Slovenian Mountain Trail
Walking time: 28 days
Length: 599 km
Difficulty: all levels of difficulty
Start: Maribor
Destination: Ankaran
The Slovenian Mountain Trail begins in Maribor and crosses the plateaus of the Pohorje Hills, from where you already have a glimpse of the tallest Alpine summits in the distance. The trail first enters the Alps in the Kamnik and Savinja Alpine range, as it runs across its highest peaks, and then the trail continues along the long Karavanke range, which separates Slovenia from Austria. From there, it again descends into the valley and soon rises into the heart of the Julian Alps, to Mount Triglav and the steepest peaks, with breathtaking views following one after another as the trail approaches the Adriatic Sea. Each of these peaks offers a wonderful view and experience, and each step takes you closer to the sea. However, before you reach it, you must still climb many higher and lower mountains in the pre-Alpine foothills, the inspiring Karst Region, and then, suddenly, a sea breeze cools your tired body. The Slovenian Mountain Trail ends at Debeli Rtič on the Adriatic coast and connects 49 mountain huts, 23 peaks, and 5 towns. It is well marked with Knafelc blazes and the number 1. The Slovenian Mountain Trail is the oldest connecting trail in the world, and was created in 1953. How much time will you need to walk this trail? It can be walked in 28 days, and some of the best mountain runners even run along it. The record is seven days, eight hours, and ten minutes.
But you are in no hurry. Its founder, Ivan Šumljak, advised hikers: “Walk slowly, my friend. In that way, you will experience much, much more.” There is no doubt that the Slovenian Mountain Trail is number one in more ways than one.
Map and GPX track