What is a Nature Walk?

When was the last time you took a walk, with no intention of getting anywhere? When you walked slowly, with all your senses open to the world around you. The crunch of gravel underfoot. The cool air deep in your lungs. The smell of moist earth, or sweet flowers. The sound of birds, or the buzz of insects. The undulation of a stream running over rocks.

 

Walking slowly, and with the intention of observation, exploration and learning transforms this basic form of human transportation into an incredible tool for discovery and relaxation.

After all, isn’t that why you came to the Soča Valley in Slovenia for your holidays? Relaxation and exploration.

We believe in the importance of slowing down while on holiday and truly being in the moment. We also believe in exploration, asking questions and learning about the world around us. While on holidays, we are often in a rush to ‘see it all’, buzzing from one activity to another. But Soča Valley Nature Walks give you time to discover what bird is singing outside your trailer, or find out the name of that pretty flower along the path. Or even ask more complicated questions, like, what do fish eat for dinner, or why do some animals only come out at night? At Soča Valley Nature Walks, we believe in the importance of slowing down while on holiday and truly being in the moment. We encourage you (and your family) to take the time to appreciate the beauty of nature and learning about it. Our slow walks are focused on observation, understanding and exploration of the natural world, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural landscape. Our guides will walk with you through various ecosystems of the Soča Valley, providing insights and knowledge that will enhance your appreciation of the natural world. Our walks are perfect for anyone who wants to learn more about the environment and the creatures that inhabit it, whether you're a seasoned naturalist or someone who is just starting out on their journey of discovery. It’s a unique experience in Slovenia, and is an activity for families, for couples or for seniors.

What does a nature walk look like?

Start. Its starts at the predetermined meeting point, often near the reception of the campsite that you booked the walk at: Kamp Koren, Kobarid; Kamp Lazar, Kobarid; or Kamp Nadiža, Podbela.

Walk. Once everyone who has registered has arrived, we start to walk. Your guide will lead you on a tour of the surrounding areas, covering forest, field and river ecosystems.

Stop. We stop and explore anything in our path. This might mean looking to the sky with binoculars for soaring birds of prey. Or perhaps examining the underside of a leaf with a magnifying glass. We might discuss the lifecycle of aquatic invertebrates, or observe the difference between a beach tree and a hornbeam tree. Slovenia’s nature has endless details to examine, and you guide is excited to share this active holiday tour with you.

Listen. Your guide might point out a specific bird call, play you a recording and then challenge you to identify it later. Maybe you can hear the buzz of a nearby beehive as workers are turning pollen into honey.

Explore.

The group might stop by the river, where your guide can show you some bugs and plants that depend on the clean river and stream of Slovenia’s Soča Valley.

Hands-on activities for kids. Activities for kids like bark rubbing and scavenger hunts will challenge little explorers to learn about the natural world. And field guides and resources are provided for adults can help guests brush up on their trees and plants, or learn about the unique species in the Soča Valley.

Using body and mind. A nature is walk is both physical and intellectual. It’s relaxing and educational with the goal of observation, exploration, and learning. It’s a rainy day activity, or a mellow way to wait out a heat wave. Nature Walks are the ultimate outdoor family holiday activity that might even leave you inspired to see your backyard a bit differently.

Heading back. Before you know it, two hours has passed and you are back at the meeting point with new info and knowledge and a connection to the place you are visiting. Strolling through the natural environment cultivates curiosity and acute observation. Being outdoors allows us all the chance to be ‘the observer’, ‘the scientist’, ‘the artist and ‘the seriously curious’. You can be the tourist, but with a sustainable and eco-friendly spin, which teaches you how to tread lightly on the environment that makes Slovenia so unique.

A nature walk is an opportunity to see the Soca Valley in a different way.

An activity that lets you explore Slovenia in a new way. That goes beyond just traveling, to understanding, and learning. The ultimate souvenir is a connection to the places you have seen, and a deeper understanding of what makes Slovenia so green, active and healthy.

Book a nature walk now!