Slovenian Mountain Trail

Embarking on a trial run on the Slovenian Mountain Trail (SPP) through the Pohorje mountains was a crucial first step in my long-distance hiking plan, a perfect opportunity to test my pace against the suggested trail timings. The gentle, forested paths of the Pohorje provided an ideal warm-up, allowing me to confirm my fitness level, check my gear for comfort and performance, and gain a sense of the trail's rhythm before committing to more challenging sections. I was pleased to find my pace aligned with the official website's estimates, a result that not only boosts my confidence but also helps me to more accurately plan and prepare for the full, multi-day journey that lies ahead. This experience underscored the importance of preparation and served as a powerful motivator, transforming my dream of hiking the SPP into a tangible and achievable goal.

🟢 Trailhead (Start Point): Spodnje Radvanje

🚌 Access: P11, G2, G6 buses from Maribor City arrives near to the trailhead

🔴 Trail End (Finish Point): Sl.Gradec

🚌 Access: Bus stand #3 back to Maribor City

Base: Maribor

And so it begins! Day 1 of the Slovenian Mountain Trail, from Maribor to Ruška koča. I'm completely in love with the serene and magical forests of Pohorje. Feeling refreshed and ready for the journey ahead. What a beautiful start to this Edventure.

Day 2 of the SPP (the Slovenian Mountain Trail) from Ruška koča to Koča na Pesku is more than just a hike; it's an experience. It combines the serene beauty of the Pohorje forests with a journey through history, all leading to the simple yet immense pleasure of a good meal at a welcoming mountain hut. It's a day that nourishes both the body and the soul.

Pushing through day 3 from Koča na Pesku to Koča pod Kremžarjevim vrhom! This was a long 7.5 hours hike and a real test of navigation skills. The deep Pohorje forests were serene, but the trail wasn't always well-marked, and I took a few wrong turns which added to the challenge. The real highlight, however, was the powerful history; the trail is lined with countless WWII memorials, each a humbling reminder of the region’s past. It was a challenging hike that was as mentally rewarding as it was physically demanding.

A perfect end to this leg of the SPP! Day 4 was a short and steep descent from Koča pod Kremžarjevim vrhom to Slovenj Gradec, a plan so I could get back to Maribor without spending a night in Slovenj Gradec. It was a fast-paced hike that was a total contrast to the long forest walks. With time to kill before the bus, I got to wander through the beautiful, historic streets of Slovenj Gradec and rewarded myself with an ice-cream. A great way to mix hiking with some cultural exploration!