Slovenian Mountains – What You Need to Know

Slovenia may be small, but it’s big on mountains. Hiking is deeply rooted in the culture, and you’ll quickly notice that Slovenians love spending their free time outdoors. There’s even a saying that you’re not a true Slovenian until you’ve stood on top of Triglav, the country’s highest peak.

But don’t let the picturesque alpine meadows and scenic trails fool you - mountains demand respect. Every year, accidents happen, even on trails that may seem “easy.” With the right preparation, however, exploring Slovenia’s mountains can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your trip.

: Slovenian Alpine Huts

: Triglav, the highest peak of Slovenia

: Slovenian Mountains

Things to Know Before You Go

Start early. Mountain weather can be unpredictable. Summer afternoons often bring storms, so it’s best to hit the trail in the morning. If you get caught in a storm Planinska zveza Slovenije says:

“There’s no real protection against lightning in the mountains—only prevention. If a thunderstorm catches you while you’re still in the mountains, move down from ridges and exposed peaks, especially in areas with steel cables, metal objects, or reddish rock (which often contains metals). Take off anything metal you’re wearing—not by throwing it away, but by placing it safely aside, away from you, so you can collect it later. For extra safety, sit on a rope or the back pad of your backpack, tuck your legs into your pack, and put on warm or protective clothing. The goal is to make yourself as low and compact as possible. And one last detail: if you’re wearing a helmet with metal rivets, it’s better to take it off.”

Matej Ogorevc, PZS

Pack smart. Sturdy hiking shoes, plenty of water, food, sunscreen, warm layers, a flashlight, and a small first aid kit are essentials. For winter hikes, bring crampons and other safety gear.
Cash is king. Mountain huts (koče) often don’t accept cards, and mobile signal can be spotty, so let somebody know where you’re heading beforehand.
Stay on the marked trails. Paths are indicated by red-and-white circles or red dashes (markacije). Venturing off can be dangerous, stay on the marked trail.
Check if the huts are open. The huts are not open all year round, so check before you go: https://www.pzs.si/koce.php#
Mind the etiquette. Slovenians greet each other on the trail with dober dan, živjo, or zdravo. A friendly “hi” back goes a long way.

Leave no trace. Take your trash with you and respect the environment.

Pro tip

Download the maPZS app (by the Alpine Association of Slovenia) for reliable trail maps and conditions and check out the trail description here.

And in case of emergency, dial 112.

: Slemenova Špica

: Planina Zajamniki

: Češka Koča

A big part of hiking in the mountains is the reward waiting at the top: a warm, home-cooked meal. Mountain huts aren’t restaurants in the usual sense - you won’t find fancy menus - but you can expect hearty, filling food made in a homely way. What’s served depends on the region: closer to Italy you might find gnocchi and pasta, while toward Austria the dishes lean more traditional. Prices are higher than in the valley, and most huts only accept cash, so plan ahead.

If you’d like to taste authentic mountain food, keep an eye out for classics such as:

Štruklji – rolled dumplings, either savory or sweet.
“Na žlico” dishes – thick soups and stews like jota (sauerkraut and beans), ričet (barley stew), or vegetable and mushroom soups. Note: many aren’t vegetarian, even if they say “without meat”—it often just means the large cut of meat isn’t served, but smaller pieces may still be in the broth.
Mushroom dishes – locally sourced, often in forms of sauces or soups.
Sausage and sauerkraut – a hearty staple.
Žganci – a cornmeal or buckwheat dish. On their own they can be dry, but they’re great as a side to soup or sour milk. If you’re vegetarian, check whether they’re topped with pork cracklings (ocvirki), and ask if you can get them without.
Sour milk – similar to yogurt, often eaten with žganci.
Strudel and pancakes – apple or blueberry strudel (zavitek), and thin crepes (palačinke) with jam are common treats.