BELA KRAJINA

The soft, hilly landscape, dressed in warm autumn colors, is as inviting as anything these days. The country is criss-crossed with trails and paths that wind between vineyards and forests, wine cellars and tourist farms,- where a tired hiker or cyclist can refresh himself and, not so rarely, stay in the embrace of Bela Krajina’s hospitality.

For outdoor people, Bela Krajina offers calm experiences, in accordance with the calm flow of the Lahinja and Kolpa rivers. The slow flow of rivers is also reflected in the slow flow of life, the moment you breathe the air of Bela Krajina, peace will settle in you too, pushing your worries to another world far away.

For the pleasures of walking, you must first go to Mirna Gora, the second highest peak in Bela Krajina. You can get almost to the top by car, so it might be a good idea to visit in the evening on the first day. Mirna Gora is criss-crossed with hiking trails, so you can actually extend your wanderings.

In Bela Krajina, a visit to the Divji potok gorge with its small pools and waterfalls, carved by the eponymous stream, is also a must. The route is just under 4 km long. There is also a circular hiking trail that is approximately 3 times longer and will take you along the Lahinja River, called Jožefova pot. Here you will also find the Lahinja Landscape Park, which will reveal even more secrets of the landscape in which you are moving.

To satisfy a serious hiking streak, we suggest that you embark on the 24 km long route Metlika – Krašnji Vrh – Metlika. The route will reward you with beautiful landscape, and it is also fully marked.

Cyclists who like to spend the whole day, or even several days, on their bikes will certainly tackle the almost 190 km long Via Bela krajina cycling route, which will take you around this wine-growing hilly landscape via asphalt and macadam roads and paths.

In any case, ride your bike to the most famous natural attraction in Bela Krajina, the Krupa Spring, and for real mountain bikers, a visit and ascent to the Gače mountain center is almost mandatory.

If you are already in the south, it is definitely worth visiting and walking the southernmost Slovenian footpath, which runs from Radenci to the village Damlje. It runs along the warmest Slovenian river, the Kolpa, which in the summer heats up well over 25 degrees and, in addition to swimming, offers a superb scenery for exploring with a SUP or canoe.