Zelenci Reserve

The Zelenci Nature Reserve, spanning about 15 hectares, was established in 1992. This reserve in Slovenia is a biodiversity hotspot, home to various species like Common Rosefinches, Viviparous Lizards, and European Adders. Visitors are encouraged to stay on the marked paths to protect this delicate ecosystem. The reserve’s main attraction is its namesake lake, Zelenci, which maintains a constant temperature year-round. A compact and well-maintained boardwalk leads to an observation tower, offering stunning views of the lake and the surrounding Triglav National Park.
Navigating the Nature Reserve is easy, thanks to a single, well-maintained walking trail. The 500-meter path, taking about 15 minutes, winds through Zelenci’s dense forest, leading directly to the lake. (you can return along this same route).

Zelenci Lake

At the heart of Zelenci Nature Reserve lies the stunning Zelenci Lake, also known as Zelenci Springs, the source of the Sava Dolinka River, Slovenia’s longest river. This emerald lake, crystal clear and tranquil, serves as a sanctuary for diverse aquatic life, including large trout, and is surrounded by lush vegetation, towering pine trees, and the Julian Alps reflected in its waters. The lake’s vibrant green color is due to the cold, clean underground springs that bubble through a layer of chalk at the bottom, creating a unique visual effect. The water temperature remains constant between 5-6°C all year round, preventing it from freezing during winter. The name ‘Zelenci’ is derived from the Slovenian word for green, reflecting the distinct color of the lake, which is a focal point of the reserve.

Good to know

Where is Zelenci Nature Reserve?

Zelenci Nature Reserve is located in northwest Slovenia, approximately 5 kilometers from the town of Kranjska Gora. Situated near the borders of Italy and Austria, it lies at the northern edge of Triglav National Park. The reserve, easily accessible via road #202, features Zelenci Lake, known for its distinctive green color. The area, set within an alpine valley and framed by the Julian Alps and Karavanke mountain range, offers a convenient stop for travelers exploring this region of Slovenia.

How to get there

With a tour | The easiest way to get here, is to hop on a tour and combine Zelenci Reserve with other natural wonders in the area (there are plenty!). This tour is a great option from Ljubljana.

Driving | If you’re travelling from Kranjska Gora via car, head west along the #202 for 4.5km, passing the small town of Podkoren before arriving at the destination on your left. There is ample parking space. You can easily rent a car from Ljubljana, or even from Bled.
Alternatively, it’s possible to walk (or cycle) from Kranjska Gora to Zelenci. The journey is approximately 5 kilometers long and takes about an hour along a low-traffic tarmac road offering scenic views. Starting from Kranjska Gora, the route passes by ski fields and continues along Borovška road towards Podkoren. After passing the ski field car parks in Podkoren, a path to the right leads over a wooden bridge crossing the Sava River, entering Zelenci Nature Reserve. A short walk from the river leads to the Zelenci car park, from where the lake is accessible.

By bus | Public transport is not the best option as there’s no stop close to Zelenci. You’d need to catch the bus from Kranjska Gora to Rateče and either need to hop off in Podkoren or Rateče, and walk 15mins to the reserve.