A unique intermittent lake in Slovenia: Cerknica Lake

It is no hidden fact, that Slovenia is home of green valleys, stunning mountains and lakes. One of the last is an intermittent lake called Cerknica. It is one of the largest intermittent lakes in Slovenia* *and truly a unique sight, as you can be fishing or paddling in the area, where only a few months ago, a big karst field with no sights of water was located. The before and after pictures of the area are really interesting, but even more fascinating thing is experiencing the view of the lake and its surroundings first hand.

A panoramic view on a hay carriage

Lake Cerknica was named after the area in which it is located - the Cerknica Polje, a part of a region in south-western Slovenia. The term 'polje' means 'field', which is all that remains when the lake fully disappears in the dry season of the year. There are numerous activities available in the area of lake Cerknica, like fishing, paddling, hiking, cycling and ice skating. Without a doubt, the most special experience that you will encounter here is a ride with a hay carriage called lojtrnik. A ride on a traditional carriage, pulled by two horses, is the perfect opportunity to observe the landscape of the Notranjska Regional Park and lake Cerknica itself. If you are looking for a more active way to spend your day there, I would also recommend circling the lake with a bike.

Museum of lake Cerknica

If you wish to really experience lake Cerknica and its history in full form, the Museum of lake Cerknica, also called Jezerski hram, offers many interesting displays and exhibitions with multimedia presentations and models, explaining the disappearing and reappearing of the lake and other interesting facts about the history and traditions of the region. You will also have the opportunity to learn about the life of people, who resided in the Cerknica Polje throughout different centuries and observe the collection of tools and other objects typical for the area.

Lake Cerknica was first mentioned in the 15th century and has remained one of the most recognizable features and unique destinations of Slovenia until today. When the intermittent lake is full, it becomes the largest lake in the country, covering over more than 26 square kilometers of the field. It is home of many birds, fish and other animal and plant species, as well as a popular location for day trips and walks in nature.