Town Forest

Celje is a mid-sized city in Štajerska, set in a basin where three streams meet, and it is ringed by wooded hills that come right down to the edge of the built-up area. The Town Forest, in Slovene Mestni gozd, is one of these green belts, a stretch of woodland on the slopes close to the old centre that residents use every day for walking, running, cycling and picnics. A city forest of this kind is a great asset. It lets people step out of town and be among trees within minutes, and it gives the city a green lung that keeps the air cleaner and the summer heat milder. The forest is a place where Celje shows its relaxed, outdoor side.

The woodland is a mix of broad-leaved trees, including beech and oak, with some conifers, and it climbs over a series of low hills with clearings and viewpoints. A network of paths of different lengths crosses the forest, so you can choose between a short stroll of half an hour and a longer circuit that takes much of a morning. The paths are marked and mostly easy, though some are steep, and they suit running and cycling as well as walking. Educational boards along some routes explain the plants, trees and animals of the forest and the role it plays for the city, and there are outdoor gym stations where people can exercise. In autumn the colours are beautiful, and in spring the woodland floor is carpeted with early flowers. Dogs are common on the paths, so be prepared to meet them.

One of the best-known features is a large wooden tree house, built from timber from the forest and promoted as one of the biggest of its kind in the country. It works as a lookout, a place to meet and a venue for events, and it gives a panoramic view over the roofs of the city and the surrounding hills. Workshops, small concerts and family activities are sometimes held there, so check what is on if you are visiting. Details of access and opening arrangements can change, so confirm locally before you go.

The forest is a short distance from the main sights of Celje. Celje Castle on its hill, the Celeia archaeological exhibition, Trg Celjskih Knezov, Šmartno Lake, the Celjska Koča hut and the Year-round Sports Complex are all in the area, while Natural Water Sources (Wellness) and Local Cuisine round out a day. Sports Clubs (over 60) and Training Disciplines (over 50) show how active the city is.

The forest suits families, runners, walkers and anyone who wants fresh air without leaving town. It is best in spring and autumn. Celje’s Town Forest is Slovenia’s answer to the urban park, and green-minded towns in Slovenia could learn from it. Throughout the year it is busy.