In the shade of alpine crystal - Planica

At the point where the borders of three countries meet: Italy, Austria and Slovenia, there is the Planica ski jumping facility. It was here that Adam Małysz took the Crystal Ball four times, and Kamil Stoch jumped the farthest of all Poles (in 2011, 226 meters).

Planica is located in the Julian Alps, hiding in the shadow of the two-thousanders called Ponce, which is why it is sometimes also called the Valley of Ponce. It is famous for the largest cyclical sports event in Slovenia - the world cup competition in men's alpine skiing. The Letalnica (ski flying hill) located here is the second largest ski jumping hill in the world. Recently rebuilt, on March 20-22, 2015 it will again host world-renowned jumpers.

There is a parking lot under the landing hill. In summer you can visit the jump for free, walking along a rocky path along the landing hill.

The oldest ski resort in Slovenia

Both the valley itself and the villages located next to it are extremely attractive for tourists. Jalovec , considered the most beautiful mountain of the Julian Alps, guarantees stable wind conditions for jumpers, and for observers - magnificent views. Due to its beauty, the mountain is called "Alpine crystal".

The valley is a favorite of not only skiing enthusiasts. Planica attracts cavers and mountaineers, and the Julian Alps itself is famous for its numerous internal rivers, vertical walls over 1000 meters high and mysterious caves.

The pearl of the region is Kranjska Gora , the oldest ski resort in Slovenia and at the same time a year-round tourist resort. Its main advantage is the ski runs (approx. 85 km, 13 lifts and 6 chairlifts), stretching from the slopes of Vitranc to Podkoren and Planica. Most of them are covered with artificial snow, thanks to which skiing enthusiasts can be sure of a great holiday.

In winter, Kranjska Gora tempts with snow, and in summer - landscapes inviting to long hikes. The southern part of the village borders on the Triglav National Park . Those who arrive here will appreciate the beauty of the landscape. Hen, hectares of forests stretch to the horizon, the eye is also attracted by the irregular line of the Julian Alps peaks.

Winter in Kranjska Gora

There are several sports equipment rentals in Kranjska Gora. It is a resort where all ski lovers - both professionals and amateurs - can have fun in the snow. What's more, you can go crazy in the snow even after dark, which distinguishes the resort from other Slovenian locations. A big attraction is the ice village, Eskimska vas , where you can spend the night.

There is a fenced play center for children. The little ones can go sledding and skiing on specially adapted routes. Those who are just starting out will find help at the ski school. Trained ski and snowboard instructors work there.

A daily ticket for the routes of Kranjska Gora for an adult skier costs EUR 31.5 (children - EUR 20), while the purchase of a 7-day ticket costs EUR 182 (children - EUR 113).

Camps in Slovenia near Planica

During the competition, you can park in Planica itself, but only in designated places, but they can be full from the early morning hours. In other words, first come, first served. Later, guests are directed to specially prepared parking lots on the Kranjska Gora-Rateče road. You can walk to Letalnica along marked routes, which takes about half an hour.

The tourist infrastructure in the vicinity of the ski jump is very extensive, but people who want to watch the jumps should book accommodation in advance. It is best to look for it in Podkorena and Kranjska Gora, while tourists who prefer to sleep in their own motorhome can go to Mojstrana, Camping Kamne . It is located 12 km east of Kranjska Gora. We will pay 3 euros for a parking space for a motorhome, and 9 euros for the accommodation of an adult. Access to electricity costs 4 euros a day.

Planica is beautiful all year round, so it is worth visiting not only during the March competition. You can fall in love with the charm of the villages around the valley.