Kordeževa Glava Summit

Kordeževa glava is the highest summit of the Peca massif, a broad mountain on the frontier between Slovenia and Austria in the Koroška region of northern Slovenia. Rising to about 2,125 metres, it is among the easternmost mountains in Slovenia to pass the two-thousand-metre mark, and it forms part of a long ridge that runs along the border above the town of Črna na Koroškem. Peca, known in German as Petzen, is a landmark of the whole region, a long, grassy and rocky mountain visible from far away, and the highest point of this massif gives a wide outlook over the valleys of Koroška, the ranges of the Karavanke and, on clear days, the Kamnik-Savinja Alps and the Austrian peaks beyond.

The usual routes to the summit climb from the valleys on the Slovenian side. One of the best known begins in the Topla valley, a quiet side valley of meadows, forests and scattered mountain farms, where traditional farmsteads still work the land. From the farms the paths climb through spruce woods to the high pastures and then to the bare ridge, with the last stretch over open ground. The ascent is long and steady rather than technical, but it involves a large height gain, and it takes a good part of a day, so it is best suited to people with good fitness and mountain experience. Paths are marked, but weather can change quickly on a high ridge, and clouds can hide the markings, so a map, warm clothing and enough water are important. Summer and early autumn are the best times, and snow lingers on the upper slopes in spring.

The mountain has a rich folklore. According to a legend told across the Slovene lands, King Matjaž sleeps with his warriors in a cavern under the mountain, with his beard growing around a stone table, and will wake when the time comes to rescue his people. In Koroška, Peca is one of the mountains linked to the story, and it adds an air of mystery to the climb. The inside of the mountain also has a real history, since lead and zinc were mined beneath Peca for centuries, and the old mine at Mežica is now open to visitors on guided tours, including cycling and train rides underground.

The summit is not a tourist hot spot, which is part of its charm. There are no services at the top, and the sense of space and quiet is the reward. The surrounding area offers other points of interest, including the Najevska lipa, a famous ancient linden tree, and the nearby border ridges.

The climb suits experienced walkers who enjoy long days in the mountains. Start early, tell someone your plans and check the forecast before setting out.