Mountaineering

The Kamnik-Savinja Alps boast over 30 peaks that lie more than 2,000 meters above sea level. Their advantage, according to one of the most successful Slovenian mountain climbers, Marko Prezelj, the only four-time winner of the Piolet d’Or award, lies in their “diversity and manageability.”He adds that “you may find yourself in a different situation and condition every season, but on the other hand we can design tours differently from start to finish. Having access to such diversity while being able to enjoy nature is rare in the world.” The Kamnik-Savinja Alps is home to many popular mountain tours that attract mountaineers throughout the year. Friendly caretakers will be happy to host you in their mountain lodges.

Grintovec

Mount Grintovec is the highest peak in the Kamnik-Savinja Alps, with an elevation of 2,558 meters. Of all the trails leading to it, access through Jezersko and Kokra are deemed the most difficult, whereas the route starting in Kamniška Bistrica is technically rather undemanding. Good physical condition is nevertheless recommended, as you will cover close to 2,000 meters of elevation gain. Considered one of the easiest to conquer of the Slovenian mountains that are taller than 2,000 meters, Grintovec invites hikers with its wonderful views over the Ljubljana Basin, Jezersko, neighboring peaks and even over the Karawanks and Julian Alps.

Cojzova koča

Zois Lodge on Kokra Saddle

On route to Grintovec, hikers can take a breather at the Cojz Lodge on Kokra Saddle or make that their end destination. Named after the Zois brothers, Žiga and Karl, the lodge has been sitting atop the saddle between Mounts Grintovec and Kalška Gora since the end of the 19th century. The lodge, which is open every day of the summer, offers food and drinks in addition to accommodation.

Kamniška koča

Kamnik Lodge on Kamnik Saddle

It is a tradition that each Slovene should climb Mount Triglav once in their lifetime. For residents of Kamnik, the same goes for Kamnik Saddle. From the Kamniška Bistrica Valley, you can follow an easy, marked trail that would take an average hiker a little less than 4 hours to complete. The trail begins in the forest, before ascending past a wide clearing pocked with boulders to a grassy slope that leads to Kamnik Lodge. The lodge stands on the sunny side of Kamnik Saddle, between Brana and Planjava peaks. Managed by the Kamnik Mountaineering Club, the lodge is open daily from June through October and on weekends for the rest of the year.

Storžič

Storžič

Mount Storžič is, at 2,132 meters above sea level, the highest peak in the western part of the Kamnik-Savinja Alps and among most popular. Its name comes from its pinecone-shaped peak that features a famous cross and viewing platform. The first explorers on Storžič were botanists interested in its vast array of Alpine plants, including the ubiquitous Zois’ Bellflower. There are several trails leading to the summit, ranging from easy to very difficult. One of the most popular begins in Povlje at Preddvor village and takes a good 4 hours, covering 1,422 meters of elevation gain.

Dom pod Storžičem

Storžič Lodge

At 1,123 meters above sea level, Storžič Lodge Alpine post, which is accessible by car, is a popular point of departure to reach the summit of Storžič. The lodge prides itself on being family friendly and is frequented by hikers and mountain bikers throughout the year, while also a favorite sledding spot in the winter. In addition to good food, ranging from stews to Alpine-inspired meals and desserts, they also provide accommodation.

Bivak_pod_Skuto_Jost_Gantar-3

Skuta and Bivouac under Skuta mountain

The third highest peak in the Kamnik-Savinja Alps is Mount Skuta, standing at 2,532 meters above sea level. The trail to the summit is among the most difficult, but it’s also among the most frequented, due to its magnificent views. Just beneath the summit, in the rocky realm of Mali Podi, perches one of the most beautiful shelters, the bivouac under Skuta. Built in 2015, the bivouac was the product of a collaboration between experts from various fields who participated in the project mostly on a voluntary basis.

Ferata

Czech Lodge – Via Ferrata

Brave the Czech Lodge Ferrata, the first sport climbing route in the Slovenian Alps and one of the most difficult of its kind in Slovenia. Expect to take a break along the way to enjoy the astonishing views over the Ravenska Kočna Valley. The route will take less than two hours to complete and will cover 300 meters of elevation gain. When you recharge your batteries in the lodge, you can return to the valley taking an easier, family-friendly route.