Orle (545 m)

Golovec is one of the largest and most beautiful green areas in Ljubljana. It’s covered by a dense forest canopy and crisscrossed by numerous well-maintained and waymarked paths. It offers a wealth of recreational opportunities: for walking, hiking, running, and cycling. Orle, which you reach via a pleasant hike across Golovec, is a popular destination for locals, and many visit it especially for a meal at the excellent inn, with the experience made even better by a splendid view from the wooden lookout tower above it.

The stroll starts in the city centre, by Ljubljana’s central market. Starting from here, follow Streliška Street along the foot of Castle Hill until you reach the Ljubljanica River. Cross a small bridge and then a busy road, so mind the traffic. Climb the steps and then ascend the steep road winding between houses.

As soon as you enter the forest, which will shelter you almost all the way to Orle, you’ll see a large information board showing the Golovec area map with its groomed trails.

From this point on, red mountain trail signposts will faithfully guide you towards Orle. Keep an eye out for smaller wooden posts along the path, and occasionally older wooden signposts attached to trees.

Aside from the initial climb, you’ll not have any long or steep ascents or descents to contend with. The route takes you mostly along a wide, comfortable forest track, partially following the historic Path of Remembrance and Comradeship that encircles Ljubljana along the route of the barbed wire that once surrounded the city during World War II, as well as on forest footpaths. Enjoy the restorative and beneficial ambiance of the forest. Though you are right on the edge of the city centre, you’ll feel far removed from the urban hustle and bustle.

When you reach an asphalt road, you’re nearly at your destination. I’s only a few hundred metres on foot along the verge of a lightly trafficked road to the Gostilnica Orle tavern. Above it rises a 22-metre-high wooden lookout tower, offering fine views of the surrounding hills and the Ljubljana Basin. On clear days, the Slovenian Alps are visible in the distance.

Return: via the same route (follow the signposts for the Centre).