Eventful summer in the town of Idrija

Famous for its mining tradition, the Idrija lace, tasty žlikrofi (potato dumplings) and unspoilt nature, Idrija was placed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List with once the second largest world`s mercury mine featuring the famous Anthony’s shaft. The 2011 European Destination of Excellence invites with its lush forests, secluded trails and crystal clear waters. Step right into the Idrija summer experience.

To the underground world of the mine

Follow the footsteps of Idrija’s miners in the mysterious underground world of the mercury mine and visit the Anthony’s shaft, which was built in 1500 and is now known as one of the oldest preserved mine entrances in Europe. A total of 1,200 metres of open pits at 96 metres below the ground allow a better insight into miners’ hard labour and the traditional ways of mining, as well as into the valuable cinnabar ore and mercury droplets. Once back in the broad daylight, you can take a walk through the picturesque old town.

The source of energy

The Zgornja Idrijca Natural Park is a true source of energy for the whole family. This is a world of secluded trails, deep ravines and technical heritage. The most magnificent features include the splash dams – water barriers that once served to float timber for the needs of the mine. The Idrijca river, after which the park is named, is one of the cleanest Slovenian rivers, which makes it very attractive for fishing. Head towards the park by foot or on a bike and spend a relaxing day at the confluence of the Idrijca and Belca rivers. This is a place of the natural swimming area called Lajšt, where you can swim in comfortably warm and clear water. Picnic areas allow for snacks taken in the midst of nature. Hidden away at Wild Lake (Divje jezero), the largest karst spring in Slovenia can be found nearby.

Following the paths of cultural heritage

Do you have itchy feet? Hikers cannot not run out of trails so easily. Head out to the Idrija–Cerkno Mountain Trail and discover the high karst plateaus. World`s most beautiful hiking trail, Via Alpina, leads through the beautiful Idrija region. Make sure to stop at suspension bridges when visiting Idrija, which offer amazing scenic views over the Idrijca river. Interested in the distant past from one million years ago? The UNESCO Global Geopark Idrija, a member of the global network of geoparks, is one of Europe`s most interesting parks.

Experiencing summer in Idrija

Idrija is full of the summer energy. Immerse yourself in the world of music, dancing, culinary delights, cultural events and sports challenges Idrija is full of during the summer. Those who appreciate good music can enjoy the music event called Četrtki na placu (Thursdays at the Market), the young and those young at heart can visit Festival Čipkarija (Lace making Festival), and those who like culture are invited to Veliki šmaren in Spodnja Idrija (Assumption Day in Spodnja Idrija), Oglarski praznik v Idrijskih Krnicah (Charcoal Feast in Idrijske Krnice) and Praznik idrijskih žlikrofov (Idrijski žlikrofi Festive Day).

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