Planica

Planica, set in the far northwest of Slovenia near the village of Rateče and the resort town of Kranjska Gora, is an alpine valley celebrated worldwide for its pioneering role in ski jumping and Nordic sports. Surrounded by the soaring peaks of the Julian Alps and the Ponce mountain range, Planica is a place where natural beauty and sporting excellence converge, attracting visitors in every season.

The history of Planica is inseparable from the development of ski jumping. In the 1930s, the first ski jumping hill was constructed here, and the valley quickly became a center for innovation in the sport. Planica gained international fame in 1936 when Sepp Bradl became the first person to jump over 100 meters, marking the start of a tradition of record-breaking jumps. Over the decades, Planica’s ski flying hill, Letalnica bratov Gorišek, has hosted numerous world championships and World Cup finales, drawing athletes and fans from across the globe. The annual World Cup Season Finale is a highlight, turning the valley into a vibrant hub of excitement and celebration.

Today, the Planica Nordic Centre stands as a testament to this legacy, offering a modern complex with multiple ski jumping hills, a cross-country skiing stadium, and year-round training facilities. Visitors can take guided tours of the center, watch athletes in training, or even try the exhilarating Planica Zipline, which lets you experience the thrill of ski flying from the top of the giant hill. The wind tunnel offers another unique adventure, simulating the sensation of free flight in a safe indoor environment. The Planica Museum provides fascinating insights into the history of ski jumping, the evolution of equipment, and the stories of legendary athletes who have competed here.

Beyond its sporting fame, Planica is a paradise for outdoor activities. In winter, the valley transforms into a cross-country skiing haven, with meticulously groomed trails winding through forests and meadows. The area is also popular for winter hiking, snowshoeing, and even ice climbing in the surrounding mountains. In summer, Planica’s trails become a playground for hikers and mountain bikers, offering routes for all levels and breathtaking views of the alpine landscape. The valley is also the starting point for scenic walks to the Tamar Valley, a tranquil glacial valley with a mountain hut and a picturesque waterfall, perfect for families and nature lovers.

Planica’s proximity to Kranjska Gora means visitors have easy access to a range of accommodations, restaurants, and additional activities, from spa relaxation to adventure parks. The valley is also close to the Zelenci Nature Reserve, known for its emerald-green spring and rich biodiversity.

Getting to Planica is straightforward. By car, it is about 90 kilometers from Ljubljana, Slovenia’s capital, with well-maintained roads leading through the scenic Upper Sava Valley. Public buses connect Kranjska Gora with Ljubljana and other regional towns, and from Kranjska Gora, local transport or taxis can take you the final few kilometers to Planica. The nearest major airport is Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport, about 70 kilometers away.

The best time to visit Planica depends on your interests. Winter (December to March) is ideal for cross-country skiing and experiencing the valley’s snowy beauty, while late spring to early autumn (May to September) offers mild weather for hiking, cycling, and outdoor adventures. The annual World Cup ski jumping finale in March is a unique spectacle, but summer brings a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere perfect for exploring the alpine environment.

Whether you are a sports enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking the fresh air and stunning vistas of the Slovenian Alps, Planica offers a memorable experience in one of Europe’s most iconic mountain valleys.