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Stories from Slovenia

Planica – a sports paradise under the Ponce mountains

The Slovenian cradle of ski jumping and flying is magnificent throughout the year.

The valley of records and active experiences

The first thing that comes to mind upon hearing the word Planica is ski jumping. Favourable conditions for the development of this sport have placed the Alpine valley located in the north-western part of Slovenia firmly on the map of major ski jumping competitions. This is where records and milestones, with regard to the jump length that can be achieved, have been broken – from the Large Rožman/Bloudek hill to the Gorišek Brothers' hill, which is nowadays considered to be one of the largest ski flying hills in the world. Since the new and modern Nordic Centre opened, Planica has been providing experience for both athletes and visitors throughout the year.

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Spectacular competitions on the Planica ski flying hill

In March, the picturesque valley in close proximity to the border with Italy and Austria will host the largest sporting and entertainment spectacle in Slovenia. Planica is the traditional venue for the finals of the Ski Jumping World Cup, visited by over ten thousand people every year.

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planica_smucarski tek

Cross-country skiing competitions in an astounding arena

In the 1920s, championships for cross country skiing were held in Planica. With the opening of the Nordic Centre, Planica got onto the calendar of Sprint World Cup competitions.

Conquering the snowy landscape on skis

Whether they are jumping, cross-country, Alpine or touring, Slovenians are good on all sorts of skis. Did you know that the Karst plateau called Bloke is considered the cradle of skiing in Central Europe? At Google Arts & Culture, you can learn more about the rich skiing tradition in Slovenia.

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Bike to Planica

It is also possible to reach Planica by bike. The biking trail, taking you from nearby Rateče, past Kranjska Gora and Gozd Martuljek to Mojstrana, is one of the most beautiful trails in Slovenia. It has no severe ascents, and there are beautifully arranged rest areas and snack bars along the trail, so it is suitable for everyone, even children.

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Escape Museum Kajžnek House in Rateče

Opposite Planica lies Rateče, the north-westernmost village in Slovenia, which has earned the nickname “Carniola Siberia” due to its harsh climate and cold winters. At first glance an ordinary Alpine village boasts a unique and rich cultural heritage, stories and secrets. This can best be explored in the Kajžnek House in the centre of the village, which has been converted into a unique escape museum. Discover the treasures of Rateče’s heritage in a fun, playful way.

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Escape Museum Kajžnek House in Rateče

Escape Museum Kajžnek House in Rateče

Opposite Planica lies Rateče, the north-westernmost village in Slovenia, which has earned the nickname “Carniola Siberia” due to its harsh climate and cold winters. At first glance an ordinary Alpine village boasts a unique and rich cultural heritage, stories and secrets. This can best be explored in the Kajžnek House in the centre of the village, which has been converted into a unique escape museum. Discover the treasures of Rateče’s heritage in a fun, playful way.

More on: Escape Museum Kajžnek House in Rateče

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