The Pohorje Regional Park was jointly established in 2024 by six municipalities of the Pohorje region—Zreče, Vitanje, Mislinja, Lovrenc na Pohorju, Ruše, and Slovenska Bistrica—in partnership with the Republic of Slovenia.
The park encompasses the central, highest part of the Pohorje massif and covers an area of almost 52 square kilometres.
Why is the area protected?
Pohorje is one of the most important nature conservation areas not only in Slovenia but also in the wider European region.
The primary purpose of establishing the Pohorje Regional Park is to preserve the area’s outstanding natural heritage, including its forests, peat bogs, lakes, mountain meadows, streams, and the diverse plant and animal species that inhabit them.
At the same time, the park promotes a model of regional development that enhances the quality of life in surrounding communities while ensuring that protected natural values remain safeguarded. To achieve these goals, the establishment of the park provides a framework for the active management of the protected area.
Who manages the Park?
Under the Regulation and Municipal Decrees establishing the Pohorje Regional Park, the park is managed by the Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation.
In accordance with the Agreement on the Financing, Coordination, and Implementation of Management Tasks for the Pohorje Regional Park, the following regional development organisations also participate in park management activities: RRA Koroška, RIC Slovenska Bistrica, LTO Rogla–Zreče.
What is the Park’s vision?
The Pohorje Regional Park aims to serve as a model protected area where the park authority works hand in hand with local communities and professional institutions to preserve Pohorje’s unique natural environment, landscape, and cultural traditions.
The park’s well-preserved nature and attractive landscape draw numerous visitors. Visitor activities are carefully managed to ensure that they do not negatively affect sensitive plant and animal species or their habitats.
Through engaging interpretation and educational experiences, visitors are encouraged to discover the natural and cultural heritage of Pohorje while developing a deeper understanding of the importance of its conservation.
The park promotes and supports sustainable, nature-friendly management of forest and agricultural land within the protected area, as well as the sustainable development of the surrounding region. It strives to be an example of constructive public engagement and successful cooperation among diverse stakeholders, all working towards the common goal of preserving Pohorje’s natural and cultural landscape.