Discovering the Mouth of the Planina Cave
Planina Cave
Famous for its turquoise shimmering waters, Planina Cave is not only a natural wonder but also part of a more extensive cave system connected to Postojna Cave, located within the same municipality.
- Total Length: 6.7 km
- Altitude: 453 meters above sea level
- Temperature: 8 – 10 °C
The streams emerging from the cave eventually flow into the Unica River, creating a spectacular sight where turquoise waters meet the cave’s mouth. Inside, you’ll traverse large chambers where water drips and puddles form, adding to the cave’s mystique.
At the cave’s end, a gate marks the limit of independent exploration, with further, guided tours offering deeper insights into the cave system. Bringing a flashlight or headlamp is advisable—though in a pinch, your smartphone’s light will suffice.
Access to the cave is free, and a short, exciting 1.5 km hike will get you there.
Hiking the Trail to the Cave
Gothic Tower (Ravbarjev stolp)
Along the trail, parking is available near the gothic guard tower known as Ravbarjev stolp. Information boards along the way provide valuable insights into the locale’s flora and fauna. The cave is home to various creatures, including bats, spiders, and the elusive olm.
A narrow path, descending right before the castle, leads adventurers down towards the cave.
As you proceed through the hiking trail, the path includes a wooden bridge over a crystal-clear stream. The lush moss growing on rocks and trees creates an enchanting, almost mystical atmosphere. Soon, the mouth of the cave comes into view, along with the audible rush of water gushing from its entrance.
The return journey follows the same path. For those interested in a recorded trail of the hike, check out my Komoot log, though some points may appear slightly off due to poor reception.
Guided Tours in Planina Cave
Guided tours provide opportunities to explore beyond the initial section of the cave, where participants can experience the deeper parts of this underground ecosystem, often involving boat rides across subterranean waters. These tours also enhance the likelihood of witnessing rare cave-dwelling species, including olms. Planning a full day is recommended for the complete experience.
Additional Nearby Attractions
During a Slovenian adventure, consider visiting these additional attractions:
- Postojna Cave: Situated just 10 km away, it offers a range of extraordinary activities and extensive exploration opportunities.
- Predjama Castle: Located approximately 20 km from the cave, it is famed as the world’s largest cave castle, combining historical intrigue with architectural wonder.
Planina Cave invites travelers to embark on an exciting exploration of Slovenia’s natural and cultural beauty, promising an unforgettable experience among Slovenia’s cherished landscapes.