Mali Grad and Stari Grad, Kamnik

The walk to Mali Grad and Stari Grad rises from the old town of Kamnik, at the foot of the Kamnik-Savinja Alps, to two medieval castle sites on the hills above. Mali Grad holds the Romanesque Chapel of the Annunciation, and Stari Grad consists of ruins with open views of the surrounding mountains. The route starts near Samostanska ulica in the old town of Kamnik. Trains run from Ljubljana to Kamnik Mesto in about 40 minutes, and the old town is a 10-minute walk from the station, so no car is needed. Parking is available in town for drivers. No permit is required, although entry to the chapel may depend on opening times, which should be checked locally. The loop is about 2 km, takes around 45 minutes, and involves roughly 100 m of ascent, so it is easy and suitable for first-time hikers. Paths are short, paved or gravel and signposted from the town centre, with some steps and a steeper pitch near the top. Shade comes from trees on the slopes, while the castle terraces are open. Landmarks are the Chapel of the Annunciation at Mali Grad, a notable Romanesque building, and the ruined walls of Stari Grad, from which the Kamnik-Savinja Alps are visible to the north and the town roofs to the south. Walkers can turn back at either castle or complete a loop linking the two before descending to the old town. No water source is on the route, but the town has cafes and fountains at the start and finish. The walk can be combined with the old town's streets and museums, and with a visit to the Velika Planina approach later in the day. The paths are usable all year, though snow or ice on the steps in winter calls for caution. Weekday mornings are quiet, and clear days give the best mountain views.