Embark on an exhilarating cycling adventure through enchanting landscapes, tracing the mesmerizing path of the Krka river from its humble source to its magnificent mouth. This remarkable journey will take you through a tapestry of ancient mills and majestic castles, alongside rolling hills and sprawling fields, all while immersing yourself in the tranquil beauty of the Krka valley.
As you pedal along, the river Krka gracefully meanders, inviting you to bask in its serenity and indulge your senses with breathtaking vistas of water cascading over millennium-old reed thresholds. This valley, once adorned with 65 castles and renowned for its abundant fish and vineyards, is a land steeped in history, where the flavours of "cviček" wine and the delicate fragrance of lilies of the valley dance in the air. And the best part? The Krka river is the only river in Slovenia that originates and flows entirely within the borders of this captivating country. But the allure extends beyond the river itself. Nature and the surrounding countryside offer a wealth of treasures, offering moments of tranquillity, idyllic strolls through picturesque Dolenj villages, and warm greetings from the friendly locals. We invite you to embark on this delightful family-friendly trip, where you can create lasting memories on a circular route that accommodates bicycles, scooters, baby carriages, and even pushchairs. Most of the route follows well-paved local roads, with a shorter section on gravel paths. The beauty of this circular path is that after about an hour of cycling, you find yourself back at the starting point—the parking lot near the church.
This family excursion is perfectly suited for children aged 2-3 and provides an excellent opportunity for trekking, leisurely cycling, and quality family time. The adventure begins in Ivančna Gorica, Sokolska Street, which can be easily reached by train from the Ivančna Gorica railway station or by car. The route spans a total length of 32.6 kilometres, weaving through captivating locations: Ivančna Gorica–Višnja Gora–Polževo–Male Vrhe–Krka–Muljava–Malo Črnelo–Ivančna Gorica.
For families with children under the age of 2, fear not, as you too can join in on the magic of exploring the Krka spring. In this case, we recommend bypassing the local road to the village of Gradiček and driving straight to the parking lot at the Poltarica spring. Adjust the length of your trip according to the walking ability of your little ones, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all.
Arriving in the village of Krka, prepare to be awestruck by the grandeur of the village church, where you'll conveniently leave your car. A delightful surprise awaits a mere half-kilometre away from the parking lot—the Poltarica spring. The stream, resembling a picturesque rivulet, marks the first tributary of the Krka river, originating from multiple sources hidden beneath rocks along a steep wooded slope. Stand in awe as you gaze upon the intriguing remnants of the medieval fortress, Vrhkrka Castle, perched upon the rock above the spring, its captivating ruins serving as a testament to its storied past. Venture along the path above the spring, and you'll encounter the entrance to the Poltarica cave—an intriguing underground labyrinth closed to tourists.
Continuing along the well-maintained village path through Gradiček, take a moment to pause and immerse yourself in the surroundings that evoke memories of the beloved Slovenian TV series, River of Love. Yes, right here was the captivating filming location for this well-known series. From Gradiček, follow the signs that guide you to the source of the Krka river, eagerly anticipating the wonders that lie ahead. During a section of the journey where a meadow awaits, cyclists will need to dismount briefly and walk alongside their bikes for approximately 20 meters. Fear not, even the most experienced cyclists find joy in this small detour!
And behold, right beside the spring, lies the Krška Jama—an enchanting cave awaiting your exploration. Remember to arrange your visit in advance, as the Krška cave reveals its mystical wonders only during extended periods of rainfall, transforming into a conduit for underground waters. Witness the convergence of the entire Radensko Polje as it flows into this captivating underground realm.
Prepare to be captivated by the allure of the Krka river as you embark on a cycling odyssey like no other. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the valley, the rich history, and the warm embrace of the locals. Let the Krka river unveil its secrets as you pedal along its course, creating memories that will last a lifetime.