Slovenia’s mountain huts are not only a haven for hikers but also a delightful destination for food enthusiasts. In 2025, these huts continue to captivate visitors with their unique charm, nestled amidst breathtaking landscapes and offering a perfect blend of traditional recipes and warm hospitality. Each meal served feels as rewarding as the journey to reach them, making the experience truly unforgettable. Here’s a guide to some of the best mountain hut cuisines in Slovenia, where you can savor authentic flavors while immersing yourself in the stunning natural beauty of the Slovenian Alps.
1. Koča na Ljubelju
Koča na Ljubelju is a mountain hut located near the Ljubelj Pass, which connects Slovenia and Austria. Situated at an elevation of approximately 1,370 meters, it serves as a popular starting point for hikers exploring the surrounding Karawanks mountain range. The hut offers traditional Slovenian cuisine, including hearty stews, sausages, and locally sourced cheeses, providing a comforting meal for travelers. Its strategic location makes it an ideal rest stop for those traversing the historical Ljubelj Pass, known for its rich history and scenic landscapes.
2. Koča na Kokoši
Koča na Kokoši is a charming mountain hut situated on Kokoš Hill, near the Slovenia-Italy border. At an elevation of 674 meters, it offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the Gulf of Trieste. The hut is renowned for its warm hospitality and serves a variety of local dishes, such as jota (a traditional Slovenian sauerkraut and bean soup) and homemade pastries, making it a favorite destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The area is crisscrossed with well-marked trails suitable for all levels of hikers, providing an excellent opportunity to explore the diverse flora and fauna of the region.
3. Lavričeva Koča na Gradišču
Lavričeva koča na Gradišču is a mountain hut located on Gradišče Hill, near the town of Ivančna Gorica. Perched at an elevation of 510 meters, it offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The hut is known for its excellent cuisine, offering dishes like ričet (barley stew) and štruklji (rolled dumplings), and friendly staff, providing a welcoming atmosphere for visitors. It is a popular spot for hikers and cyclists exploring the area’s numerous trails.
4. Vojkova Koča na Nanosu
Vojkova koča na Nanosu is a mountain hut situated on the Nanos plateau, near the town of Vipava. Located at an elevation of 1,240 meters, it provides breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including the Adriatic Sea on clear days. The hut is known for its warm hospitality and traditional Slovenian dishes, such as žganci (buckwheat spoonbread) and various meat specialties. It serves as a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers exploring the diverse terrain of the Nanos plateau.
5. Planinska Koča Iskra na Jakobu
Planinska koča Iskra na Jakobu is a mountain hut located on Mount Jakob, near the town of Medvode. Situated at an elevation of approximately 806 meters, it offers picturesque views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The hut is a popular destination for hikers and families, providing a range of traditional Slovenian dishes, including goulash, sausages, and homemade desserts. The area features well-maintained trails suitable for hikers of all skill levels, making it an ideal spot for a day trip or a weekend excursion.
6. Dom na Joštu
Dom na Joštu is a mountain hut located on Mount Jošt, near the city of Kranj. Perched at an elevation of 845 meters, it offers stunning panoramic views of the Julian Alps and the Kamnik–Savinja Alps. The hut is renowned for its delicious local cuisine, including dishes like jota, štruklji, and various grilled meats, and friendly atmosphere, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists. The surrounding area boasts a network of hiking and biking trails, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities throughout the year.
7. Dom na Kofcah
Dom na Kofcah is a mountain hut situated on the Kofce alpine meadow, beneath the western slopes of Mount Košuta. At an elevation of 1,484 meters, it provides breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. The hut is famous for its homemade dishes, particularly traditional Slovenian pastries like štruklji and various stews. It serves as a starting point for various hiking routes leading to the peaks of the Košuta ridge, making it a favored destination for mountaineers and nature enthusiasts alike.
8. Dom na Uršlji Gori
Dom na Uršlji gori is a mountain hut located just below the summit of Uršlja Gora, also known as Plešivec, at an elevation of 1,680 meters. Adjacent to the hut is the church of St. Ursula, built in 1602, and a broadcasting facility with a tower. The hut offers accommodation with 60 beds in rooms and 22 communal beds. It is open on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays. The location provides expansive views of the surrounding regions, including the Savinja Alps, Pohorje, and, on clear days, even the Julian Alps with Triglav. The culinary offerings include traditional Slovenian dishes, such as ričet, žganci, and various meat specialties, providing hearty meals for hikers.
9. Gostilna Ledinek, Šmarna Gora
Just a short hike from Ljubljana, Gostilna Ledinek is renowned for its žlikrofi, a type of Slovenian dumpling, and their homemade sausages. The hut is ideal for a quick gastronomic escape.
10. Tumova Koča na Slavniku
Tumova koča serves fresh, flavorful dishes inspired by the Mediterranean. Try their wild boar goulash or herbal tea brewed with locally foraged ingredients.
Why Slovenian mountain huts stand out
These mountain huts are more than just places to rest. They reflect Slovenia’s culinary heritage, using fresh, local ingredients to create dishes that are simple yet delicious. Whether you’re sampling hearty stews or indulging in sweet štruklji, the food embodies the warmth and tradition of the Slovenian countryside.
For the best experience, pair your meal with the house-made schnapps or herbal teas—perfect accompaniments to the breathtaking vistas surrounding you.
Exploring Slovenia’s mountain huts offers not only a gastronomic adventure but also a journey through the heart of its natural beauty and cultural richness.
