Julian Alps
SLOVENIA
The Julian Alps Biosphere Reserve has developed a holistic approach to sustainable tourism. Travellers are encouraged to choose lower-emission transportation and tour options, and communities receive funding to help deal with the kind of tourism-related issues that often get glossed over – such as overloaded car parks during busy travel periods. More than 185 small businesses have been assisted in earning sustainability certifications, and logos are issued to identify locally made products, encouraging visitors to buy food and other goods from the region.
Destination-specific Julian Alps Cards, some included in the cost of accommodation bookings, offer benefits including free bus travel and free or discounted excursions, tours and admission to attractions.
For adventurers keen to get out into the mountains, sustainable options abound in every season. The 290km Juliana Bike route is augmented by over 650km of digitally mapped trails comprising the Julian Alps Bike Network. Note that forest managers may close off specific areas or sections of trails during the mating seasons of endangered animal species. For the winter months, the Juliana SkiTour is a four-stage, 52km route, guided or self-guided, that avoids designated ‘quiet zones’ to avoid disturbing wildlife.