Rakov Skocjan Valley is one of the most beautiful regions in Slovenia. It has the same name as the Skocjan Cave, however, you will find the valley a little further. It was formed by the river Rak making the landscape a real excursion paradise for couples and families. If you love romantic countrysides, caves, and gorges, the protected park that is now on display is guaranteed to win you over.
The landscape protection area is the oldest protected area in the country (since 1949). It is mentioned in writing as early as the 15th century, and a description of the valley was made in 1689. The 6 km long area was even under Italian occupation during World War II.
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Sunken and collapsed limestone caves are excellent examples of how nature is changing. Of course, you don’t have to be afraid that the walls will keep crumbling, as the change will take hundreds or even thousands of years.
Photos
Map - Where is the Rakov Skocjan Valley?
The region is located in Slovenia, southwest of Ljubljana. The valley belongs to the town of Rakov Skocjan, which was founded in 1988.
- Distance from Ljubljana: 45 minutes / 43 km
- Distance from Postojna Cave: 25 minutes / 22 km
- Distance from Skocjan Cave: 45 minutes / 45 km
Opening hours and prices
The gorge is open all year round to the public. There is no admission.
- Season: January - December
- Opening hours: Every day, 0-24
- Admission: Free
Bridges in the Skocjan Valley in Rakov
The tops of two of the collapsed caves have been partially preserved. This created a bridge that you can walkthrough. The taller one offer spectacular views at 42 meters and the lower one at 37 meters.
The depths of the valley were almost turned into gorges by the collapsed caves. This view is covered by bridges, hundred-year-old oak trees, pine forests, and of course the river Rak.
Rak river
The river Rak is fed by the nearby underground waters of the Cerknica plain and the Javorniki hill. The river appears on the eastern bank of the valley, in the Zelske Cave, then crosses the countryside and appears in the Tkalca Cave in the west.
The pine and beech forest surrounding the Rakov Skocjan Valley is one of the most special forests in Europe. You can admire her most beautiful dress in the spring when the beeches turn green and colourful flowers enliven the undergrowth. In the fall, its colourful, warm shades say goodbye to summer.
In the area, you can find many inns, restaurants and accommodation if you want to stay longer.
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