National Geographic: Slovenia world's standout travel destination for 2026
Slovenia has been singled out as one of the world's standout travel destinations for 2026 in a new selection of must-book adventures by National Geographic.
In its annual look at travel adventures, National Geographic highlights Slovenia for an immersive, multi-day outdoor adventure that reflects the country's growing reputation as a hub for sustainable, active tourism, CE Report quotes The Slovenia Times.
The recommendation centres on guided journeys that combine hiking, cycling and paddling through Slovenia's diverse landscapes, from Alpine valleys and emerald rivers to forested hills and rural villages.
National Geographic points to the country's compact size as a key advantage, allowing visitors to move easily between contrasting regions while maintaining a strong connection with nature.
Slovenia's long-standing emphasis on sustainability, locally run tourism and outdoor activities aligns closely with National Geographic's wider travel trends for 2026, which favour slower travel, environmental awareness and meaningful engagement with local communities.
Overall, the list reflects a broader shift in travel priorities, with many of the selected trips focused on nature, wellness and unique natural phenomena while eschewing well-known highlights.
Alongside Slovenia, the magazine recommends stargazing experiences in England's Northumberland, long-distance coastal hiking in Portugal, and forest bathing retreats in Japan. Other featured adventures range from mud-bathing in southern Italy and wildlife encounters in Africa to bioluminescent kayaking in Puerto Rico.
Photo: Daniel Novakovič/STA
