It all began in 2022, when the Kočevsko destination team approached us with the idea of organizing a trail run together. Since we already had experience with events of this kind, we quickly connected. They brought in their local knowledge of the terrain, and we brought our expertise in delivering trail events. Since then, we have been preparing the festival in close cooperation with Zavodom Kočevsko. Our partnership has grown stronger every year, both in the development of the event itself and in our shared vision of how to present Kočevsko as a true destination for outdoor experiences.

The first edition took place that same year, with around 400 participants. Since then, the event has grown annually. In 2025, we hosted the 4th edition, which attracted as many as 1.100 runners, about one-fifth of whom came from abroad.

The festival’s program has also expanded over the years. In addition to the main races, we now offer more and more activities throughout the entire weekend from family programs to nature experiences. In 2025, we introduced a Friday vertical run for the first time, and it immediately became a real hit.

Despite all the new additions, we stay true to the essence – the wilderness of the Kočevsko forests. This is one of the most authentic natural areas in Europe, where runners experience nature in its rawest and purest form, even near primeval forests. This gives the event a truly special and authentic character that is hard to find anywhere else.

Kočevsko Outdoor Festival was created out of a love for movement, running, and untouched wilderness that inspires us every day. We are not just event organizers, we are runners, cyclists, hikers and friends. We believe that every step is more meaningful when shared with people who share the same passion for movement and nature.