One of Slovenia’s main assets is its picturesque and diverse nature. There is probably no country in the world that safeguards such a diversity of flora and fauna in such a small area. The proximity of nature allows us a high quality of life, and immediate escape to nature, in the shelter of Slovenian forests and waters. Even in cities, only a few steps separate you from urban centres to nature.
Almost two thirds of Slovenia’s territory are covered by forests, which ranks Slovenia as the third most forested European country. As much as 13% of Slovenia’s territory is protected nature areas. The largest part belongs to Triglav National Park, which celebrates 40 years since its establishment.
The only national park in Slovenia is named after the 2,864-meter-high Triglav, the highest Slovenian mountain, which has also a great symbolic value to Slovenes. Within the Man and the Biosphere (MAB) project, the park is the first biosphere reserve to be included in the UNESCO network. Park is home to more than 7,000 animal and 1,600 plant species. For example, brown bears and wolves are also found in the Pokljuka forests.
The large part of Pokljuka plateau, the venue of the IBU World Championships Biathlon 2021, lies in Triglav National park.
The park is located entirely in the Julian Alps, which is the highest Slovenian mountain range. The world at the foot of mighty mountains offers a variety of surprises of natural and cultural heritage – the iconic image of Bled with a glacial lake and the only natural island in Slovenia, the wild beauty of Bohinj with Slovenia’s largest permanent lake, and the picturesque Soča Valley with one of the most beautiful alpine rivers known by its amazing emerald colour. In addition to nature, charming alpine villages and towns add special attractiveness to the Julian Alps area. Radovljica has one of the most beautiful medieval town centres in Slovenia, and is also famous for its beekeeping tradition and chocolate.
The Alpine landscape offers a variety of outdoor activities. Numerous long-distance hiking trails run through the Julian Alps. Most of them are a part of international long-distance trails. Wild alpine rivers are excellent for adrenaline water activities.
In winter, the landscape of the Julian Alps turns into a real winter fairy-tale, worth exploring on skis, with winter hiking boots or snowshoes. With more than 30 kilometres of well-maintained trails, Pokljuka is a real paradise for cross-country skiing.
The purity of the nature of the Julian Alps is also reflected in the traditional local flavours. The recognizable Bohinj cheeses are made of the best milk that comes from the Bohinj mountains. Lake Bohinj and its tributaries are home to indigenous lake trout.
