How to Get to Šmarna Gora from Boutique Hostel Angel

Šmarna Gora, standing at 669 meters, is more than just a hill—it’s a symbol of Ljubljana and a beloved retreat for locals. Almost every weekend, especially on cloudy days, you’ll find residents hiking to the top, where the weather is often sunnier. At the summit, visitors are rewarded with breathtaking views, a cozy inn, and the must-try combination of herbal tea and miške (fried dough). If you’re staying at Boutique Hostel Angel, here’s everything you need to know to reach Šmarna Gora by public transport.

Here’s what to expect:

  • The Whole Trip: Plan for about half a day.
  • Bus Ride: Each way takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic.
  • The Hike: Most people complete the hike in 30–45 minutes, but if you’re competitive, you might want to know that the best can do it in under 20 minutes. (Every Ljubljana local knows their personal record. Not to brag, but mine is 18 minutes 57 seconds. 😏)

Oh, and don’t forget: it doesn’t count unless you share a photo of Ljubljana from the top on Instagram. Snap the breathtaking view and tag us—your followers will thank you for it.

 Getting to Šmarna Gora from Boutique Hostel Angel by Public Transport

Reaching Šmarna Gora from Boutique Hostel Angel is straightforward using Ljubljana public bus. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

  1. Walk to the Nearest Bus Stop:

    • From Boutique Hostel Angel, head to the Bavarski dvor bus stop, located approximately 900 meters walking from the hostel.

  2. Board Bus Number 8:

    • At Bavarski dvor stop, take Bus No. 8 heading towards Gameljne (direction towards the city centre).
    • Buse no. 8 on working days and Saturdays typically runs every 10-15 minutes, but it’s advisable to check the latest schedule on the Ljubljana Public Transport website.

  3. Disembark at “Tacenski most” Stop:

    • After approximately 30 minutes, get off at the Tacenski most stop.

  4. Proceed to the Trailhead:

    • From “Tacenski most,” it’s a short walk to the trailhead leading up Šmarna Gora.
    • Follow the signs or consult a nearby map to find the starting point of the trail.

Public Transport Payment Options

  • Visa/Mastercard Tap-to-Pay: Simply tap your card on the reader when boarding the bus—no need for a physical ticket or Urbana card.
  • Urbana Card: Available for purchase at kiosks or online, the Urbana card is a reusable public transport card.

Hiking to Šmarna Gora is more than just a workout; it’s a chance to experience a beloved local tradition and connect with the natural beauty surrounding Ljubljana. Whether you’re seeking breathtaking views, a peaceful escape, or simply a plate of miške and a cup of herbal tea at the summit, Šmarna Gora has something special to offer.

If you’re staying at Boutique Hostel Angel, this hike is the perfect way to blend adventure with local culture. And after your hike, our team will be happy to share more tips to help you make the most of your stay in Ljubljana.

View of Šmarna Gora summit

Tips for Your Hike

  1. Check the Weather: Before heading out, check the live webcam feed of Šmarna Gora here to see current conditions at the summit.
  2. Wear Comfortable Shoes: The trail is well-marked but can be steep in sections, so good hiking shoes are recommended.
  3. Stay Hydrated: Bring a water bottle, especially in warmer weather.
  4. Take Cash: The inn at the top serves tea and miške, but it’s cash-only.

Hiking to Šmarna Gora is more than just a workout; it’s a chance to experience a beloved local tradition and connect with the natural beauty surrounding Ljubljana. Whether you’re seeking breathtaking views, a peaceful escape, or simply a plate of miške and a cup of herbal tea at the summit, Šmarna Gora has something special to offer.

If you’re looking for more adventures and tips, check out these helpful reads:

Happy hiking, and may you beat your personal record! 🏞️😊