● Velika Planina: “Velika” means “Grand” and “Planina” means “Pasture Plateau” in Slovenian.
● Located in the Kamnik Alps in northern Slovenia, at an altitude of 1,500 meters.
● Velika Planina is famous for its traditional pastoral huts.
● Easy access via a cable car or, for the more adventurous, a 5 km (3 miles) hike with a 600 m (1 968 ft) elevation gain (1.5 to 2 hours).
● The site is an important cultural center where visitors can explore local traditions, such as the making of Trnič cheese, and participate in seasonal events and festivals.
During this period of transition, as I am about to leave this enchanting country after spending 10 years here, this weekend I decided to complete the circle and spend a few days in one of the beautiful traditional Koča cottages, accompanied by Mana, who seems to thrive in this idyllic environment. I am revisiting Velika Planina, which I first visited in 2014. This alpine plateau, iconic of the Kamnik Alps in Slovenia, is one of the most well-known landscapes in the country and a must-see if you come here on vacation.
Velika Planina, with its expansive green meadows and breathtaking panoramic views, is a place where time seems to stand still. The pastures are dotted with traditional chalets, characteristic of the region, which give the landscape an authentic and peaceful atmosphere. It is a place where one can truly reconnect with nature and experience profound tranquility.
KAPELA MARIJE SNEŽNE
Among the treasures of Velika Planina is the wooden chapel dedicated to Our Lady of the Snows (Kapela Marije Snežne in Slovenian), perched on a hill. It is a must-see. (You can spot it in the photo above, at the bottom right.)
Built in the traditional style in 1938, it was destroyed by German troops during World War II in 1945. The chapel was reconstructed in 1988, after more than 40 years, and remains an important site for visitors to Velika Planina today.
This picturesque place of worship not only offers a haven of spiritual peace but also provides stunning views of the surrounding plateau. The presence of this chapel adds a cultural and historical dimension to the natural beauty of the region.
THE PLATEAU
During my first visit, I was amazed by the raw and untamed beauty of this plateau, regardless of the season. Local shepherds still uphold ancient traditions here, including cheese-making, which you can taste on-site.
In winter, Velika Planina transforms into a true winter wonderland, offering breathtaking snow-covered landscapes and a magical ambiance. The vast alpine meadows, blanketed in a thick layer of shimmering snow, create a picturesque scene worthy of a postcard. The charming traditional pastoral huts, with their snow-covered roofs, add a touch of nostalgia and authenticity to this idyllic setting.
Winter sports enthusiasts will find their joy at Velika Planina, with well-maintained cross-country ski trails and snowshoe paths winding through snow-covered forests. The soothing silence of the mountains, only interrupted by the crunch of snow underfoot, provides a perfect escape from the daily hustle and bustle. The ski lifts offer easy access to panoramic viewpoints, where you can admire sunsets like nowhere else… (except in Polynesia, of course 😆)
KOCA, PRAVLJICA NA VELIKI PLANINI
This last adventure in the land of bears concludes beautifully. It was not just a simple mountain trip but also a mission requested by Rok, the manager of Koča, to take some photos and videos of his stunning hotel complex.
Koča means “cottage” or “chalet” in Slovenian. Pravljica na Veliki planini (“Fairy Tale at Velika Planina”)—the name is not an exaggeration, as the cottages and their surroundings offer a fairy-tale atmosphere, especially in winter.
Koča It’s 5 charming cottages that blend into the nature and…. are dog-friendly! (dogs are welcome).
– Zlatorog
– Bistra
– Ojstrica
– Žafran
– Kronca
I invite you to visit and book the bungalows on their website. Koča (english, german, slovenian et croatian)
- Traditional Architecture: The cottages are built in the traditional style of Velika Planina’s pastoral huts, with wooden roofs and architecture that harmoniously blends into the alpine landscape.
Modern Comforts: While respecting architectural traditions, the Koča chalets are equipped with all modern amenities to ensure a comfortable stay, including Wi-Fi. They feature cozy bedrooms, a well-equipped kitchen, and often a wood stove to warm the interior and create a cozy ambiance. Some even have a sauna.
Capacity: The cottages can accommodate several people, making them an ideal place for families, groups of friends, or couples seeking a romantic getaway.
To get to the parking lot or the cable car, click on their icon and then “directions”; this will open your route on Google Maps.
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