Mesečev Zaliv (Moon Bay)

Mesečev Zaliv, Moon Bay, is a small curved cove on the coast of the Strunjan peninsula, between Piran and Izola, and it is one of the most appealing places on the short Slovenian shoreline for a swim. The bay takes its name from its crescent shape, which seen from above or from the cliffs resembles the new moon, and it lies at the foot of the steep flysch cliff that is the main landmark of the Strunjan Nature Park. Unlike the busy resorts further along the coast, it has no hotels, no promenade and no rows of sunbeds, and the sense of calm is one of its main attractions.

The bay is reached on foot, by a path that descends through the pines and Mediterranean scrub from the cliff top or from the road above. The walk down is short but steep in places, and the climb back takes some effort, particularly in the heat, so comfortable shoes and water are recommended. The shore consists of pebbles and flat slabs of rock, rather than sand, and sandals or water shoes help in the water. The sea is clear and clean, with fish visible near the rocks, and in summer the water warms to a pleasant temperature. Snorkelling is popular, because the sea floor is rocky and varied, and the cliffs that frame the bay provide shade in the late afternoon.

The geology is part of the appeal. The cliff above the bay is made of flysch, a rock formed from alternating layers of sandstone and marl laid down on an ancient sea floor, and the layers have been tilted and eroded, giving the cliff face a striped, layered look. Parts of the cliff are unstable, and rockfalls can occur, so visitors should avoid sitting directly under the face and should respect signs and barriers. The plants of the slope, including pines, cypresses, holm oak and aromatic herbs, give the bay a typically Mediterranean scent, and birds such as gulls, cormorants and, in the park's wetlands, many wading species can be seen.

Moon Bay is part of the Strunjan Nature Park, so visitors are asked to take their rubbish home, to avoid picking plants or disturbing animals and to keep dogs under control. It makes a good complement to the other places in the park: the Strunjan beaches, the Strunjan Cliff, the salt pans of the salt-making village and Talaso Strunjan. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times, with softer light and fewer people, and spring and early autumn offer a quieter experience than July and August.