Maribor, destination of Sports and Recreation in Nature

• into the green Pohorje forests,
• to the picturesque spots of wine growing hills,
• along or on the river Drava and
• into the green oasis of city parks.

The Štajerska capital, surrounded by the Pohorje, Kozjak and vineyards, is also one of the sunniest places in Slovenia. Ideal for that feeling of well being and exercising in nature!

Beautiful urban and rural environment provides you with numerous possibilities for hiking, cycling, riding, adrenaline, ski and other sports activities, enriched by exceptional wine, culinary, wellness, cultural and ethnological experiences – above all in 2012 the city proudly bears the name of European Capital of Culture. At the same time there are several specialized biking and hiking accommodations in the destination of Maribor-Pohorje. Already an attractive destination for cyclists and hikers it is still developing intensively within the framework of international projects, mainly in the cooperation with Austrian Styria.

Maribor - host of top-class sports events

Maribor with its surroundings has excellent conditions for all kinds of first-rate sports and is a renowned host of well-known international sports events and competitions - e.g. the World Cup in Alpine skiing for women, international football matches, hockey, swimming, cycling and shooting competitions, participating sportsmen and women training here also feel excellent!

Maribor-Pohorje – a must visit cycling destination in Slovenia

The tourist destination of Maribor-Pohorje is a heaven for cycling enthusiasts, as it offers an extensive and diverse network of cycling routes – you can choose between easy or demanding ones, flat or mountainous, for professionals or family ... something for everyone!

The breathtaking nature and interesting architecture accompanies you:

• along the river Drava,
• over the wine growing hills and Kozjak,
• along the forest paths of the Pohorje,
• through the city of Maribor and
• all the way to Pomurje and Koroška regions and further in Austria.

Alone, with your friends or a family you can discover the city of Maribor, hidden spots along the river, lonely farms of the picturesque regions of Slovenske gorice and Kungota, you can feel adrenaline rush in Bike Park Pohorje when riding downhill over the Pohorje steep slopes, and enjoy amazing views from the Kozjak and other places. And remember - once you start your trip you will not be able to resist the diverse countryside of surrounding places, which together with cycling pleasures offer delicious homemade food and wine as well as interesting natural and cultural heritage.

2. Pohorje Cycling Route: Take a bicycle and discover unspoilt nature and the Pohorje heritage from St. Bolfenk on the Maribor side to the slopes of Kremžerjev vrh on the Koroška side of the Pohorje! The route is well marked and there is a lot of connecting local cycling routes and forest roads leading from all larger centres around the Pohorje. Length: 75 km. Duration: 1-2 days / 1-2 stages.

Maribor-Pohorje – a must visit hiking destination

The tourist destination of Maribor-Pohorje attracts lovers of hiking and relaxation in nature with:

When exploring the Pohorje, Kozjak and wine routes around Maribor you will be thrilled about the natural and cultural sights, food, wine and the hospitality of the local people, who you will meet along the way! For the curious and those eager to know more there are numerous theme routes to explore, like Rozka’s Forest Learning Trail, Apiculture Trail, Pohorje's Woodcutters Route and Friendship and Culture Trail.

HIKING TIPS:

Over the Pohorje to Koroška: The first part of the Slovenian mountain path (marked by number 1) leads you from Maribor, across the expanse of the Pohorje, over Uršlja gora to the Savinjske Alps. Along the path enjoy the views from the panoramic towers and admire the most remarkable natural and cultural heritage. Be sure not to miss the mysterious lakes of Lovrenška jezera (depending on the quantity of water, there are between 11 and 22 lakes). Length: 54 km. Duration: 2 days / 2 stages.

Route over Kozjak: The route starts in Maribor, goes over the Kozjak plateau and leads all the way to Dravograd.  On the way forests, streams, forest animals and lonely farms will keep you company; individual parts of the route are also suitable for one-day trips.  Length: 50 km. Duration: 3 days / 3 stages.