Svečica

Svečica is a high meadow in the Karavanke range above Jesenice, in Upper Carniola, and it is one of the places where the famous wild daffodils of the area flower in spring. It is also known as Belska planina, the Bela pasture, and it forms part of a ridge of grassy slopes that look south over the Sava valley toward the Julian Alps. Though not as well known as its neighbour Golica, which attracts crowds of visitors in May, it offers similar scenery and a quieter atmosphere, and it is a pleasant goal for a half-day walk from the Jesenice side.

The main attraction is the daffodil bloom. In May, the meadows are covered with narcissi, white flowers with a small yellow-and-red cup at the centre and a sweet scent, so thick in places that the hillsides look as though they are covered with snow. The bloom is brief, and it depends on the weather, with the best period usually in the second half of May, though it can start earlier at lower altitudes and last into June higher up. The flowers are protected, and visitors must keep to the paths and avoid picking them, so that the meadows can flower again next year. Besides daffodils, the meadows hold crocuses, gentians, primroses and orchids at different times, and the grass is grazed by cattle in summer.

The path to Svečica is marked and suits most walkers, rising through forest and then across open pasture, with views opening up as you climb. The summit area gives a wide panorama over the valley of the Sava, the town of Jesenice below, and the ridges of the Julian Alps beyond, with Triglav visible on clear days. On the other side of the ridge, the land falls to Austria, since the border runs along the crest of the Karavanke. The paths are not demanding, but stout shoes are advisable, since the ground can be wet in spring, and the weather can change quickly.

Jesenice is an industrial town with a history of ironworking, and the district of Stara Sava, with its old ironworks and workers' houses, tells that story. The town is also famous for its ice hockey, and the Local ice hockey scene draws a loyal following, with a team that has long been among the best in Slovenia. Belska planina offers a quiet end to a visit. Spring is the best season, but summer and autumn also bring pleasant walking.