Zelenci Nature Reserve

The Zelenci Nature Reserve is located on the western edge of the village of Podkoren and is recognized as the source of the Sava Dolinka, one of the primary headwaters of the Sava River. The centerpiece of the reserve is a small, emerald-green lake fed by numerous underwater springs emerging through the chalky lakebed, which gives the water its animated hue. Maintaining a constant temperature of approximately 6 degrees Celsius, the lake remains ice-free even during the harshest winters. The surrounding Drni marshland provides a crucial habitat for a variety of rare flora and fauna, including carnivorous plants and protected amphibian species. Historically, the area gained international fame in the 19th century when the British naturalist Sir Humphry Davy described it as one of the most beautiful valleys in Europe. Since 1992, the 47-hectare area has been strictly protected as a nature reserve to preserve its delicate wetland ecosystem. A system of wooden boardwalks and an observation tower allows visitors to experience the landscape without disturbing the fragile peat soil. Zelenci also has spectacular views of the Julian Alps and the Vitranc mountain group.

Nearby cities

Kamnik

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

Jesenice

Jesenice is known as the city of steel and ice hockey.

Domžale

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

Nova Gorica

Nova Gorica was built after WWII directly on the border with Italy as a counterpart to the city of Gorizia.

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.

Logatec

Logatec is located on a strategic route between Ljubljana and the Adriatic coast.

Vrhnika

Vrhnika is located at the western edge of the Ljubljana Marshes and is best known as the birthplace of the writer Ivan Cankar.

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.

Ajdovščina

Ajdovščina is located in the center of the Vipava Valley and is known for its strong Bora winds and Roman remains.

Litija

Litija is located on the Sava river.

Idrija

Idrija is known for its former mercury mine, once the second largest in the world, and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Radovljica

Radovljica is a medieval town situated on a terrace above the Sava River.

Medvode

Medvode is located at the confluence of the Sava and Sora rivers.

History & landmarks

Ljubljana Town Hall

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

BTC City Ljubljana

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

Postojna Cave

Postojna Cave is a breathtaking 24 km long system of karst passages and chambers, famously explored via a unique underground electric train.

Postojna

Postojna is a strategically important town in the Slovenian Karst region, globally famous as the gateway to one of Europe's largest and m…

Vipava Valley

A fertile valley between the Karst and the mountains, known for the strong Burja wind and indigenous wines.

Škocjan Caves

A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring Europe's largest underground canyon and massive caverns.

Kobarid

Historical town in the Soca Valley, famous for its WWI museum and the emerald-green Soca River.

Cerkno Hill

A versatile destination in the Goriška region, known for its modern ski center and the historical Franja Partisan Hospital.