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UNESCO global Geopark Idrija

Astonishing natural beauty waits to be discovered!

UNESCO Global Geopark Idrija extends on almost 300 km2 and encompasses some of the most recognizable monuments of natural and cultural heritage of Idrija region. Take a hiking or cycling trip on one of many trails strewn with tourist attractions and culinary specialties. Discover the picturesque klavže dams that watch over the steep river gorges and experience the mystical atmosphere of the Wild Lake, one of the largest and most interesting Karst springs in Slovenia.

 

Visitors’ Centre

Your entry point to the UNESCO Global Geopark!

The Visitor’s Centre is an excellent starting point for the exploration of the rich natural and cultural heritage of the Idrija Geopark. The guides/interpreters will take you to a trip into the geological history where they will show you how the varied Idrija terrain was formed, what the characteristics of the prealpine world are, and how the entire living world adapted to these natural conditions in the Idrija region. A great cue for you to leave the Centre and discover this for yourselves in nature.

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For hikers

Be amazed at the grandeur of natural heritage!

Discover exciting views on the Idrija tectonic trench and learn about the geologic composition of one of the largest mercury ore deposits in the world that attracts with its richness in ores. Along Rake – the mine’s water channel – you can stroll on the path of Idrija’s natural scientists all the way to the Wild Lake where the unique museum in nature will entice you with the varied flora and fauna. In Geopark, the most vigilant among you will not even fail to miss dinosaur footprints!

 

 

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For cyclists

Picturesque landscape of unforgettable experiences!

Idrija surrounding offer countless possibilities for a quality free time. In the summer months, you can cool down in the fresh pools of the Idrijca River or relax while fly-fishing the renowned marble trout. Try hiking or cycling on one of the many trails; the views on the surrounding hills and intact forests will take your breath away. In winter months, the high plateaus transform into veritable playgrounds for various sports.

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For families

Visit the green plateaus at the crossroads of Dinaric and Alpine world!

The plateaus around Idrija abound in quality local food producers. Try the medicinal drinks from herbs grown in the fresh and intact nature of Idrija hills. On mountain farms, dedicated local inhabitants produce excellent milk products and cheeses, while extensive forests and pastures enable the production of quality honey and apiculture products.

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Feldban – Military Narrow-Gauge Railway

On this hike you will get to know the most interesting section of the feldban from Godovič to Idrija.

The story of feldban begins in WWI. In the 6th Battle of Isonzo, in August 1916, Italian army pushed the Austro-Hungarian one to the left bank of Isonzo River cutting its supply via the Bohinj Railway. As the remaining railways failed to provide sufficient supplies, they promoted the construction of new narrow-gauge railways – feldbans.

Today, there is a marked hiking trail on the Godovič-Idrija section of the Feldbahn, which you can walk on your own or with a guide.

For guided tours, send an inquiry by e-mail: tic@visit-idrija.si or phone: +386 5 37 43 916.

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Hg TRAIL Idrija

Experience unspoilt nature, wonderful views and a varied accompanying program at the biggest sports event in Idrija.

Every year, over 250 runners from Slovenia and abroad take part in the Hg TRAIL Idrija event, which takes place in the heart of the Idrija UNESCO Global Geopark.

The event offers various trails in the middle of beautiful nature with steep slopes and beautiful views:

14 km + 680 m LACE TRAIL

27 km + 1410 m BERKMANDLC TRAIL

50 km + 2680 m LAUFAR

Earn UTMB or ITRA points.

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UNESCO mercury story

Let yourselves be charmed by the half-a-millennium-long history of Idrija mercury!

SidroEver since in 1490 the tub maker soaking his tub in a creek and found droplets of unusually heavy and unfamiliar shining matter, life in Idrija revolved around one thing only: mercury.

Idrija lace

Be amazed at the delicately interwoven threads of the hand-made Idrija lace!

Idrija has always been recognized as an important centre of lacemaking knowledge that spread the craft of designing and making lace art into the world.

Idrija žlikrofi and cuisine

Enter the world of fine tastes!

Idrija cuisine is famous for gathering chosen, quality, and locally accessible ingredients to produce invaluable culinary pearls.

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