Kranjska Gora is absolutely a perfect and superb destination in Slovenia to enjoy Sports and Recreation admiring beautiful towering peaks boasting a notable reputation elevated as one of the best Winter sports resorts of the Oriental Alps becoming a symbol of Alpine and Nordic Ski, seat of the major International competitions which take place on its stupendous slopes highly appreciated by a myriad of people who chose that place also for great holidays all year.
That famous place is situated at approximately 90,0 kilometres from the charming capital of the country Ljubljana considered and nicknamed the little Vienna of Slovenia for the architectural affinities with the major Austrian centre for the presence of stunning Baroque and Rococo masterpieces ,a city highly recommended to visit for its relevant historic and artistic patrimony and located in the middle of the Gornjesavska Dolina,the splendid upper valley of the river Sava, a land packed by marvellous natural attractions.
Kranjska Gora is entirely surrounded by a wonderful section of the appealing Oriental Alpine Chain,the superb Julian Alps well known to be called by the locals Karavanke, a mountainous group of extreme beauty and a magnificent scenic highlight of the Nation.
Those stupendous wild karst peaks are mountains characterised by the rich presence of of caves scattered all around their slopes, an additional attraction which calls many tourists who are very interested to admire the stunning formation of those heights which are simply astonishing at first sight.
The Karavanke are not tall as the Western Alps but they are equally stunning highlighted especially in the last section of their summits extremely steep and during an ascent the the only way to reach the top of them is by impressive vertical walls leading to the top, there is not distance between the high extreme glacier space and their highest points, just a rocky wall and over yourself just the sky and for all that those mountains are very special.
That famous place is situated at approximately 90,0 kilometres from the charming capital of the country Ljubljana considered and nicknamed the little Vienna of Slovenia for the architectural affinities with the major Austrian centre for the presence of stunning Baroque and Rococo masterpieces ,a city highly recommended to visit for its relevant historic and artistic patrimony and located in the middle of the Gornjesavska Dolina,the splendid upper valley of the river Sava, a land packed by marvellous natural attractions.
Kranjska Gora is entirely surrounded by a wonderful section of the appealing Oriental Alpine Chain,the superb Julian Alps well known to be called by the locals Karavanke, a mountainous group of extreme beauty and a magnificent scenic highlight of the Nation.
Those stupendous wild karst peaks are mountains characterised by the rich presence of of caves scattered all around their slopes, an additional attraction which calls many tourists who are very interested to admire the stunning formation of those heights which are simply astonishing at first sight.
The Karavanke are not tall as the Western Alps but they are equally stunning highlighted especially in the last section of their summits extremely steep and during an ascent the the only way to reach the top of them is by impressive vertical walls leading to the top, there is not distance between the high extreme glacier space and their highest points, just a rocky wall and over yourself just the sky and for all that those mountains are very special.
Some of the most scenic and attractive mounts of that stupendous group totally surround Kranjska Gora such as Razor,Prijsonik, Kranjska, Mezakla, Pec and on the other side there is the famous Austrian town of Villach, they form all together a majestic crown absolutely sublime and that is another wonderful detail to add to the unique appeal of that Slovenian resort.
Those peaks also dominate with their magnificent towering silhouettes many other splendid towns in that geographic area such as the historic Jesenice, well known since a long time to be a strategic cross road between the country and the heart of Europe, the beautiful Bled with its picturesque and marvellous lake often immortalised in posters, covers and tourist brochures and the popular Planina, a very famous place to host many Nordic Ski competitions.
On a side of the municipal boundaries is situated the splendid Podkoren which is the extreme neighbourhood of the resort consisting in a sort of a doorway and hallway leading to Austria crossing its spectacular scenic Alpine pass, another place you can not miss to admire during your stay.
The town which apart to be a famed winter sports resort known worldwide gained its notoriety and charming appeal for the beauty of that beautiful mountainous massif group but also for the presence around its territory of the magnificent verdant valleys formed by the course of the river Savska such as Vradovlijka and Tamar which are protagonist of a spectacular natural scenery crossed by several streams among them the Ziljica a splendid waterway flowing in a wonderful and uncontaminated geographic area in Central Europe.
Today Kranjska Gora is one of the most important Ski resorts of the Eastern Alps and thanks to its prestigious name it hosts every year the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup, an event which is an usual and unique appointment for the entire Nation waiting for that event with passion, enthusiasm and trepidation due to the great rooted tradition linked to that kind of Sport existing in that country.
Considered one of the most attractive towns in the Julian Alps, that site offers the visitors the excellent chance to practise many other outdoor activities such as climbing, hiking,trekking,mountain bike, cycling on road kayak and rowing on its rivers and a multitude of things to do.
With a wide selection of excellent and comfortable Hotels the major part pretty close to the slopes all those structures devoted to hospitality are highly prepared to satisfy the most demanding requests and that aspect greatly highlighted by the presence of notable facilities and services is of course another great feature of that stunning Slovenian resort.
All those outstanding qualities make Kranjska Gora an ideal and for many people favourite place to enjoy unforgettable holidays offering every tourist the chance to spend a very enjoyable and comfortable stay.
We can not forget in addition that the resort for its superb stategic location is a perfect base for magnificent radial excursions discovering a multitude of centres boasting a superb historic and cultural patrimony and it is a stunning destination for the most passionate photographers who can immortalise images absolutely unforgettable.
The delicious true cuisine of Slovenia is greatly represented in that area with an ample variety of traditional delectable plates next to supreme selected wines produced in valleys which also offer the opportunity to enjoy several wonderful routes highly appropriate for all those fond about tasting wines.
Another detail which in its kind is an additional pleasant accent is the presence of kind people, the locals are very hospitable giving always a warm welcome every visitor and also that is more than appreciated.
The denomination of the town derives from the composition of two words such as the mountain Kranjska, a peak dominating that Slovenian centre while the other Gora in Slavic language means mountain and the history of Kraniska Gora born under that majestic peak which gave the name to that so popular Alpine town and it is one of its emblematic symbols.
Historically that mountainous territory was frequently a land of conquest and the Queen of the Slovenian Alps and all its surroundings were witnesses of the settlement of several rulers.Different occupations had as protagonists Huns, Lombards,Slavs,Franks,Bavarians, Hungarians and much more a long period lived under the influence of the Austrian -Hungarian Empire who played a relevant and fundamental role leaving a very strong imprint and defined cultural marks still visible today in architecture, art, gastronomy and lifestyle.
During the secular Hapsburg House domination the town was well known all around Europe with the German name Kronau and it was often a pleasant destination for many aristocratic Austrian families who frequently crossed the Wurzenpass in proximity of the village of Podkoren very close to Arnoldstein a beautiful resort on the other side of the local Alps in the magnificent Austrian Carinthia.
Those noble characters were since then pioneers of an Outgoing tourism highlighting the old Incoming Industry in terms of first flows in a place which also became a cross point of relevance also for numerous traders and merchants because Kranjska Gora is also famous to be very close to another important Alpine Pass the Dreilandreck leading to the Italian town of Tarvisio in Friuli Venezia Giulia which was considered since long time ago an important focal point between three countries : Slovenia,Italy and Austria.
In addition, an aspect to take in consideration is that the geographic area in which is situated the resort is where the Alps are situated at a very short distance from the Adriatic Sea and those previously mentioned Alpine Passes were historically a relevant passage of a busy commerce with numerous traders during their trips since the middle Ages ages.
One of the major activities started in ancient times by the Romans as the commercial routes with protagonist the salt produced in Portoroz that current notorious seaside resort very famous for its Spa treatments, marvellous beaches and vibrant nighlife.(I wrote a post regarding that site if you are interested)
The Hapsburg House re took after centuries that business with the advantage of those strategic gateways and in addition the Austrians used several times that Alpine hallway to move the Imperial troops in several points to control in a very concentrated space three countries.
After the 1st World War with the fall of the powerful Empire the town was incorporated in the Kingdom of the Serbs,Croats and Slovenians a Reign which was in its a sort of mother of the former Republic of Yugoslavia born as you know after the events of the 2nd World War with protagonist the Marshal Tito who after many treaties and meetings with the Alied created that former and disappeared country.
Kranjska Gora during its more contemporary times modern followed the destiny of Slovenia which obtained its official Independence in 1991 and in 2004 joined Europe as permanent member of the European Community and leaving that Confederation of States established and developed in the 40's.
The centre of the town is not too big but very attractive reflecting a true image of a
typical Alpine centre highlighted by charming stoned and wooden houses with an evident architectural influence strongly linked to the nearest Austria and all that due to the secular relationships with the country ruled by the Hapsburg Royalty.
The local core is surrounded by a stunning ring of mountains and small villages which are part of the municipality as Mostroja and the previously mentioned Podkoren among others, the atmosphere is peaceful and calm, very inviting for a pleasant walk admiring that spectacular natural frame dominating the entire scenery.
Those peaks also dominate with their magnificent towering silhouettes many other splendid towns in that geographic area such as the historic Jesenice, well known since a long time to be a strategic cross road between the country and the heart of Europe, the beautiful Bled with its picturesque and marvellous lake often immortalised in posters, covers and tourist brochures and the popular Planina, a very famous place to host many Nordic Ski competitions.
On a side of the municipal boundaries is situated the splendid Podkoren which is the extreme neighbourhood of the resort consisting in a sort of a doorway and hallway leading to Austria crossing its spectacular scenic Alpine pass, another place you can not miss to admire during your stay.
The town which apart to be a famed winter sports resort known worldwide gained its notoriety and charming appeal for the beauty of that beautiful mountainous massif group but also for the presence around its territory of the magnificent verdant valleys formed by the course of the river Savska such as Vradovlijka and Tamar which are protagonist of a spectacular natural scenery crossed by several streams among them the Ziljica a splendid waterway flowing in a wonderful and uncontaminated geographic area in Central Europe.
Today Kranjska Gora is one of the most important Ski resorts of the Eastern Alps and thanks to its prestigious name it hosts every year the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup, an event which is an usual and unique appointment for the entire Nation waiting for that event with passion, enthusiasm and trepidation due to the great rooted tradition linked to that kind of Sport existing in that country.
Considered one of the most attractive towns in the Julian Alps, that site offers the visitors the excellent chance to practise many other outdoor activities such as climbing, hiking,trekking,mountain bike, cycling on road kayak and rowing on its rivers and a multitude of things to do.
With a wide selection of excellent and comfortable Hotels the major part pretty close to the slopes all those structures devoted to hospitality are highly prepared to satisfy the most demanding requests and that aspect greatly highlighted by the presence of notable facilities and services is of course another great feature of that stunning Slovenian resort.
All those outstanding qualities make Kranjska Gora an ideal and for many people favourite place to enjoy unforgettable holidays offering every tourist the chance to spend a very enjoyable and comfortable stay.
We can not forget in addition that the resort for its superb stategic location is a perfect base for magnificent radial excursions discovering a multitude of centres boasting a superb historic and cultural patrimony and it is a stunning destination for the most passionate photographers who can immortalise images absolutely unforgettable.The delicious true cuisine of Slovenia is greatly represented in that area with an ample variety of traditional delectable plates next to supreme selected wines produced in valleys which also offer the opportunity to enjoy several wonderful routes highly appropriate for all those fond about tasting wines.
Another detail which in its kind is an additional pleasant accent is the presence of kind people, the locals are very hospitable giving always a warm welcome every visitor and also that is more than appreciated.
The denomination of the town derives from the composition of two words such as the mountain Kranjska, a peak dominating that Slovenian centre while the other Gora in Slavic language means mountain and the history of Kraniska Gora born under that majestic peak which gave the name to that so popular Alpine town and it is one of its emblematic symbols.
Historically that mountainous territory was frequently a land of conquest and the Queen of the Slovenian Alps and all its surroundings were witnesses of the settlement of several rulers.Different occupations had as protagonists Huns, Lombards,Slavs,Franks,Bavarians, Hungarians and much more a long period lived under the influence of the Austrian -Hungarian Empire who played a relevant and fundamental role leaving a very strong imprint and defined cultural marks still visible today in architecture, art, gastronomy and lifestyle.
During the secular Hapsburg House domination the town was well known all around Europe with the German name Kronau and it was often a pleasant destination for many aristocratic Austrian families who frequently crossed the Wurzenpass in proximity of the village of Podkoren very close to Arnoldstein a beautiful resort on the other side of the local Alps in the magnificent Austrian Carinthia.
Those noble characters were since then pioneers of an Outgoing tourism highlighting the old Incoming Industry in terms of first flows in a place which also became a cross point of relevance also for numerous traders and merchants because Kranjska Gora is also famous to be very close to another important Alpine Pass the Dreilandreck leading to the Italian town of Tarvisio in Friuli Venezia Giulia which was considered since long time ago an important focal point between three countries : Slovenia,Italy and Austria.
In addition, an aspect to take in consideration is that the geographic area in which is situated the resort is where the Alps are situated at a very short distance from the Adriatic Sea and those previously mentioned Alpine Passes were historically a relevant passage of a busy commerce with numerous traders during their trips since the middle Ages ages.
One of the major activities started in ancient times by the Romans as the commercial routes with protagonist the salt produced in Portoroz that current notorious seaside resort very famous for its Spa treatments, marvellous beaches and vibrant nighlife.(I wrote a post regarding that site if you are interested)
The Hapsburg House re took after centuries that business with the advantage of those strategic gateways and in addition the Austrians used several times that Alpine hallway to move the Imperial troops in several points to control in a very concentrated space three countries.
After the 1st World War with the fall of the powerful Empire the town was incorporated in the Kingdom of the Serbs,Croats and Slovenians a Reign which was in its a sort of mother of the former Republic of Yugoslavia born as you know after the events of the 2nd World War with protagonist the Marshal Tito who after many treaties and meetings with the Alied created that former and disappeared country.
Kranjska Gora during its more contemporary times modern followed the destiny of Slovenia which obtained its official Independence in 1991 and in 2004 joined Europe as permanent member of the European Community and leaving that Confederation of States established and developed in the 40's.
The local core is surrounded by a stunning ring of mountains and small villages which are part of the municipality as Mostroja and the previously mentioned Podkoren among others, the atmosphere is peaceful and calm, very inviting for a pleasant walk admiring that spectacular natural frame dominating the entire scenery.
You can start the visit from the Church Marija Na Belem Produ, a Religious Christian Temple dedicated to the Virgin of the Assumption.You will immediately notice that Sacred building is a clear example of the traditional Austrian architecture and all that is confirmed by the author of the project who was was an Austrian architect from Villach called Firtale.
That work was commissioned by the Counts of Ortenburg, the former local Lords since the 12th century also coming from that country. Those former rulers played an important role in the current municipality calling different artists and protagonists of an old territorial subdivision very similar to that developed on the other side of the Alps.
Erected in 1510 in a classical Neo-Gothic style over the rests of another Religious construction, you will note in a while that the light facade,the walls and including the roof shape are very similar to several Churches you can see in Klagenfurt,Villach and all around the Austrian Carinthia. Many links are extremely related in the use of material, execution of outlines, size, height and layout of the apse.The only exception is the bell tower which was restored in different periods and it is part of the previous Romanesque Church.
One of the great highlights of the Church are certainly its splendid nave boasting splendid vaults,some relevant sculptures dating back the 15th century and beautiful paintings dated the 18th century by Leopold Layer, a talented master from Kranj famous for his magnificent colours, perspectives and fine human shapes, with some superb works made by him displayed in the National Gallery of Slovenia in Ljubliana.
That work was commissioned by the Counts of Ortenburg, the former local Lords since the 12th century also coming from that country. Those former rulers played an important role in the current municipality calling different artists and protagonists of an old territorial subdivision very similar to that developed on the other side of the Alps.
Erected in 1510 in a classical Neo-Gothic style over the rests of another Religious construction, you will note in a while that the light facade,the walls and including the roof shape are very similar to several Churches you can see in Klagenfurt,Villach and all around the Austrian Carinthia. Many links are extremely related in the use of material, execution of outlines, size, height and layout of the apse.The only exception is the bell tower which was restored in different periods and it is part of the previous Romanesque Church.
One of the great highlights of the Church are certainly its splendid nave boasting splendid vaults,some relevant sculptures dating back the 15th century and beautiful paintings dated the 18th century by Leopold Layer, a talented master from Kranj famous for his magnificent colours, perspectives and fine human shapes, with some superb works made by him displayed in the National Gallery of Slovenia in Ljubliana.
During the visit you will notice different charming houses,some of them were originally properties and residences of rich and aristocratic families linked to the highest Austrian-Hungarian social class and one of them I suggest you to take a look is Liznjek Dom, a beautiful mansion dating back the 18th century.
That charming building was restored in different occasions and currently it hosts a Museum dedicated to Josip Vandot a famous Slovenian writer and well known for his children novels born in the town. That man was deported in the town of Slavonski Brod in Croatia during the Nazi occupation of Slovenia where he died in 1944 killed by Allied bombing.
He was the author of a notorious character called Kekec, a young clever shepherd protagonist in three books by that writer of many adventures in the local Karavanke Alps and the municipality decided to pay homage to that illustrious native son establishing that interesting exhibition.
That charming building was restored in different occasions and currently it hosts a Museum dedicated to Josip Vandot a famous Slovenian writer and well known for his children novels born in the town. That man was deported in the town of Slavonski Brod in Croatia during the Nazi occupation of Slovenia where he died in 1944 killed by Allied bombing.
He was the author of a notorious character called Kekec, a young clever shepherd protagonist in three books by that writer of many adventures in the local Karavanke Alps and the municipality decided to pay homage to that illustrious native son establishing that interesting exhibition.
Do not miss to visit Ruska Kapela another important Religious construction elevated on the soil of the town, a superb local highlight apart for its historic value also for an episode very relevant well known all around the country.
Despite it is pretty modern it has a very interesting and special history when that Sacred building was erected in the early 20th century and the name translated means Russian Chapel.
It was built during the 1st World War,concretely between 1916 and 1917 by some Russian soldiers prisoners of the Austrians. The building shows a clear Russian -Byzantine aspect especially visible in the towers elevatated on its sides,the roof and small domes developed on the top of the construction.
All those several architectural details which deeply reflect the style of that Eastern European architecture of the former Soviet Union and also of some Balkan countries of Orthodox Religion made that site a splendid attraction unique in its kind.
There is also a tragic and sad story linked to the construction of Ruska Kapela.In winter a huge avalanche overthrew many Russian prisoners who were working and even some Austrian guards who were controlling the works of the development of the structure.There were over 300 victims a big tragedy and today near that Chapel are still visible the tombs remembering that sad historic episode.
Podkoren is a further attraction, mandatory to visit. It is a very lovely and scenic muncipal neighbourhood situated a approximately 3,5 kilometres from the centre of the town.a picturesque village is located at the foot of marvellous peaks and it is at the border of the frontier between Slovenia and the Austrian Carinthia.
That small centre was originally inhabited before Kranjska Gora and in that place there was since medieval times a cobblestone path crossing the local Alpine pass leading until Arnoldstein through the famous Korensko Sedlo also known with the name of Koren Pass.
Along that trail worked a sort of post caravan crossed the Alps and in that period it was the most important mean of transport delivering mail and all the information to the post offices established on both territories linked in that period to the old Austrian Empire.
That iconic trail was replaced in the 90's when in its place was built the Karavanke Tunnel linking those two countries but the nostalgic memory of those old times is still alive in the history of Podkoren,Arnoldstein and Kranjska Gora for that long activity which joined many generations of people living in those lands.
That small centre was originally inhabited before Kranjska Gora and in that place there was since medieval times a cobblestone path crossing the local Alpine pass leading until Arnoldstein through the famous Korensko Sedlo also known with the name of Koren Pass.
Along that trail worked a sort of post caravan crossed the Alps and in that period it was the most important mean of transport delivering mail and all the information to the post offices established on both territories linked in that period to the old Austrian Empire.
That iconic trail was replaced in the 90's when in its place was built the Karavanke Tunnel linking those two countries but the nostalgic memory of those old times is still alive in the history of Podkoren,Arnoldstein and Kranjska Gora for that long activity which joined many generations of people living in those lands.
Mojstrana is another very interesting neighbourhood, a must during your stay and it hosts one of the most relevant highlights of the resort : the Slovenian Alpine Museum.
That exhibition is a very popular destination established in the Slovenian Alps well known for its rich collection displayed in its rooms consisting in historic documentations,maps, photos, objects and everything related to the life in the local territory,the Triglav area and the Karavanke mountains highly suggested to visit to enter in deep contact with the local culture.
Historically the village had a relevant importance in medieval era with the discover of important mines and thanks to that notable discovery were developed in the local are activities linked to the extraction of metals under Austrian rule.
Later Mojstrana in more contemporary times became an important centre for holidays, a beloved climatic destination thanks to its relaxing and uncontaminated atmosphere and favourite place for many photographers absolutely delighted by a magnificent scenery all around its boundaries.
Situated at the foot of the highest and towering peaks of Slovenia the notorious Triglav, that place is a very peaceful haven surrounded by picturesque valleys such as the Kot,Vrata and Krma,a site simply wonderful boasting wonderful landscapes in an area packed by pine forests offering from high plateaus superb view of majestic mountains with at the feet of them wide green meadows which give that village a very charming and captivating image.
Aljaz was protagonist of the integral restoration of the Church, he founded a cultural centre and furthermore he built an aqueduct for Dvoje which permitted the distribution of drinkable water to all the inhabitants.The statue erected in that village is dedicated to that important figure representing a great thank you paying homage and tribute to a character who gave all his efforts and life for the people and the development of the village and his memories is always present incliuding in the new generations.
That exhibition is a very popular destination established in the Slovenian Alps well known for its rich collection displayed in its rooms consisting in historic documentations,maps, photos, objects and everything related to the life in the local territory,the Triglav area and the Karavanke mountains highly suggested to visit to enter in deep contact with the local culture.
Historically the village had a relevant importance in medieval era with the discover of important mines and thanks to that notable discovery were developed in the local are activities linked to the extraction of metals under Austrian rule.
Later Mojstrana in more contemporary times became an important centre for holidays, a beloved climatic destination thanks to its relaxing and uncontaminated atmosphere and favourite place for many photographers absolutely delighted by a magnificent scenery all around its boundaries.
Situated at the foot of the highest and towering peaks of Slovenia the notorious Triglav, that place is a very peaceful haven surrounded by picturesque valleys such as the Kot,Vrata and Krma,a site simply wonderful boasting wonderful landscapes in an area packed by pine forests offering from high plateaus superb view of majestic mountains with at the feet of them wide green meadows which give that village a very charming and captivating image.
In another fascinating neighbourhood called Dvoje bot far from Mojstrana you can admire another fairytale place which reflects in all its the essence and image a traditional Alpine village extremely highlighted by the presence of several appealing stoned houses scattered along a beautiful valley.
In addition once there you can see an important monument dedicated to a relevant local figure as Jakob Aljaz.That character was and is certainly a cultural icon,an eclectic man,priest in the local of the community, writer, composer, excellent climber and athlete and he Parish and he made many things for the local community.
In addition once there you can see an important monument dedicated to a relevant local figure as Jakob Aljaz.That character was and is certainly a cultural icon,an eclectic man,priest in the local of the community, writer, composer, excellent climber and athlete and he Parish and he made many things for the local community.
Aljaz was protagonist of the integral restoration of the Church, he founded a cultural centre and furthermore he built an aqueduct for Dvoje which permitted the distribution of drinkable water to all the inhabitants.The statue erected in that village is dedicated to that important figure representing a great thank you paying homage and tribute to a character who gave all his efforts and life for the people and the development of the village and his memories is always present incliuding in the new generations.
In proximity of the Mount Triglav do not miss to visit the spectacular waterfalls of Pericnik considered are among the most beautiful, scenic and outstanding attractions of the entire Slovenia.
That magnificent nature masterpiece consists in a stunning double waterfall with an image absolutely superb. At the beginning of that natural wonder you will notice a first waterfall with a drop of about 16,0 metres and beneath it another one of about 52,0 metres. That marvellous view in winter has another attractive and captivating profile caused by the ice with several fantastic icicles and in a sunny day at distance it seems to see sort of shining diamonds.
Spectacular are also all the immediate surroundings all embraced by a splendid uncontaminated nature with a territory packed by verdant forests and several picturesque paths offering the great chance to enjoy a big number of great excursions, an Eden for trekkers and mountaineering lovers.
In Triglav National Park you can admire another stupendous waterfall formed by the torrent Martuljek generating the Martuljjkov Slap.Those fantastic drops start descending from an impressive vertical rocky wall of over 100,0 metres continuing along an open gorge of about half kilometre and with a first a drop of about 50,0 metres and it is not finished..From that point the torrent continues its course for other 380,0 metres running across a further marvellous rocky gorge.
That magnificent place unique in its kind is a must if you are planning to spend spending holidays in Kranjska Gora, a very suggestive site totally encircled by a magnificent Alpine nature forming an unforgettable frame,a Mecca for photographers and for all those who love to discover something simply wonderful in the heart of the Oriental Alps.
Just some kilometres away from that marvel crossing the valley of Tamar you can reach Planica, a famous site and iconic seat for important appointment linked to Winter Sports especially related to Nordic Ski with absolute protagonist the speciality of Ski Jump performed in the famous Complex of Letalnica Bratov Gorisek opened in 1969.
That prestigious Slovenian site has had the honour to host five editions of the World Championships and many other important international competitions considered in its kind a sort of National Cathedral related to that kind of sport.
For who loves winter sports and especially Alpine Ski in particular Kranjska Gora is absolutely a paradise.The local Ski complexes are of very high level with all the most accessorised services and facilities, the resort also offers a wide network of catering establishments consisting in good number of restaurants offering an outstanding local and international cuisine,a Casino,shops and many chances of recreation apart very comfortable Hotels very appreciated by every tourist.
All the incoming organisation works very well and that Slovenian resort despite is not a big city could be considered a sort of little empire,a great destination to enjoy all year and obviously thanks to its wonderful slopes a mecca for enthusiastic skiers and lovers of winter sports.
Since log time ago Kranjska Gora is one of the classic places hosting the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup with two very challenging competitions the special and giant slalom.
Naturally those events elevated it as an indisputable and renowned protagonist in the International scene and the Pokal Vitranc is the Trophy which awards the winner in that important stage of the World Cup celebrated in the Slovenian resort.
The local tracks are among the most spectacular of the entire Alpine Ski panorama with fantastic changes of gradient,they are very techniques and challenging slopes with impressive long straights, steep sections and impressive sharp curves.
The resort boasts a network of 20 Ski lifts with a capacity of transport of almost 20,000 people per hour.There are slopes for everyone with blue,red and black tracks.The local pistes are among the most spectacular of the entire Alpine Ski panorama with fantastic changes of gradient, very techniques and challenging with impressive long straights, steep sections and impressive sharp curves.
The area with more black slopes highly appropriate for experienced skiers and masters are present in Podkoren with three such as Zelenci,Rutec and Podkoren,the latter is over 1,200 metres long while the other two are pretty short but extremely steep. Zelenci slope despite is less than 400,0 metres long is characterised by an impressive wall so loved by many skiers.
That space also also has four blue slopes such as Kolovrat,Bedanec, Petha and Velika Dolina all them are ideal for beginners except one section of Velika Dolina which has a section corresponding to a red track and it is also the longer with its over 1,200 metres of length.
The boundaries of Kranjska Gora town are highlighted by 10 official beautiful slopes.The major part of them are blue but with the presence of one extremely challenging consisting in black piste called Vitranc 2 ,an impressive slope 1048,0 metres long very steep and with a series of great changes of gradient making it a track ideal for masters or skiers with a very advanced level.
Vidranc 1 is a beautiful red slope with an intermediate level and for its coefficient of difficulty could be a right step before to move on Vidranc 2.It is a kind of track pretty long with its 1300,0 metres in length with some curves appreciated by many people. while Another red well known is situated in a section called Dolencev, it is approximately 1000,0 metres long and very loved by locals.
A short distance from the Ski Jump Complex of Planica if you want to change during your stay skiing finding something of alternative there are the beautiful tracks of Macesno highlighted by a special one about 2,0 kilometres long with a fantastic straight beloved by all those who want to improve the position and aerodinamicity.
Recently that area became very popular to enjoy Alpine Ski of an excellent level thanks also to the modern services it offers and currently it is one of the most trendy places in the area of Kranjska Gora.
In that place the resort enlarged its network giving more people options and opportunities to practise Alpine Ski on fantastic tracks in some details different of those established in the centre and that was certainly a great idea developed by the local Institutions to create a new space increasing furthermore tourism flows in the resort during winter season.
The slopes Tinkara,Brsnina,Kelec,Mojka,Preseka and Rozle are all blue tracks and the longitude in all them are inferior to the 800,0 metres in length except Preseka. In addition as special feature of all those pistes are highly suitable not only for beginners with some experiences but also for who starts for the first time skiing.
Worth a special mention the pistes of Dolencev,Mojka and Kelec which in their kinds are a further stunning attraction and highlights of Kranjska Gora because along those tracks you can ski at evening with illumination and that is great for all the skiers who can have that fantastic chance, dedicating during a day visits and excursions continuing later with that other favourite activity.
Kranjska Gora is also well known to boast several kilometres devoted to Nordic Ski especially practised in the areas of Radece,Planica,Tamar, Mojstrana, Podkoren and Gozd Martuljek.Undoubtedly the most challenging section ideal for people well trained in that kind of sport is in the space of Planica previously mentioned but also Mojstrana and Radece are excellent and highly spectacular.
That magnificent nature masterpiece consists in a stunning double waterfall with an image absolutely superb. At the beginning of that natural wonder you will notice a first waterfall with a drop of about 16,0 metres and beneath it another one of about 52,0 metres. That marvellous view in winter has another attractive and captivating profile caused by the ice with several fantastic icicles and in a sunny day at distance it seems to see sort of shining diamonds.
Spectacular are also all the immediate surroundings all embraced by a splendid uncontaminated nature with a territory packed by verdant forests and several picturesque paths offering the great chance to enjoy a big number of great excursions, an Eden for trekkers and mountaineering lovers.
In Triglav National Park you can admire another stupendous waterfall formed by the torrent Martuljek generating the Martuljjkov Slap.Those fantastic drops start descending from an impressive vertical rocky wall of over 100,0 metres continuing along an open gorge of about half kilometre and with a first a drop of about 50,0 metres and it is not finished..From that point the torrent continues its course for other 380,0 metres running across a further marvellous rocky gorge.
That magnificent place unique in its kind is a must if you are planning to spend spending holidays in Kranjska Gora, a very suggestive site totally encircled by a magnificent Alpine nature forming an unforgettable frame,a Mecca for photographers and for all those who love to discover something simply wonderful in the heart of the Oriental Alps.
Just some kilometres away from that marvel crossing the valley of Tamar you can reach Planica, a famous site and iconic seat for important appointment linked to Winter Sports especially related to Nordic Ski with absolute protagonist the speciality of Ski Jump performed in the famous Complex of Letalnica Bratov Gorisek opened in 1969.
That prestigious Slovenian site has had the honour to host five editions of the World Championships and many other important international competitions considered in its kind a sort of National Cathedral related to that kind of sport.
Not far from that emblematic place there is another village I recommend you to visit called Ratece part of the municipality of Kranjska Gora.That small hamlet surrounded by high peaks and stupendous forests is dominated by the charming silhouette of the Mount Pec.
That very picturesque place crossed by little streams such as the Kravnjak and the Trebiza which together give a more appealing accent to a magnificent frame, it is an excellent destination for fishing,trekking, long walks and relaxation all that admiring the local wilderness absolutely stunning.
Ratece apart its fascinating natural environment has a long history to narrate.It was inhabited as official village since the late 14th century and in its boundaries were found important manuscripts in Slovenian language probably the oldest of the entire country linked to the first Slavic settlers.
In addition worth a mention that it has always been a relevant cross point leading to the the Italian border reaching the region of Friuli Venezia Giulia and on one side of its boundaries almost touching the Austrian frontier not far from a famous city : Klagenfurt.Despite the reduced size of its territory it was very well known in the times of the Hapsburg House as a strategic transit for troops and traders.
That site was in the past until the 1947 part of the Italian territory and incorporated in the former Republic of Yugoslavia after the development of the new borders and maps of Europe two years later of the end of the 2nd World War.
That very picturesque place crossed by little streams such as the Kravnjak and the Trebiza which together give a more appealing accent to a magnificent frame, it is an excellent destination for fishing,trekking, long walks and relaxation all that admiring the local wilderness absolutely stunning.
Ratece apart its fascinating natural environment has a long history to narrate.It was inhabited as official village since the late 14th century and in its boundaries were found important manuscripts in Slovenian language probably the oldest of the entire country linked to the first Slavic settlers.
In addition worth a mention that it has always been a relevant cross point leading to the the Italian border reaching the region of Friuli Venezia Giulia and on one side of its boundaries almost touching the Austrian frontier not far from a famous city : Klagenfurt.Despite the reduced size of its territory it was very well known in the times of the Hapsburg House as a strategic transit for troops and traders.
That site was in the past until the 1947 part of the Italian territory and incorporated in the former Republic of Yugoslavia after the development of the new borders and maps of Europe two years later of the end of the 2nd World War.
In that place you can also admire historic monuments as Cerkev Svetega Dha, a Church dedicated the Holy Spirit.That beautiful
Baroque Religious building present a light facade and a dark gray roof surrounded by a
circular stoned wall reflecting the pure local architecture. Well defined are the lines executed all around its exterior layout with a special mention to the section corresponding to those of the presbitery and the nave.
A further local highlight is Dom Kajznk consisting in a old farm house erected in the 19th century and totally restored in different periods.That construction will show you a more than classic example of rural Alpine architecture of the country with a stylish use of stone and timber.
Pretty close to that little marvel you can visit the Natural Reserve of Zelenci another great attraction of the entire country.That protected nature park is a sort of paradise,a wild and beautiful area along the borders of Austria and Italy.
That stunning site is a protected natural space in which between a wonderful alpine vegetation and high mountains you can see a wide variety of fauna such as ibex,chamois, marmots,hawks and eagles among others.
That reserve is also the ideal place for passionate trekkers who can enjoy along very interesting paths many very suggested excursions, one of them is to visit and admiring Zelenci lake, an Alpine waters basin surrounded by towering peaks in a beautiful scenery to immortalise in several pictures.
Approximately 20 minutes by car from Kranjska Gora in the area of the Vrsic Pass and Trenta in Prisanik you will be delighted by a fantastic local attraction : the Prisanki Prozor which in its kind is another must you can not miss.
That magnificent masterpiece of nature is a high rock on which you can admire an open natural window approximately 80,0 metres high and 40,0 metres wide.That magnificent view is the result of a punctured rock which was created by the erosion and a landslide forming that spectacular image in the mountain.
A further local highlight is Dom Kajznk consisting in a old farm house erected in the 19th century and totally restored in different periods.That construction will show you a more than classic example of rural Alpine architecture of the country with a stylish use of stone and timber.
Pretty close to that little marvel you can visit the Natural Reserve of Zelenci another great attraction of the entire country.That protected nature park is a sort of paradise,a wild and beautiful area along the borders of Austria and Italy.
That stunning site is a protected natural space in which between a wonderful alpine vegetation and high mountains you can see a wide variety of fauna such as ibex,chamois, marmots,hawks and eagles among others.
That reserve is also the ideal place for passionate trekkers who can enjoy along very interesting paths many very suggested excursions, one of them is to visit and admiring Zelenci lake, an Alpine waters basin surrounded by towering peaks in a beautiful scenery to immortalise in several pictures.
Approximately 20 minutes by car from Kranjska Gora in the area of the Vrsic Pass and Trenta in Prisanik you will be delighted by a fantastic local attraction : the Prisanki Prozor which in its kind is another must you can not miss.
That magnificent masterpiece of nature is a high rock on which you can admire an open natural window approximately 80,0 metres high and 40,0 metres wide.That magnificent view is the result of a punctured rock which was created by the erosion and a landslide forming that spectacular image in the mountain.
In that place you can also admire a further special and curious view in another rock section linked to a popular local legend narrating a story with main protagonist Ajdovska Deklica,depicted as a pagan woman with several powers or maybe according local narrations compared to a Goddess and a legend is related to an image visible in a rocky wall which shows a sort of face immortalising the profile of that mysterious female figure.
The story says that character wanted to be lovely with all the local people offering them her help transporting materials and goods through the valley to the current Italian frontier.That supposed divinity with her magic powers did a prophecy saying that a children born in Trenta will become a great and famous hunter,hunting and killing a big chamois with golden horns and after that event he will sell the horns of that animal becoming a rich man.
When the other Goddesses heard those words they tried to meet her in Prisanik but when they came at destination they only saw the face of Ajdovska Deklica in the rock.
The story says that character wanted to be lovely with all the local people offering them her help transporting materials and goods through the valley to the current Italian frontier.That supposed divinity with her magic powers did a prophecy saying that a children born in Trenta will become a great and famous hunter,hunting and killing a big chamois with golden horns and after that event he will sell the horns of that animal becoming a rich man.
When the other Goddesses heard those words they tried to meet her in Prisanik but when they came at destination they only saw the face of Ajdovska Deklica in the rock.
For who loves winter sports and especially Alpine Ski in particular Kranjska Gora is absolutely a paradise.The local Ski complexes are of very high level with all the most accessorised services and facilities, the resort also offers a wide network of catering establishments consisting in good number of restaurants offering an outstanding local and international cuisine,a Casino,shops and many chances of recreation apart very comfortable Hotels very appreciated by every tourist.
All the incoming organisation works very well and that Slovenian resort despite is not a big city could be considered a sort of little empire,a great destination to enjoy all year and obviously thanks to its wonderful slopes a mecca for enthusiastic skiers and lovers of winter sports.
Since log time ago Kranjska Gora is one of the classic places hosting the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup with two very challenging competitions the special and giant slalom.
Naturally those events elevated it as an indisputable and renowned protagonist in the International scene and the Pokal Vitranc is the Trophy which awards the winner in that important stage of the World Cup celebrated in the Slovenian resort.
The local tracks are among the most spectacular of the entire Alpine Ski panorama with fantastic changes of gradient,they are very techniques and challenging slopes with impressive long straights, steep sections and impressive sharp curves.
The resort boasts a network of 20 Ski lifts with a capacity of transport of almost 20,000 people per hour.There are slopes for everyone with blue,red and black tracks.The local pistes are among the most spectacular of the entire Alpine Ski panorama with fantastic changes of gradient, very techniques and challenging with impressive long straights, steep sections and impressive sharp curves.
The area with more black slopes highly appropriate for experienced skiers and masters are present in Podkoren with three such as Zelenci,Rutec and Podkoren,the latter is over 1,200 metres long while the other two are pretty short but extremely steep. Zelenci slope despite is less than 400,0 metres long is characterised by an impressive wall so loved by many skiers.
That space also also has four blue slopes such as Kolovrat,Bedanec, Petha and Velika Dolina all them are ideal for beginners except one section of Velika Dolina which has a section corresponding to a red track and it is also the longer with its over 1,200 metres of length.
The boundaries of Kranjska Gora town are highlighted by 10 official beautiful slopes.The major part of them are blue but with the presence of one extremely challenging consisting in black piste called Vitranc 2 ,an impressive slope 1048,0 metres long very steep and with a series of great changes of gradient making it a track ideal for masters or skiers with a very advanced level.
Vidranc 1 is a beautiful red slope with an intermediate level and for its coefficient of difficulty could be a right step before to move on Vidranc 2.It is a kind of track pretty long with its 1300,0 metres in length with some curves appreciated by many people. while Another red well known is situated in a section called Dolencev, it is approximately 1000,0 metres long and very loved by locals.
A short distance from the Ski Jump Complex of Planica if you want to change during your stay skiing finding something of alternative there are the beautiful tracks of Macesno highlighted by a special one about 2,0 kilometres long with a fantastic straight beloved by all those who want to improve the position and aerodinamicity.
Recently that area became very popular to enjoy Alpine Ski of an excellent level thanks also to the modern services it offers and currently it is one of the most trendy places in the area of Kranjska Gora.
In that place the resort enlarged its network giving more people options and opportunities to practise Alpine Ski on fantastic tracks in some details different of those established in the centre and that was certainly a great idea developed by the local Institutions to create a new space increasing furthermore tourism flows in the resort during winter season.
The slopes Tinkara,Brsnina,Kelec,Mojka,Preseka and Rozle are all blue tracks and the longitude in all them are inferior to the 800,0 metres in length except Preseka. In addition as special feature of all those pistes are highly suitable not only for beginners with some experiences but also for who starts for the first time skiing.
Worth a special mention the pistes of Dolencev,Mojka and Kelec which in their kinds are a further stunning attraction and highlights of Kranjska Gora because along those tracks you can ski at evening with illumination and that is great for all the skiers who can have that fantastic chance, dedicating during a day visits and excursions continuing later with that other favourite activity.
Kranjska Gora is also well known to boast several kilometres devoted to Nordic Ski especially practised in the areas of Radece,Planica,Tamar, Mojstrana, Podkoren and Gozd Martuljek.Undoubtedly the most challenging section ideal for people well trained in that kind of sport is in the space of Planica previously mentioned but also Mojstrana and Radece are excellent and highly spectacular.
In the last decade thanks also to many other operations all around the ski network were greatly managed with other slopes which became a destination of fame and prestige for freestyle,snowboarding and furthermore there are excellent Ski Schools and facilities linked to those very trendy activities, making the resort a very and complete and advanced site in that and also in terms of connections
and services linking a piste to another in a very easy and quick way.
There is always during the official competitions which take place in that Ski resort a great and passionate participation of people and fans coming from all Slovenia, the nearest Austria,Croatia,Italy and Germany but also from other countries living all together pleasant days in harmony as a feast to celebrate in a very friendly atmosphere.
The main track during the World Cup is transformed in a sort of stadium with flags, giant pictures vand posters of the athlets,trumpets and drums scenic choreographies, songs and a public totally enthusiastic and trepidante.
A special time which is greatly remembered by many locals is dated 1999 when a local athlete caled Jure Kosir native of Mojstrana won the World Cup slalom and the town celebrated the victory of that local skier as a great historic event.
Kosir became as a sort of local hero winning at home in an iconic appointment as a World Cup Competition continuing the brilliant tradition with a new champion who followed other famous previous Slovenian athletes specialist in the slalom as the unforgettable stars Bojan Krizaj and Boris Strel among others.
Apart Ski and winter sports all the area surrounding the municipality is also famous for recreation and many outdoor activities such as climbing,cycling on road with very challenging climbs,mountain bike canoe,and many others,all that enjoying stunning natural spaces in an uncontaminated nature.
As Alpine Town at Christmas period,there is a great atmosphere just like in the nearest Austria and Friuli in Italy the community celebrates with several events and a splendid Christmas Market. I added some links below with some suggested Hotels for a comfortable stay and information to plan your holidays if you are interested to visit a place and a country which will conquer you.
As Alpine Town at Christmas period,there is a great atmosphere just like in the nearest Austria and Friuli in Italy the community celebrates with several events and a splendid Christmas Market. I added some links below with some suggested Hotels for a comfortable stay and information to plan your holidays if you are interested to visit a place and a country which will conquer you.
The local cuisine in Kranjska Gora is a formidable mosaic of cultures and influences embracing the most delicious and succulent flavours and tastes coming from Slovenia,Austria and Italy.
You can find in many restaurants specialities of those three countries,local sausages and Wursteln are often accompanied by sauerkraut,relevant is the presence of delectable pork steaks served with potatoes and including the famed Wiener Schnitzel is protagonist in the Slovenian resort next to other typical Italian plates as pasta prepared in several styles with different kinds of sauces.
About some traditional specialities do not miss to try the superb Prsut, the typical local delicious ham and the Zganci consisting in a kind of polenta often combined with vegetables, soups and meat casseroles.Another famous product considered is an absolute local pride is a traditional sausage called Kranjska Klobasa served as snack,appetiser,starter but also in sandwiches or accompanying vegetables and potatoes.
Notable is the presence of a wide range of stews and one of the most popular in all the country but also very common in Istria Italy in in the province of Trieste and Gorizia is the delicious Jota prepared with beans,potatoes,pork ribs,bacon and sauerkraut.Another one worth to be mentioned is the Mavzelj a pork stew which includes onions,bread,polenta and as variant rice or eggs.
The Ricet is another dish very famed consisting in a wide variety of ingredients such as potatoes,onions,garlic,beans,parsley,celery,carrots,leeks and tomato all them are added to cured pig meat and cooked very slowly.
Very famous al around the country is the Struklij, a kind of pancake prepared in an ample variety of styles.There are Struklij made by walnuts,apples,pears but also containing cheese while another traditional speciality related to desserts is the famed Prekmurska Gibanica made by fresh apples,walnuts,poppy seeds,flour,ricotta cheese and raisins.
When you visit Slovenia try a glass of Brinovec a kind of blueberry brandy similar to the Slovak Borovicka and partially related to the Serbian spirit Klecovaca too.
Excellent are also the fine wines,(I wrote a post about Branik which is one of the best areas for fine wines in the case you are interested),there is a great culture in that country with vineyards producing excellent grapes with body and a relevant texture.
The local wines are generally very savoury and smooth boasting a superb colour and the list is very long and varied. Some of them highly suggested are the local Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon,Pinot but equally superb and highly appreciated are Ranina,Traminec.Riesling,Rumeni Muskat and Teran among others.
All them are selected wines very palatable and there is a wide variety of very versatile products very appropriate to accompany fish,meat,seafood,including for cooking as a local sublime Rizling absolutely perfect during a meal in a good lunch or dinner with fish but also in the preparation of risotti and other plates.
That excellent quality and quantity is the result of a clever cultivation of the vineyards at an ideal altitude combined with a very favourable climate.The taste of those wines is very classy and refined in both whites and reds very similar to those emblematic wines produced in the Italian regions of Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia.
Kranjska Gora is situated at about 90,0 kilometres from the capital of the country Ljubljana,178,0 kilometres from the splendid Italian city of Trieste and just 60,0 kilometres from the captivating Klagenfurt in Austria.All those cities have their airports offering varied options to reach easily and in a short time that oustanding destination.
That resort is a great hymn to the beauty of Slovenian Alps,a paradise to spend unforgettable days all year and all around magnificent places to see and to remember with great pleasure.
Kranjska Gora is a charming and special destination with a unique image encircling it admiring those towering peaks, the Karavanke Alps all around you making that environment simply spectacular and very difficult to forget.
That resort is a great hymn to the beauty of Slovenian Alps,a paradise to spend unforgettable days all year and all around magnificent places to see and to remember with great pleasure.
Kranjska Gora is a charming and special destination with a unique image encircling it admiring those towering peaks, the Karavanke Alps all around you making that environment simply spectacular and very difficult to forget.
Francesco Mari
Recommended Hotels in Kranjska Gora
Hotel Lek
Hotel Miklic
Ramada Hotel & Suites Kranjska Gora
Ramada Hotel & Suites Kranjska Gora
Hotel Ramada Resort Kranjska Gora
Hotel Kompas
Useful links
www.hotelmiklic.com
www.ramada.co.uk › Hotels › Slovenia › Kranjska Gora Hotels
www.kranjska-gora.si/si/.../hoteli/338-Hotel-Kompas
www.ramada.co.uk › Hotels › Slovenia › Kranjska Gora Hotels
www.kranjska-gora.si/si/.../hoteli/338-Hotel-Kompas
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