Karawanks Adventure: Košuta Ridge, Veliki Vrh (2.088 m) & Veliko Kladivo (2.094 m)

Okay, so this isn’t one of those Instagram-famous hikes with queues at the top and influencers doing yoga poses—but that’s exactly why you should check it out. If you're in the mood for a chill hike, but still want that big alpine energy and some brag-worthy views, or if it’s your first time tackling a peak over 2,000 meters—well, the Karawanks from the Slovenian side are the place to be.

Veliki Vrh 2.088m under clouds

This particular hike we did on an easy-going Sunday is a total winner. You get to bag two peaks, on a non-technical trail, and (bonus!) it’s a circular route with amazing panoramic views of the green Karawanks slopes, cows and sheep casually grazing along the way, and those same slopes looking way more intimidating when viewed from the Austrian side.

The trail starts at the Kofce mountain hut, which you’ll reach after about 40 minutes of walking from the parking area. Important PSA: this hut is famous for its wild berry and Nutella štrukli (yes, you read that right—Nutella!).

Veliki Vrh (2.088 m)

From the hut, head west toward Veliki Vrh. The trail is just the right kind of hike—easy enough to chat while walking, but with enough of an incline to feel like you’re doing something. It starts with wide meadows and views in all directions. As you approach the Košuta ridge, things get a bit steeper with a diagonal climb westward. Soon enough, you’re up on the ridge, and wow—it really feels like you’re walking on a dragon’s back with peaks stretching in front and behind. Welcome to the natural border between Slovenia and Austria!

Hiking Košuta ridge

Inhabitants on Karawanks

Veliko Kladivo (2.094 m)

Unfortunately, clouds decided to crash our party, so most of the ridge walk to Veliko Kladivo was in the mist. That said, this seems to be my thing—always just one step ahead of rain on both hikes and travels.

The upside? We had lots of animal encounters! Down by the hut we met cows and horses (and of course, the ever-present alpine choughs). But up on the ridge—surprise!—there were sheep. Super friendly, super curious sheep. Okay, maybe they just wanted salt from my sweaty hands, but still, it was kind of adorable.

Veliko Kladivo 2.094m

Košuta ridge in clouds

Despite the cloud cover (and waterproof jackets), there was something deeply satisfying about watching the clouds roll in from Austria and literally break right over our heads on the ridge. The walk along the ridge is easy and relatively fast. After passing Mali Kladivo, the trail dips slightly before a steep and narrow path leads to the summit of Veliko Kladivo.

It was a bit tricky going down due to wet, slippery conditions, but nothing too intense. On the way back, we passed the Tabor hut on the Šija alpine pasture before returning to our starting point at Kofce.

And yes, I’ve attached the .gpx track of the full circular route—so no excuses, go get those boots muddy!