Velika planina is one of the most popular destinations for nature lovers, hikers, and those interested in cultural heritage in Slovenia. To make your visit as enjoyable as possible, we have prepared practical tips and information.
🚠 Access to Velika planina
By cable car and chairlift
From Kamniška Bistrica, you can reach Velika planina by cable car, which takes you to the upper station. From there, you have two options:
- Continue with the chairlift, which takes just 7 minutes to reach the highest point of Velika planina.
- Walk along a marked trail that takes approximately 30–45 minutes at a moderate pace.
Before departure, always check the weather conditions and timetable.
By car
If you prefer driving, parking is available at Rakove ravni, Ušivec, and Mačkin kot. From these parking areas, hiking trails lead to the plateau, taking 1 to 1.5 hours of moderate walking. In winter, the road is cleared up to Rakove ravni (the first parking area).
For more information on parking and access, visit our website.
🌦️ Weather conditions and proper equipment
The weather on Velika planina can be unpredictable, so we recommend:
- Layered clothing – mornings and evenings can be chilly, especially in autumn.
- Comfortable hiking clothes and sturdy shoes – essential for the rugged terrain.
- Windproof jacket, hat, and sunglasses – the plateau can be windy and sunny in summer.
- Additional gear – hiking poles, a backpack with water and snacks. In winter, crampons are recommended.
🥾 Hiking trails
Velika planina offers a variety of hiking trails for all fitness levels:
- Short trails: Ideal for families and beginner hikers.
- Longer hikes: Explore scenic viewpoints such as Gradišče, Mala planina, and the shepherd’s settlement.
Before setting off, check the trail map and choose a route suited to your ability and available time.
🏡 Shepherd’s huts and local delicacies
On the plateau, you will find traditional shepherd’s huts where you can enjoy:
- Fresh homemade dairy products: cheese, cottage cheese, and sour milk. Shepherds’ huts are open from mid-June to mid-September.
- Local dishes at the Zeleni rob inn, where card payments are accepted (shepherds only accept cash). Open year-round.
🐄 Meeting shepherds and livestock
During summer and early autumn, you will encounter shepherds and their cattle. Since shepherds spend their summer on the plateau, please respect their work and privacy. Observe cows from a distance and do not approach them.
🌍 Respect for nature
Velika planina is a precious natural oasis. To preserve its charm for future generations:
- Do not leave trash – take all waste back to the valley.
- Stay on marked trails – do not pick flowers or disturb wildlife and grazing animals.
- Keep dogs on a leash – always keep them under control and clean up after them.
🏡 Accommodation
For a longer stay, you can book a tourist cottage, fully equipped for a comfortable overnight experience. Reservations are required.
🏞️ Conservation of the natural area
Velika planina is a protected natural area. Please follow the rules to help preserve its environment and protect the animals. By acting responsibly, you contribute to maintaining the unique beauty of this special place.
📍 Ready for your visit?
Now that you have all the necessary information, you can plan an unforgettable trip to velika planina and enjoy its magical atmosphere!
Must see and do on Velika planina
Discover the magic of Velika planina, a unique alpine plateau offering breathtaking views, rich cultural heritage, and unforgettable outdoor experiences. Here are the must-see attractions and activities you shouldn’t miss:
🌍 Explore the shepherds’ settlement
Step into history and visit one of Europe’s few remaining highland shepherd settlements. Discover:
- Traditional wooden huts – iconic, centuries-old alpine architecture.
- The Preskar Museum – a restored shepherd’s hut displaying the unique way of life in the past.
- Authentic shepherd experiences – learn about local traditions, meet shepherds, and taste homemade dairy products.
🎭 Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views
Velika planina is famous for its spectacular views of the Kamnik-Savinja Alps. Best viewpoints include:
- Gradišče (1,666 m) – the highest point of velika planina, offering stunning 360° views.
- Mala planina and Gojška planina – picturesque spots perfect for photography.
- Sunrise & sunset spots – experience magical alpine light from the plateau’s scenic ridges.
🏃 Hiking for all levels
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely walk or a more challenging trek, Velika planina has trails for everyone:
- Easy scenic walks – ideal for families and casual hikers.
- Longer hikes – explore the entire plateau and its hidden gems.
- Guided hikes – join local guides for an in-depth experience of nature and history.
- Learning trail
🚴♂️ Cycling through alpine landscapes
Cycling enthusiasts can enjoy:
- Scenic mountain biking trails – explore the beauty of velika planina on two wheels.
- E-bike adventures – rent an e-bike for a fun and effortless ride.
- You can rent e-bike at the ticket office or make a reservation on booking@velikaplanina.si
🍽️ Taste local flavors
No visit to Velika planina is complete without sampling traditional cuisine:
- Shepherd’s dairy products – fresh cheese, curd, and sour milk, available in summer.
- Traditional dishes at Zeleni rob restaurant – try homemade žganci, sausage, and stews. You must try sweet cottage cheese dumplings for a dessert!
- Enjoy local cusine in Skodla inn at the top of the cablecar.
🎤 Experience local traditions & events
Immerse yourself in local culture:
- Seasonal workshops – learn how to make traditional shepherd’s food and crafts.
- Guided tours
- Visit the accordion competition on the last Saturday of July.
- August 5th is the feast of the Assumption of the Mary of the Snow, and there is a mass in the chapel on Velika planina
- The first weekend of August is the feast of the cheese Trnič at the Preskar Museum.
🏞️ Visit the Chapel of Snow Mary
A must-see cultural landmark:
- Chapel of Snow Mary – a small yet iconic wooden chapel, rebuilt after WWII.
- Sunday Mass – during the summer season, you can attend an outdoor mass.
🐈 Meet the friendly alpine animals
During summer, velika planina comes alive with:
- Grazing cows – an essential part of the shepherding tradition.
- From the cable car, we can observe chamois in warm weather, basking in the sun
🏨 Stay overnight in an alpine cabin
Extend your adventure and experience Velika planina under the stars:
- Tourist cottages – comfortable and charming stays in nature.
- Shepherd’s huts (summer only) – for a more rustic experience.
- Night sky watching – the absence of city lights makes this a perfect spot for stargazing.
- Make reservation here
🌀 Enjoy Velika planina in all seasons
Each season offers something unique:
- Spring – colorful meadows filled with alpine flowers, specially crocuses
- Summer – hikes, scenic views and traditional shepherd experiences.
- Autumn – golden landscapes and peaceful atmosphere.
- Winter – a snow-covered wonderland, perfect for skiing and snowshoeing.
