Kolpa River – along the longest Slovenian coast

On the other side of Slovenia, at its southern edge, the unique river Kolpa links a picturesque destination to neighbouring Croatia. The river is considered to be the longest Slovenian “coastline" and one of the warmest rivers in Slovenia; it offers a completely different experience from the Soča river. It is more relaxed and, especially during the summer months, a little lazy; however, it is still an extremely active destination – the right choice for anyone who wishes to take a rest from the fast pace of everyday life.

The river is full of surprises with its natural channel, rapids, gorges, and gravel beds, while the countryside along its banks is remarkable for its biodiversity and wealth of natural and cultural features such as steljniki – stands of birch trees with bracken undergrowth. One of Slovenia`s warmest rivers offers a variety of experiences “Downstream along the Kolpa, upstream along the bank”.

Experience the EXUBERANCE OF NATURE – in an area of extraordinary biological diversity, you can encounter as many as 30 different species of fish (nine of them on the list of endangered species) and around 100 species of birds.

Our hints for exploring the Kolpa River:
- The numerous trails running along the river are great for either walking or cycling. Rafts and canoes are available for trips down the river. The river is suitable for swimming and, with many different species of fish, is popular with anglers.
- Make use of the day by heading along the most southern Slovenian footpath. The footpath along the Kolpa River, 10.5 km long, runs from Radenci to Damelj, in the picturesque Kolpa canyon, unspoiled nature and completely uninhabited areas, where you can drink from the Trpotec spring – the water of eternal youth.
- You can take a cycling trip on the tourist path along the Kolpa River, following the diverse Kolpa riverbed. In some areas, the path runs at the bottom of narrow canyons, while in other areas it moves up to the wooded plateaus. The path leads through solitary villages, numerous dams, old mills and pleasant bathing areas. More information is available here (www.k2m.si).
- Over the course of history, the Kolpa area has been a point of contact for three religions and five different peoples. As a result, some truly special Kolpa stories are preserved here. Allow your imagination to be stirred by figures of myth and legend such as Green George and Peter Klepec and creatures such as the Bilpa Devil and the Kolpa Fairies.
- Visit the local craftsmen and feast your eyes on brightly painted Bela Krajina Easter eggs, embroidery, pottery, ceramics, wicker baskets and other local crafts products.
- Delight your taste buds with genuine local specialities such as Bela Krajina flatbread, Kostel-style stuffed pig`s stomach and rusk-filled sausages.
- Make sure you sample the excellent local wines, Kostel brandy, fruit juices and natural mineral water.
- Fill yourself with energy with a visit to the vital energy centres and natural temples that form part of the “World of the Kolpa – A Gift for the Soul” programme.

Where to stay:
- You can choose among the numerous smaller accommodation facilities, private hotels, tourist farms, camps; a good starting point for exploration is Hotel Kovač in Osilnica with its sports centre and diverse recreational offer.

The Kolpa River became a Slovenian EDEN destination in 2010 – for its innovative approach to aquatic tourism. See the promotional film about the Kolpa River (TOUCH THE STORY).

INFORMATION: More information about the destination and assistance for programmes can be obtained from the local tourist organisation RIC Bela Krajina.

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