A quick guide on how to prepare for hut-to-hut hiking in Slovenia and explore the wonders of our mountains.
Hut to hut hiking is one of the best ways to spend your holiday if you’re a lover of the great outdoors. It is a variation of stage hiking, where each stage ends and begins in a cosy mountain lodge. Slovenia is interspersed with many hiking trails that connect 163 huts managed by our Alpine Association. The landscapes here are so diverse that each day of hut-to-hut hiking in our country is an experience a hiking enthusiast should not miss.
The best time to go on your hut-to-hut adventure in Slovenia is from June to September since that’s when most of the huts are open. If you want to avoid the big crowds, go earlier or later in the season. There might still be some snow left in the mountains in June, so research your route beforehand. In September, there are usually fewer afternoon storms, but the day is also a little shorter.
Try to pack lightly and only take what is necessary. Pack your backpack with a sleeping bag, some food and drink for between huts and extra layers of clothing. The most important thing is a pair of good hiking shoes, boots or trail running shoes, but never sneakers. Also, don’t forget essentials such as your ID and cash for the huts.
The huts in the Slovenian mountains only offer a basic level of comfort but are very cosy and authentic. Showers are a luxury reserved only for the low-altitude ones, as the water supply is quite limited in the high mountains. They offer great traditional homemade dishes like stews, sausages and more, letting you explore some of that delicious Slovenian cuisine. Most lodges have both dormitories and private rooms, but you must book them early if you don’t want to sleep on the floor.
Before setting off on this journey, you should research the paths you are planning to take so you are not later surprised by a section too difficult for you. Use maps and other reliable navigation tools and plan out each day in advance.
If you are not very experienced with hiking and navigation, it’s best to go with a professional guide. They are usually locals who can help you in detail with everything we described in this blog and make your hut-to-hut hike safe and more enjoyable. For more autonomy, choose to go on a self-guided tour where a local expert prepares the itinerary with all the necessary info, but you hike by yourself.
Check out the guided and self-guided hut-to-hut tours in Slovenia and plan your perfect adventure!
