Saint Lawrence Church on Polhograjska Gora

Saint Lawrence Church, in Slovene Cerkev sv. Lovrenca, stands on the top of Polhograjska Gora, a wooded hill above the village of Polhov Gradec, west of Ljubljana. The hill is part of the Polhov Gradec Dolomites, an area of rounded forested ridges and small valleys that is a favourite weekend destination for people from the capital, and the church is the natural goal for a walk. From the summit the views run over the Gradaščica valley and the roofs of the village below, and on clear days reach out towards the Julian Alps and the Karavanke on the horizon.

The usual route starts at Polhov Gradec Manor, a historic house with a park and museums that is a landmark in its own right. From there a forest path climbs steadily, steep in places, through beech and conifer woods to the church, and the walk can take around an hour or a little more depending on pace. The route passes through landscape with a long human history, and archaeologists have found signs of prehistoric settlement on the hills in the area. The hill is also a place of botanical interest. A rare plant, Blagay's daphne, Daphne blagayana, is named after Count Blagaj, who recorded it on Polhograjska hills, and it is still found in the woods, with its clusters of creamy, scented flowers appearing in early spring. Please do not pick it, because it is protected.

The church itself is a small hilltop building, the kind of pilgrimage chapel that appears on many hills in Slovenia, often dedicated to saints such as Lawrence. It is a quiet, peaceful spot, good for a rest, a picnic with a view and a few minutes of reflection. As a working church it is usually opened only for events and services, so do not count on seeing the interior, but the position outside is the real attraction.

Other sights in the Polhov Gradec area can be combined with the climb. St. Peter's Gothic Church in the village is a short distance from the manor, the Museum of Post and Telecommunications gives a different kind of visit, and Polhograjska Grmada, higher at 898 metres, is the next objective for stronger walkers. Wear sturdy shoes, carry water, and follow waymarks, as paths can be slippery after rain.

The walk suits families with older children, hikers and anyone who likes a modest summit with a view. Spring and autumn are the most comfortable seasons. Whether you come for the plant, the view or the exercise, it is a pleasant piece of Slovenian hill country.