Nature Parks in Slovenia

Home , Begunje pri Cerknici, Berkovci, Damelj, Gregovce, Kokra, Koritnica (river)

1 NATURE PARKS PARKS NATURE IN SLOVENIA www.slovenia.info 2

Slovenia is one of Europe’s most diverse states for ﬂ ora and fauna with one of the continent’s best preserved natural environments. Having vast areas of pristine countryside constitutes a major advantage for Slov- enian tourism, allowing its development potential to be heavily oriented towards visitor’s desires for peaceful relaxation at close proxim- ity to the natural world. Where natural beauty takes your breath away...

For a relatively small area, Slovenia oﬀ ers a unique mosaic of biological, geographical and cultural diversity, with dozens of major natural assets and items of signiﬁ cant European cultural heritage. Around 12,6% of Slovenia’s territory is cover by protected natural areas, 36% of the territory is protected under Natura 2000, and almost 15,000 aspects of the country’s nature have been awarded the status “valuable natural feature”.

By managing our country’s resources carefully we ensure that nature’s treasures are preserved for future generations, that local population development is planned responsibly, and that all economic development is sustainable.

Lake in Velika dolina - Škocjan Caves

02_ Introduction 14_ NOTRANJSKA Regional Park 26_ STRUNJAN Landscape Park

04_ Map NATURE PARKS IN 16_ GORIČKO Landscape Park 28_ LAHINJA Landscape Park SLOVENIA 18_ KOLPA Landscape Park 30_ ŠKOCJANSKI ZATOK Nature 06_ Nature parks in Slovenia Reserve 20_ SEČOVLJE SALINA Landscape 07_ TRIGLAV National Park Park 32_ RADENSKO POLJE Landscape Park* 10_ ŠKOCJAN CAVES Park 22_ LOGARSKA DOLINA Landscape Park 34_ KAMNIK and SAVINJA ALPS 12_ KOZJANSKO Regional Park Regional Park* 24_ LJUBLJANSKO BARJE Landscape Park

*establishment under way 4 5

TRIGLAV National Park ŠKOCJAN CAVES Park KOZJANSKO Regional Park NOTRANJSKA Regional Park GORIČKO Landscape Park KOLPA Landscape Park SEČOVLJE SALINA Landscape Park LOGARSKA DOLINA Landscape Park LJUBLJANSKO BARJE Landscape Park STRUNJAN Landscape Park LAHINJA Landscape Park ŠKOCJANSKI ZATOK Nature Reserve

RADENSKO POLJE Landscape Park* KAMNIK and SAVINJA ALPS Regional Park*

*establishment under way

6 Nature Parks in Slovenia

Nature parks are those areas of Slov- Visitors to nature parks have various enia where the level of natural and aids to help their experience includ- cultural preservation is highest and ing plentiful information available consequently they form a key part of at information centers, on signs, on the nation’s tourism infrastructure. marked park trails, through guided Spending free time amongst unspoilt tours etc. Hiking trails, cycle routes nature is on the rise in today’s modern and wine-tourism roads off er links society. Nature parks off er the perfect between natural beauty and cultural setting for peace and relaxation; en- monuments and attract visitors in Triglav National Park joying natural beauty, observing wild- more specifi c ways. life, experiencing unique landscapes, learning about local culture and his- For visitors who wish to get to know tory, participating in activities (from the most beautiful pockets of our na- hiking to skiing and photography). ture parks more intimately, profession- ally guided tours are available from our Slovenia’s protected natural areas are park rangers. Numerous events, both divided into diff erent categories ac- traditional and modern, exhibitions, cording to the international IUCN cat- workshops and concerts, throughout egorization. Th e basic division is into the calendar will add to any tourist’s large and small protected areas. Larger overall experience. Our nature parks areas are those generally referred to as are suitable for many diff erent types of “nature parks”. Th e following protect- holiday length (from daytrips to over- ed areas exist in Slovenia: nights to multi-day family excursions) and holiday variety (from cultural her- Large protected areas or nature itage to outdoor leisure to adventure parks: sports). • 1 national park (IUCN: II/V) • 3 regional parks (IUCN: V/II) Much of what’s on off er is detailed in Logarska dolina • 44 landscape parks (IUCN: V) the present publication although for reasons of space it has not been possi- Small protected areas: ble to include everything. For further • 52 nature reserves (IUCN: IV and I) details in any specifi c area, please do • 1217 natural monuments (IUCN: III) not hesitate contact us.

Enjoy our parks and the all the new experiences they bring you.

Editorial board

Snakke’s head Fritillary 7 TRIGLAV TRIGLAV NATIONAL PARK away breath Where beauty takes your natural

ABOUT THE PARK Th e troughs of the Soča river Location: northwest Slovenia, near the borders with Austria and Italy; covers almost the entire area of the Slovenian Th e Triglav National Park is the only national park in Slovenia and it protects an part of the Julian Alps. area of pristine nature within the Alps. Th e name itself comes from Triglav, Slov- Surface area: 207,524 acres (839 km2) enia’s highest mountain and an important national symbol that appears on the Establishment of the park: 1924, ex- fl ag and elsewhere. Set amongst the spectacular peaks in the Julian Alps, the panded in 1981 and 2010 park is home to jagged ridges and vertical rock faces, deeply-carved valleys and Natural signifi cance: Valuable natural hard-to-access gorges, stunning glacial lakes and dense forest, rolling carpets of features: 1013, the entire park is an ecologically important area, Natura 2000 alpine fl owers and mountain patches of green grass – all combined with a lavish (SPA) site for 17 bird species, Natura profusion of biodiversity. 2000 (SCI) site for nine animal and fi ve Management: Triglavski narodni park Info center Dom Trenta: Na Logu plant species and 23 habitat types. Ljubljanska 27, SI - 4260 Bled Trenta, SI - 5232 Soča International signifi cance: Phone: +386(0) 4 57 80 200, fax: +386(0) 4 578 02 Phone and fax: +389(0) 5 388 93 30 (031 671 675) • European Diploma of Protected Areas 01; email: [email protected], web- email: [email protected] 2004 site: www.tnp.si Open: May to October, 10 AM to 6 PM • UNESCO – MAB biosphere reserve Info center Triglavska roža Bled Pocar Homestead in Zgornja Radovna 2003 Ljubljanska cesta 27, SI - 4260 Bled Zgornja Radovna 25, SI - 4281 Mojstrana Phone: +386(0) 4 5780 200, +386(0) 4 5780 205; fax: Phone: +386(0) 4 5780 200, fax: +386(0) 4 5780 201 +386(0) 4 5780 201; email: [email protected] email: [email protected] Open: May to September, Tuesdays through Sundays, Open: May 16 to June 24 and in September, Saturdays 10 AM to 6 PM; October to April, Tuesdays through Fri- and Sundays, 11 AM to 6 PM; from June 25 to August days, 12 PM to 4 PM and Saturdays and Sundays 10 AM 31, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, 11 AM to 6 PM to 6 PM Th ere is no charge to enter the park. 8

On the Soča trail, Trenta

Apart from preserved natural and cultural • Beautiful gorges and valleys, e.g. “fossilized” landscape, the Triglav National Park is a space Pokljuka gorge (trail from Krnica or Zatrnik, 2 for research, education, leisure and experienc- to 3 hours), Tolminka troughs and Zadlaščice ing nature. Mountain peaks, wild and deep on the marked circuit trail from the parking gorges, the riches of the plant world, cultural area above Zatolmin, can be combined with landscape with mountain pastures and pictur- a visit to the village of Čadrg (1.5 hours, in- esque villages with their rich cultural heritage cluding visit to Čadrg, 3 hours), Martuljščica all invite you to visit. troughs, Martuljek waterfalls and Za Akom basin (starting from Gozd Martuljek, 4 hours), Vintgar gorge on the Radovna river, WORTH SEEING Mostnica troughs (starting from the parking • Th e amazing alpine world. North Face of area above Stara Fužina). Mostnica river gorge Triglav, the second highest rock face in the • Natural assets, e.g. Zelenci nature reserve Eastern Alps, numerous natural windows (the spring of the Sava Dolinka river between (one of the largest being Veliko okno in • Architecture – the typical Bohinj, Tolmin, Rateče and Podkoren), Goreljek peat bog Prisank, Okno in Zadnji Prisank, Hornovo Bovec-Trenta and Gornjesavska hous- (starting from Mrzli Studenec). okno in Jalovec), Ajdovska deklica (pagan es, shepherds’ settlements, picturesque girl) – a stone face nature has carved in the • Picturesque pasture meadows, e.g. Bohinj churches of St. John and Holy Spirit on north face of Prisank. pasture meadows (starting from the park- Lake Bohinj, memorial chapel on Javorca, ing area above Stara Fužina – Hudičev most Russian chapel under Vršič, fortresses • Th e diverse plant world, remains of virgin – Mostnica troughs – mountain cabin at Voje Kluže in Predel. forests, dwarf pines above the tree line, bogs – Voje gable – Planina Grintovica – Planina at Pokljuka, alpine ﬂ owers and numerous Below are the principal marked park trails Krstenica – Planina Blato – Stara Fužina), plant species. that guide visitors through many key points sheep pastures Za Skalo (starting from Na of interest in the park. • Multiple rivers, in particular the emerald skali village, Soča). green Soča, considered by many the most • Triglavska Bistrica trail in the Vrata val- • Visiting TNP info points, e.g. Stari Tamar beautiful river in the Alps; waterfalls and ley Experience one of the most beautiful on the way to Vršič, and ascending from Vršič karst springs (Savica, Peričnik, Spodnji Mar- glacial valleys in the Alps (starting from through Vratca to Slemenova špica (3 hours). tuljkov slap and Zgornji Martuljkov slap, Šum Mojstrana (at Ros), 4 to 5 hours). in Vintgar, waterfall of Ribnica, Nadiža in the • Cross-country skiing on established tracks • Soča trail combines exceptional natural (Upper and Lower Bohinj valley, Zgornje Tamar valley, the spring of the Soča river, beauty and typical cultural heritage, and ex- Gorje, Zgornja Radovna, Gorjuše, Pokljuka, waterfalls in the valley of Koritnica, water- tends from the Soča spring along the valley Gorjuše, Zgornja Radovna, Planica with Tam- falls under Planina Zapotok and numerous of Trenta and Soča to the border of the park ar, Trenta valley). smaller waterfalls on tributaries of the Soča at Kršovec, Kal Koritnica (starting from and Tolminka rivers), glacial lakes (Lake Bo- • Historic Bohinj, the villages of Stara Fužina Soča spring, to Info centre in Trenta, 2 to 3 hinj), groups of alpine lakes (Triglavska jez- and Studor with their museums (Alpine dairy hours, entire trail length is 20 kilometers). era, Kriški podi, Krn), etc. museum and Oplen house) and hay-racks. 9

• Pokljuka trail through forests, alpine pas- • Second half of May: Guided tour of the Pok- and fi lm evenings on the subject of moun- tures and past many historic points of in- ljuka Education Trail (European Park Day and taineering, theatre performances by drama terest which connect into a thematic park Forest Week program). groups from the Triglav National Park and trail (starting from Mrzli Studenec, 3 hour • June: Summer cultural evening at the Pocar surrounding area. tour). Homestead. • Lectures and children’s workshops (Malo • Goreljek peat bog education path to learn • Second half of July: Trenta fair with accom- središče TNP) at Triglavska roža Bled Info about the uniqueness and signifi cance of panying events, Trenta International Music Center, where adults can listen to lectures peat bogs, among most precious natural Forum for talented young musicians from on protecting and conserving nature, while environments in Europe (starting from around the world sponsored by the Vienna children create and play in educational work- Goreljek, 1 hour). Philharmonic with two concluding concerts shops. • Radovna bike trail. Experience Radovna for strings. • Presentations of the Triglav National Park – the valley, the river and villages – on a Periodic events: in words and pictures, the legend of the bicycle, and get to know its natural and cul- Goldenhorn, organization of creative work- • Friday afternoons in the park: last Friday of tural peculiarities (starting from Krnica pri shops in schools, in the outdoors or in Info the month from May to September – creative Zgornjih Gorjah, 2.5 to 3.5 hours of biking centres (as agreed). workshops in nature for the young (and the with stops at info points and visit to the young at heart) where you will discover the • Photography workshops for amateur pho- Pocar Homestead (museum – 1 hour), un- secrets of the park. tographers, advice on how to best capture dulating meadows and Gogala linden tree). on fi lm the natural, cultural and ethnological • Triglav farmer’s market and Brihta: the features of the park. Triglav farmer’s market is held every third REGULAR ANNUAL EVENTS Saturday of the month in front of the • 18 May: Museum Day: Open-door day at Triglavska roža Bled Info Center between 10 the Info centre Dom Trenta, Info centre AM and 12 PM, where farmers sell crops and Triglavska roža Bled and Pocar Homestead products from the Triglav National Park and in Zgornja Radovna. surrounding areas. At the same time, there is • 24 May: European Park Day: International a children’s program called Brihta to discover, Belar Natural Science Day – orienteering explore and learn about nature in creative-re- hike, tracking a system of hidden clues search workshops. from the spring of the Soča River to the • Wednesday evenings at the Triglavska roža TNP Info center in Trenta (for elementary Bled Info Center: every Wednesday at 7 PM schools from the park region and from Aus- – throughout the year: openings of visual arts tria, Italy and Croatia). and photo exhibitions, professional lectures

Chamois Lake Bohinj Alpine poppy

Julian Alps PARK ACCESS Bus route from Ljubljana through Bled to Bo- hinjska Bistrica, Lake Bohinj and Zlatorog Hotel on the west shore of Lake Bohinj, to Jesenice and Mojstrana, Gozd – Martuljek, Kranjska Gora and Rateče. In summer, it’s possible to take a bus from Kranjska Gora across Vršič pass to Bovec. Th ere are also bus routes to Tolmin, Kobarid and Bovec from Nova Gorica, Idrija and Ljubljana. Th e train from Ljubljana will take you as far as the Lesce–Bled train station where you can continue your trip by local bus. Th ere is also a train from Jesenice (connections to Ljubljana and Austria) that goes to Nova Gorica and back. Finally there is a car-train which travels between Bohinjska Bistrica, Podbrdo and Most na Soči, with a dedicated space for bicycles. 10 ŠKOCJAN CAVES ŠKOCJAN PARK Mysterious and magical world underground Mohorčič cave ABOUT THE PARK Location: southwest part of Slovenia, on Th e deepest and largest underground canyon in Europe, Škocjan is an enchant- the edge of the Karst Surface area: 1,021 acres (4.13 km2) ing underground network in the mysterious depths of the Karst plateau where Establishment of the park: 1996 the Reka River disappears. A symbol of underground Slovenia and consisting of Natural signifi cance: Valuable natural a maze of tunnels, caverns and abysses, the caves are decorated with magnifi cent features: 52, the entire park is an ecologically important area, part of the Natura stalactites and stalagmites of many forms and sizes. Th e Karst landscape on the 2000 (SPA) area, part of the Natura 2000 surface of the caves with all the common karst features, such as dolines, caves, (SCI) area shafts and deep collapse dolines is itself an archaeologically rich area; there was International signifi cance: • UNESCO – World heritage 1986 a Bronze Age sacrifi cial site nearby and many valuable prehistoric fi nds have • UNESCO – Ramsar site (underground been made locally. karst wetland) 1999 • UNESCO – MAB karst biosphere reserve 2004 Management: Javni zavod Park Škocjanske jame Open: Every day from 9 AM, Jan-Mar and Nov-Dec to Škocjan 2, SI - 6215 Divača; Phone: +386 (0) 5 70 82 1 PM or 3 PM on Sundays and holidays, in April, May 100, fax: +386 (0) 5 70 82 105; email: [email protected], and October till 3:30 PM and Jun-Sept till 5 PM, cave www.park-skocjanske-jame.si viewings throughout the year from 10 AM (according to schedule). Škocjan Caves are open every day, during Info Center summer season (June-September) there are guided tours Matavun 12, SI - 6215 Divača; Phone: +386 (0) 5 70 each hour, from 10 AM to 5 PM. During this time, you 82 110, fax: +386 (0) 5 70 82 111; can also view museum collections which are freely acces- Reservations: Phone: +386 (0) 5 70 82 104, fax: sible to all cave visitors. +386 (0) 5 70 82 105; email: [email protected] 11

Th e Škocjan Caves reveal the majestic contact • Th e picturesque, 116m deep Okroglica abyss REGULAR ANNUAL EVENTS between the earthly and the otherworldly, in the middle of the Škocjan village. April: Hike along the swallet of the Reka River, which has inspired people throughout mil- • A pastoral landscape of typical submediter- organized by Škocjan Tourist Association. lennia, from prehistory to modern times. ranean vegetation. You can take a look at the underground Last Sunday in May: Day of Škocjan Caves Park • Museum collections in Škocjan village in- realms of the Škocjan Caves or take a walk on – “Belajtnga”. clude the ethnographic collection in J’kopin the trail around the natural monuments of June: Škocjanfest – festival of theatre groups Barn, a history of discovering Škocjan Caves Velika dolina and Mala dolina, where infor- and choirs, organized by Škocjan Tourist As- in Jurjev Barn, and the biology, geology and mation signs fully explain the features and sociation. archeology collection in the Natural History characteristics of this unique geographical Centre. July/August/September: Creative workshops. environment. • Local villages with typical Karst architectural features. WORTH SEEING • Numerous archeological sites. • Škocjan Caves, which can be seen every day throughout the year. Th e tour is guided and To further their learning about the Karst re- takes about an hour and a half. gion and its unique features, visitors may like • Mahorčič and Marinič caves and Mala to take the Škocjan circuit education trail (me- dolina (newly opened from 2011). dium diﬃ culty), which leads them around the • Velika dolina (a 163 m collapsed valley at Velika and Mala valleys in the heart of the park the end of which the Reka River sinks into in just over an hour and a half. Informational the caves), which in the summer season is and educational signs outline the main charac- combined with the a visit to the Škocjan teristics of Karst phenomena, facts about lo- Caves. cal plant and animal life and the rich cultural • Microclimatic peculiarities in the two col- heritage and history of these places. Guided lapsed valleys, Velika and Mala Dolina, with excursions on the education trail are available an unusual mixture of alpine ﬂ ora. to visitors, with prior arrangement, during the school year between Mondays and Fridays. • A number of large collapsed dolines with traces of former underground tributaries (Globočak, Sokolak, Lisičina etc.). Cerkvenik bridge

J’kopin barn Peonies in the woods Bat

Villages of Škocjan, Betanja and Matavun PARK ACCESS

Th e park is accessible in several ways. Th e simplest route is on the Ljubljana – Ko- per motorway, taking the exit to Divača and following road signs for Škocjanske jame for another 2 km. Th ere is an exit for Škocjan off the regional road, and an info center sign in the village of Matavun. In Famlje on the Ribnica – Divača road, there is a sign for Park Škocjanske jame. An increasing number of travelers come to Divača by train or bus then walk the marked trail through the village of Dol- nje Ležeče to the info center in the park (request the trail map at the Divača train station). You can also choose to take advantage of the free bus connection Divača – Škocjan Caves. 12 KOZJANSKO KOZJANSKO PARK REGIONAL faces A landscape of many Podsreda Castle ABOUT THE PARK Location: Eastern Slovenia, west of the At the junction of the Alps and the Pannonian plain, nature and people have cre- Sotla (a border river with Croatia) Surface area: 50,904 acres (206 km2) ated a unique mosaic of fl owering meadows, tall-tree orchards, vineyards, home- Establishment of the park: 1981 steads and paths leading to them. In this micro-region, a cultural landscape Natural signifi cance: Valuable natural strewn with castles, monasteries and churches is intertwined with steep wooded features: 89, almost the entire park is an ecologically important area, Natura 2000 slopes, hidden brooks and picturesque gorges. (SPA) site for 12 bird species, Natura 2000 (SCI) site for 15 animal species and seven habitat types. International signifi cance: Management: Javni zavod Kozjanski park Podsreda Castle • UNESCO – MAB biosphere reserve Podsreda 45, SI - 3257 Podsreda; Phone: +386 (0) 3 Every day 10 AM to 6 PM, except Monday, closed in win- 800 71 00, fax: +386 (0) 3 800 71 08; ter. Expert guided tours per prior agreement available Kozjansko – Obsotelje, 2010 email: [email protected] every day. www.kozjanski-park.si Th ere is no charge to enter the park. Info Center Podsreda Podsreda 45, SI - 3257 Podsreda; every day 8 AM to 4 PM. 13

Unique harmony of the Kozjansko landscape Bistrica River both in the past and today. REGULAR ANNUAL EVENTS providing visitors with inimitable impres- • Geology education trail (10 km, circuit) January: A walk through the snow-covered sions. Th e park will adapt to the wishes and winds around the settlement and monastery landscape, along frozen brooks, for inimitable interests of the public in organizing nature of Olimje. Along with 21 information points impressions of the park. days or project days for students (elementa- that illustrate the geological history and fea- ry, high-school, university) as well as guided February: Th e ﬂ owering of winter aconite and tures of Kozjansko, there are numerous natu- European cornel, pruning of tall apple trees, tours of medieval squares and castles, old ral and cultural points worth seeing. mills, pilgrimage churches and tourist farms Valentine’s hike to Bohor. • Travnik–Vetrnik education trail (2 km, for pre-arranged groups. March: Podsreda Castle, the most important circuit) winds around the highest peak of royal castle in Slovenia, reopens its gate. Vetrnik (709 m). Along with amazing views April: Easter creative workshops (making WORTH SEEING of the Kozjansko landscape, visitors will take in the dry meadow habitat. Th e best time to Easter sheaves, eggs); 22 April: Earth Day: a • Wetlands along the Sotla, the picturesque visit is in June and July when the meadows celebration which takes place in Podsreda in co- Bistrica river gorge, Zelenjak gorge and are in full bloom. operation with local elementary schools the valley of Gruska. • Bizeljsko footpaths include the Repnica trail 18 May: Museum day – free entrance to all • Dry meadows in Vetrnik and Oslica with (from the Istenič wine cellar to the “repnice” Kozjansko Park facilities; 24 May: nature con- extremely diverse plant and animal spe- area, 5 km), Vid trail (from “repnice” to Sv. servation exhibition, organized hikes, open cies. Vid, 3 km), Castle trail (from the center of door day. • Nujčev hrast oak in Gregovce, the stoutest Bizeljsko to Bizeljsko Castle, 6.5 km) and June/July/August: Exhibitions at the Pod- common oak (Quercus robur) in Slovenia. Orešje trail (circuit, 5.7 km). sreda Castle, Musical Summer at the Podsreda • Meadow tall-tree orchards. • Slomšek trail – begins in Bizeljsko in the Castle – seminars and concerts. • Castles – Podsreda Castle, Bizeljsko and southern section of the Kozjansko Park, runs Second weekend in October: Kozjansko apple Pišece Castles, Kunšperk Castle ruins, Ol- across the entire park to Olimje (northern- festival – a multi-day event with a professional imje monastery complex (entrance fee). most point of the park) and onwards to Slom seminar, ex tempore photography shows and • Restored square in Podsreda, Pilštanj pri Ponikvi. a fair with a cultural and entertainment pro- square, pilgrimage point in Sveta gora, • European Footpath E7 enters the park at gram. various churches and other religious land- Križe (at the southwest of the park), crosses November/December: Advent and Christmas marks. the Orlica mounains, descends from Svete creative workshops at the park administration • Preserved and restored typical farmhouses gore into the valley of Bistrica, and leads hik- building in Podsreda. and outbuildings, “repnice”. ers through the winegrowing hills to Olimje, where it exits the park.

Winter aconite Swallowtail Dry meadows

Th ere are around 50 km of marked and es- Th e Sotla river tablished trails throughout the park. Th ese PARK ACCESS are described in detail in various guides and brochures for visitors - which also include You can reach Kozjansko Park from recommended places of interest: Štajerska (turn off at Dramlje if coming from Ljubljana, or at Slovenska • Hemma pilgrimage trail, connecting loca- Bistrica if coming from Maribor) or Do- tions related to the life of St. Hemma (be- lenjska (turn off at Krško or Brežice). fore 995 – ca. 1045). Th e trail runs through To reach the park’s Info centre in Pod- Koroška, Štajerska, Dolenjska and Goren- sreda, which is 120km from Ljubljana, jska, and is connected with a trail in Austria requires an additional 30-minute drive by the same name (Hemma Pilgerweg). on regional roads beyond the respec- • Podsreda Trail (32 km, circuit) links natu- tive turn-off s. ral and cultural points of interest around the medieval borough of Podsreda. Th ere are three starting points for this trail: Pod- sreda market, Podsreda Castle and Trebče. • Pilštanj Trail (4 km, circuit) connects the natural and cultural heritage of the medieval borough of Pilštanj with the viewpoint on the Vino gora hill. • Bistrica ob Sotli water education trail (3 km) includes seven points detailing the function and energy-related uses of the 14 NOTRANJSKA PARK REGIONAL of nature miracle Great Intermittent Lake Cerknica ABOUT THE PARK Location: Southern part of central Slov- Th is magical karst landscape, showing a diff erent face for each season, is a ha- enia, the center of Notranjska. Surface area: 54,857 acres (222 km2) ven of biological diversity due of the cyclical disappearance and re-emergence of Establishment of the park: 2002 Lake Cerknica, the largest intermittent lake in Europe. Th e highly preserved and Natural signifi cance: Valuable natural exceptionally diverse natural habitats provide a paradise for various animal and features: 404, of which 297 are underground caves, the entire park is an eco- bird species. Landscape characterized by traditional farming, and occasionally logically important area, Natura 2000 karst relief . Th e lake’s recent history is an Iinstructive guide to human folly; at- (SPA) area for over 20 bird species, Natu- tempts to dry the marsh and close swallow holes to preserve the water all year ra 2000 (SCI) area International signifi cance: round were hopeless. • UNESCO – Ramsar site

Management: Javni zavod Notranjski regijski park Tabor 42, SI - 1380 Cerknica; Phone: +386 (0) 1 70 90 626, fax: +386 (0) 1 70 90 633; email: [email protected], website: www.notranjski-park.si

Th ere is no charge to enter the park. 15

Lake Cerknica is certainly unique. When the • Beekeeping education trail on Lake Cer- REGULAR ANNUAL EVENTS lake is fi lled with water, it’s easy to spot as it knica. Starting from Pretržje (between Do- January: Night hike to Mount Špička on clos- extends over almost 30km² and is the largest lenje jezero and Otok) at the beehouse of the est Saturday to full moon in January. lake in Slovenia. But at another time of the Beekeepers Association of Cerknica. Circular year you could also be standing in the lake trail, 250 m (1 hour), 13 descriptive signs. 27 April: Ornithological outing to Lake Cer- and be completely unaware of it. Th at’s when Th e trail is easy and suitable even for people knica. multi-coloured, fl owering wet grasslands and who have trouble walking regardless of sea- 1 May: Cross-country race to Mount Slivnica. amazing swallow holes are revealed. You can son. (Information: Beekeepers Association of First Saturday in June: Cross-country race come here to watch birds, try your luck fi sh- Cerknica, Popkova 1, 1380 Cerknica, Phone: 041 along Lake Cerknica. ing, skate on frozen ice, witness the spectacu- 657 297). Second Saturday in September: Rakov Škocjan lar sunrise and much more. • Rakov Škocjan natural science education cross-country race. trail Mali (Small) natural bridge, ruins of St. WORTH SEEING Kancijan chapel at the Veliki (Large) natural bridge. One way trail, 3 km (3 hours) and re- Every third Th ursday of the month from Octo- • Karst polje with an intermittent lake turn to starting point, 16 descriptive signs. ber to April you can attend lectures on nature. and picturesque Karst phenomena: boil- (Information: Hotel Rakov Škocjan, 1380 Cer- Th e lectures start at 7 PM at the Jože Udovič ing springs, estavelles, swallets and infl ow knica, phone: 01 709 74 70, email: kancijan@ Library in Cerknica. caves, swallow holes, surface watercourses. siol.net; and the Forest Service of Slovenia, Pos- • Picturesque Karst collapse valley Rakov tojna Area Unit, Vojkova ulica 9, 6230 Postojna, Škocjan, with Veliki and Mali natural bridges. phone: 05 700 06 10). • Rich variety of plant and bird species (habi- • Menišija natural science education trail. tat for 250 bird types alone), amphibians, Circular trail, 3 km (3 hours), nine descrip- fi sh, invertebrates etc. tive signs (Information: Menišija Tourist Asso- • Picturesque landscapes with traces of pre- ciation, Begunje 28, 1382 Begunje pri Cerknici, historic and ancient settlers on slopes and phone: 031 599 523). hills around the lake, “toplarji” – character- • Biking trails inside the Notranjska Regional istic double hay-drying racks, remains of Park are well marked. (Information: Tourist linden and pear tree avenues. and Information Center in Cerknica, Cesta 4. Below are the marked park trails that allow maja 51, 1380 Cerknica, phone: 01 709 36 36, email: [email protected]). visitors to learn about the many points of in- Marsh gentian terest in the park.

View of the karst spring Lake Cerknica Brown bear

Swallow holes PARK ACCESS

Notranjska Regional Park is accessible from the Ljubljana – Fernetiči motorway, exiting at Unec. Good bus connections only exist from Ljubljana. Buses stop in all villages surrounding Lake Cerknica. Train connections are very good - to see the Notranjska Regional Park disembark at Rakek station. One advantage of trav- elling by train is that you can bring a bicycle with you and, indeed, this station is a popular departure point for bike rides to Rakov Škocjan or Lake Cerknica. 16 lands and cultures e meeting point of three GORIČKO GORIČKO LANDSCAPE PARK Th Landscape in Motovilci ABOUT THE PARK Location: Extreme northeastern part of Goričko is the Slovenian part of a tri-country cross-border park shared with Aus- Slovenia, close to the border with Austria and Hungary tria (Raab) and Hungary (Őrség – Porabje). It is the natural habitat for a number Surface area: 114,163 acres (462 km2) of endangered and rare European fl ora and fauna. It off ers a picturesque and Establishment of the park: 2003 cultural landscape of self-suffi cient farming with a diverse fi eld crops grown in- Natural signifi cance: Valuable natural features: 47, the entire park is an ecologi- cluding pumpkins, buckwheat, spelt, rye, sunfl ower, wheat, corn and barley. In cally important area, Natura 2000 (SPA) Gorička man’s primal relationship to the soil and harmonic co-existence with site for 11 bird species, Natura 2000 nature is for all to see – it is a paradise for hikers and cyclists. (SCI) site for 18 animal species and seven habitat types

Management: Javni zavod Krajinski park Goričko Time of visit: Guided tours of the Grad castle every day, Grad 191, SI - 9264 Grad; Phone: +386 (0) 2 551 88 except Mondays, for groups of at least ten visitors that 60 +386 (0) 2 551 88 61; email: park.goricko@siol. announce their arrival in advance. Th e castle is open to net, website: www.park-goricko.org visitors from April 1 to October 31 between 9 AM and 6 PM, and in March and November between 9 AM and Visiting center: Grad Castle 4 PM. Grad 191, SI - 9264 Grad; Phone: +386 (0) 2 551 88 Th ere is no charge to enter the park. Th ere is an entrance 60; email: [email protected] fee to the castle. 17

You can take a tour of Goričko in the com- REGULAR ANNUAL EVENTS 15 August: Assumption of Mary service at pany of local guides or Goričko Landscape January: “Pout po bregaj pa dolaj” – hike with Grad, trades fair. Park employees. Th ey off er nature and tech- the Th ree Kings from Budince to Andovci. First week in September: “A night with the nical education days to groups that are eager bats” to coincide with the European Week of to learn. February: Valentine’s Day hike to Kugel, highest peak in the tri-country park. Bat Conservation. Th ird Saturday in February: demonstration of Second Saturday in September: tri-coun- WORTH SEEING traditional local liquor-making techniques at try biking trip and marathon Goričko-Raab- Őrség/ Porabje. • Get to know the wealth of biodiversity of- the Smodiš fruit-growing farm in Otovci. fered by the mosaic landscape; important March: Th e largest castle in Slovenia opens its October: Autumn bazaar – holiday of Goričko nesting sites, migratory paths and winter- doors and presents the Castle Festival. cultural lanscape conservation (Grad), birdwatching in Goričko. ing sites for birds (including the white and 22. March: World Water Day. black storks); a habitat for the largest otter First Sunday in October: “Dödolijada” festival April: Easter workshops at Grad castle. population in Slovenia, for 44 types of drag- and culinary exhibition to win “zlata kijanca” onfl ies and numerous species of butterfl y. 22 April: World Earth Day; organized cleaning. (Puconci). • See typical folk architecture, thatched May: Reaping competition with a manual Last Sunday in October: Halloween (Grad cas- roofs, brick houses, religious buildings, scythe in Selo. tle). historic memorials including watch-towers Second Sunday in May: May song, choirs, skit Second weekend in October: exhibition of and guard posts from the Iron Curtain era. festival, Pečarovci. local ancient apple varieties at Smodiš fruit- • Witness ethnological points of interest, 22 May: Biodiversity Day – walk in nature. growing farm, Otovci. watermills, collections of traditional craft 24 May: European Park Day – Day of open Last Saturday in October: European walk tools and farming activities. doors for Goričko Landscape Park and Grad along the border, Cankova. • Visit Grad castle, the largest castle building Castle. December: Christmas concert, Grad. in Slovenia with 365 rooms. 15 June: St. Vitus holiday – events along the Several cultural, tourist and sports associa- banks of Bukovniško lake, Dobrovnik. tions, not to mention Goričko LP as a public in- Visitors’ learning about the numerous points Last Saturday in June: “Peli in plesali so stitute, organize events showcasing traditions of interest in the park is assisted through jih mati moja”, traditional song and dance, and customs, as well as leading hikes, biking marked short and long trails in the Goričko Moščanci. trips and marathons. Th e Castle festival at the forests, along the waters around Hodoško, July: Castle festival – nature fi lms and open-air Grad castle is a concert venue that hosts exhibi- Ledavsko and Bukovniško lakes, through concerts. tions and nature fi lm screenings. meadows and through the border area in

European otter Ethnological museum White stork

Slovenian Porabje and Austrian Steiermark Yellow Day-lily and Burgenland. Th ose who prefer short- PARK ACCESS er trails can choose among the following: Regular passenger train Korovci–Fuks graba, Trdkova–Tromejnik, Ljubljana – M. Bukovniško lake, “Otter Paradise”, Sladka pot Sobota – Budapest: stops in M. Sobota, (Sweet trail) (Berkovci, Ratkovci, Ivanjševci), Mačkovci, G. Petrovci, Šalovci, Hodoš: www.slo-zeleznice.si. Zelena pot (Green trail) (Sebeborci), Pros- Regular bus line enjakovska pot (Prosenjakovci trail) (Pros- from M. Sobota to destinations through- www.apms.si . enjakovci), Pot vinotočev (Wine shop trail) out Goričko: By car on the (Moravske Toplice, Suhi vrh), Panonska pot A5 motorway, access western Goričko and (Pannonian trail) (Bogojina), Pot kulturne Grad (if coming from Ljubljana) through dediščine (Cultural heritage trail) (Bogojina, exits Vučja vas; Radenci, Petanjci, Geder- Filovci), Geografska pot (Geographic trail) ovci, Cankova, heading towards Kuzma. (Selo), Olivinova pot (Olivin trail) (Grad), Eastern Goričko is accessible, if coming Bernardina pot (Bernarda trail) (Krašči), Vr- from Ljubljana or Hungary, through the bova pot (Vrba trail) (Rogašovci, Nuskova), exits M. Sobota vzhod; Rakičan, M. So- Zelena vez (an education trail along the bota, heading Hodoš. Entry to eastern- former Iron Curtain boundary, Goričko), Pot most Goričko is via the Turnišče exit: sožitja (Harmony trail) (Kančevci, Ivanovci). heading toward Dobrovnik, natural land- Th ose who like longer hiking trails will learn mark Bukovniško Lake. about Goričko while walking on the marked Pomurje mountain trail or on European Footpath E7. 18 KOLPA KOLPA LANDSCAPE PARK and an birches of white In the embrace river green emerald River Kolpa ABOUT THE PARK Location: Extreme southeastern part Th e mighty Kolpa River, which in places carves through the steep, rocky slopes of Slovenia, adjacent to the border with Croatia of the wooded Karst while elsewhere fl ows gently through wide and verdant val- Surface area: 10,702 acres (43.31 km2) leys, is one of Slovenia’s most beautiful assets. Stretching along the river is the Establishment of the park: 1998 Karst plateau of Bela Krajina – a perfect demonstration of the balance that can Natural signifi cance: Valuable natural features: 67, the entire park is an ecologi- be struck between traditional farming methods and a caring approach towards cally important area, part of the Natura the natural environment. In addition to the valleys, you will witness a wonder- 2000 (SPA) area, part of the Natura 2000 fully diverse fl ora with fern and white birches being particularly well represent- (SCI) area for 12 animal species and four ed by this border river. Kolpa is a truly preserved paradise with fl ourishing craft habitat types International signifi cance: traditions, unique customs and a precious cultural heritage. • EDEN 2010 – Kolpa River

Management: Javni zavod Krajinski park Kolpa Info Center: Šokčev dvor Adlešiči 15, SI - 8341 Adlešiči; Phone: +386 (0) 7 356 Žuniči 2, SI - 8341 Adlešiči; Phone: +386 (0) 7 356 5240, fax: +386 (0) 7 356 5240; 5240, fax: +386 (0) 7 356 5240; email: [email protected], website: www.kp-kolpa.si email: [email protected], website: www.kp-kolpa.si Open throughout the year with prior notice. Th ere is no charge to enter the park. 19

Th e main feature of the Kolpa Landscape southerly point of Slovenia’s territory in Kot Kolpa including bonfi re, linseed harvest swim- Park is the Kolpa river with its valley. Visi- pri Damlju. ming and boating. tors can enjoy unspoiled nature, immense • Milling footpath from Damelj to Vinica, September: Open Door Day – anniversary of biodiversity and a whole variety of diff ering learning about the rich tradition of water- the public institute’s establishment. landscapes in within a small area. mills and sawmills on the Kolpa river. October: dormousing, grape harvest in Bela • Fair footpath from Vinica to Žuniči preserves Krajina. WORTH SEEING the tradition of old trails leading to fairs. November: St. Martin’s celebrations across • Šokčev dvor in Žuniči is a principle Info • Castle footpath from Žuniči to Dragoše. A Bela Krajina, chestnut picnic outside Šokčev point off ering visitors the most extensive 25-kilometre-long easy walking trail in a dvor. information on the nature, culture, history gorgeous natural environment leading from December: Annual concert KUD Božo Račič and various ethnic groups of Bela Krajina. Šokčev dvor through villages to the Pobrežje Adlešiči, handicraft workshops at diff erent lo- • Birdwatching along the river, among the Castle and past Kuzmin mill to the fi nal Info cations throughout the park. ferns or from the forest. point in Dragoše. • River sports on the Kolpa, swimming and • Market footpath around Stari trg, exploring fi shing, canoe and raft hire. part of the Poljanska valley. Th ere are three • Bela Krajina landscape, view cultivated options for this trail with a total length of 10 fi elds, vineyards, orchards and meadows km. and birch forests as they have existed for • Župančič footpath, leading from Dragatuš to hundreds of years. Vinica and connecting the two villages where • Visiting prehistoric settlements, see ar- Slovenian poet Oton Župančič spent his child- chaeological fi nds from the surroundings of hood as well as two natural parks: Lahinja and Vinica, Zilje and Radenci. Kolpa. Th e total length is 13 km. • Social history brought to life, visit court- • Th ere are three biking trails in the park: yard farmhouses, watermills and saw- Damelj biking trail (65 km, highest point 616 mills. m alt., diff erence in altitude 466 m), Poljanska biking trail (51 km, highest point 622 m alt., • Traditional handicrafts demonstrated at diff erence in altitude 468 m) and Župančič farms in Adlešiči, Damelj, Rim, Vrhovci, biking trail (51 km, highest point 334 m alt., Žuniči etc (including linen making, needle- diff erence in altitude 150 m). work and basket weaving). Žagar mill

Flowering linseed Smooth snake Harvesting linseed

Below are the marked park trails that allow REGULAR ANNUAL EVENTS PARK ACCESS visitors to learn about the main points of in- January/February: Winter counting of fowl; terest within the park: craft workshops at various locations through- Th e park is accessible from Ljubljana via • Beekeeping education trail, Bela Kra- out the park. the motorway, exiting either at Ivančna jina, Žuniči, visitors are guided by an ex- 22 March: World Water Day – activities related Gorica (through Žužemberk to Bela Kra- perienced beekeeper and follow a series of to preserving the most precious resource, hike jina) or at Novo mesto. Coming from descriptive signs to learn about the history along milling footpath. Kočevje, you enter the park around Stari and importance of beekeeping. April: Sowing linseed, organized cleaning for trg. Arriving by train, the Črnomelj sta- • Žeželj forest education trail, a pleasant World Earth Day. tion is the closest to the park - from there walk through the woods learning about the 23 April: St. George’s Day – folk tradition. take the bus to diff erent locations within local tree species. the park. Th e Croatian Zagreb – Reka mo- • Herding and fruit growing education First Saturday after 23 April: George’s hike on torway comes within 5 km of the park at trail, a circular trail from Pobrežje through the castle footpath. the Bosanci exit. Th ere is no direct bus Velika Sela and Mala Sela to Adlešiči and May: Painting colony in Damelj: “Eno je Kolpa connection from Ljubljana to Črnomelj, the Kolpa river, where visitors encounter i Kupa”. only from Novo Mesto. Th e park is acces- traditional cattle rearing practices, learn 9 May: Europe Day – hike on the southernmost sible from all sides by bicycle, on horse- about indigenous breeds, see a sample of a trail from Damelj to Radenci. back or on foot. tall-tree orchard and get a taste of viticul- 22 May: World Biodiversity Day – expert con- ture. ference on biodiversity. • Southern-most footpath from Radenci to 24 May: International Natural Parks Day – Damelj, leading the visitors on an 11 km Open door day in Kolpa LP. hike through the Kolpa canyon via the most June/July/August: Summer events on the 20 lled with the smell of salt SEČOVLJE SALINASEČOVLJE LANDSCAPE PARK Where the air is fi Abandoned salt pans ABOUT THE PARK Location: Extreme southwestern part of Apart from the at Strunjan, Sečovlje is home to the only remaining active salt the Slovenian Adriatic coast, on the border with Croatia. pans in Slovenia and, indeed, the only salt pans in this part of the Adriatic Surface area: 1,730 acres (7 km2) where salt is still produced according to traditional methods dating back some Establishment of the park: 1990 700 years. Th rough the centuries unique geographical circumstances arose here Natural signifi cance: Valuable natural features: 6, the entire park is an ecologi- with their own ecosystem of plant and animal species. Th e salt pan landscape is cally important area, Natura 2000 (SPA) also rich in social history and provides a memory of fl ourishing Mediterranean site for 30 bird species, Natura 2000 cultural heritage. (SCI) site for four animal species and six habitat types. International signifi cance: • UNESCO – Ramsar site 1993

Management: Krajinski park Sečoveljske soline, Info Center on Lera SOLINE Pridelava soli d.o.o. Seča 115, SI-6320 Portorož Seča 115, SI-6320 Portorož; phone: +386 (0) 5 Time of visit: In the warm half of the year, the park is 6721330, fax: + 386 (0)5 6721331; email: info@kpss. open between 8 AM and 8 PM, in winter, it’s open be- si, website: www.kpss.si tween 8 AM and 5 PM. An entrance fee must be paid at entry points to the park. An entrance fee must be paid at entry points to enter the park. 21

Th e salt pans are an excellent place to ob- ing time comes between June and Septem- REGULAR ANNUAL EVENTS serve the salt pan landscape, halophytic ber when salt crystals form out of condensed 2 February: World Wetlands Day, entry to the animal, bird, plant species and habitats, tra- brine. park is free, educational material available free ditional procedures of producing salt. Organ- • Visit the multi-media centre to watch a ﬁ lm to all visitors. ized groups may be accompanied by a guide about the salt pans and view a scale model (please give notice in advance). Last weekend in April & during August: Salt- of them, also visit the salt shop where local making festival illustrating the customs and produce is on sale. traditions of life on the salt pans. Th e Lera park WORTH SEEING • Viewing platform overlooking Sečovlje. buildings also host regular local art exhibi- • Learning about numerous halophytic habi- • Visiting the salt shop, salt-related products tions. tats, plants, animals, especially bird spe- and other local products, and a space for art 24 May: European Day of Parks, free entrance cies. exhibits in the renovated saline building. and promotional materials for all. • An internationally signiﬁ cant migration • Visit the saltmaking museum, open to visi- zone and wintering site for birds. tors between April 1 and October 31. • View active and abandoned salt pans and remains of salt-maker’s houses. Marked park trails allow visitors to learn about • See the process of producing salt is points of interest throughout the park – hiking throughout the year – the most fascinat- and biking trails with descriptive signs.

Red-breasted Merganser

Little egret Brine shrimp Arriving in the park by boat

Active salt pans PARK ACCESS

Th e landscape park is 130 km from Ljubljana. Th e areas of Sečovlje salt pans, Lera and Fontanigge, are currently not yet linked by land. To see both parts of the park, there are two separate land entrance points. Th ere is no public trans- port from Portorož however it is possible to sail to the park by boat, where a dock- ing pier is available. 22 LOGARSKA DOLINA LANDSCAPE PARK and silence abounds time stops where A valley Logarska dolina ABOUT THE PARK Location: North–central Slovenia, Kam- An inimitable, glacial alpine valley, settled with just a few farmsteads, right in nik and Savinja Alps Surface area: 6,024 acres (24.38 km2) the midst of the Kamnik and Savinja Alps. A vast natural amphitheatre of bright Establishment of the park: 1987 green grassland and forest surrounded by towering cliff s. A place where chamois Natural signifi cance: Valuable natural roam peacefully, golden eagles arch through azure skies and the meadows are features: 43, the entire park is an ecologically important area, part of the Natura covered in beautiful fl owers for much of the year. Th e great farms have been pre- 2000 area served and remain active to this day, complementing farming with tourism. International signifi cance: • First prize in the protected areas category at the CIPRA – Future in the Alps 2005 international competition • EDEN 2009 – Solčava region

Management: Podjetje za razvoj Logarske doline, Info Center: TIC Logarska dolina Logarska dolina d.o.o. Visiting Hours (also by arrangement): November–April: Logarska dolina 9, SI - 3335 Solčava; phone: +386 (0) 10 AM to 1 PM, May–June and September–October: 9 3 838 90 04, fax: +386 (0)3 838 90 03; email: info@ AM to 3 PM, July–August: 8 AM to 6 PM, info screen in logarska.si, website: www.logarska-dolina.si Slovenian, English and German is always on

A parking fee is collected at the entrance point to the park. 23

Logarska Dolina Landscape Park and its sur- • Take part in the annual hay harvest or wit- REGULAR ANNUAL EVENTS roundings off er plenty of opportunities for ness traditional mining and coal production January: Cross-country skiing in Logarska actively spending your free time. Unforget- methods. dolina (sports event). table views of are available from the meadows approaching the valley, from the Solčava June: Spring hiking days. panoramic road and from the peaks of the Another way for visitors to learn about Log- July/August: Summer fun and cultural events Kamnik and Savinja Alps. Guided tours are arska Dolina is to take the natural-ethno- – traditional Solčava days and summer activi- also available to visitors. graphic path which guides you through the ties programme. most beautiful corners of the valley to the December: Christmas-New Year concert, Log- majestic Rinka waterfall. You can continue on arska Dolina, cultural events. WORTH SEEING established mountain trails to climb to the local peaks. Th e park also off ers a wide amount • Take an adventure walk in Logarska dolina of recreational opportunities including hiking, or Robanov kot – arguably the most pictur- mountaineering, rock-climbing, walks, cross- esque glacial valley in the Kamnik and Sav- country running, horse-riding, archery, biking, inja Alps, with peaks and vertical rock faces, sledding and skiing. natural springs, waterfalls, alpine fl owers etc. • Watching alpine fl owers, listening to the wood grouse’s and black grouse’s mating calls. • Experience the 90 m Rinka waterfall, one of Slovenia’s highest, the Palenk waterfall and the Karst spring of Črna. • Seeing Potočka zijalka in Olševa. • Visit the renovated collier’s hut, Logar gra- nary and restored dairy cottage in Logarski kot – all examples of the valley’s rich social history. • Bike along the Solčava panoramic road. Hikers’ paradise

Tour of the park by horse-drawn Fruits of the Yew Rinka waterfall

View from Solčava panoramic road PARK ACCESS

From the larger population centres nearby (including Ljubljana, Celje and Celovec/Klagenfurt (AT)) it is approximately 75 km (ie. an hour’s drive) to Log- arska Dolina. Bus access is possible from Celje, which itself can be reached by train from Ljubljana or Maribor. In fact, with adequate preparation it’s possible to organize transportation to Logarska dolina from almost any place within Slovenia. 24 LJUBLJANSKO BARJELJUBLJANSKO LANDSCAPE PARK on the A multitude of diverse ecosystems capital of Slovenia’s doorstep Mist at Ljubljansko Barje ABOUT THE PARK Location: south of Ljubljana Surface area: 34,595 acres (140 km2) Right on the doorstep of Ljubljana and laying just a stone’s throw from the city Number of built-up areas: 25 limits, Ljubljansko Barje is a beautiful park which extends to Vrhnika, Ig and Population: about 30,000 Škofl jica. Sited on over 150 km2 of bog plain, it is characterized by a mosaic of Establishment of the park: 2008 meadows, vast green spaces, birds and butterfl ies fl ying overhead and a rich sto- Natural signifi cance: Valuable natural features: 55, the entire park is an ecologi- ries from long past days of pile dwellers. Th e Ljubljanica, a historically signifi cant cally important area, Natura 2000 (SPA) river that was a commercial waterway during Roman times, fl ows through it. site for 22 bird species, Natura 2000 Best experienced by bicycle, Ljubljansko Barje can also be viewed from a lazy (SCI) site for 23 animal and one plant species and seven habitat types. boat ride along the Ljubljanica, or even via a hot-air balloon ride.

Management: Javni zavod KP Ljubljansko barje Podpeška cesta 380, SI - 1357 Notranje Gorice; phone: +386 (0) 8 20 52 350; email: [email protected], website: www.ljubljanskobarje.si

Th ere is no charge to enter the park. 25

Th ere are few capital cities in which require will not include a single demanding upward • Corn crake education trail in Iški morost is so little travel (whether on foot, by bike or slope. ideal for understanding the habitat of mead- by public transportation) to a natural area • Take a ride on a horse-drawn carriage (by ar- ow bird species (including the rare curlew and with such a rich history, archaeological herit- rangement with a local farmer). the crake) which are most characteristic of age and ethnological uniqueness. Ljubljansko Ljubljansko Barje. • At Mali plac and Jurčevo šotišče, see the last Barje is the lungs of the Ljubljana, off ering remnants of a raised bog and its characteristic You can see Ljubljansko Barje alone or accom- the perfect getaway from the noise of the plant life while the Kucler and Podpeč quar- panied by a specialized guide provided by the city and, in summer, the sultry urban tem- ries will shed light on Slovenia’s geological Institute of Tourism Ljubljana, Ivan Cankar peratures. Ljubljansko Barje is an open class- history for those with a particular interest. Vrhnika Institute or Ljubljansko Barje LP. room. • At Jezero v Podpeči view the circular karst lake which is up to 50 m deep in places. REGULAR ANNUAL EVENTS WORTH SEEING • Learning about numerous archaeological ar- February/March: Lent carnival in Ig • Learn about the extensive wet grasslands eas, especially crannogs. March/April: organized cleaning initiative: with their indigenous plant, animal and • Visit the former Carthusian monastery in ”Stop illegal dumping”, a set of lectures: “Barje, bird species common for long hedges of Bistra which now serves as the Technical Mu- do I know you?” black alder trees, oak and willows between seum of Slovenia. fi elds and meadows. May: May 1st hike to Krim, hike in Ljubljansko • In Črna vas, you can see one of the great cen- birds, Barje, biking on the “Ostrorogi jelen” trail, Can- • Learning about the park is a nest- tral European architect Jože Plečnik’s most kar days, oldtimers meeting. ing ground for numerous bird species and beautiful churches, St. Michael’s. internationally signifi cant migratory area June: Argonaut days, Barje night, hike on Svar- • Stop for a refreshing rest alongside the cool and wintering site for birds. un trail, Children’s boggy frogginess. fresh brook on the way to the Iški vintgar • See the bog rivers Ljubljanica, Iščica, Iška, gorge. July: Equestrian event in Vrbljene, blueberry Bistra and Borovniščica with their tributar- harvest day. ies, numerous pools and karst springs. August: Barje ethnological event, Contest of Below are the marked park trails that allow • Climb inselbergs, rocky outcrops raised “Kosci and Grabljice” for the Ljubljansko Barje visitors to learn about the principal points of above the bog plain, to enjoy the full sweep prize, Crannog Day with a camp for children. of the Ljubljansko Barje landscape. interest in the park. September: Ig fair. • Th e plain, with its crisscross of fi eld paths, • Draga at Ig has a natural reserve with seven October: Autumn farmer’s market. is ideal for a biking trip, which can last ponds, a set of walking trails and is the start- any time from an hour to several days but ing point for the forest education trail.

Bird Observatory Grasshopper Warbler Round-leaved Sundew

Ljubljansko barje landscape PARK ACCESS

You can enter Ljubljansko Barje by road from various directions: Ljubljana, Primorska (Vrhnika) and Dolenjska (Škofl jica). Take the train heading towards Borovnica to Barje, alternatively take the Ljubljana municipal bus (no. 19B and 6B) or one a several suburban bus lines. From the centre of Ljubljana, it’s a 30-minute cycle to the middle of Barje. 26 STRUNJAN LANDSCAPE PARK Where the land meets sea Mesečev zaliv - Moon Bay ABOUT THE PARK Location: Slovenian coast east of Piran 2 Along the coast of Slovenia’s Strunjan peninsula are some the highest cliff s on Surface area: 1,060 acres (4.3 km ) Establishment of the park: 1990 the Adriatic coast, the northernmost Mediterranean salt pans, the longest sec- Natural signifi cance: Valuable natural tion of preserved nature in the Gulf of Trieste, indigenous growing sites for many features: 11, the entire park is an ecologi- Mediterranean plant varieties , and the prettiest bay in Slovenia. Th e park that cally important area, Natura 2000 (SCI) area for two animal species and seven hosts all this and more is a must-visit for tourists. habitat types.

Management: Javni zavod Krajinski park Strunjan Info center is being established at present. Pacug 10, SI - 6320 Portorož; phone: +386 (0) 8 205 Th ere is no charge to enter the park. 1880, fax: +386 (0) 5 674 69 80; Landscape Park Strunjan – the public institute will or- email: [email protected], website: www.park- ganize guided tours of the park for groups with prior ar- strunjan.si rangement. 27

WORTH SEEING REGULAR ANNUAL EVENTS entertainment program, culinary off erings • Wander along a 4 km section of naturally Last weekend in May: Artichoke days, organ- and open-air market with Strunjan delicacies, preserved Slovenian coast boasting an 80 m ized by Solinar Tourist Association. organized by Solinar Strunjan Tourist Associa- tion. cliff , the highest on the Adriatic (or a peb- 14 August: Procession of barges, takes place ble terrace at the foot of the cliff ). every year when the Strunjan Mary from the • Witness the picturesque sub-Mediterrane- Piran church of St. George is brought by sea Talasa Strunjan Gallery (Terme Krka) in asso- an landscape that constitutes the land part to the church of Mary’s appearance. Th e event ciation with Insula Gallery from Izola organ- of the reserve. includes a cultural and religious program, con- izes visual art exhibitions by renowned Slov- • Visit Stjuža lagoon and the nearby salt cluding the next day with Mary’s Assumption enian artists every three months throughout pans with specifi c ecological signifi cance. and holy masses in Strunjan. the year. • Visit Mesečev zaliv (Moon Bay), natu- 15 October: Traditional “pandola” tourna- ral habitat of two marine fl owering plants ment, ancient Istria games, organized by Soli- (Cimodocea nodosa and Zostera noltii), the nar Strunjan Tourist Association. noble pen shell (Pinna nobilis) and the date 2nd weekend in November: Traditional Per- mussel (Lithophaga lithophaga). simmon holiday with educational, cultural and

Strawberry tree

Strunjan salt pans Marine fauna and ﬂ ora

Seahorse Flysch coast

PARK ACCESS

Take a bus or train to Koper, changing onto a local bus in the direction of Piran. One of the stops between Izola and Piran is Strunjan. 28 LAHINJA LANDSCAPE PARK pearls natural A necklace of miniature Lahinja river ABOUT THE PARK Location: southeast Slovenia, south- A landscape of wet grasslands, fens, marshy woodlands, fl ooded plains and eastern part of Bela Krajina in the upper course of the Lahinja river meadows along the meandering course of the Lahinja River and its tributaries. Surface area: 494 acres (2 km2) Off ering great biodiversity, the reed beds are an oasis for. Karst features formed Establishment of the park: 1988 are visible at Bela Krajina while tiny villages of clustered houses are restricted to Natural signifi cance: Valuable natural features: 11, the entire park is an ecologi- the hills and terraces on the edges of the park. It’s also an exceptional archaeo- cally important area, Natura 2000 (SCI) logical site and bears testament to prehistoric culture of the area. area for 13 animal species and six habitat types.

Manager: RIC Bela krajina Trg svobode 3, SI - 8340 Črnomelj; phone: +386 (0) 7 305 65 30, fax: +386 (0)7 305 65 31; email: [email protected], website: www.belakra- jina.si

Th ere is no charge to enter the park. 29

Th e most naturally preserved area is the orig- • Prehistoric settlements, ﬁ nds from the early REGULAR ANNUAL EVENTS inal Lahinja river area which is protected as Stone, Bronze and Iron ages have been made 1 June: walk on Župančič trail from Dragatuš the Lahinjski Lugi natural reserve. A slightly in the vicinity and remains from Antiquity to Vinica larger marsh is Nerajski Lugi, a true botanic discovered. 2 June: mowing festival at Nerajski lugi treasury that has the impression of a lake • Th e Pusti Gradec settlement at one of the me- during high water periods. Walking through anders of the Lahinja. the park, you will encounter a number of rare • Info center in Veliki Nerajec (situated in a 200 and endangered plant and animal species. year old property with an open-ﬁ re kitchen). Pleasant sites to interest are the Klepec wa- termill and Venetian sawmill by the meander • Handicrafts gallery by Vera Vardjan (clay of the Lahinja in Pusti Gradec. Guided tours products). are available to visitors in addition to boat • All Saints country church. rides through the park on the Lahinja. • Halstatt burial mound Veliki Nerajec.

WORTH SEEING • Th e naturally preserved Lahinja river, Nerajčica stream and other tributaries, with prominent meanders and diverse aquatic vegetation. • Th e wet grasslands and fens (Nerajski lugi, Lahinjski lugi), habitats for numerous aquatic and riverbank-dwelling animal and plant species including the European otter (Lutra lutra), many bird species and the Eu- ropean pond terrapin (Emys orbicularis). • Numerous limestone karst features: sink- holes, water caves, natural stone bridges, karst springs etc. Mowing Common kingﬁ sher

Lahinja river spring Yellow iris Old sawmill

A traditional Bela Krajina house ACCESS TO PARK

Th e park is accessible in several ways. Th e simplest route is on the Ljubljana – Novo mesto highway and then through Dolen- jske toplice to Črnomelj. It’s possible also to take the way Ljubljana, Žužemberg, Črnomelj. In Črnomelj you proceed in the direction of Vinica. After 9 km you come to the village Dragatuš, and from there to the fi rst point of entry into Lahinja Land- scape Park. From the Croatian side is best route to cross the border Bosiljevo - Vinca and then drive for more than 8 km in direction to Črnomelj to reach Lahinja Land- scape Park. 30 ŠKOCJANSKI ZATOK ŠKOCJANSKI ZATOK RESERVE NATURE doorstep oasis on Koper’s Green Halophytic plants ABOUT THE RESERVE Location: southwestern Slovenia, imme- Th e largest semi-saline wetland in Slovenia was restored in 2007 after many diate vicinity of Koper Surface area: 301 acres (1.22 km2) years of deliberate draining in order to expand the city of Koper and its port. Establishment of the reserve: 1998 Th ese days its a paradise for water fowl (and, of course, for birdwatchers!). Natural signifi cance: Valuable natural features: one (the entire natural reserve area), the entire reserve is an ecologically important area, Natura 2000 (SPA) site for four bird species, Natura 2000 (SCI) site for two animal species and fi ve habi- Manager: Društvo za opazovanje in proučevanje Temporary Info Center NR Škocjanski zatok tat types. ptic Slovenije (DOPPS) Staničev trg 16, SI - 6000 Koper; phone: +386 (0) 5 Tržaška cesta 2, SI - 1000 Ljubljana; phone: +386 (0) 626 03 70, 051 680 442, fax: +386(0) 5 626 03 69; 1 426 58 75, fax: +386 (0) 1 425 11 81; email: dopps@ email: [email protected], website: dopps.si, website: www.ptice.si www.skocjanski-zatok.org Open: Monday, Wednesday, Friday from 10 AM to 12 PM and Wednesday from 3 PM to 5 PM

Entrance to the nature reserve is free to individuals however the management reserves the right to charge for guided tours which should be arranged in advance for a speciﬁ c time on a weekday. Škocjanski zatok nature reserve is open for visitors from sunrise to sunset every day of the year. 31

Škocjanski zatok nature reserve is the perfect Th e circular education trail, 2.2 km long, leads and grey herons are readily observable in the choice for anyone wanting to experience the along the edge of the freshwater part of the re- tamarix trees. rich biodiversity of Mediterranean wetlands serve at Bertoška bonifi ka and expands at fi ve First weekend in October: European Bird- in a relatively small space. Walking on the key points into observation sites, set-up with watching Day. education trail, visitors will learn all about educational content about the plant and ani- November: Arrival of fi rst large fl ocks of over- the fl ora and fauna of the reserve, with its mal world in Škocjanski zatok. Along the trail wintering water fowl to the reserve area. many rare and endangered species. Th e ani- there are water holes set-up of various shapes mal aspect of the area is complemented by and sizes allowing visitors to experience nature December/February: In this period, the Camargue’s horses and indigenous Istrian from up close. All access points, and the educa- number of overwintering water fowl increases cattle which graze and thus provide a bal- tion trail itself, have been designed to accom- day by day and reaches its peak at the begin- ance of vegetation in the freshwater part of modate those with disabilities. ning of February. After that, their numbers the nature reserve. Th e reserve manager or- start to gradually diminish as the fi rst fl ocks of ganizes expert guided tours, nature days and winter visitors begin to move to their northern guided trips for visitors with special interests REGULAR ANNUAL EVENTS nesting sites. During this period, the most nu- or requirements. Th ese take place on the cir- 2 February: Guided tour of the reserve on merous species are gulls (Caspian, black-head- cular education trail in the freshwater part of World Wetlands Day. ed and common), Eurasian curlew, greenshank, the reserve. March: Children’s painting on Day of Waters. common sandpiper, grebe, ducks and geese. April: Beginning of nesting period. With some After the new information centre is opened, WORTH SEEING basic knowledge, it will be easy to recognize the which is expected to happen in 2012, the pro- singing of the nightingale, the blackcap and Ce- • Learn about the brackish lagoon with its gram of events in Škocjanski zatok nature re- tti’s warbler from the bushes along the circular nesting islets, semi-saline water holes and serve will expand signifi cantly. education trail, as well as the tireless song of mudfl ats where diff erent types of halo- the great and Eurasian reed warblers. On the phytes (i.e. salt-water plants) grow. islets of the lagoon part of the reserve, you will • View the freshwater marsh with its grass- see colonies of nesting black-winged stilts and lands and open water areas, surrounded by common terns. reeds and thermophilic shrubs. 24 May: European Day of Parks, all visitors • Spot numerous birds: the reserve is the receive free information materials about the habitat for an estimated 225 bird species, reserve. of which around 50 nest there – it is also August/September: During this period fl ocks a very signifi cant wintering and migratory of several hundred great egrets, little egrets resting site within Europe.

Black-winged stilt Sea lavender Birdwatching

Semi-saline lagoon RESERVE ACCESS

By Car: the main entrance to Škocjanski zatok nature reserve is at Bertoška bonifi ka. Exit from the Ljubljana – Koper ex- pressway at the Bertoki/Bertocchi exit. Head towards the AMZS base when you’re on the Bertoki slip-road. Take the fi rst exit on the left to get to the nature reserve which should already be visible on that side of the road. By train and bus: from Ljubljana, take the train or intercity bus to the main respec- tive Koper stations, where you can continue on foot to the main entrance to the reserve or on the marked bike trail (Pot zdravja in prijateljstva – Porečanka/ Parenzana) along the semi-saline lagoon. When you get to the intersection with the Bertoki entry road, turn left and at the entrance to the reserve is only a further few hundred metres. 32 RADENSKO POLJE LANDSCAPE PARK* disappear waters Picturesque karst plain where underground the mysterious into View of Radensko polje ABOUT RADENSKO POLJE Location: Central Slovenia, 20 km south- Th is 4.5 km long karst polje surrounded by wooded slopes, 1.2 km at its wid- east of Ljubljana Surface area: about 3,707 acres (15 est and 400 m at its narrowest, is host to three separate sinking river systems. km2) After heavy rain a genuine lake forms which then disappears after a few weeks. Establishment of the park: 2007 – Be- Kopanj, the 392m-high inselberg in the middle of the karst polje, is the most ginning of a multi-year project to es- tablish the park, between Grosuplje beautiful example of its type in Slovenia. municipality and the Ministry of the En- vironment and Spatial Planning Natural signifi cance: Valuable natural features: 34, the entire future park is an Information offi ce: Center Grajski vrt Boštanj ecologically important area, potential Veliko Mlačevo 59, SI - 1290 Grosuplje; phone: +386 Natura 2000 (SCI) area for 10 animal (0) 40 655 795, +386 (0) 40 655 796, +386 (0) 40 655 797; email: [email protected], species and three habitat types. website: www.radenskopolje.si, www.grajski-vrt.si

Th ere is no charge to enter the park.

*establishment under way 33

Radensko polje is a natural and cultural • Castle ruins on Boštanj hill, St. Mary’s church REGULAR ANNUAL EVENTS gem that oﬀ ers visitors a mixture of natural on the Kopanj inselberg, traces of a Bronze February: Prešeren hike from Grosuplje to Ko- and cultural heritage as well as traditions Age dwelling discovered in the Viršnica cave. and customs unique to the particular area. panje, learning to prune fruit trees. Radensko polje is perfectly suited to various March: Spring rescue of amphibians on the forms of recreation such as walking, hiking, Below are the marked park trails that allow visi- Mlačevo – Velika Račna section of the regional running, cycling and horse-riding. tors to discover many points of interest. road. April: Traditional Easter fair at Boštanj, annual Blagaj trail; practical basket making course (spring part). WORTH SEEING • circular trail from Center Grajski vrt Boštanj past Boštanj castle remains (30 May: Spring hike on Radensko polje (takes • A wealth of karst phenomena in a relatively minutes). place on the Saturday closest to May 24, Euro- small area: karst springs, inﬂ ow caves, an • Trail from Grajski vrt Boštanj – Veliko retje pean Day of Parks), learning to recognize and intermittent lake, estavelles functioning as – Zagradec – Beznica – Srednjice – Močilo use medicinal herbs (spring part). springs during the rainy period and as swal- – Novljanovo retje and back (3 hours). low holes in dry periods. September: Learning to recognize and use me- • Velika Račna and Kopanj (1 hour). dicinal herbs (autumn part). • Diverse habitat types including wet grasslands, watercourses, underground caves • Circular trail Velika Račna – Šica spring Oktober: Annual practical basket making etc. – Mala Račna – Zatočna cave – Lazar cave course (autumn part). – Viršnica – Velika Račna (2 hours). • A hugely varied plant and animal ecosystem November: Autumn hike on Radensko polje. due to the constantly changing water habitat.

High water at Radensko polje Siberian iris

View of estavelles ACCESS TO RADENSKO POLJE

Driving on the A2 motorway heading towards Novo Mesto, turn off at the fi rst exit for Grosuplje. Continue on the prior- ity road for 1.5 km until the roundabout then take the fi rst exit on the right, heading towards Krka. Drive again on the pri- ority road, crossing railroad tracks and continuing for about 2 km. After the sign for Veliko Mlačevo, continue straight for another 200 m and turn right after the greenhouses. Carry straight on to Grajski vrt Boštanj, the central point of the park with the information offi ce. Th e other starting point with descriptive signs is in the village of Velika Račna. 34 KAMNIK AND SAVINJA KAMNIK AND SAVINJA PARK* REGIONAL ALPS Where the sky mountain peaks ascend to steep

View from Grintavec ABOUT KAMNIK AND SAVINJA ALPS Location: on the border with Austria, Th e central part of the Kamnik and Savinja Alps is home to a park full of steep at the meeting point of the Gorenjska, Štajerska and Koroška region rock faces, vast forests, mysterious valleys, playful brooks and waterfalls fl ow- Surface area: about 61,776 acres (250 ing into crystal clear rivers; all in all a real treasure for lovers of the wilderness. km2) Complementing nature is a strong social heritage of farmers, foresters, herds- Establishment of the park: 2005 – Be- ginning of a multi-year project to estab- men and mountaineers; many of whose activities are still practiced today using lish the park, between the municipalities traditional methods. of Jezersko, Kamnik, Luče, Preddvor and Solčava, and the Ministry of the Environ- ment and Spatial Planning Natural signifi cance: Valuable natural Logarska dolina Info Point: Kamnik Tourist Information Center: features: 212, the entire future park is an Logarska dolina 9, SI - 3335 Solčava; phone: +386 Glavni trg 2, SI - 1240 Kamnik; phone: +386 (0)1 831 (0)3 838 90 04, +386 (0)41 467 122 81 91, +386 (0)31 694 134; email: [email protected], web- ecologically important area, Natura 2000 site: www.ksa.si (SPA) site for 10 bird species, Natura 2000 (SCI) site for fi ve animal and fi ve Th ere is no charge to enter the park. plant species and 18 habitat types.

*establishment under way 35

Apart from preserving the natural and cul- of Kokra, Savinja with its spring, and Bela, September: Days of national costumes in Kam- tural landscape, the Kamnik and Savinja Alps which are accessible via various thematic nik – second weekend. are a space for research, education, leisure footpaths. and, above all, experiencing nature. Kam- • Visit waterfalls: Rinka in Logarska dolina, nik and Savinja Alps authorities enable visi- Čedec in Jezersko and Orglice in Kamniška tors to learn the park through a number of Bistrica. leaﬂ ets and other information accessible at two info points, via marked thematic trails • Explore the underground world with Snežna and through guided tours. Th e future park cave on the southern slope of Raduha. will eventually also contain the existing land- • Tramp through traditional pasture meadows, scape parks Logarska Dolina and Robanov the best known of which is Velika planina. Kot, with all their characteristics and events, • Witness religious heritage with the two detailed earlier in this brochure. Gothic churches of St. Primus above Stahovi- ca and Mary of the Snows in Solčava. WORTH SEEING • Visit the Alpine world with its 2000m-plus REGULAR ANNUAL EVENTS mountains such as Grinatvec, Kočna, Skuta, March: Skiing in the old Cup Šinkel at Velika Storžič, Ojstrica, Raduha and others. Ex- planina. pect to see high mountain karst, subalpine April: Arničev winter hike to Raduha. plains, natural windows and bridges and scree from the geological point of view. It is May: Festival of music and joy, Preddvor. also the habitat of much mountain wildlife June: Medieval days in Kamnik, music festival including chamois, Alpine ibex, golden ea- in at Jezersko »VOX LACI – glas jezera«; Fair in gles, and indigenous plant species, includ- Kokra; Second weekend of June – Alps biking ing Julian mouse-ear chickweed and Kern- marathon. er’s Alpine poppy. July: Luče day in Luče, hike to Molička peč, • Visit glacial valleys such as Logarska dolina Tourism days in Solčavsko. Wind-shaped tree and Robanov kot in Solčavsko, and Raven- August: Shepherds’ Ball in Jezersko, shep- ska and Makekova kočna in Jezersko. herd’s feast on the Velika planina, farm holiday • Visit the river valleys of Kamniška Bistrica under Storžič. with its spring and Predaselj gorge, valleys

Capercaillie Climbing Velika planina

Kamniška Bistrica spring ACCESS

Kamnik and Savinja Alps are accessible both from the Gorenjska and the Štajerska side. On the Gorenjska side, you can reach the area through Kamnik (from Ljubljana by train, bus or car) and on to Kamniška Bistrica or along the valley from Kokra to Jezersko. From the Štajerska side: on the Maribor - Ljubljana motorway exit at the Šentrupert turn towards Luče and on towards Logarska dolina. 36

9 HOTTEST

URBAN URBANE The architecture of the famed Plečnik spread all over the capital FACTS city of Ljubljana. Come and take a closer look.

THE WISHING BELL UNDERGROUND, OVERGROUND MYSTIC MEDITERRANEAN Fascinating Lake Bled with its The unique Karst landscape The famous veduta of Piran, this island, where you can ring the bell stretches over approximately 500 medieval pearl, gives a memorable at the church and make a wish. square kilometres. seaside view.

GOOD WATER Numerous thermal-water springs DEEP FOREST reaching the surface at 32-73˚C GREAT-GREAT-GRANDVINE The magical Kočevje virgin forest, are one of the greatest Slovenian The oldest vine in the world, the our preserved natural heritage. treasures. 400-year-old vine in Maribor.

HOT LINKS General: www.slovenia.info/lovebooking www.slovenia.info/lovemap www.slovenia.info/loveevents www.slovenia.info/loveshop www.slovenia.info/lovepublications ALPINE DANCE MUSIC www.slovenia.info/lovegreen CULT CULTURE The Avsenik Brothers established Business: The creative crossroads of the a new kind of folk music by www.slovenia.info/loveboard European Alps, the Mediterranean combining piano accordion, www.slovenia.info/lovepress and the Pannonian Plain. trumpet, clarinet, bass and guitar. www.slovenia.info/lovephoto 37

SLOVENIA GREEN

Slovenia swears by sustainable development. Respect for the environment and nature is central to all our actions as a nation and we constantly looking to preserve the speciﬁ c natural features of diﬀ erent locations. Join us in being green and help us keep our beautiful country unspoiled. Th e Slovenian Tourist Board (STO) is committed to green action. Th e “SLOVENIA GREEN” project is designed to promote our country and to encourage awareness and participation in environmentally friendly activities.

GREEN FACTS Slovenia is a small country blessed with beautiful unspoiled nature which is appreciated by residents and tourists alike. Natural conditions are a prerequisite for developing green, responsible tourism.

• With about 60% in forested areas, Slovenia is proportionately the second most forested nation in Europe. • More than 35% of Slovenia’s territory is part of the Natura 2000 network. • One ﬁ fth of Slovenian coast is a protected area. • Slovenia is also a land of water. It ranks among the states with the highest volumes of river water per inhabitant in Europe and its drinking water in Slovenia some of the cleanest on the continent. • Slovenian ﬂ ora and fauna is hugely diverse and with over 22,000 species among the richest in Europe • Just 60km from the capital Ljubljana exist virgin forests. 38

WE ESPECIALLY WELCOME VISITORS TO OUR NATURAL PARKS WHO:

• understand that a park is the habitat for endangered animals and plants and a space to preserve our natural and cultural heritage, • show their respect for plants growing in the park and animals living there - as well as geological features (stones, rocks, fossils), • prefer to experience the unique natural environments of protected areas on foot or bicycle while staying on marked trails, • do not take plants away with them, recognizing that they are endangered and best seen in nature, • respect the work and eﬀ orts of native inhabitants living in a park or around its borders, • leave their motor vehicles in the designated parking areas and when passing hikers and cyclists drive slowly and carefully, • walk their dogs on a leash so as not to disturb inhabitant wildlife, or indeed visitors, • keep the park clean by taking all rubbish home or at least to the closest disposal point.

Hedges on the Ljubljansko barje 3

Issued and published by: Slovenian Tourist Board and Ministry of the Environment and Spatial Planning

Editorial board: Jelena Hladnik, MESP, Lučka Letič, STB Design and layout: Alenka Miklavžin, MESP Texts: Jelena Hladnik, Suzana Zupanc-Hrastar, protected areas managers Photos: picture archives of the Ministry of the Environment and Spatial Planning, archives of protected areas managers and Slovenian Tourist Board, Borut Lozej, Branko Čeak, Jelena Hladnik, Matevž Lenarčič, Oskar Karl Dolenc, Aleš Zdešar, Jože Mihelič, Dagmar Wolf, Lucija Zorenč, Nada Vreže, Valentin Schein, Hrvoje Oršanič, Kristjan Malačič, Tomislav Urh, Iztok Škornik, Davorin Tome, Luka Pintar, Brina Knez, Dean Putrle, Tihomer Makovec, Vera Vardjan, Silvo Plavec, Anita Golubič Prosenjak, Alenka Mihorič, Boris Mozetič, Bojana Lipej, Kajetan Kravos, Primož Lajevec, Tina Mikuš, Borut Peršolja, Tomo Jeseničnik, Boris Grabrijan, Barbara Zupanc, Janez Božič, Lidija Ivanšek, Miha Krofel Map: Ministry of the Environment and Spatial Planning, Environment Agency of the Republic of Slovenia Translation: Skrivanek d.o.o. Text editing: Ciaran Walsh

Print: Delo TČR d.d. Number of copies: 57 000 4 www.slovenia.info

Slovenian Tourist Board Dimičeva 13 SI - 1000 tel.: +386 1 589 85 50 fax: +386 1 589 85 60 e-mail: [email protected]

Printed on recycled paper.

Cover: Ljubljansko barje