Beginnings of the Cable Car to Velika Planina

In 1958, architect Vlasto Kopač developed an urban planning program and preservation regime for Velika Planina for the District People’s Committee of Ljubljana. The goal was to protect the pastoral section of the plateau from excessive construction and environmental degradation. His work enabled the development of cableway infrastructure in a way that respected the cultural and natural heritage of the area.

In 1960, Kopač designed both cable car stations and the Šimnovec Hotel. A year later, construction of the cable car to Velika Planina began. On September 13, 1964, the cable car officially started operating, with its cabin making its first journey to the plateau carrying passengers. That same year, the Šimnovec double-chairlift was launched, connecting the upper cable car station to Zeleni Rob.

 

The Cable Car Today

Today, the cable car to Velika Planina transports visitors to the plateau in just five minutes and can accommodate 32 passengers per ride. As one of the most economical and environmentally friendly modes of transport, it plays a crucial role in the sustainable development of tourism at Velika Planina, offering fast, safe, and eco-friendly access.

Key Facts About the Cable Car:

• One of only three cable cars in Slovenia.
• The longest cable car in Europe without support towers.
• Transports approximately 85,000 passengers annually.

In 2011, the entire cable car machinery was replaced, improving safety, efficiency, and reliability. Thanks to these upgrades, Velika Planina d.o.o. was a finalist for the prestigious Werner von Siemens Award in 2014, which recognizes innovation and technical excellence.

At the beginning of 2020, the main load-bearing cables were successfully replaced, further enhancing the safety and reliability of the cable car.

 

A Landmark Year: 2023 – The New Šimnovec Six-Seater Chairlift

The year 2023 marked a historic milestone for Velika Planina. The old Šimnovec double-chairlift was replaced with a modern six-seater chairlift, offering safer, faster, more sustainable, and comfortable access from the upper cable car station to the peak of Velika Planina.

Features of the New Šimnovec Chairlift:

• Capacity: 1,450 passengers per hour.
• Travel time: 5 minutes (previously 15 minutes).
• Elevation of stations:
  • Lower station at 1,407 m.
  • Upper station at 1,665 m.
• 258 m elevation difference with 12 supporting pillars.
• Advanced “direct drive” propulsion system with permanent magnets.
• Three stations:
  • Entry station (Šimnovec).
  • Intermediate station (Zeleni Rob).
  • Exit station (Gradišče).

The new chairlift enhances accessibility to Velika Planina, allowing visitors to reach the peak more quickly, providing more time to explore the natural beauty and learn about the rich cultural heritage of the plateau.

Winter and Summer Activities

For decades, cableway systems have been an indispensable part of the tourism offering at Velika Planina. With the new six-seater chairlift, greater opportunities have emerged to expand existing products for both summer and winter tourism.

Winter Activities:

• Night sledding,
• Skiing and snowboarding,
• Cross-country skiing,
• Snowshoeing,
• Children’s winter park.

Summer Activities:

• Hiking,
• Cycling trips,
• Tours of shepherds’ huts and learning about local heritage.

The new six-seater chairlift is a significant step forward in sustainable tourism development. It ensures faster access, reduces environmental impact, and enhances the visitor experience. We invite you to try it and experience all the wonders Velika Planina has to offer!