The Beautiful Demoiselle Trail (Pot modrega bleščavca), Mišja Dolina Valley

Mišja dolina is a large marshy valley located in the Ljubljana hinterland. It’s one of Slovenia’s ecologically important areas and part of the European Natura 2000 network. The valley features especially diverse wetland habitats, home to numerous plant and animal species – including the beautiful demoiselle, after which the themed trail is named.

The Beautiful Demoiselle Trail begins at the Mišja dolina Interpretation Centre at Trubar’s Homestead, the birthplace of Primož Trubar, a notable Slovenian Protestant priest and writer, and the first author of printed books in Slovene.

From there, the trail leads you to Temkova žaga sawmill and then crosses a footbridge into an alder grove behind a mill. There’s a small wooden bridge nearby featuring a sculpture of the beautiful demoiselle – a dragonfly species with striking blue wings.
You’ll soon spot the first wooden signpost with a green arrow marking the Trail Along the Rašica River. Interpretive panels along the way provide information about local plants. There are four rest stops on the trail, each with an interpretive signpost and wooden bench.

It’s recommended to return via the same route. After heavy rain, parts of the trail may be flooded.

Tip: before or after your walk, visit the Interpretation Centre which provides an immersive experience of the special features of the Mišja dolina Valley. Here you can explore the waterways shaping the valley, learn about the natural and cultural heritage, discover what blooms in the area at the time of your visit, view protected plants in a unique herbarium, and learn about local wildlife.