Sveta Ana (484 m)

Ascent to a little church with a view over the Ljubljana Marshes

This little hill rises above the Ljubljana Marshes on the southern edge of Ljubljana. On it stands a little church. According to legend, the hill lies atop the head of a dragon that is so big that its body is hidden below Podpeč Lake at the foot of the hill and its tail is under the next hill, Krim!

When it waves its tail, the water rises and floods the Barje. This is Sveta Ana, a popular excursion point, since a short and easy climb is rewarded by wonderful views over the Ljubljansko Barje, part of the Ljubljana Basin, the Polhov Gradec Dolomites, the Alps and the forested slopes of nearby Krim. At the top, a circular summit indicator helps interpret the view of the immediate and more distant surroundings of Sveta Ana. The hill is also popular with families with children, who can play in the small playground below the church.

At the saddle below the church stands a tourist information pavilion, which provides insights into the wider area of Sveta Ana. Interpretation panels here explain that you are standing at the junction of two completely different landscapes: a water-rich, mostly cultivated plain, and the dry, rugged karst terrain covered by forests. The pavilion also provides a welcome shelter from rain or sun.

We recommend hiking up Sveta Ana from the village of Jezero by Podpeč Lake; the route is full of variety and begins by one of the main attractions of the Ljubljansko Barje wetland – Podpeč Lake – where in summer there is a small bathing area. The popular Gostilnica Jezero, serving traditional Slovene food, stands by the lake.

Descent

Same route as the ascent

Access to the starting point

By car (car park by Podpeč Lake)

Hint

On the Ljubljana Marshes, near the Podpeško jezero lake and close to Sveta Ana, there is another notable hilltop that adds character to the landscape: the inselberg crowned by the church of St Lawrence at 329 metres altitude. This small Gothic church was built in the 12th century and later renovated in the Baroque style in the 18th century. There’s also an important archaeological site in the area with finds from different periods, spanning from the Mesolithic to the Roman period. Just before the church, you’ll find a tourist information pavilion showcasing the natural and cultural-historical heritage of the area. The St Lawrence inselberg is easily accessible, and there is a car park for visitors at PGD Jezero fire house which is only a few minutes' walk from the church.