Smolnik: Nature, Trails and Cultural Heritage

Smolnik combines natural features along the Lobnica stream with engineering and religious structures. To get your bearings in the destination, consider two specific perspectives: the course of the stream, gorge and trails, and the history of individual structures. There is also an accommodation option for groups travelling together: at Posestvo Šumik, the main house and its grounds are available to rent.

Lobnica, Gorge and Routes

After flowing through a narrow valley, the Lobnica reaches the plain near Smolnik. Hidden in the deep Smolnik Gorge is the Lobnica and Verna Canyon. Along the stream lies 19 hectares of unspoiled Pohorje primeval forest. The stream, gorge and forest each reveal a different aspect of the natural landscape, while the area given in hectares indicates the size of the woodland.

The Pot ob potoku Lobnica trail leads to the Veliki Šumik waterfall; the Pohorje cycling route (Belvi - Areh - Šumik) reaches Smolnik and then continues to Ruše. Conditions on the Pot ob potoku Lobnica trail may change, so check the trail conditions for your planned visit.

Structures and History

The railway viaduct at Smolnik is one of three surviving structures of its kind on the Koroška Railway line. It is classified as a technical monument and is located in the western part of Ruše, at Smolnik.

The Church of St Mary stands high on the slope in the hamlet of Hlebovo at Smolnik and was built between 1859 and 1861. Its interior has a central, domed space surrounded by pilasters. The dome vault describes the upper section of the space; pilasters are flat, pillar-like features on the walls. This provides an architectural context for the vaulted centre and the articulation of the surrounding walls.

The remains of the so-called Turkish Wall at Smolnik are made of rubble stone. During the Turkish incursions, local people sought shelter behind the remains. The Dravska kljuža is a defensive wall that was first mentioned as early as 1147. The Turkish Wall is described by its material and protective function, while the Dravska kljuža is dated by its early mention.

The Lobniška riža along the Lobnica was built in 1874 and is 5,728 metres long.

Group Rentals and Visitor Offering

Posestvo Šumik rents out the main house and its grounds to groups of up to 15 guests. If you are planning a group trip, compare your group size with this limit and confirm availability for your chosen date in advance.

Stara ribogojnica Smolnik serves roasted and fried trout. As availability may change, ask about this offering before your visit.

Discover more destinations: Kumen, Lovrenc na Pohorju.

Return to the main travel overview: Ruše.