Trail nr. 9: Trail along the Idrijca River

HIKING AND CYCLING TRAILS

Spodnja Idrija lies in the extended valley of the Idrijca river, above the confluence of the Idrijca and Kanomljica rivers.

The main factors that have shaped the town, its surroundings, and the lives of the inhabitants throughout history, are the surrounding hills and the relentless flow of the Idrijca River. The influence of the Idrijca River is clear from the local legend about a fish singing on a poplar tree.

Numerous peaks with a view rise above Spodnja Idrija. Trails leading to them invite hikers in all seasons. During the spring months, the steep slopes of Jelenk are in bloom with the blossoms of the local endemic plant: the Carniolan primrose.

This small, but very hospitable town is perfect for enthusiasts for outdoor activities and culinary delights. Take in the beauty of the crystal clear Idrijca river and taste the delicious štruklji (ricotta rolls) prepared by the housewives of Spodnja Idrija.

Take a walk along the favorite hiking trail of the Spodnja Idrija locals: along the road on the left bank of the Idrijca River, which used to be the main road between Spodnja Idrija (known by the locals as “Fara”) and the Tolmin region.

  • Starting point

    Spodnja Idrija – old town center

  • Length

    3 km

  • Hiking time

    45 min (in one direction)

  • Difficulty

    easy

  • Elevation gain

    26 m

  • Marked with blazes

    No

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Attractions

  • Church of Mary-on-the-Rock
  • Chapels
    Several chapels to Virgin Mary can be found in the surroundings of the Church of Mary-on-the-Rock. These chapels were constructed in the past in places where pilgrims would stop on their way to Fara from the surrounding villages. There, the pilgrims were able to spot the church for the first time in their journey (or the last time if they were leaving), and tradition would have them kneel or bow at the occasion.
  • The Monument to the Fallen in the National Liberation Movement and to the Victims of War Violence
    In the old town center, a monument to the fallen in the National Liberation Movement and to the victms of war violence stands as a reminder of the events of World War II. It was constructed in 1954 as planned by architect Jakobina Accetto.
  • Italian bunkers
  • Ukovnik Cave
    Ukovnik is a 400-meter-long water cave situated on the right bank of the Idrijca river, next to the main road leading from Spodnja Idrija to Tolmin. During heavy rainfall, the cave is a very productive natural spring, while in drier periods, the water springs forth on the left side of the Idrijca. The cave can only be accessed with the help of experienced speleologists.
  • Trails in the vicinity
    Jelenk, the Mountain with Botanical Treasures
    The Old Pilgrim Road from Spodnja Idrija to Ledine

Local services

Trail map

Trail description

Reaching the starting point: From Ljubljana, take the road to Idrija. When you reach Idrija, take a right turn at the third crossing with traffic lights toward Spodnja Idrija (4 km). At the beginning of Spodnja Idrija, before the bridge that crosses the Idrijca River (next to the store) take a right turn and park at the parking lot next to the Spodnja Idrija House of Culture.

Trail description: From the old town center below the pilgrim Church of Our Lady of Assumption (or Mary-on-the-Rock) take the old road to Kanomlja past the chapels. At the confluence of the Idrijca and Kanomljica rivers, cross the suspension bridge. Take a right turn and leave the industrial area. Follow the signs for the hiking trail Pod gričem and always keep to the lower (right) trails along the Idrijca River. The path will lead you past the Svetlik farm, large meadows and ravines all the way to a wooden bridge that leads across the Idrijca river. Return to the starting point the same way.