Medvode between the Sava, Sora and cultural heritage

Medvode lies at the confluence of the Sava and Sora. Bridges remain an important feature of the settlement; the confluence is a good place for a short break or an evening stroll. Medvode developed further towards the end of the 15th century, after Emperor Frederick III approved the construction of a bridge at the confluence. A bridge also features on the Medvode–Pirniče–Vikrče cycling route: the route crosses the Sava and continues into the centre of Medvode.

River landscapes and trails

The landscape of Medvode includes hilly terrain, the Sava with an artificial lake, and the Sora, which flows towards its confluence. The municipality also includes Polhograjski Dolomiti Landscape Park, an area of ecological diversity among the hills. Hiking trails into the Polhograjski Dolomiti lead from the Medvode side via Golo Brdo or Žlebe.

The Žlebe educational trail offers a practical way to learn about the village of Žlebe: it is 4,800 metres long, climbs 290 metres and has 22 information boards. Its themes range from ethnological features and everyday culture to architecture and the farming activities typical of the village. The figures describe the trail’s length and elevation gain; the boards also provide a cultural context along the way.

The Hraše wetlands comprise two ponds and cover five hectares. They provide habitat, wintering grounds or stopover sites for many bird species. Ornithologists, biologists and other visitors interested in nature also visit the area. In recent years, the wetland beside the Janhar farm has hosted around 120 bird species or recorded their presence.

The seasonal connections with nature differ: Hraše also serves as a wintering or stopover site for birds, while in summer an asphalted, illuminated cycling path runs through the grassy plateau of the Bonovec Nordic Centre.

Buildings and history

Below Smlednik Castle is a Baroque Way of the Cross, built in 1772. It consists of fourteen chapels and three crosses at the top. The Way of the Cross is considered a fine example of landscape architecture. The Old Castle in Smlednik, meanwhile, is one of Slovenia’s most significant castle ruins and offers panoramic views. From there, you can see Šmarna gora, the peaks of Lubnik and Ratitovec, the Julian Alps with Triglav, the Karawanks, the Kamnik–Savinja Alps and the Polhograjski Dolomiti.

Goričane Manor was converted into a museum from 1962 onwards. From 1964 to 2001, it housed an off-site unit of the Slovene Ethnographic Museum. The manor is currently closed to the public; check access again before planning a visit.

Lazzarini Manor in Valburga acquired its final Renaissance appearance under Baron Franc of Smlednik. The Knights’ Hall and chapel are adorned with frescoes by the German painter Eustachius Gabriel. The Pri Dolinčku farmhouse offers another glimpse into building history: it is one of the few well-preserved examples of a 17th-century farm building in the wider Ljubljana area and is built partly of stone and partly of wood.

The history of transport can also be placed in context: Medvode had a railway station in the 19th century. In summer, a special bathing train between Ljubljana and Kranj also stopped in Medvode.

Activities on the water and around town

Visitors can rent rowing boats and electric boats for trips on Lake Zbilje. As availability and operating details may change, it is a good idea to check what is currently available in advance. A rafting trip on the Sava runs from Medvode to the Skok Sports Centre; check the current arrangements before planning your trip.

Sora Beach is located at the Sora weir in Goričane. Seasonal water-quality measurements have repeatedly confirmed that the water is suitable for swimming. As water conditions can change, check the current situation before swimming.

The Janhar farm in Hraše offers dressage demonstrations and riding lessons. If you plan to take part in either activity, check the booking arrangements in advance. At Gostilna Mihovec, you can learn about the skills and many years of experience involved in making homemade bread.

Discover more destinations: Smlednik, Horjul, Rob, Rakitna, Škofljica, Ljubljana, Ig, Gabrje.

For the broader travel overview: Ljubljana.