Jankovič (Stari pod) Camping

Jankovič (Stari pod) Camping sits on the bank of the Kolpa river at Adlešiči, in Bela Krajina in the far southeast of Slovenia, and it is one of the places where the summer life of the river takes concrete form. The Kolpa marks the border with Croatia here, and the valley is a green, gentle landscape of meadows and wooded hills where the water warms up in summer, so that swimming is a pleasure rather than a shock. A campsite on the shore puts you directly in this setting, with a few steps between your tent or cabin and the water.

The accommodation is of the relaxed, family-run kind. There are pitches for tents and caravans in the usual way, and for those who prefer something more comfortable than a sleeping bag, wooden glamping houses offer a roof, beds and a little more privacy for two or three people. The camp is seasonal, operating from spring until early autumn, so check the exact dates and book ahead, especially for the glamping houses and for July and August, when the river is at its busiest. Facilities are straightforward, with picnic tables and places to grill, and the pace is slow and social. People come here to swim, paddle, fish, read, cook outdoors and talk to their neighbours, rather than to follow a programme.

The river is the main attraction. A shallow bathing area suits children and non-swimmers, and canoes and kayaks can be hired for trips on the calm water, with Canoeing and Rafting at Jankovič (Stari pod) and the neighbouring operator Kanuing Kupa covering the paddling side. Fishing is possible with the right permit, and the riverbank has pebble beaches and shaded spots for picnics. Weekends can be lively, since local groups and visiting parties gather at the campsite and the evening atmosphere can run late, which makes it a good choice for groups of friends and sociable travellers but less ideal for those who want deep quiet, especially families with very young children. If you value silence, ask when you book which part of the site is calmest, or choose a weekday.

The village of Adlešiči has other things to see and do. The Natural swimming pool at Tržkov slap is a cool spot, Pivovarne Vizir is the local craft brewery, Galerija Kambič and the Cultural-Artistic Community 'Božo Račič' show the cultural side, and the Spomenik na Gricku is a local monument. Production of home linen, embroidery, and Easter eggs is a living craft of the village.

It suits groups, cyclists and families with older children. Bring insect repellent and sun protection. For many guests the Kolpa River is the whole point. While the season is short, it is a very Slovenian way to spend a summer, and the camp runs from April to September.