Mura River Biosphere Reserve

The Mura River Biosphere Reserve in Slovenia is a key component of the world's first five-country UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, spanning the Mura, Drava, and Danube rivers. In Slovenia, the reserve encompasses the expansive floodplain landscapes in the northeast, particularly in the Prekmurje and Prlekija regions. The Mura is considered Slovenia's best-preserved lowland river, featuring dynamic natural meanders, side branches, and gravel bars that are constantly reshaped by seasonal flows. This riverine ecosystem provides critical habitats for a vast array of endangered species, including the white-tailed eagle, the black stork, and various rare fish such as the Danube salmon. The floodplain forests and wet meadows also serve as natural flood defenses and are essential for maintaining the local groundwater table. Culturally, the reserve is defined by centuries-old traditions, including historic ship mills and sustainable farming practices that have evolved alongside the river. Protecting this 'Amazon of Europe' is a top priority for regional identity, cross-border conservation efforts, and the promotion of eco-friendly tourism.

Nearby cities

Novo Mesto

Novo Mesto is the economic and cultural center of the Dolenjska region.

Velenje

Velenje is located in the Savinja Valley and is one of Slovenia's major industrial centers.

Ptuj

Ptuj is the oldest documented city in Slovenia and boasts a rich Roman past.

Trbovlje

Trbovlje is an industrial city in the Sava Valley known for its long mining tradition.

Kamnik

Kamnik is a historic town at the foot of the Kamnik–Savinja Alps.

Domžale

Domžale is located north of Ljubljana at the foothills of the Kamnik Alps.

Škofja Loka Medieval Town

Škofja Loka is considered one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Slovenia and boasts a history of over a thousand years.

Škofja Loka

Škofja Loka is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Slovenia.

Murska Sobota

Murska Sobota is the cultural and administrative center of the Prekmurje region in northeastern Slovenia.

Kočevje

Kočevje is located in the heart of Slovenia's most extensive forest area.

Slovenj Gradec

Slovenj Gradec is the administrative center of the Slovenian Carinthia region.

Grosuplje

Grosuplje is located in the Lower Carniola region.

Ravne na Koroškem

Ravne na Koroškem is the largest town in the Slovenian Carinthia region and is known for its steel industry.

Krško

Krško is an industrial city in eastern Slovenia on the Sava River.

Čatež ob Savi

Home to Slovenia's largest thermal water park, Terme Čatež, located at the confluence of the Sava and Krka rivers.

History & landmarks

BTC City Ljubljana

BTC City is one of the largest business, shopping, and entertainment centers in Europe.

Ljubljana Town Hall

The Town Hall on Town Square in Ljubljana is the seat of the city municipality.

Brezice

Situated at the confluence of the Sava and Krka rivers, Brezice is famous for its grand Renaissance castle and the iconic historic water …

Bela Krajina

A picturesque border region in southeastern Slovenia, known for its white birches, the green Kolpa River, and rich folklore.

Metlika

The historic center of Bela Krajina, famous for its castle, winemaking tradition, and the first Slovenian fire brigade museum.

Kostanjevica na Krki

Slovenia's smallest town, located on an island in the Krka River, known as the 'Slovenian Venice' for its significant art treasures.

More places

Maribor City Park

Maribor's city park is a significant green monument with three ponds.