Idrija

You know those beautiful Sundays after it rained the day before? When the sky clears up and you can see everything so clearly. Well, this was one of them. A beautiful day, just right for another family biking adventure. To Idrija – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – we went! And it was even better than expected.

The Route

If you take the highway – exit 39 to Logatec – get ready for the most beautifully windy road that will take you all the way to Idrija. At the shopping mall on the left, turn left and park at the Idrija Stadium. That’s your starting point.

The Bike Route

Once you saddle up, follow the greenbelt next to the main road (you’ll return the same way if you came via Logatec) until the first right turn. Turn right to follow the river. This is where the magic begins.

With the beautiful river on your right and the forest rising on your left, you’re on a small road winding up into the valley. Watch how the river changes—from a gentle dam to a more vivid stream. Check out the moss on the cliffs to your left—it’s breathtaking! It reminded me of Ireland (though I’ve never been!)—those natural “parks” you see in movies, where rock, moss, and undergrowth create an atmosphere of serene calm.

I was so caught up in the moment that I didn’t realize we had already passed Wild Lake. This lake has some wondrous natural features. You can read and see an amazing dive expedition here. From the lake flows the shortest river in Slovenia, connecting to Idrijca. Incredible.

We continued on to the natural swimming spot Lajšt and a bit beyond, until we reached a gravel forest road, at which point we turned around.

On the way back, we stopped at a local bar for a coffee and enjoyed the ride back to Wild Lake (Divje Jezero).

Lunch Stop

Afterward, we had a late lunch at the most amazing place: Gostišče Barbara, where they serve traditional Idrija dishes—žlikrofi. Definitely worth a visit!

Photos