Polhograjska Grmada (898 m)

Polhograjska Grmada is a wooded hill of 898 metres in the Polhov Gradec Dolomites, the low range that rises west of Ljubljana between the Ljubljana Marsh and the Sora valley. It is among the most popular hiking destinations for the people of the capital, and its position, only a short drive from the city, makes it ideal for a half-day outing. Though modest in height, the hill stands out from its neighbours, and from the summit the views are wide: to the south and east over the Ljubljana Marsh and the plain of the capital, to the north to the long chain of the Kamnik and Julian Alps, and westward across the hills toward Krim and the Karst.

The name has an interesting history. Grmada means a heap or a bonfire, and the dolomite ridge does look like a jagged pile of rock when seen from certain angles. Local tradition says that French soldiers, who held the Illyrian Provinces in the early nineteenth century, nicknamed it Louis Quatorze because the profile of the ridge looked like the head of King Louis XIV. Whether or not the story is exact, the nickname has survived in local memory and gives the hill a certain personality.

The ascent is not difficult. Marked paths start from Polhov Gradec and from surrounding hamlets and follow forest roads and tracks through beech and pine woods, with a steeper final section among rock and roots. The walk takes a couple of hours return, depending on the route, and is suitable for most people with ordinary hiking shoes. The paths can be slippery after rain and in autumn leaves, so a little care is needed. On top there is a panorama indicator that helps identify the peaks, and a bench for a rest. In late spring and early summer the slopes are full of flowers, and dolomite hills like this support a rich plant life, including species that like dry, rocky ground.

The hill belongs to a landscape of small villages, churches and castles. In Polhov Gradec, the castle holds the Museum of Post and Telecommunications, and on a nearby hill, the church of St. Lawrence at Polhograjska Gora is a popular goal for walkers, while the Gothic church of St. Peter is another small landmark. Together these make it easy to build a longer circuit.

The hill suits walkers, families with older children, trail runners and photographers. Spring and autumn are the most pleasant seasons, and clear winter days give excellent views. Bring water and a layer, and check conditions locally, since paths in the woods can be wet and muddy after rain.