Our adventure in Slovenia began with a visit to the stunning Zelenci Nature Reserve. On a sunny and pleasant day, this beautiful destination set the tone for the rest of our trip. With its easy accessibility—a short walk from the parking area right next to the road—Zelenci was the perfect first stop. If you’re planning a trip to Slovenia, don’t miss the chance to experience this natural paradise.
About Zelenci Nature Reserve
Declared a nature reserve in 1992 due to its incredible natural and geological beauty, Zelenci Nature Reserve spans 15 hectares of pristine Slovenian wilderness. It is famous for its emerald green lake, a natural spring formed from the underground Nadiza creek. The name "Zelenci" translates to "greens" in Slovenian, reflecting the vibrant color of the lake.
Beyond the lake, the reserve is bordered by the forested Vitranc and Karavanks woodlands and features various walkways and hiking paths that crisscross the diverse landscape. The Drni moorland to the east of the reserve, which measures around 1.2km long by 150m wide, is home to a vast array of flora and fauna, including snakes.
Where is Zelenci Nature Reserve?
Zelenci is located in the leafy edges of the Triglav National Park in northwest Slovenia, just 4.5km outside the town of Kranjska Gora. It's conveniently situated near the intersection of Austria, Italy, and Slovenia, making it a perfect stop on a broader European adventure. The reserve is easily accessible just off the main #202 road.
How to Get to Zelenci Nature Reserve
Visiting Zelenci is straightforward. If you're traveling from Kranjska Gora by car, head west along the #202 for 4.5km, passing through the small town of Podkoren. The reserve will be on your left, with ample free parking available.
Alternatively, you can walk from Kranjska Gora to Zelenci, which takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. We recommend taking the pathway to Podkoren, which follows the Sava River before crossing a small boardwalk into the reserve. The lake is a short 5-minute walk east from the car park, making it easily accessible for all visitors.
Public transport is not ideal, as there is no direct stop close to Zelenci. You would need to take a bus from Kranjska Gora and get off at Podkoren or Rateče, followed by a 15-minute walk to the reserve.
The Emerald Lake of Zelenci
The highlight of Zelenci Nature Reserve is the crystal-clear emerald lake. The vibrant green-blue hues of the water mirror the soaring limestone peaks of the Ponce mountain range. The lake, teeming with aquatic life like trout, is surrounded by ferns and reeds, creating a haven for birds and their songs.
Even in winter, the lake remains visible as the water temperature stays around 5 degrees Celsius, providing a stark contrast to the frozen surroundings. The observation tower overlooking the lake offers breathtaking views of the Julian Alps and provides educational information about the reserve.
Best Time to Visit Zelenci
While the lake's colors are most vibrant at midday, this is also when the crowds are at their peak. For a more serene experience, visit early in the morning or on a weekday. Each season offers its unique charm: summer showcases the lush greenery, spring and autumn bring stunning contrasts with snowcapped mountains or orange-hued trees.
Regardless of when you visit, Zelenci Nature Reserve promises a moment of pure solitude and natural beauty that will remain etched in your memory forever.
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Plan your trip to this enchanting corner of Slovenia and immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of Zelenci Nature Reserve. Whether as a side trip from Kranjska Gora or Lake Bled, this hidden gem is sure to captivate and inspire. For us, it was the perfect start before heading further to the breathtaking Lake Bled and the stunning Soča River.
Have you been to Slovenia? Let me know in the comments below!
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