View of the Big Natural Bridge (Veliki Naravni Most) from the north

The Great Natural Bridge, in Slovene Veliki naravni most, is the largest of the natural arches in Rakov Škocjan, the karst valley between Cerknica and Postojna, and its most dramatic appearance is from the northern side of the valley. The valley lies within the Notranjska Regional Park, and the bridge is a remnant of the roof of an ancient cave, left standing when the surrounding ceiling collapsed. It is a thick, rough arch of grey limestone more than forty metres high, spanning the narrow channel through which the Rak stream flows, and from the viewpoint its proportions and the depth of the cut below it can be appreciated properly.

The northern viewpoint is reached on foot from the main path through the valley. A short climb leads to a platform or clearing at the edge of the slope, from which the arch appears in front of a backdrop of beech and spruce woodland. From here the whole scene is in view: the stream running green over pale stones, the cliffs on either side hung with moss and ferns, and the bridge in the middle, with its underside in shadow. In some seasons, mist in the valley adds to the effect, and in autumn the colour of the beech leaves frames the scene in gold and copper.

Photographers favour early morning and late afternoon, when the low sun brings out the texture of the rock and the contrast of light and shadow beneath the arch. Midday light is flatter, and the gorge floor lies in shade for much of the day, so patience pays off. A tripod is useful for long exposures of the stream. The path can be slippery after rain, so sturdy shoes are advisable, and visitors should keep to the marked route, since the cliffs are steep.

The viewpoint forms part of the longer Educational trail, which passes the Little Natural Bridge (Mali Naravni Most), the Zelške Caves and other karst features. Understanding what you are seeing is a large part of the pleasure: the bridge is the visible sign of a vast underground system through which water travels from Lake Cerknica to Planina Cave. The Karst formations and the Underground river passages are explained along the route, and the Cave halls and Caves and formations are covered separately. The valley is quiet, free to enter and suitable for most walkers, and it makes an excellent halfday outing from Cerknica or Postojna.