Slovenia is a country of endless contrasts.  Combining rugged mountains and glassy lakes, wide open plains and dense forests, lush green meadows and snowy Alpine paths; it is a haven for hikers.  Whether you crave a peaceful walk through the achingly picturesque valleys and foothills, a challenging scramble up the most difficult mountain trails, a lazy lakeside stroll or an adventurous hike through the forest, you are sure to find whatever you’re looking for and more in the country that proudly boasts Europe’s most diverse landscape.   
 
Summer (mid-June through to late September) is generally considered to be an ideal time for hiking in Slovenia, whilst spring makes for an idyllic experience in the lowlands and valleys.  The majority of hiking trails and routes remain open throughout the year however, although it is highly recommended that you always check the weather before embarking, particularly if you are visiting out of season.  The correct hiking equipment should also be taken depending on the difficulty level of the trail and the expected weather conditions.
 
For the most intrepid hikers, the grand hiking trails in the Via Alpina (which incorporate the mountains of Slovenia) are not to be passed up.  The Slovenian Mountain Trail – which leads from Maribor through the mountain peaks to the Adriatic Sea –is the most popular trail among both tourists and Slovenian locals, while various sub-Alpine trails take you through less-populated but no less beautiful parts of the mountains. 
 
If Slovenia’s breathtaking lakes and plentiful array of stunning rivers and gorges are more appealing to you, themed ‘water-walks’ are also widely available.  These walks will lead you along Alpine streams, under roaring waterfalls, past hidden springs and out to vast lakes where you can pause for a quick dip, a spectacular photo opportunity or to simply to watch the rainbow trout swirling past each other in the blue shallows.   Some particularly dramatic walks include several well signposted trails around Lake Bled and the striking island church and routes along Vintgar Gorge; nestled deep within the Triglav National Park, the gorge is one of the most remarkable natural features of Slovenia.  Finally the Lahinja Landscape Park makes for an excellent hiking experience; it is overflowing with serene natural springs, marshes and a pond that is home to the European pond turtle. 

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