Dovzan gorge
The undiscovered gem. The most beautiful gorge in the north of Slovenia: The Dovžan Gorge: Dovžanova Soteska.
The Dovžan Gorge is located in the Karawanks mountain range in Slovenia, close to the town of Tržič. This natural gorge is a must-see for nature lovers and adventurers. The gorge offers a fascinating insight into the region’s geological history, with fossils of sea creatures dating back to the time when this area was a tropical sea.
The gorge was carved over thousands of years by the Tržič Bistrica river. This clear river runs through the gorge with impressive waterfalls and rapids. You can also swim or paddle here, with beautiful paths and different bridges so you can explore in all directions and create your own route.
Walking along the gorge and around Dovžan
The Dovžan Gorge is an ideal spot for a stunning hike around the gorge through nature. You’ll walk past information panels that describe the formation of the rocks and fossils. You cross bridges, go through a tunnel, pass waterfalls and impressive rock formations. You’ll also pass the hamlet of Na Jamah and the Bence House.
Starting point: The walk begins at the car park in the village of Čadovlje pri Tržiču.
Difficulty: The route is moderately challenging, with a gentle climb and some steel cables. Suitable for children from age 3 accompanied by parents.
Duration: Allow about 1 to 1.5 hours for the 2.7 km walk.
Extra adventure: For thrill-seekers, there’s the steep Bence Trail with iron rungs and steel cables.
Highlights of the Dovžan Gorge
The tunnel and the river are unmissable. But there’s even more to see. These are the highlights of the Dovžan Gorge.
Fossils
The Dovžan Gorge is known for its abundance of fossils, including brachiopods and foraminifera. The Karavankina schellwieni and Sphaeroschwagerina carniolica were first discovered here and were even featured on Slovenian stamps!
Kušpegar’s Belfries
These six tall rock pillars make for an impressive sight. These vertical rock formations are the remnants of a prehistoric coral reef. This spot is a favourite with climbers.
Borova Peč (Pine Cliff):
The steep slopes of this rock, covered with Scots pines, are the source of the large white quartz conglomerate boulders you see lying in the riverbed.
Dolina Exhibition and Education Centre
You can find more information about the Dovžan Gorge in this education centre in the village of Dolina. The centre offers exhibitions on the geology and fossils of the Dovžan Gorge.
Practical information
Fancy hiking in a Dovžan Gorge? Then here are some handy details for you.
Best time to visit
You can visit the Dovžan Gorge from spring to autumn. In spring, the waterfalls are dramatic from the melting water. In summer, nature is at its greenest and you can enjoy the cooling water, while autumn brings spectacular leaf colours and, thanks to the rain, the waterfalls and rapids are even livelier.
Entrance fees and parking
Entry to this gorge is free. By the most beautiful part of the gorge is a small car park and a paid parking zone. But for 1 euro per hour you can easily park. It’s a bit of a climb and a walk along the road, but just before or after there are a few free parking spots at the roadside.
Tips:
- Wear comfortable walking shoes.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks.
- Be aware of changeable weather conditions.
- Don’t forget your camera – the Dovžan Gorge is incredibly photogenic!
Stegovniski Slap Waterfall
An impressive waterfall can be found if you follow the road by car further towards Jelendol. Be warned: the last stretch is a gravel road. Parking at the end of the road is, of course, completely free. A lovely, easy walk through the woods takes you straight to the big waterfall.
