What To Do Around Kranjska Gora
Written by Arijana Tkalčec
Kranjska Gora is a destination with countless options for spending an active getaway in the great outdoors. During winter, it is one of the most famous skiing locations. The main attractions are Zelenci, Lake Jasna and Waterfall Peričnik, but there is so much more to Kranjska Gora.
Zelenci is a must when visiting this part of Slovenia. Zelenci natural reserve has lots of interesting flora and animal life, especially nesting birds. In the far western part of the swamp lies the emerald green lake, the most famous and visited part of Zelenci. From a parking lot, it takes 5-10 minutes of easy walk through the woods to reach the lake. There are two docks and a viewpoint on the lake where you can take a rest and enjoy the view. Lake has characteristic blue-green color and that is how it got its name Zelenci - green. The color comes from numerous extremely cold streams that emerge from the layers of marl Interesting fact: it doesn't freeze during winter. If you're in for something more, you can walk or bike on the wooden bridge all around the swamps. I recommend visiting during sunrise or sunset as it looks the best then. Also, during the day, you'll meet many people there.
Lake Jasna is one of the main attractions in Kranjska Gora. In Slovenian „Jasna“ means clear and it perfectly describes these lakes. It is located just 2 kilometers to the south of Kranjska Gora. It is an alpine lake consisted of two interconnected artificial lakes. The lake is near the road and you can park on the side of the road for free or at two parking lots next to the lake (one free and one with fee). I suggest you take a nice relaxing walk around the lake. You can also climb a lookout tower next to the lake for a better view. The sight of mighty Julian Alps over the lake is just incredible. In the summertime, you can refresh yourself by swimming in the lake. There is even a nice beach with beach chairs where you can sunbathe after. If you like fishing, fly fishing is an option too.
Peričnik waterfall was one of the places I liked the most. It's not that far, around 20 minutes by car from lake Jasna. There is a marked trail leading to it from Mojstrana. From the parking there (paying 3 € for 2 hours) you need only 10 minutes of easy hiking to reach the lower waterfall. There is also an upper one and to get there you need another 10 minutes of easy hiking. First one is 52 meters high and upper one 16 meters. You can go behind both waterfalls, but you have to be careful as it is wet and slippery. The thing I liked the most is that you can explore all around, from all sides, and even come close to its base (but expect to get completely wet then). Take your time and do it too, you'll love it.
You have some other great places near too; Martuljek waterfalls, Vršič pass, or you can go across to Italy and visit two beautiful lakes there (Lago di Fusine and Lago del Predil). Those are just around 20 minutes away.
To see just these main attractions, one day is enough. For exploring properly, take a few days.