We Present Our Members: Alpine Association of Slovenia
We are proud to present the Alpine Association of Slovenia (Planinska zveza Slovenije – PZS), a dedicated member of EUMA and one of the oldest alpine organizations in the world.
Why did the Alpine Association of Slovenia join EUMA?
Slovenia is a country shaped by mountains — both geographically and culturally. With over 10,000 kilometers of marked trails, 177 mountain huts, and a vibrant alpine tradition, PZS has long played a leading role in promoting mountaineering, hiking, and climbing.
Joining the European Union of Mountaineering Associations (EUMA) was a natural step for PZS. As they put it:
"Mountains connect not only peaks, but also people, ideas, and shared values."
By joining EUMA, PZS aims to:
Collaborate across borders: Working with other European mountaineering federations to tackle common challenges in trail maintenance, hut management, environmental protection, and access rights.
Strengthen mountain sports: Sharing experiences and contributing to the development of European mountaineering policies.
Promote sustainable practices: Ensuring that mountain areas remain spaces of freedom, safety, and inspiration for future generations.
Through EUMA, PZS brings its deep expertise and learns from others, with a shared vision of responsible, inclusive, and sustainable mountain development across Europe.
What makes the Alpine Association of Slovenia unique?
Founded in 1893, PZS is not only one of the oldest alpine organizations in the world, but also one of Slovenia’s largest voluntary and sports organizations. It plays a vital role in shaping the national identity through its connection to the mountains.
Some highlights that set PZS apart:
Trail Network: Over 10,000 km of trails, most maintained by volunteers, make Slovenia one of the most trail-dense countries in Europe.
Mountain Huts: PZS manages 177 huts and shelters, offering accommodation and meals in the alpine tradition.
Knafelc Trail Blaze: A red ring with a white dot, this iconic trail marker is a protected national symbol of Slovenian mountaineering.
Cultural Heritage: Planinski vestnik, the Alpine Journal published since 1895, is Slovenia’s oldest active magazine.
Alpine Symbols: Triglav (2,864 m), Slovenia’s highest peak, and the Aljaž Tower atop it, are national icons.
Top-Level Sport: PZS supports elite athletes in climbing, ski mountaineering, and alpinism — including Janja Garnbret, Olympic gold medalist in sport climbing (2021, 2024).
Education & Safety: PZS offers extensive training programs for guides, instructors, trailblazers, and nature guardians.
Nature Conservation: Committed to sustainable hiking, environmental education, and protecting fragile alpine ecosystems.
Looking Ahead
PZS continues to invest in the future of mountaineering — strengthening international cooperation, preserving cultural heritage, and promoting safety, education, and sustainability.
We are proud to highlight the Alpine Association of Slovenia and their outstanding contributions to the European mountaineering community. Together with EUMA, PZS helps ensure that mountains remain a space of shared passion, protection, and purpose
