Slovenia: Traditional Resorts And Pristine Pistes -
Slovenia's thriving ski scene is characterised by traditional small-scale resorts with typical wooden chalets and well-groomed pistes. English is spoken widely in Slovenia and the country hosts various international ski competitions, such as the FIS World Cup and European Cup competitions. While advanced skiers may find Slovenia lacking in challenging terrain - there's nothing in the way of large linked areas - the region offers good value for money for beginners and intermediates.
The resort of Kravavec - just 15 minutes north of Ljubljana - has slopes up to 1971 metres altitude. The Krvavec Ski Centre, situated on the edge of the Kalska mountain range, offers skiing and snowboarding for beginners (5.5 kilometres), intermediates (12.5 kilometres), and experts (six kilometres) alike. The slopes benefit from reliable snow cover due to the altitude. Kravavec's close proximity to the capital means skiers can stay in the city and catch the free ski bus to Kravavec each morning.
Kranjska Gora is nestled on the border of the Triglav National Park. The imposing peaks of the Julian Alps reach skiable heights of 1295 metres and attract skiers of all levels. Beginners and intermediates will enjoy the slopes and trails in Kranjska Gora and Gozd Martuljek, while the Podkoren trail is more demanding. Top world skiers compete in Kranjska Gora every year for the Vitranc Trophy in World Cup Men's Giant Slalom. Other winter activities include night skiing, ice climbing, sledging, and a children's kindergarten in the snow.
To the east of Slovenia lies Mariborsko Pohorje with its 41 kilometres of well-kept slopes connected by five chairlifts, 16 ski lifts, and a gondola. Slopes reach a height of 1327 metres and are suitable for all levels of skiers. There is also 27 kilometres of cross-country ski runs.
Kanin is the only ski centre is Slovenia to boast slopes above 2000 metres. Nestled above Lake Bovec, Kanin overlooks the pretty Soca valley. The ski resort is known for uncrowded slopes, reliable snow cover, and sunny terraces. Kanin is also unique in that it offers skiing in Italy (Tarvisio) and Austria (Arnoldstein).
The Rogla Olympic Ski Centre at 1517 metres altitude, offers skiing for all levels: beginners (two kilometres); intermediates (8.5 kilometres); and advanced (1.5 kilometres). It also features 18 kilometres of cross-country trails and a halfpipe for snowboarders. Rogla hosts the FIS competitions.
The Golte Recreation-Tourist Centre above Mozirje is reached by gondola from the village of Zekovec. The gondola transports visitors up to the Golte Hotel and restaurant at 1410 meters on Mount Medvedjak within eight minutes. From here, chairlifts and tows link well-groomed slopes and trails (with snow cannons). Golte offers skiing for all levels: beginners (three kilometres); intermediate (seven kilometres); and advanced (two kilometres).
The town of Cerkno is ten kilometres from the slopes of the Cerkno Ski Centre; a frequent ski bus links the two. The ski centre boasts the only covered chairlifts in Slovenia: the Lom six-seat lift and the Brdo four-seat lift. Well-groomed slopes reach heights of 1291 metres on Mount Crni Vrh, and are suitable for skiers of all skill levels, from beginners to the most advanced.
Slovenia's national carrier Adria Airways offers regular schedule flights from most major European cities. If driving, you can reach Slovenia via one of the border crossings with Italy, Austria, Hungary, or Croatia, but cars must carry a vignette. Nowhere in Slovenia is far, as it only takes around two hours to drive across the entire country.
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