Velika planina – Where untouched nature meets rich cultural heritage

Visit velika planina and experience its timeless charm for yourself!

Velika Planina is Slovenia’s highest alpine pasture plateau, renowned for its unspoiled nature and cultural significance. At the heart of the plateau lies a unique herdsmen’s settlement, one of the largest preserved settlements of its kind in Europe. Velika Planina attracts visitors not only with its ethnological and architectural features but also with its geological, hydrological, climatic, and historical marvels. It is a paradise for hikers, mountaineers, cyclists, skiers, and all nature enthusiasts who visit year-round to explore the diverse natural beauty and the cultural legacy of traditional shepherd life.

Follow the path of the shepherds
Multiple trails lead to Velika Planina, but the easiest way is via cable car and the six-seater chairlift, which operate year-round. From the summit, a network of walking trails stretches across the plateau, including the "Path of the Shepherds." Along this educational trail, visitors can learn about the flora, fauna, and shepherd culture of the plateau through information boards. Food lovers will enjoy local delicacies, such as sour milk and cheese, available at the shepherds' cottages or the Zeleni Rob inn.

An alpine garden in nature
As spring arrives and the snow begins to melt, Velika Planina comes alive with colorful alpine flowers. The iconic crocuses, both white and violet, create stunning vistas that attract photographers and nature lovers alike. The plateau continues to bloom throughout late spring and early summer, making it an ideal destination for those who appreciate alpine flora. Visitors are encouraged to respect this fragile ecosystem by staying on marked paths and avoiding picking flowers or disturbing grazing livestock, ensuring the plateau’s beauty remains for future generations.

Preskar hut – a monument to shepherd culture
At the heart of Velika Planina, Preskar Hut stands as a symbol of traditional shepherd life. Rebuilt after World War II in its original form, the hut is now a museum showcasing an open hearth, a straw-covered bed, and tools used by shepherds for milk processing. The museum is open daily during the grazing season and by arrangement for groups outside the season. In summer, the hut hosts workshops and events that bring the history of the plateau to life.

A queen among plateaus, stunning in every season
Velika Planina offers breathtaking experiences year-round. In autumn, the golden hues of the larch trees create a peaceful haven above the valley fog. Winter transforms the plateau into a snowy wonderland for skiing, sledding, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. As the snow melts, the fields bloom with vibrant crocuses, heralding the arrival of spring. Summer brings shepherds and their livestock back to the plateau, filling it with life and tradition. With its captivating panoramas, rich heritage, and natural wonders, Velika Planina is truly enchanting in every season.

Velika planina – a winter wonderland awaits
Experience breathtaking views, snow-laden spruces wrapped in thick white coats, and charming snow-covered herdsmen’s cottages. Visiting Velika planina in winter is an unforgettable adventure that will leave you with memories to cherish for years. When the plateau is blanketed in a pristine layer of snow, only the rooftops of shepherds’ huts peek through, while the vast meadows are adorned with trails created by snow and hiking enthusiasts. Since Velika planina relies entirely on natural snowfall, the start of the winter season depends on nature. Once there’s enough snow, it becomes a haven for skiers, sledders, snowshoers, and cross-country skiers.

Skiing on Velika planina
The ski area, situated at an elevation of 1,412 m to 1,666 m, offers 3 km of slopes, mostly suitable for intermediate skiers. At the base of the Šimnovec chairlift, you’ll find the Jurček children’s ski lift, perfect for beginners and young skiers, as well as the Zeleni rob lift. Thanks to its diverse terrain, Velika planina is a beloved family ski destination near Ljubljana, catering to everyone—from seasoned skiers to those just starting out.

Night sledding – a magical experience
The chairlift runs continuously from the top station of the cable car to the start of the sledding track, which stretches from the mid-station of the chairlift down to its base. The sledding track is well-lit, clearly marked, and safely protected, making night sledding a unique experience for individuals, families, and groups. Glide through the 2.5-kilometer-long track under the starlit sky, enjoying breathtaking views of the valley below and the Kamnik-Savinja Alps above.

Snowshoe adventures
For snow lovers seeking peaceful exploration or adventurous trails, snowshoes and poles are available for rent. Snowshoeing on fresh snow offers a unique way to discover the plateau, allowing you to venture off the beaten path and immerse yourself in Velika planina’s winter serenity.

Warm up with alpine delights
At the Zeleni rob guesthouse, open daily, skiers, sledders, and hikers can refuel with delicious homemade dishes, warm beverages, and refreshing drinks. For a sweet treat, try their signature cottage cheese dumplings or apple strudel! The Skodla eatery, located near the top station of the cable car, is also open daily during the winter season, including during night sledding.

Velika planina – ski, sled, and explore
Velika planina offers a truly enchanting winter experience, where you can ski on natural snow, explore a magical landscape, and enjoy unforgettable adventures. Come and immerse yourself in this winter fairy tale!

Visit velika planina and experience its timeless charm for yourself!