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If you’re touring the southern region of Central Europe and are looking for an entirely unique travel experience, go to Slovenia! Home to over 10,000 caves and one of the world’s most unique geological hotspots, this nation state has some seriously intriguing subterranean attractions. Not sure where to head on your Slovenia caving tour? Check out our Top Ten Caving Experiences.
1. Postojna Cave
This cave complex is by far the country’s most visited. Created by the Pivka River, the Postojna Cave is the second longest cave in Slovenia, extending over 20,000 meters. Some of the most famous sites within Postojna are the Concert Hall (which has held actual concerts and can hold up to 10,000 people!), the “Brilliant” stalagmite, the elusive “Human Fish” and the famous rail cars. Built into the massive cave complex is an underground double-track train, which takes visitors through the tunnels and caverns.
2. Škocjan Cave
A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1986, this cave complex is home to one of the largest underground canyons in the world, has developed its own unique ecosystem, and has been inhabited since prehistoric times. Thanks to its colossal size, the Skocjan complex is categorized alongside the Grand Canyon, Great Barrier Reef and Mount Everest when it comes to natural beauty and ecological significance.
3. Križna Cave
A cave complex reaching over 6 miles in length, Krizna is specifically known for its water features. Home to a number of underground lakes, one of the most remarkable ways to see this complex is by raft. Paddle through 13 lakes filled with amazing stalactites and stalagmites, bones of the extinct cave bear and over 44 different species of cave animals.
4. Snežna Cave
Recently discovered, the Snezna Cave is a beautiful mountainous cave located 1,530 meters above sea level (the highest tourist cave in Slovenia). Loaded with stalactites, stalagmites and giant ice formations, this near-freezing cave visit is one of the country’s most unique.
5. Planina Cave
Another Slovenian cave famous for its underground water features, the Planina Cave is one of the longest water caves in the country. Thanks to the convergence of the subterranean Pivka and Rak Rivers, Planina is home to one of the largest underground river confluences in all of Europe.
6. Otok Cave
One of the most beautiful of Slovenia’s cave complexes, this smaller visit requires some adventurous explorations to experience the inside. Find a local Slovenian guide to take you around Otok’s more complex caves, which while filled with grueling passages and tricky obstacles are well worth the challenge!
7. Pekel Cave
With over 3 million years of history, this ancient cave complex is one of the most intriguing in east-central Slovenia. Between the eerie entrance to the cave (some say it looks like a devil’s head) and the steam that arises from the cave during the winter season (due to the higher temperatures inside the cave), Pekel Cave is known as the Hell Cave. Tours through the interior of this complex are quite picturesque, with the country’s highest underground waterfall (4 meters) being a main attraction.
8. Mayor Cave
Another of Central Slovenia’s notable cave complexes, Mayor Cave is composed of 7 interconnected halls filled with stalactites, stalagmites, crystal clear waters and a variety of subterranean animal life. Tour days/hours vary depending on the time of year, so check ahead before you visit.
9. & 10. Pivka and Black Cave
These are the final two cave complexes along the Pivka River, each boasting its own attractions and individualities. A 65-meter deep entrance marks the Pivka Cave, with steps leading down into the complex boasting beautiful views of the Pivka River. Ultimately leading into the Black Cave through a man-made tunnel, visitors can experience the glow of crystals bouncing off the darkened stalagmites and stalactites for a great tour finale.
No matter which cave your Slovenia tour brings you to, rest assured that your Slovenian guides will organize the most informative and memorable experiences.