Slovenia’s mountain resorts are experiencing increased visitor numbers, attributed to sustainable investments and expanded offerings beyond the winter season. This trend has encouraged further development, reinforcing Slovenia’s reputation for eco-friendly tourism. The Slovenian Tourist Board (STB) is intensifying promotional efforts for the 2024/2025 winter season, aiming to attract more winter holiday enthusiasts.
At a recent press conference, several organizations highlighted innovations in Slovenia’s mountain resorts. The Ministry of the Economy, Tourism and Sport, along with the Slovenia Outdoor Association and the Slovenian Ski Lift Association, showcased upgrades that have increased off-winter visitor numbers. These developments aim to transform traditional ski areas into year-round destinations.
In 2023, significant investments were made to expand resort offerings beyond winter. This led to a 30% increase in transport usage during summer 2024 compared to the previous year. Visitor numbers rose by 20%, reaching half a million guests.
Industry analyses by German and Austrian experts highlight economic benefits with a multiplier effect of 1:5-7 for each euro invested in infrastructure. The Ministry of the Economy, Tourism and Sport issued public tenders in 2022 and 2023 for expanding accommodations and restructuring resorts, leveraging €359 million in investments supported by EU funds.
Skiing in Slovenia represents a low carbon footprint tourism option. “78% of the carbon footprint in ski tourism comes from transportation,” while only 20% is from accommodation and skiing activities. Snowmaking relies on air and water, returning all used water back to nature.
The STB is promoting new offers for winter 2024/25 under the campaign “Vzemi si čas. Moja Slovenija.” Internationally, their digital campaign targets markets with interest in active winter experiences.
Matej Kandare of Slovenia Outdoor emphasized Slovenia’s tradition in winter sports: “Slovenia has a deep-rooted tradition in winter sports…creating a unified winter experience that makes Slovenia a premier winter destination.” Boštjan Paradiž of the Slovenian Ski Lift Association discussed strategic infrastructure investments: “Strategic infrastructure investments are vital…this success motivates us to continue investing.”
The article includes details on national ski passes available at www.skislovenia.net and cross-country ski passes on the Slovenia Outdoor website.
