Natural points of interest in Slovenia (17)

Lake Cerknica, situated in the southern part of the Cerknica Polje in Inner Carniola, Slovenia, is an intermittent lake that appears for most of the year. When full, it becomes the largest lake in the country, covering an area of up to 38 square kilometers. Surrounded by the Javornik Hills to the south and Slivnica to the north, the lake is an important wildlife habitat, particularly for nesting birds and amphibious plants. Protected under Natura 2000, it is also part of the Inner Carniola Regional Park. The climate in the area is continental, with popular watersports su1781ch as rowing enjoyed on the lake.Lake Cerknica, with an ordinary area of about 26 square kilometers and a mean depth of 6.1 meters, is unique for its communication with subterranean reservoirs and caverns. During summer with minimal rainfall, the lake drains completely into the reservoirs below, leading to lush vegetation on its bed. However, heavy autumn rains quickly refill the lake from surrounding reservoirs, sometimes inundating the surrounding area. This fluctuation in water levels is irregular, with periods of disappearance lasting several years. The lake is home to a variety of fish that disappear and return with the water. Historical accounts by Strabo and later descriptions by Johann Weikhard von Valvasor and Tobias Gruber shed light on the lake's unique mechanics, with the first accurate description provided by Tobias Gruber in 1781 followed in 1784 by Belsazar Hacquet.

The Savica Waterfall stands out not only for its breathtaking beauty but also for its unique characteristics. Unlike other waterfalls, Savica splits into two streams underground before gracefully cascading 78 meters down into a verdant water basin. This A-shaped wonder, located at an altitude of 836 meters, is fed by waters from the Triglav Lakes Valley and Pršivec. Its origin within a karst cave, featuring hidden siphons and underground lakes, adds to its allure, accessible only with guides and proper equipment.

Fornače Beach, situated in Piran, features a combination of gravel and concrete surfaces. Access points are designed to accommodate individuals with disabilities, and wooden terraces provide additional sunbathing areas for visitors. Stone pine trees offer natural shade, enhancing comfort on hot summer days. The beach is known for its family-friendly environment and offers beachside restaurants for convenient dining options. Visitors can utilize free local transportation or opt for parking facilities. Amenities such as toilets and showers are available to enhance visitors' beach experience.

Salinera Beach offers restricted access to a significant portion of its area, exclusively catering to hotel guests. The beach amenities available to these guests include loungers, umbrellas, a beach restaurant, changing rooms, showers, and toilets. Additionally, guests have the option to partake in various water activities such as catamarans or jet skis. Lifeguard supervision is provided during the season to ensure the safety of beachgoers.

Moon Bay Beach, situated within the central part of the Strunjan Natural Reserve, offers a tranquil and unspoiled coastal experience. Accessible only on foot, this secluded beach is favored by those seeking quiet and peaceful surroundings. Due to safety concerns and the risk of falling stones, staying under the cliff is prohibited. Lighting fires on the coast is also prohibited during the summer months to prevent damage. Additionally, within the nature reserve, anchoring, driving motorized watercraft, and diving are forbidden to protect the area's plant and animal species. Overnight stays in the nature reserve are not permitted. Moon Bay is often lauded as one of Slovenia's best beaches, boasting crystal-clear waters and stunning views. The 80-meter-high Strunjan Cliff, towering above the bay, is the highest flysch cliff in the Adriatic Sea and a defining feature of the Strunjan Nature Park.

Fiesa Beach, located to the east of Piran town in Slovenia, offers a range of amenities and natural attractions. Shaded by pine trees, it features a large lawn with a playground, shallow waters, and pebbles, making it a favored spot for families with children. Visitors can rent chairs, umbrellas, and cabanas from May until September, while paddle boats, canoes, and SUPs are available for water activities. With crystal-clear waters and captivating underwater sights, the beach is popular for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. Additionally, those seeking tranquility can explore a nearby beach under the cliff. Its proximity to Piran's Old Town allows visitors to enjoy both beach activities and urban exploration within a short walking distance. The shoreline consists of pebbles, and the beach offers a cafe, sunbed rentals, and free lawn areas. Fiesa Beach's crystal-clear waters make it an ideal location for snorkeling, and during summer, visitors can rent paddle boats and canoes to explore the bay. Surrounded by hills, Fiesa Beach presents a picturesque landscape, attracting tourists and locals alike to this rare coastal gem in Slovenia.

Situated within the Strunjan Natural Reserve, Strunjan Beach boasts a notable accolade: 19 consecutive years of Blue Flag certification since 2016, attesting to its commitment to ecological preservation and cleanliness. Offering easy accessibility compared to its neighboring Moon Bay Beach, Strunjan Beach provides visitors with a serene coastal experience. With clean waters suitable for swimming and water activities, as well as family-friendly amenities like safe floats for children, the beach caters to a diverse range of visitors. Additionally, visitors can avail themselves of free washrooms and a small restaurant offering local cuisine. Handrails and stairs ensure ease of access to the sea for all beachgoers. In summary, Strunjan Beach presents itself as a tranquil retreat within the Strunjan Nature Reserve, ideal for those seeking a relaxing day by the water.