As summer departs, Velika Planina transforms into a magical autumn landscape. The summer crowds have gone, and the plateau breathes in a gentler rhythm. Meadows glow in golden hues, morning mist drifts slowly over the hills, and the soft chime of cowbells lingers in the crisp air. But not for long– soon, the shepherds will lead their cows back to the valley. Now is the perfect moment to experience Velika Planina in all its autumn charm.
How to Reach Velika Planina
Since the cable car is currently not in operation, the only way to reach Velika Planina is on foot. You can start your hike from the Kamnik – Stahovica – Podlom – Kranjski Rak route, where parking is available. Depending on your time and preferences, you can choose from the following starting points:
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Rakove Ravni parking lot – approximately 1.5 hours on foot
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Ušivec parking lot – approximately 1 hour on foot
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Mačkin Kot parking lot – approximately 40 minutes on foot
The trails lead through peaceful forests and meadows, gradually ascending to the plateau, where you’ll be rewarded with stunning autumn views. It’s a perfect opportunity to spend a day actively in nature, away from the crowds.
In the Footsteps of Shepherds
For those who wish to enrich their visit to Velika Planina with fascinating stories, we recommend the educational trail In the Footsteps of Shepherds. This circular route, about 7 kilometers long, takes you past shepherds’ huts, natural landmarks, and the cultural heritage of the plateau. Along the way, you’ll find information boards that showcase the life of shepherds in the past and today, their traditions, architecture, and the unique alpine environment. A walk along this trail is a pleasant combination of activity, scenic views, and discovering the rich history of Velika Planina.
Taste of Local Cuisine
After an active day, you can stop at Zeleni Rob Restaurant, open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. There, you’ll be welcomed with authentic Slovenian mountain dishes and the famous homemade cottage cheese dumplings or “štruklji”, an essential part of every visit to Velika Planina. While enjoying your meal, you can also take in the stunning views, making the experience even more special.
Discover the colors of autumn on Velika Planina.
