Title – Name
Slovenia Green Wellness Route
Scope / Sector / Industry
Wellness cycling route
Country / Region
Slovania
Why is it good practice?
The “Slovenia Green Wellness Route” is considered a good example of sustainable tourism management as it offers a special alternative experience to visitors, which contributes to the protection of the environment and at the same time to the development of local communities. Specifically, it was designed based on the principles of “slow” and responsible tourism, promoting gentle forms of transport (cycling) and rest in certified eco-friendly accommodation, ensuring high standards of sustainability. At the same time, it strengthens the local economy, offering authentic experiences and proposals such as thermal baths, local gastronomy and traditional activities. The route acts as a model for how a national sustainability strategy can be practically applied to tourist routes and is a model for other European countries that seek tourism development with environmental and social responsibility.
How is it applied?
The Slovenia Green Wellness Route was designed as a strategic initiative to promote sustainable tourism in Slovenia, combining cycling with wellness and local cultural heritage. The route was developed as part of the “Slovenia Green – Sustainable Tourism Scheme” project, a national program aimed at promoting and certifying sustainable tourism in Slovenia. The project is supported by the Slovenian Tourist Board and aims to develop thematic routes and destinations that meet strict criteria for environmental, social and economic sustainability. Specifically, the routes exclusively connect destinations that have received the Slovenia Green certificate, committed to a green future and developing their tourism in a sustainable manner.
In the above context, the Slovenian Tourist Board, in collaboration with the Slovenian Thermal Baths Association, the Slovenia Green Organization, the participating destinations and the company GoodPlace, which specializes in sustainable tourism, proceeded to design a circular cycling route, which will connect thermal baths and destinations with the Slovenia Green certification, offering travelers an experience that combines physical activity, wellness and exploration of local culture.
The official launch of the route took place on 22 June 2022, on the occasion of World Bathing Day. The route extends to 680 kilometres, averaging around 40 kilometres of moderate cycling per day on mixed surfaces with more than two-thirds of the route paved, and includes stops at suggested destinations. Specifically, the route starts in Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, then heads north to Kamnik, then east to Maribor and then to the country’s Pannonian Region before heading south across the Drava and Sava rivers. The duration of the route is around 16 days and ends in Ljubljana. Cyclists can choose to do the entire route or parts of it, while taking advantage of the country’s convenient rail system. The recommended period for visitors is from April to October.
On the official website of Slovenia Green, all the necessary information about the route is given. Specifically, a detailed description of the destinations it crosses, the points of interest and the activities proposed to the visitor is given. The above is displayed on a map, along with suggestions for accommodation and restaurants. It is also important to mention that the map also records the points where the cyclist may encounter obstacles or dangers on his route (e.g. road construction works, dangerous intersections, roads with increased traffic, etc.). The above is displayed with relevant photographic and video material, and is also provided in a mobile application.
It is also worth mentioning that:
- The route utilizes existing cycling infrastructure, such as cycle paths and quiet country roads, offering safe and enjoyable cycling.
- The accommodation facilities along the route often have special facilities for cyclists, such as secure bike storage and maintenance tools.
- The route is designed to be accessible via the Slovenian national railway network, allowing cyclists to easily move between the stations along the route
Based on the above, the reasons why the route is considered a good practice in the development and management of sustainable tourism are indicatively the following:
Promoting alternative and slow tourism
The route is designed for cycling tourism and relaxed exploration, avoiding mass tourism and encouraging connection with the landscape. Specifically, it connects 16 “green” destinations and health centers/spas through quiet routes.
Promoting wellness, health and connection with nature
The visitor has access to natural hot springs, spas, thermal baths, as well as activities such as yoga in nature, detox programs and walking routes. In this way, the tourist experience is combined with wellness, enhancing the psychophysical balance of the traveler.
Promoting sustainable tourism with certification
The route only incorporates destinations and businesses that carry the Slovenia Green certificate, a national sustainability standard that is aligned with international standards (e.g. Global Sustainable Tourism Council – GSTC). It is also aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Specifically, it includes proposals with eco-friendly accommodations, local ecotourism experiences and low-emission transportation.
Supporting local communities and local entrepreneurship
The route promotes gastronomic and experiential proposals, boosting local employment and the economy. Local products (honey, wine, cheeses), handmade activities (pottery, weaving), traditional agrotourism units are indicative proposals for the visitor.
Supporting the visitor on his journey
The route offers a safe and well-organized environment for cycling, with special infrastructure and services that facilitate the organization and implementation of the visitor’s journey.
Where is it applied?
The “Slovenia Green Wellness Route” is addressed to travelers seeking sustainable, authentic and gentle forms of tourism, with an emphasis on wellness, nature and connection with local culture.
When did it applied?
The “Slovenia Green Wellness Route” was officially launched in 2022.
Results
Although the “Slovenia Green Wellness Route” has only been around for 3 years, the references to it are quite numerous. Here are some examples:
- Euronews: Presented the route, emphasizing the alternative wellness experience it offers, namely through cycling (2024).
- National Geographic: Presented Slovenia’s green routes, including the “Slovenia Green Wellness Route” in a practical guide (2024).
- Lonely Planet: Highlighted Slovenia as a top destination for cycling tourism, emphasizing sustainable routes such as the Slovenia Green Wellness Route (2022).
- The Guardian: Ranked the route first in its list of the five best sustainable holidays in Europe, highlighting the combination of cycling, natural spas and local gastronomy (2022).
- Wanderlust: Presented the route, highlighting the unique experience it offers travelers through the connection with local culture and nature (2022). Finally, it is important to mention that the Slovenia Green program, of which the route is part, has received many international awards since its inception in 2015 and has highlighted Slovenia as a global model in sustainable tourism.
Other information
The official website of the “Slovenia Green Wellness Route” is: https://www.slovenia-green.si/members/slovenia-green-wellness-route/
