Underground river passages

The underground river passages of Rak Škocjan offer a captivating adventure into the heart of Slovenia’s karst landscape. Located within the Rakov Škocjan valley, this area is shaped by the Rak River, which emerges from underground springs fed by waters from the Cerknica plain and the Javorniki hills. The river’s journey is a classic example of karst hydrology: it surfaces from the Zelške jame caves, meanders through a lush valley dotted with natural bridges and sinkholes, and then disappears once again into the earth, continuing its mysterious path below ground.

Visitors to Rak Škocjan can explore a network of trails that lead to dramatic viewpoints over collapsed dolines, natural stone arches, and the entrances to the underground passages. The most iconic features are the Great and Little Natural Bridges, formed by the collapse of cave ceilings, which now frame the river’s course. Adventurous travelers can peer into the gaping mouths of caves where the Rak flows in and out, especially during periods of high water when the subterranean currents are most powerful.

The underground river passages are a highlight for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone fascinated by geology. Interpretive signs along the trails provide insights into the valley’s formation and the ongoing processes that shape this dynamic landscape. Rak Škocjan’s underground river passages invite exploration and wonder, revealing the hidden power of water beneath Slovenia’s surface.