Gorenje Jezero: Hotel, Nature and Trails at Lake Cerknica

Gorenje Jezero lies on the southeastern edge of Lake Cerknica. Depending on the season, the body of water alternates between an extensive lake and meadows or fields. At the same time, Lake Cerknica is designated as a Ramsar wetland and a Natura 2000 site.

Nature

In Gorenje Jezero, the Malnšče birdwatching station is located directly beside the Stržen watercourse. From there, visitors can look out over the Stržen and, in exceptionally clear weather, even as far as Mount Triglav. The Kotrjaž spring is also associated with a special observation: in 1964, Viktor Ponikvar from Gorenje Jezero discovered an olm there—the only documented olm found at Lake Cerknica to date.

Most of the water that feeds Lake Cerknica rises in the area between Gorenje Jezero and Laze; there, the water emerges from more than 33 springs. The waterways and springs are therefore just as much a part of the local landscape as the lake’s changing extent.

Trails

Pot Izvirov is a four-kilometre circular hiking trail. The four-kilometre trail is equipped with signposts and information boards about 14 particularly interesting springs, as well as the local flora and fauna. The trail also includes a maple tree protected as a natural feature that is more than 100 years old.

The hiking trail from Šteberk to Karlovec Castle passes through Gorenje Jezero and offers beautiful views of the Julian Alps in good weather. Another historic trace by the water is the Laški Studenec spring: until 2014, it supplied the residents of Laze and Gorenje Jezero with drinking water via a pumping station.

The Kosec cycling trail (The Corncrake) also continues through Gorenje Jezero after passing through Laze pri Gorenjem Jezeru. At Lake Cerknica, visitors can row, cycle, walk along educational trails and observe birds.

Water

In the area of Lake Cerknica where navigation is restricted, boats may travel on the Stržen as long as the water level at the Gorenje Jezero gauge is above 100 cm.

History

Settlement remains dating from the Bronze Age have been found in the Hrastene njive area. An Iron Age hillfort is located on Stražišče Hill above Gorenje Jezero. The Church of Saint Cantianus in Gorenje Jezero is mentioned in 1526. Local tradition also holds that the inhabitants of Gorenje Jezero were historically regarded as guardians of the lake.

Accommodation

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More destinations

Cerknica, Rakek, Dane, Radlek, Grahovo, Nova Vas, Runarsko, Iga Vas

To the overarching travel overview: Cerknica.