Ljubljana–Logatec
© Jošt Gantar
Cycling into the heart of the Notranjska region
The first mention of the town of Logatec dates from Roman times, when it developed as a strategically important outpost along the road connecting Aquileia and Emona (present-day Ljubljana). Its development kept pace with the development of transport and traffic, and then with advances in industry and commerce. The town boasts a number of fine examples of village architecture typical of the region. Other sights include Logatec Castle and the War Museum, with an extensive collection of military decorations from all over the world. The surrounding area has a number of interesting natural sights, including Planinsko Polje, a unique karst phenomenon. One of the longest and most famous avenues of trees in Slovenia stands along the road connecting Vrhnika and Logatec. It was planted in Napoleonic times, when the territory of present-day Slovenia was part of Napoleon’s Illyrian Provinces.
This route heads out of Ljubljana in the direction of the coast. Leave the city and cycle towards the Ljubljansko Barje Nature Park, which you will then skirt for a while. The Barje wetland is a unique natural region of marshland and peat bogs and in prehistoric times was home to communities of pile-dwellers. Their legacy is today found on UNESCO’s list of World Cultural Heritage. Continue on past the Mali Plac Nature Reserve, near the village of Bevke, which represents the southernmost remnant of high-moor peat moss bog in Europe. Now continue towards Vrhnika, the birthplace of Slovenia’s greatest writer, Ivan Cankar. Vrhnika is famous for Bistra Castle, home to a unique technical and cultural history museum, and Močilnik Valley (containing the best-known source of the Ljubljanica). This is where the Barje wetland ends and the Karst region begins. From here just a few more kilometres of quiet asphalt roads and macadam tracks through woodland separate you from Logatec, which can serve as a starting point for further trips. Alternatively, simply return to Ljubljana after your visit – by bike or by train.
