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Završnica Valley

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The Završnica Valley in the Karawanks is a significant historical and technical site in Slovenia, primarily known for its rich hydroelectric heritage. In 1914, the country's first public hydroelectric power plant was commissioned here, playing a crucial role in the electrification of the Upper Carniola region. The valley is traversed by the Završnica stream, which is now dammed in an artificial reservoir behind a 15-meter high dam to generate peak-load electricity. Besides its industrial importance, the valley is a major starting point for hikes into the Karawanks, especially to Stol (Hochstuhl), the highest peak in the mountain range. Historically, the area also served as a strategic passage and was the scene of important local events during the World Wars. Today, Završnica is a valued site for nature tourism and education, where a cultural heritage trail informs visitors about the technical pioneering work of the early 20th century. The combination of alpine nature and technical history makes the valley a unique destination for visitors to the municipality of Žirovnica.
- Location: Slovenia
- Top sights: Turška jama v Gozdašnici · Prižnica · Sv. Lovrenc nad Zabreznico
- Nearby: Vintgar Gorge (6 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -4 | -3 | 2 | 6 | 11 | 15 | 17 | 17 | 12 | 8 | 3 | -2 |
| Rain mm | 58 | 66 | 74 | 83 | 110 | 120 | 125 | 140 | 130 | 118 | 119 | 85 |
📋 Practical info
Geography
Facts
- The Završnica hydroelectric plant opened in 1914 as Slovenia's first public power station.
- The Završnica reservoir has a maximum volume of approximately 35,000 cubic meters of water.
- The valley's dam is 15 meters high and was built to regulate the water flow.
- The valley lies at the foot of Stol, which at 2236 meters is the highest peak in the Karawanks.
- The 'Path of Cultural Heritage' in Žirovnica leads directly through the Završnica Valley.
- During WWII, the valley was an important hiding place and operational area for partisans.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Završnica Valley (10)
Ajdna overlook
Viewpoint with a view of Mount Ajdna and the area.
Ajdna
Mountain in Slovenia, known for archaeological finds.
Čopova rojstna hiša🏛 museum
Museum in the birthplace of Slovenian poet Matija Čop.
Archeological site Ajdna
Archaeological site on Mount Ajdna with remains of ancient settlements.
Potoški Stol
Mountain in the Karawanks on the border between Carinthia and Slovenia.
Hochstuhl / Stol
Mountain in the Karawanks on the border between Carinthia and Slovenia.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Are there parking spots in the Završnica Valley?
Can you swim in the lake?
Is the valley suitable for children?
How difficult are the hiking trails?
Are there dining facilities in the valley?
Završnica Valley: where is it located?
Završnica Valley: what is there to see?
Završnica Valley: when is the best time to visit?
Završnica Valley: why is it worth visiting?






















