The Ekomuzej in Slovenska vas, near Pivka

Ekomuzej Pivka

Guided by: Paul Veenvliet, Licensed Guide and Biologist

Discover the wonders of nature at the Ekomuzej, a hidden gem in Slovenska vas, just a short drive from the town of Pivka in Southern Slovenia. Perfect for families who love the outdoors, this unique nature exhibition offers an exciting blend of hands-on learning and natural beauty.

The Ekomuzej is more than just a museum—it’s a gateway to the fascinating Pivka Valley, home to 17 mysterious disappearing lakes. Through interactive displays, visitors of all ages can explore the region’s geology, history, and rich biodiversity. In 2024, the museum reopened after a full renovation, making it an even more engaging destination for curious minds.

As a local biologist and passionate guide, I offer personalized tours of the Ekomuzej. For families looking for an unforgettable adventure, I recommend pairing your visit with a guided hike to the nearby Lake Petelinje. It’s a perfect way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area and learn about its unique ecosystem in an interactive and fun way.

Come explore, learn, and experience the magic of Southern Slovenia’s natural wonders—an adventure your family will cherish!

DINA large carnivore center

For families who want to continue their adventure in nature, there’s another fantastic stop just around the corner in Pivka—the DINA Large Carnivore Center! This unique information center is a must-visit for anyone curious about the wild carnivores that roam Slovenia’s vast forests: bears, wolves, and lynx.

With interactive exhibits that bring these incredible creatures to life, the DINA Center offers an engaging experience for both kids and adults. You’ll learn about the behaviour and habitats of these large carnivores and gain a deeper understanding of the important role they play in the ecosystem. The center doesn’t shy away from the challenges of human-animal coexistence, but it also provides real solutions to help reduce conflicts and promote harmony between people and wildlife.

The DINA Center is a perfect way to extend your family’s nature-filled adventure, offering educational insights and hands-on learning in a fun, interactive setting.

 

 

Duration of guided tours: 

Ekomuzej guided visit: 1 hour and 30 minutes

Guided hike from the Ekomuzej to Lake Petelinje: 1 hour

DINA guided visit: 1 hour

 

How to book these visits: 

You can find all information about opening hours and booking on the respective websites of the Ekomuzej and of the DINA center. Both exhibits can be visited for a small entrance fee. If you want to book my guided tours at these centers: please contact the organisation at: info@pivskajezera.si  tel +386 (0)30 644 799, and ask for Paul’s guided tours! 

Group size:

In both centers we can accommodate various group sizes. When more than about 25 people come, we can include additional guides.

The Ekomuzej in Slovenska vas, near Pivka
Ekomuzej photo by Valter Leban