As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Idrija boasts the second largest mercury mine in the world. It is also the birthplace of a distinct lace-making tradition, a specific culinary legacy and unique technical heritage. Discover the beauty of the Idrija countryside and visit the UNESCO Global Geopark.
Children's hands make haste with bobbins,
quietly creating Idrija Lace
Idrija swears by the green strategy and prides itself on having obtained the golden Slovenia Green Destination label. More
Idrija was named a European Destination of Excellence by the European Commission. More
Idrija was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List on account of its exceptional mercury mine heritage. More
The Global Geopark Idrija is included in the UNESCO Global and European Geoparks Network More
Ljubljana & Central Slovenia
Idrija
With more than 140 years of history, the Idrija Lace School is the oldest school for lace in continuous operation in the world.
Wherever you go in Slovenia, you will be amazed at all of the country's natural and cultural treasures. Want to find out about the must-see places in Idrija?
The rich cultural and technical heritage of Idrija makes for a nice challenge for history buffs. Its verdant setting and the picturesque hills surrounding Idrija are great for both outdoor activities and relaxation.
Get to know the chequered history of the oldest mining hub in the country. Descend the Anthony Shaft like a real miner and maybe you will run into Perkmandlc, the legendary pit dwarf. Visit the renovated Hg Smeltery and marvel at the mercury extraction process from ore to liquid mercury. Visit the collections of the Idrija Municipal Museum and revisit a bygone era with a stroll through the centre of the old mining town.
MoreGet to know the chequered history of the oldest mining hub in the country. Descend the Anthony Shaft like a real miner and maybe you will run into Perkmandlc, the legendary pit dwarf. Visit the renovated Hg Smeltery and marvel at the mercury extraction process from ore to liquid mercury. Visit the collections of the Idrija Municipal Museum and revisit a bygone era with a stroll through the centre of the old mining town.
MoreThis geologically fascinating part of Slovenia was incorporated into the Idrija UNESCO Global Geopark, which invites visitors to take part in exciting outdoor activities. Explore the network of 22 themed hiking and cycling paths and discover a paradise for lovers of the great outdoors. Look for amazing dinosaur footprints, discover the beauty of the Gačnik creek ravine, and set out for the Divje jezero lake
MoreThe signature dish of the local cuisine is the "Idrijski žlikrofi" – a delicious type of stuffed dumplings. You can get your fair share of this delicacy at the annual Idrijski Žlikrofi Festival, which takes place every August. Other highlights of the local cuisine, which are prepared by adding a contemporary touch to recipes passed down through generations, can be enjoyed at both the Kenda Manor and Hotel Jože in particular, and at other local establishments and catering services. Finish up your meal with a sip of the special bitter absinthe they call "Geruša", the miners' spirit of choice.
MoreThe main hub for the lace trade and the oldest lace-making town in the country, Idrija is well-known for its exquisite handmade bobbin lace. The Idrija Lace Festival, which takes place every summer is a great opportunity to see first hand the weaving of these delicate threads. The largest international lace-making event, the festival aims to keep this craft and with it, the Idrija lace-making tradition alive. You are welcome to visit the Idrija Lace School, which boasts a tradition that goes back more than 140 years.
MoreThe Idrija region is a vibrant place all year round; alongside events with an ethnological focus (i.e. on lace-making and "žlikrofi" dumplings), it hosts a range of other events. Explore the UNESCO Global Geopark Idrija through a series of events that are held as part of the European Geoparks Week. Take part in the Hg ULTRA TRAIL Idrija cross-country running challenge and get to know the unique ethnological heritage at the Oglarski (Charcoal) Festival and Prfarski Štrukljevec Festival (a culinary feast). A compelling mix of events for youths takes place as part of the Čipkarija Festival.
MoreThe Idrija hills are perfect for cyclists, as they provide a range of picturesque cycling trails offering unforgettable views, and riding is even easier with e-bikes that can be rented from local providers. The Idrija hills offer a wide range of cycling trails for every taste. Climbing the peaks of Idrija on a bike provides captivating views, while fans of downhill cycling will also find many opportunities for enjoyment.
MoreThe Idrija hills are perfect for cyclists, as they provide a range of picturesque cycling trails offering unforgettable views, and riding is even easier with e-bikes that can be rented from local providers. The Idrija hills offer a wide range of cycling trails for every taste. Climbing the peaks of Idrija on a bike provides captivating views, while fans of downhill cycling will also find many opportunities for enjoyment.
MoreSki at the famous Ski Bor resort at Črni Vrh nad Idrijo, an excellent ski resort for families. On the Vojskarska plateau, you can enjoy many winter pleasures on well-maintained ski and cross-country trails offering beautiful views.
MoreThe route of the former Feldban narrow-gauge railway is an excellent one-day journey through the history of the wartime period and passes many natural sights of the UNESCO Idrija Global Geopark. A truly unique experience is provided in the summer on the guided tours of the Feldban railway, led by guides from the Rapalska Frontier Historical Society.
MoreVisit the TIC Idrija (Idrija Tourist Information Centre) and local providers and choose among the products awarded the Idrija Selected certificate. This certificate guarantees the verified quality of the selected delicacies and handicraft products created by nature and people in the Idrija region. Idrija also provides selected experiences that bring visitors closer to the local world, its people, and the rich culinary heritage.
MoreVisit the TIC Idrija (Idrija Tourist Information Centre) and local providers and choose among the products awarded the Idrija Selected certificate. This certificate guarantees the verified quality of the selected delicacies and handicraft products created by nature and people in the Idrija region. Idrija also provides selected experiences that bring visitors closer to the local world, its people, and the rich culinary heritage.
MoreAt the confluence of the Idrijca and Belca Rivers, you can refresh yourself in crystal clear water during the summer months and immerse yourself in the richness of unspoiled nature. Idrijska Bela is also an excellent starting point for hiking, cycling and excursions.
MoreRelax your mind by the green, crystal clear Idrijca River and devote yourself to fishing. Here, fishermen fish under a catch-and-release regime. Indigenous marble trout of the Zgornja Idrijca River live in these crystal-clear waters, as well as brown trout, rainbow trout and grayling.
MoreSlovenia's green story is well in the making. Feel it wherever you go.
The UNESCO Global Geopark Idrija is recognized as a geological, natural and cultural heritage site with great potential for developing sustainable geotourism.
The Municipality of Idrija was named the country's most bee-friendly municipality for its efforts related to bee preservation and beekeeping.
The Divje jezero lake is under protection as a natural monument, and has been operating as the first Slovenian outdoor museum since 1972 when it was opened to visitors.
The Idrija Selected collective brand testifies to the high quality of products that, in using local raw materials, tell a story of the traditions, culture, and way of life of the Idrija region.
"Idrijski žlikrofi"
Foodies know that Idrija is the go-to place to get the most delicious "Idrija žlikrofi". Under European protection, this dumpling-like dish is the star of the local cuisine here. The filling is made from potatoes, bacon and aromatic herbs, while the dumplings are shaped to resemble Napoleon's bicorn hat. A favourite serving suggestion is to pair the dumplings with "bakalca", a type of sauce from made mutton and vegetables.
UNESCO Idrija Global Geopark, which covers the entire area of the municipality of Idrija, provides many opportunities for hiking, cycling, fishing and other sports activities in all seasons with its picturesque nature and clean waters.
Find a tourist guide that will present Slovenian cultural and natural heritage to you in more detail in your chosen language.
Take a break in the heart of Slovenia! Surrender to the busy flow of the Slovenian capital and other towns – Celje, Žalec, Novo mesto, Kamnik, etc. Enjoy the beauties of green nature, from the high mountains to idyllic hills, all just a few steps away. Choose and book your holiday today!
Add a trip to the surrounding area to your Idrija visit. Embark on exciting outdoor activities in the Soča Valley which is touted as thrill-seeker central. Discover a mysterious underground world by descending into the Postojna Cave or visit the impressive Predjama Castle. Enjoy a taste of exquisite local wines in the quaint villages all over the hillsides of the Goriška Brda region, which is around 70 km up-country. Make sure to visit Škofja Loka, which lies some 40 km from Idrija and is another UNESCO town boasting a rich cultural heritage and wonderfully scenic surroundings.
The world of underground wonders, stunning natural phenomena and unique tastes.
Sun-Kissed Wine Country between the Alps and the Mediterranean
A historic town of tradition and creativity in the vicinity of Ljubljana and an excellent starting point for exploring the Julian Alps.
Escape on an active break in the picturesque world of the Julian Alps, the Triglav National Park and the emerald River Soča.
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