Križna Jama Cave

Križna Jama Cave, near Lož in southern Slovenia, is a mesmerizing destination for adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. Renowned for its emerald-green underground lakes and intricate karst formations, the cave is the seventh longest in Slovenia and boasts a rich archaeological history, including some of the world’s most significant cave bear bone deposits. The cave’s passages, shaped by a crystal-clear subterranean stream, have been explored since the Neolithic era, with pottery fragments dating back to 2800 B.C.

A visit to Križna Jama is a truly unique experience. Guided tours take visitors deep into the cave, beginning with a walk through ancient corridors once traversed by cave bears. The highlight is a tranquil boat ride across the first of 22 underground lakes, where the silence is broken only by the gentle splash of paddles and the occasional drip of water from the cave ceiling. Tours last about 1 to 1.25 hours and accommodate groups of up to 60 people. For those seeking more adventure, longer and alternative tours are available by reservation.

The cave is home to a remarkable diversity of cave-dwelling species, including bats and centipedes, and serves as a natural conduit for water flowing from the Bloška planota to the Cerkniško polje. Visitors should dress warmly and arrive 15 minutes early; rubber boots and flashlights are provided.

Križna Jama Cave is a must-see for anyone fascinated by Slovenia’s underground wonders, offering a blend of natural beauty, history, and quiet adventure.