficulty: easy

• The trail begins at the Eco House Na razpotju, where you receive a map to help you navigate the forest and find all 21 fairytale stations.
• Along the way, 21 unique fairytale stops guide you, each with its own story, visual elements, and fun sensory and motor challenges.
• The magical and forest-themed content is enriched with information that also educates adult visitors about the cultural and natural heritage of Solčava.
• The trail is suitable for children, families, and anyone wishing to discover the enchanting power of nature and deepen their sense of exploration.
• At the end of your forest adventure, return to the Eco House Na razpotju to enjoy delicious homemade treats.

3. Logar Valley Trail, Hotel Plesnik

Distance: 7 km (one way)
Elevation: 340 m
Duration: 2-3h
Highest point: 1,050 m (Rinka Waterfall)
Difficulty: easy

• The trail through the Logar Valley is a themed, natural, and ethnographic educational path.
• It leads from the Logar farm in the lower part of the valley, following the main road past the Logar linden tree, then through forests, past farms, across meadows, streams, and torrential riverbeds, all the way to the Rinka Waterfall.
• The path reveals many fascinating features of nature and cultural heritage.
  Signposts guide you through forests, along the edge of pastures, to a forester’s and charcoal-maker’s cabin, and along streams toward waterfalls.
• By the waterfall, you can stop at the Orlovo Gnezdo bar, where souvenirs are also available.

Žirovnica cultural heritage trail, Žirovnica

Distance: 10 km
Elevation: 86 m
Duration: 3-5h
Highest point: 604 m
Difficulty: not difficult

• In the villages beneath Stol, the highest peak of the Karavanke range, runs one of Slovenia’s oldest themed trails—the Žirovnica Cultural Heritage Trail.
• Along the route, rich cultural heritage blends with the natural beauty that once inspired some of Slovenia’s most renowned figures.
• This easy circular trail follows village roads, field paths, and pastures above the villages, making it suitable for walkers of all ages.
• At the Čop Birth House in Žirovnica, listen to stories from the past and learn about the life of one of the greatest scholars in 19th-century Carniola.
• Discover the region’s rich beekeeping tradition at the memorial apiary of Anton Janša, the pioneer of modern beekeeping, and pick up a jar of Slovenian honey.
• Also visit the birth house of writer Fran Saleški Finžgar and the village of Vrba, the birthplace of Slovenia’s most celebrated poet, France Prešeren.

Kingfisher nature learning trail, Ljubljana

Distance: 5.2 km
Elevation: 194 m
Duration: 2h
Highest point: 470 m (Tabor: 492 m)
Difficulty: easy

• Kingfisher Nature Learning Trail is a circular hiking trail that leads nature and hiking lovers from the village of Cerovo toward the Kingfisher Grove, along forest edges, past wet meadows, to the hamlet of Podlom and the source of the Podlomščica stream.
• Climb through the karst forest terrain to Župan’s Cave—one of Slovenia’s most beautiful show caves—and to Tabor above Cerovo, one of the few well-preserved anti-Turkish fortifications in the country.
• Along the way, 22 educational panels and over 100 nesting boxes offer insights into local birdlife, including habitats for the Eurasian blue tit, wallcreeper, great and crested tits, tawny owl, Ural owl, other forest birds, and even bat colonies.

1. Hiking trail to Velika Planina, Kamnik

Distance: 6 km
Elevation: 400 m
Duration: 4-5h
Highest point: Gradišče, 1.666 m
Difficulty: easy to moderate

• The mountain trail offers hikers stunning views of the surrounding hills, alpine pastures, and the famous shepherd’s huts.
• The route begins with a moderate climb through the forest, accompanied by babbling mountain streams and peaceful nature.
• After about an hour of walking, you’ll reach the scenic alpine pastures of Velika Planina, where breathtaking views of nearby peaks and valleys unfold.
• The trail continues past the first shepherd’s huts, showcasing the traditional architecture of the region.
• At the summit of Gradišče, the most beautiful panoramic view of the Kamnik-Savinja Alps awaits.

2. Kneipp barefoot trail, Terme Snovik

Distance: 3 km
Elevation: 100 m
Duration: 40 min
Highest point: 544 m
Difficulty: easy

• A unique challenge inspired by the healing philosophy of German physician Sebastian Kneipp.
• It incorporates elements of natural healing such as water, movement, herbs, nutrition, and balance, engaging all the senses during the hike.
• Walk across various natural materials like pebbles, wood, sand, and grass, which help improve circulation, relieve tension, and activate reflex points on the feet connected to different parts of the body.
• The experience also includes elements of Kneipp hydrotherapy, such as a hand bath, stork walk in a stream, and body rinses, all of which further stimulate blood flow and support physical regeneration.

The Hill of St. Jošt, Kranj

Distance: 2.8 km
Elevation: 450 m
Duration: 1 h
Highest point: 828 m
Difficulty: easy

• The starting point for the hike to St. Jošt above Kranj is just a few minutes from the city center and offers a perfect opportunity for outdoor recreation, a nature escape, or simply enjoying stunning views and great food.
• From Stražišče near Kranj, follow the signs for Pot na Jošta, which will lead you to the foot of the hill.
• One of the most well-known forest trails is the “Sodarjeva” path, which passes by a hand-carved log shaped like a crocodile, once used as a well. Today, a fresh water spring can be found just behind it.
• At the top, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views over the Gorenjska region and the Kamnik–Savinja Alps.
• The Church of St. Jošt is a popular pilgrimage site, known for its holy stairs, built with pebbles from the sacred steps in Rome.

Panoramic summit Javornik, Idrija

Distance: 5.5 km
Elevation: 554 m
Duration: 2 h 30 min
Highest point: 1,240 m
Difficulty: easy

• The mountain trail from Črni Vrh to Javornik offers a lovely hike along forest and countryside paths, rewarding you at the top with a stunning panoramic view.
• The trail is suitable for visitors of all ages—both recreational and experienced hikers, as well as families with children who are used to mountain walks.
• Along the way, you’ll unwind in a peaceful hillside setting, enjoying the fresh air and scenic views of the surrounding landscape.
• The trail first ascends through forest, where in different seasons you can admire typical Dinaric-Karst vegetation. Higher up, the forest gives way to grassy slopes that open up beautiful vistas.
• At the summit of Javornik, a new observation tower offers breathtaking 360° views above the treetops.

The Drvošec trail, Visitor Center Lake Cerknica

Distance: 3.7 km (one way)
Elevation: 166 m
Duration: 3.5-4 h
Highest point: 586 m
Difficulty: easy

• The Drvošec Trail, awarded Best Themed Trail of 2020 by the Tourist Association of Slovenia, guides visitors through the picturesque karst landscape of Lake Cerknica.
• This carefully maintained themed hiking trail is equipped with informative panels, educational points, and birdwatching towers.
• One of the highlights is a 10-meter observation tower offering beautiful views of the natural heritage of the Notranjska Regional Park.
• The trail is ideal for families, recreational hikers, and bird enthusiasts.
• Before setting off, visit the interactive exhibition at the Visitor Centre to learn more about the karst phenomenon of Lake Cerknica.
• Bring your own binoculars to spot a variety of bird species along the way.

Jacob’s Forest discovery trail, Postojna

Distance: 1 km
Duration: 20 min
Highest point: 610 m
Difficulty: easy

• Go on an exciting adventure along Jakob’s Forest Learning Trail, where nature and history come together to create a delightful experience.
• This easy yet engaging educational hiking trail is located on the northwestern side of the Sovič hill in the center of Postojna.
• It’s a perfect choice for all forest lovers, especially families with young children.
  The trail is named after a brave little shepherd, Jakob, who, according to legend, outsmarted a dragon living in the Postojna Cave.
• Along the way, you can climb rocks, learn about different tree species, explore forest creatures, and enjoy stunning views of Mount Nanos through the “window” clearing above Veliki Otok.

Castle trails beneath Celje Castle, Celje

Distance: 2 km
Elevation: 140 m
Duration: 1 h
Highest point: 407 m (Celje Castle)
Difficulty: easy

• The trail leads to Celje Castle, the largest medieval castle in Slovenia.
• Nestled among the treetops of the City Forest on the castle hill, three different themed trails lead to the castle.
• Thanks to their short length and simplicity, these paths are perfect for all family members and beginner hikers.
• The new Geological Trail is part of the circular network of Castle Trails beneath Celje Castle and is designed as a journey through geological time.
• Hikers can enjoy a unique experience on a glass viewing platform that ‘floats’ above the castle panorama, offering stunning views of Celje and its surroundings.
• Visit Celje Castle and discover the history of the Counts of Celje, the most powerful noble and ruling family to have ever lived in Slovenian lands.

Hiking path to Hum, Laško

Distance: 3.8 km (circular path)
Elevation: 299 m
Duration: 1-2 h
Highest point: 583 m
Difficulty: medium

• The trail to Hum is a sports and recreational hiking path that ascends above the town of Laško.
• It winds through forest and low shrubland, offering beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
• Along the way, there are well-maintained viewpoints such as Prižnica, the dramatic sinkhole Divji Farovž, and Blaž’s Rock, each providing stunning panoramas of Laško and its surroundings.
• Informational signs along the trail introduce hikers to the local flora of Hum, making it a great way to learn about the area’s plant life.
• The trail is circular, crossing three peaks before descending to the hamlet of Zahum and returning to the starting point.

Žavcarjev vrh, Maribor

Distance: 4.4 km
Elevation: 513 m
Duration: 1.5 h
Highest point: 915 m
Difficulty: easy

• The hiking trail to Žavcarjev vrh takes you through the picturesque landscape of the Kozjak hills, where forests, streams, and scenic views of the surrounding peaks intertwine.
• The trail is suitable for families with children, nature lovers seeking a peaceful outdoor experience, and those who enjoy traditional local cuisine.
• After about an hour and a half of walking, you’ll reach the Koča na Žavcarjevem vrhu mountain hut, where you can enjoy authentic regional dishes.
• From the hut, it takes around 10 minutes to reach the summit of Žavcarjev vrh, which offers beautiful views toward the northeastern part of Pohorje.

Green trail, Moravske Toplice

Distance: 4 km
Duration: 1 h
Highest point: 228 m
Difficulty: easy

• The Green Trail is a short but incredibly scenic hiking path that reveals the natural diversity of the Prekmurje landscape.
• The trail leads through forests, past the Lipnica stream, meadows, and cultivated fields, connecting Moravske Toplice with the well-known Marič Inn in Sebeborci.
• At the end of the trail, you’ll be treated to an authentic Prekmurje culinary experience with dishes like bograč, dödöle, and the famous Prekmurska gibanica.
• The trail is suitable for all generations and is ideal for relaxing nature outings, family walks, and recreational hikers seeking a connection with nature and local traditions.
• The trail’s variety offers visitors a pleasant and dynamic experience, alternating between open views and shaded forest sections.

Ptuj cultural trail, Panorama-Krapša B&B

Distance: 13.3 km
Elevation: 135 m
Duration: 4 h
Highest point: 364 m (Love bench at Mestni Vrh)
Difficulty: easy

• The trail is dedicated to the memory of two notable locals: writer Ivan Potrč and Dr. Matija Murko.
• It passes by Potrč’s birthplace in Štuki, continues across Mestni Vrh, and leads to Dr. Matija Murko’s birthplace in Drstelja.
• The trail continues past the old prison buildings and follows the markings leading you to the Vičava Trail.
• Climb up to Panorama Hill to see replicas of Roman structures, marking the location of a former Roman forum.
• The trail follows a ridge offering views to the south of Haloze, Mount Donačka, Macelj, Boč, and the hills beyond the border.
• Visit a small ethnological memorial museum and discover objects that once represented everyday life on local farms.

The forest and history trail of the Old Castle, Radlje ob Dravi

Distance: 3 km
Elevation: 216 m
Duration: 2-3 h
Highest point: 570 m
Difficulty: easy

• The educational trail offers visitors insight into the rich natural and cultural heritage of the area.
• It begins and ends at the impressive Kalvarija Rock in the park next to Radlje Mansion.
• The highlight of the trail is the ascent to the ruins of the Old Castle, once known as Mahrenberg Castle, offering beautiful views of Radlje ob Dravi, Pohorje, and the Drava Valley.
• The path leads through mixed forests of beech, spruce, and oak, where typical tree species are marked and their ecological roles explained.
• The trail is suitable for all generations, school groups, forestry professionals, hikers, families with children, and adults alike.

Janina hiking trail, Rogaška Slatina

Distance: 4 km circular trail
Elevation: 103 m
Duration: 1 h 15 min
Highest point: 348 m (Janina observation tower)
Difficulty: easy

• This easy circular Slovenia Green hiking trail offers scenic views, a rich natural setting, and insights into the area’s historical heritage.
• The trail is suitable for all age groups—from families with children to older visitors and recreational hikers.
• Along the way, visitors can taste the famous Donat natural mineral water, known for its healing properties.
• The route passes through well-maintained park areas and continues into the forested surroundings of Janina Hill, leading to the Janina Observation Tower, which offers a stunning panoramic view of Rogaška Slatina, the surrounding hills, and, on clear days, even as far as Croatia.

Hiking path to Lovrenc Lakes, Rogla-Pohorje

Distance: 9.1 km
Elevation: 360 m
Duration: 3-4 h
Highest point: 1,532 m (Mulejev vrh)
Difficulty: moderate

• This relatively flat and easy trail leads deep into the forest across soft Pohorje meadows and root-covered, needle-strewn forest floors.
• Discover the unique world of peat bogs, where valuable Pohorje peat forms, renowned for its healing properties.
• Numerous trail markers make navigation simple.
• Enjoy breathtaking views toward the Koroška region and the Alps.
• At the summit, a scenic observation tower welcomes you with stunning views over the ponds and serves as a popular photo spot.
• Walk along the wooden boardwalk between the lakes, then either return along the same trail or take a turn at the fork to complete the loop.

From bench to bench hiking trail, Šentjur

Distance: 13 km
Elevation: 756 m
Duration: 5 h 15 min
Highest point: 550 m (Col)
Difficulty: easy

• A circular trail suitable for hikers of all ages, from families to experienced mountaineers.
• After a moderate ascent through the village and past farms, you’ll reach Gradišče Hill, offering the most stunning view of Lake Slivnica, also known locally as the Sea of Kozjansko.
• The trail continues through the forest to Pesek, where a view opens up toward Gorica pri Slivnici.
• Pause beneath the iconic poplar trees and take in the views of the rolling Kozjansko hills, stretching all the way to Boč and Pohorje.
• At the fourth bench, enjoy the peaceful view of the rural village Slivnica pri Celju with the Church of St. Mary Magdalene.

Plešivec hiking trail, Slovenj Gradec

Distance: 12 km
Elevation: 541 m
Duration: 4-5 h
Highest point: 1,105 m
Difficulty: moderate

• The Plešivec Trail is suitable for moderately fit recreational hikers.
• Take a walk through the picturesque Kaštel Gorge.
• At the upper end of the gorge, views open up toward the Plešivec woods.
• At the beginning of the small valley stands the restored Plešivec Mill, once part of the significant Plešivec estate and now preserved as part of its ethnological and technical heritage.
• The path leads you to the courtyard of the once-prosperous Plešivec Mansion.
• As you continue, enjoy beautiful panoramic views of Pohorje, and the Mislinja and Šalek Valleys.

Velenje family trail, Velenje

Distance: 10.2 km
Elevation: 303 m
Duration: 1.5-3 h
Highest point: 522 m (St. Jakob)
Difficulty: easy

• A friendly and varied hiking trail through the picturesque corners of the Šalek Valley.
• Ideal for families and beginners looking to spend an active day in nature.
• The trail passes through forests and natural landmarks of the valley’s southern ridge, then leads past Jakec Hill to the old part of Velenje and Velenje Castle.
• Along the way, you can enjoy both natural and historical attractions such as Lake Velenje, Vista Park with its viewpoint, Velenje Castle, and the Velenje Museum, the House of Minerals, St. Martin’s Church, and St. James’s Church with views over the Šalek Valley and the historic old town.

The Hop Trail, Žalec

Distance: 14 km
Duration: 4 h
Highest point: 271 m
Difficulty: moderate

• The Hop Trail runs along the flat terrain of the Lower Savinja Valley.
  It is suitable for all hikers, including families.
• Accessible in all seasons, it is especially captivating at the end of summer, when the hop fields create a unique green “curtain.”
• In 2011, the Hop Trail was voted the second-best themed trail in Slovenia.
• After just half an hour of walking, the trail leads you to the first cultural landmark, Novo Celje Mansion.
• Stroll past the Vrbje Pond by the Savinja River and the Roman Necropolis in Šempeter.

Slovenia’s southernmost trail, Bela krajina

Distance: 11 km
Elevation: 47 m
Duration: 2,5 h
Highest point: 217 m
Difficulty: easy

• This easy mountain trail runs right along the Kolpa River, offering views across to the Croatian side of the riverbank.
• The trail is flat and gentle, making it suitable for hikers of all ages, families with children, and even four-legged friends.
• Following the Kolpa, the path leads to a wooden bridge, near the Trpotec Spring, known as the fountain of eternal youth, and shortly after, past a mill on the Kolpa River.
• Stroll through riverside forests and fields to Kot pri Damlju, the southernmost village in Slovenia.
• Just below the village lies one of the most beautiful swimming spots on the Kolpa, perfect for a dip during the summer months.

Brežice hiking trail, Brežice

Distance: 17 km
Elevation: 683 m
Duration: 5,5h
Highest point: 621 m (Veliki Cirnik)
Difficulty: moderate

• The circular mountain trail begins in Čatež ob Savi with an ascent to Sveti Vid, one of the most scenic viewpoints in the area.
• At the top, a viewing platform offers sweeping vistas of the Krško–Brežice plain, the town of Brežice, and Lake Brežice.
• After reaching the highest point of the trail, Veliki Cirnik, you can take a break at the Pri veseli Micki bivouac, where benches and tables provide a pleasant resting spot.
• The trail continues toward Mali Cirnik, which is home to the only water source along the route.
• The Brežice Mountain Trail is a wonderful opportunity to explore the natural beauty and local charm of the Brežice municipality.

Rog hiking trail, Kočevsko

Distance: 64 km
Elevation: 2100 m
Duration: 1-3 days
Highest point: 1,099 m
Difficulty: moderate

• This multi-day circular hiking trail is an ideal opportunity for a multi-day adventure through the Kočevje region, offering a chance to explore the heart of Slovenia’s Secret Forest.
• The trail is suited for more experienced hikers, while less prepared hikers or families with children can enjoy individual shorter sections of the route.
• The starting point of the Roška Trail is at Kočevje Lake, from where it leads through Željne, on to the Pugled–Žiben forest reserve, and to the summit of Rog.
• Along the way, you’ll pass remnants of virgin forest in Rajhenavski Rog and the majestic Queen Fir (Jelka Kraljica).

One-day circular cistercian trail, Kostanjevica na Krki

Distance: 17.5 km
Elevation: 493 m
Duration: 4.5 h
Highest point: 387 m (Male Vodenice)
Difficulty: moderate

• A one-day circular mountain trail exploring the Cistercian heritage starts in front of the Božidar Jakac Gallery.
• Along the route, informational panels guide you through key points of the cultural landscape.
• The ascent to the church in Male Vodenice rewards you with a beautiful view of Kostanjevica na Krki.
• After crossing two wooden bridges, you’ll climb to the Baroque church in Slinovce, offering scenic views of the Krakovo Forest.
• The trail ends in Kostanjevica na Krki, where you can also visit the Kostanjevica Cave.

The Trappist hiking trail, Krško

Distance: 12 km
Elevation: 425 m
Duration: 4 h
Highest point: 479 m
Difficulty: easy to moderate

• A themed hiking trail that preserves the heritage of the Trappist monks.
• Suitable for both families with children and experienced hikers.
• From Grmada Hill, you’ll enjoy panoramic views over the Pannonian plain of the Krško field.
• Walking through vineyards, you’ll reach the 14th-century Church of St. Hermagoras, offering a stunning view of the Sava River Valley.
• The trail continues through forest paths and orchards, leading to Rajhenburg Castle, where you can explore various exhibitions, visit the sparkling wine cellar, and enjoy a meal at the castle restaurant.

Slak’s Trail, Novo mesto

Distance: 8 km
Elevation: 230 m
Duration: 2-3 h
Highest point: 428 m (Peak of Trška gora)
Difficulty: easy

• A hiking trail in memory of Lojze Slak.
• Along the way, admire vineyards, wine cottages, wine cellars, centuries-old lime trees, and the Church of the Nativity of Mary at the top of Trška Gora.
  The trail is suitable for hikers of all ages and fitness levels.
• Visit traditional wine cottages, where friendly local winemakers open their cellars and offer tastings of Cviček, the region’s native wine, along with other Trška Gora varieties.
• The finish is the summit of Trška Gora, the most famous wine-growing hill in the Dolenjska region, offering panoramic views over the Krško Valley.