The Edge of the Karst
A half-day guided hike to the inland cliffs that divide the climate
Guided by: Paul Veenvliet, Licensed Guide and Biologist
The Slovenian coastal area is very different from the more inland parts of the country: warmer and with an overall more Mediterranean feel. In spring and early summer, this area is full of flowers and butterflies. Summers tend to be dry, and it becomes a realm of grasshoppers and elusive lizards that hunt them.
Today’s hike goes through a very diverse landscape. We start at a village, with orchards and small meadows. We continue through a forest with dense, small trees that offer welcome shade, to eventually reach the spectacular inland cliffs that are called the “Karst Edge”. These cliffs mark the border between two climate zones: above the cliffs we are in a (warm) continental climate while be below them, the warmer Submediterranean climate starts. From the top of the cliffs, we have a wide view, and we can see the Adriatic Sea in the distance.
I took the picture on the right just before the sun went down, with low sunlight shining through the flowering smoke trees, lighting them up like pure magic. Moments later, a nightjar started singing, and then another, and another. Other bird species also sing after sunset: both nightingales and scops owls are common around the Karst Edge. If you want to have a chance to hear these birds, we can plan this excursion in the afternoon, so that we end in the evening, when the nightbirds wake up.
The Illyrian iris flowers in spring, with such big flowers that it looks like a garden plant. However, this is an entirely natural species, which is endemic to the Adriatic region.
The Ilirian iris flowers in spring, with such big flowers that it looks like a garden plant. However, this is an entirely natural species, which is endemic to the Adriatic region.
Several wild orchid species grow here. Most are small and, for instance, the flowers of this beautiful fly orchid measure barely 2 cm. Seen from up close, they rival tropical orchids in beauty and are a delight for who may find them.
Practical information:
Tour itinerary:
9:00 – 12:00 a 4 km hike through meadows, forests and along the cliff
12:00 – 12:45 delicious picnic lunch
It is also possible to plan this excursion in the late afternoon, so that we end when the night birds wake up. The timing then depends on the sunset.
What to bring:
- Comfortable hiking shoes: at a few places, the ground is uneven and rocky
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Sunscreen
- Water bottle
- Photo-camera: we are in one of the most stunning nature areas in Slovenia!
Important notes:
- Exclusively for your family or group! I do not combine groups. Small group sizes minimize disturbance to wildlife.
- Suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
Meeting point:
The parking in front of village Praproče: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ychk3Pj6YWQw8nJR9
Transport:
This is a circular hike. Once you reach the meeting point, no further transport is needed.
Price (per person):
1 person: 115 €
2-6 persons: 70 €
Larger groups: please contact me for an offer
Children under 12 years of age are free of charge.
Picnic price (per person):
Adults: 15 €
Children under 12: 10 €
Contact me for booking biologist.paul@gmail.com or tel ++386 41 902 110