Krčnik and Kotline

Krčnik and Kotline are two small natural curiosities in Goriška Brda, the hilly wine country in the far west of Slovenia, and both are the work of one small stream. The Kožbanjšček creek runs through a narrow, wooded gorge near the village of Kožbana, and over a very long time its water has carved the soft rock into smooth shapes, creating a natural stone bridge at Krčnik and a series of pools at Kotline. They are modest in scale compared with the big waterfalls of the Julian Alps, but they are easy to reach, quiet and appealing, and they show a side of Brda that most wine visitors miss.

Krčnik is known for its natural stone bridge, a rounded arch of rock that spans the gorge, polished smooth by the creek. The bridge and the hollow beneath it have drawn the attention of locals for generations, and stories have grown up around how it came to be. In the way of many such formations in Slovenia, local tradition provides more than one explanation, and these stories are as much part of the visit as the geology. The place is easy to access from the road between Neblo and Brdice pri Kožbani, and a short walk through the trees brings you to the edge of the gorge. Take care on the rock, which can be slippery, and keep children close to the edge areas.

A little downstream is Kotline, where the creek runs over a series of rapids and small waterfalls and fills three natural pools carved in the stone. On a hot day the clear, cool water makes a welcome swim, and the pools have long been a favourite local bathing spot. The surrounding gorge is shaded and mossy, with ferns and old trees, and it makes a pleasant walk or a picnic place away from the sun. The flow of water changes through the year, so the pools are fullest after spring rain and can be low in a dry summer. Please take your rubbish with you and treat the pools gently.

There is no fee and no gate, and there are no facilities on site, so bring water. The place is reached by car, bicycle or on foot, and it is easy to combine with a drive through the hills. The nearby Parish Church of St. George and the Church of St. Margaret are examples of local heritage, and the broader Goriška Brda area offers wine tasting at places such as Klet Brda and Movia, along with Dobrovo Castle, Villa Vipolže and the Viewing Tower in Gonjače.

Krčnik and Kotline suit walkers, families and anyone who wants a quiet corner in the Brda hills. Late spring and early summer are the most pleasant times to visit. Access is free and easy. Just a short walk from the road, Brda’s quieter side opens up.