12 Best Things to Do in Logar Valley, Slovenia (original) (raw)

“When I die, scatter my ashes here.” That’s what I (Sabrina) said to Kati when we first saw Logar Valley (Logarska Dolina).

Slovenia’s Logar Valley is quite possibly the most gorgeous glacial valley in Europe.

A single road leads into the alpine valley, drawing your gaze from the Linden-lined narrow road, to the traditional farmsteads, up to the tree line, and finally to the glorious Kamnik-Savinja Alps. The rooftop of Logar Valley is formed by the ever-conspicuous Ojstrica, Planjava, Brana, Turska gora, and Rinkas peaks.

We recommend spending 2-3 nights in this pristine corner of Slovenia to hike in the mountains, visit the neighboring valleys of Robanov Kot and Matkov Kot, and drive the Solčava Panoramic Road.

Several years ago, we hiked across the Kamnik-Savinja Alps, which was one of the most challenging treks we’ve ever undertaken. Experienced hikers can also tackle that route from Logar Valley.

Logar Valley in Summer, Slovenia

Logar Valley Map

Logar Valley Entrance Fee

Lenar Farm, Kamnik-Savinja Alps Mountain View, Logar Valley, Slovenia

Logar Valley is a protected nature park. Between April and October, there’s an entrance fee to drive into the park.

If you enter Logarska Dolina on foot, or by bicycle, there’s no entrance fee.

The fee structure is as follows:

Cars | 7 EUR

Motorcycles | 5 EUR

V ans | 8 EUR

Buses | 30 EUR

How to Get to Logar Valley

Solcava Panoramic Road, Logar valley, Slovenia

Situated in the tiny and sparsely populated Solčavsko region in northern Slovenia, Logar Valley is isolated from the rest of the country.

Public transit to the valley is neither straightforward nor regular, so you’ll need a rental car to access this remote corner of Slovenia.

We use the Discovercars.com car rental reservation platform to search for and book car rentals in Slovenia.

There are two main ways to get to Logar Valley.

Logar Valley via Austria and the Pavlič Pass

You can approach Logarska Dolina from Austria via Paulitsch Pass (Pavlič Pass).

There’s a narrow mountain road in Austria that connects the Slovenian village Zgornje Jezersko with Logar Valley and Solčava.

Only drive this way on days with excellent visibility. It’s the most scenic approach to Logar Valley because it affords continuous panoramic views of the Kamnik-Savinja mountains.

Logar Valley via Kamnik

More commonly, you can reach Logar from the town of Kamnik (1-hour drive). If you’re driving from Ljubljana to Logar Valley directly, it’ll take around 1:30 hours.

Use the Promet website for up-to-date traffic updates. Sometimes there’s road construction around the valleys of Solčavsko.

1. Slap Rinka

Slap Rinka (Rinka Waterfall) in Logar Valley, Slovenia

Slap Rinka (Rinka Waterfall) is a 90-meter waterfall in Logar Valley. To reach the waterfall, drive the length of the valley.

At the end of the Logar Valley road, there’s a parking lot. From here, it’s an easy 10-minute walk to the waterfall.

Facing the waterfall, you’ll find a treehouse-like hut called Orlovo Gnezdo. You can enjoy the view of the waterfall from here.

2. Hike to Okrešelj Glacial Amphitheater

Logar valley to Okrešelj Glacial Amphitheater hiking trail, Slovenia

Okrešelj is a glacial amphitheater under the steep walls of Turska gora, Rink, Križ and Mrzla gora.

For over a century, Okrešelj was also home to the mountain hut Frischaufov dom na Okrešlju (1396 m), which was recently rebuilt after a fire.

The trail to Okrešelj starts at the parking lot at the very end of the Logar Valley road, which is also the trailhead to Slap Rinka.

From the parking lot, it’s an easy 10-minute walk to the Rinka waterfall. From Rinka, the trail ascends steeply along the Savinja river.

The path is well-marked and secured with wooden ladders and ropes. Though only 1.6 km in length (1 hour), there’s a lot of variation in this Logar Valley hiking trail. Some sections of the trail are exposed, while other parts are forested.

The path plateaus, and you’ll walk a few more meters to the wildflower studded meadows of Okrešelj. Keep your eyes out for globeflowers, Carniolan lilies, and slipper orchids.

How to Extend the Okrešlj Hike

Ledinski Vrhis an approachable mountain peak on the other side of the Savinsjko Sedlo (saddle). It takes about 1:45 hours to hike from Okrešlj to Ledinski Vrh.

Kamnik Saddle and Planjava Peak. Kamniška koča na Kamniškem sedlu is the mountain hut on the Kamnik saddle. From Frischaufov dom, it should take 1:30 hours to reach the Kamnik saddle. This is a difficult route, but highly rewarding. From the saddle, you can extend the hike to Mount Brana, or Mount Planjava.

Highly experienced hikers with the proper equipment can continue to Turska Gora in 2:30 hours, or Skuta in 4 hours. I’d add another hour to these estimates since Slovenians hike lightning-fast.

Trail Stats

Trailhead | Parking Lot at the end of the Logar Valley Road (Rinka Waterfall)

Distance | 3.2 km out-and-back

Time Needed | 2 hours

Elevation Gain/Loss | 374 meters

Difficulty | Moderate

Minimum Elevation | 1023 meters

Maximum Elevation | 1393 meters

When to Go | May – October

3. Eat Lunch at Planšarija Logarski kot

Planšarija Logarski kot, Logar Valley, Slovenia

Planšarija Logarski kot is located on a meadow beneath the sheer rock faces of Planjava.

Situated in the upper part of the Logar Valley, this is the perfect place to grab lunch after hiking to the Rinka waterfall, or Okrešlj.

Logarski Kot serves home-made, regional food like Gobova Juha (mushroom soup), cured meats and cheeses, and Ajdovi žganci (buckwheat spoonbread).

Historically, Logarski kot used to be an alpine dairy farm and a partisan hospital.

In 1939, the wooden hut was built as a mountain shelter by a local farmer named Franc Logar.

Logarski kot Menu

Here’s what you can eat at Logarski Kot. Note: not all items will be available each day.

Kislo Mleko – sour milk

Gobova Juha – mushroom soup

Sirova plošča – cheese plate

Savinjski želodec (“Upper Savinja Stomach”) – cured meat from the Upper Savinja Valley

Kmečki narezek – regional cured meat and cheese platter

Golaž – Goulash

Ajdovi žganci – buckwheat spoonbread

Jota – sauerkraut soup

Telečja obara – veal stew

Sirovi štruklji – dough roll filled with cottage cheese

Jabolčni zavitek – apple strudel

4. Hike to the Kamnik Saddle

Kamniška koča na Kamniškem sedlu, Kamnik Saddle Hike from Logar Valley

The Kamnik Saddle is one of the most picturesque hiking destinations in the Slovenian Alps. It’s located between Mount Brana and Mount Planjava.

The trail to the Kamnik mountain saddle follows the same route as the Okrešlj Glacial Amphitheater hike.

From the glacial amphitheater, it’s another 1:30 hours to the Kamnik Saddle along a strenuous route. You’ll have to negotiate some very steep passages and scree terrain.

Part of the trail is secured with ropes. Wear a helmet like this women’s climbing helmet and this men’s climbing helmet.

After the demanding ascent, your efforts will be rewarded with impressive views of Logar Valley as well as jaw-dropping views of Mount Brana, Mount Planjava, and numerous other Kamnik peaks.

Grab lunch and a cold drink at the mountain hut Kamniška koča na Kamniškem sedlu (1864 m), which is located directly below the saddle. You earned it!

To return to Logarska Dolina, follow the same route back down.

Trail Stats

Trailhead | Parking Lot at the end of the Logar Valley Road (Rinka Waterfall)

Distance | 8.2 km out-and-back

Time Needed | 4:30 – 5 hours

Elevation Gain/Loss | 934 meters

Difficulty | Demanding. Alpine hiking experience recommended.

Minimum Elevation | 1023 meters

Maximum Elevation | 1915 meters

When to Go | June – September

Learn More: Hiking to the Kamnik Saddle and Planjava

5. Walk the Themed Trail through Logar Valley Nature Park

Logar Valley Road, Slovenia

There’s a 7-km ethnographic path that runs the length of Logarska Dolina. It takes 2:30 – 3 hours to walk the entire trail one-way, however, you can choose to walk a shorter segment.

The trail begins 1 km from the entrance to the valley. So, if you’re entering Logar Valley on foot, you’ll walk along the main paved road for 15 minutes, before turning right onto the trail.

Look for the Pot po Logarski dolini sign. The path passes through the Fairy Tale Forest and ends at Rinka Waterfall.

6. Drive the Solčava Panoramic Road

Klemenšek Tourist Farm, Solcava Panoramic Road, Slovenia

The Solčava Panoramic Road is a 21km route that delivers magical views of high-altitude farms, Logar Valley, the Kamnik-Savinja Alps. It starts in the town Solčava and ends at the entrance to Logarska Dolina.

As you follow the route, you will see numbered information boards describing the scenes in front of you.

There are 12 total stops. Many of the notable stops are tourist farms that serve regional cuisine.

Our favorite viewpoints along the Solčava Panoramic Road were Holy Spirit Church and Strevc Tourist Farm (Stop #5), the Lookout Point and Klemenšek Tourist Farm (Stop #7), and Pastirkovo Lookout Point (Stop #8).

Road Construction along Solčava Panoramic Road

When we visited, it wasn’t possible to drive the segment from Solčava to Podolševa (RT-926).

Check Promet website for up-to-date road conditions.

7. Hike to Koča na Klemenči jami

Koča na Klemenči jami, Logar Valley, Kamnik-Savinja Alps, Slovenia

Koča na Klemenči jami pod Ojstrico is a mountain hut in the Kamnik-Savinja Alps situated at an altitude of 1208 meters.

This is a great day hike from Logar Valley if you have limited time, or a convenient place to take a break, before continuing your hike to Strelovec, Krofička, or even Ojstrica.

To start the hike, head to Dom planincev v Logarski dolini (referred to simply as “Dom Planincev” by locals), a mountain lodge located on the Logar Valley road. Exact Location: Google Maps.

Park here and then cross the street. The trailhead is marked by a large sign featuring photos of Klemenči jami. It takes one hour to hike from Dom planincev v Logarski dolini to Klemenči jami.

From the main road, follow the flat gravel road branching into the forest. After about 5 minutes, you’ll reach a signed intersection. The trail continues uphill, zigzagging through the forest for the next hour. Some parts of the trail are exposed, so you’ll see Logar Valley as you ascend.

Klemenči jami mountain hut is situated on a meadow carpeted with wildflowers.

With impressive mountain views, this serene spot invites you to relax, drink a beer, and eat traditional Slovenian food.

During our last visit, they were serving:

Idrijski žlikrofi – Slovenian dumplings

Ajdovi žganci – Buckwheat spoonbread

Gobova Juha – mushroom soup

Kranjska Klobasa – Sausage

Jabolčni zavitek – Apple strudel

Klemenči jami Opening Times

The hut is usually open from April until the end of September. In April and May, the hut is only open on the weekends.

Starting in June, Klemenči jami is open daily until the end of September.

How to Extend the Klemenči jami Hike

Strelovec is the long ridge that separates the valleys of Logar and Robanov Kot. You can hike from Klemenči jami to Strelovec ridge (1763 m) in 2 hours.

The views are phenomenal. From Strelovec, it’s possible to continue hiking all the way down to the neighboring valley Robanov Kot.

Ambitious hikers with alpine experience can hike from Klemenči jami to Ojstrica (2350 m). The signpost indicated that this takes 3 hours from the hut.

Trail Stats

Trailhead | Dom Planincev v Logarski dolini (837 m)

Distance | 3.7 km out-and-back

Time Needed | 2 hours

Elevation Gain/Loss | 383 meters

Difficulty | Easy

Minimum Elevation | 839 meters

Maximum Elevation | 1215 meters

When to Go | May – September (October)

8. Visit Robanov Kot

Robanov Kot, Solcava, Slovenia

Robanov Kot is a glacial valley neighboring Logarska Dolina. It takes its name from the farmstead Roban, which has been in operation for 800 years.

Unlike Logar Valley, there isn’t a long road leading deep into the valley; only the entrance to the valley is populated. The best way to experience Robanov Kot is by walking or mountain biking.

When you enter the valley, you can either park by Turistična kmetija Govc -Vršnik or continue another 400 meters to a final parking area at Kmetija Roban (Roban Farm).

It appears that you can continue driving straight, but the road is private (see map below for clarification).

From the final parking area, you can hike to Robanova planina and the Roban dairy farm, which is open in July and August.

Other options include hiking to Logar Valley via Strelovec ridge.

To reach Robanov Kot from Logar Valley, drive in the direction of Solčava village. After passing the village, look for a signed right turn. The drive is about 8 km and takes 10 minutes.

Robanova Planina Trail Stats

Trailhead | Parking Roban Farm

Distance | 6.5 km out-and-back

Time Needed | 2:15 hours

Elevation Gain/Loss | 227 meters

Minimum Elevation | 685 meters

Maximum Elevation | 899 meters

9. Farm-to-Table Dinner at Turistična kmetija Govc – Vršnik

Turistična kmetija Govc - Vršnik farm meal, Robanov Kot, Slovenia

For us, hiking and food go hand-in-hand. So, if you want the ultimate reward for all your active pursuits, head directly to Tourist Farm Gov-Vršnik for lunch, or dinner. Reservations are highly recommended.

For dinner, we were treated to an extraordinary feast, starting with plates of homemade cured meats and mushroom soup. There was no dinner menu.

We were simply served a fresh homemade multi-course meal, whereby all the ingredients were sourced directly from their farm.

The main course, presented on a single large serving tray, contained chicken, pork, beef, cranberry sauce, cooked carrots and cabbage, potatoes, štruklji (rolled dough with cottage cheese) and žlikrofi (boiled dumplings). Dessert was apfelstrudel. Warning: you might overeat.

Update: We have now eaten here four times. The food has been consistently excellent each time.

10. Savor Homemade Goat Milk Ice Cream and Goat Cheese at Matk Tourist Farm

Goat cheese plate at Matk Tourist Farm, Matkov Kot, Slovenia

Turistična kmetija Matk is a tourist farm in Matkov Kot, the most secluded and wild valley in the Solčavsko region. In fact, the valley gets its name from the farm.

Matk’s house specialty is goat milk products. Come here for a delicious sampling of their goat cheese and a scoop of ice cream.

Situated at a lofty elevation of 1165 meters, the view from the farm is also outstanding.

11. Sunset Dinner at Penzion kmečka hiša Ojstrica

Logar Valley Sunset, Slovenia

Penzion kmečka hiša Ojstrica is a restaurant and guesthouse in Logar Valley, across the road from Lenar Farm.

Positioned in the middle of the valley and surrounded by meadows, Penzion kmečka hiša Ojstrica boasts some of the finest views of the Kamnik-Savinja Alps (Ojstrica, Planjava, Brana and the Kamnik Saddle).

Watching the sunset from their outdoor terrace whilst enjoying a three-course dinner is the ultimate way to end your day in Logar Valley.

The service is always very quick and friendly. Their soups are delicious!

12. Try Solčavsko Regional Specialties

Bevsek Osep Farm Herbal Tea - Things to do around Logar Valley, Slovenia

The Solčavsko regional is known for organic, fresh locally grown (or raised) ingredients. A few things to try are sirnek (aged cheese), Zgornjesavinski želodec (Upper-Savinja salami), and žlinkrofi (boiled dumplings).

The best place to try these specialties is directly at the tourist farms. You can purchase other regional products, like honey, herbal tea, and various compotes, at the Rinka Center gift shop in the village of Solčava.

We had an opportunity to drink Bevsek Osep Farm’s organic mountain tea. All herbs are handpicked from the surrounding mountains. In their heart-warming “Alpski Družinski čaj” tea blend, there’s wild marjoram, wild calendula, dandelion leaves, elderflower, wild thyme and more.

Bevsek Osep is located in Robanov Kot, but it’s accessible from the main road.

The farmstead – dating back to the 15th century – is made-up of an old mill, which was in operation until the 1960s, a large barn adorned with mid-19th-century frescoes, and a number of newer buildings.

You can drop by the farm to purchase some homemade herbal tea and other homemade products.

Like most farms in the region, Bevsek Osep is run and managed by several generations.

Mojca, a member of the Bevsek Osep family farm, is in the process of creating workshops for small groups about self-sufficient farming, homemade teas and syrups, and regional history.

Where to Stay in Logar Valley

Lenar Farm

Lenar Farm, Logar Valley, Slovenia

After arriving at Lenar Farm, you’ll never want to leave. It feels like home – or the country home you’ve always wanted (at least that’s how we felt). Centrally positioned in Logarska Dolina and surrounded by an apple orchard, Lenar Farm offers unbeatable views of the Kamnik-Savinja mountains and wide-open pastures.

Whether you’re lounging in the meadow, looking out your apartment window, or eating breakfast, you’ll feel an indescribable sense of contentment.

Upon arrival, Ursa and her family warmly welcome guests with a smile and shot of homemade borovnica (blueberry) schnapps. They’ve been hosting guests for 6 generations.

Ursa goes out of her way to make sure all your questions are answered. She gave us numerous tips on hiking trails in and around the valley. We never felt like we were taking too much of her time, or asking too many questions (a great feeling when you’re someone who asks a lot of questions).

Rather we felt like the family genuinely wanted us to be there and enjoy our stay.

Breakfast at Lenar Farm, Logar Valley, Slovenia

Breakfast is included in the room rate. You’ll be treated to a buffet of local and homemade goodies, including the regional specialty savinjski želodec DOP (protected designation of origin) and budjola.

Don’t miss out on Ursa’s mother’s scrumptious berry cakes, strudels, and jams.

Lenar Farm can accommodate 20 people in six rooms and three apartments. In summer, there’s also an option to sleep in a hay barn. All rooms and apartments are lovingly decorated.

In summer, guests have access to bikes and walking poles free of charge. In winter, you can borrow cross-country skis and snowshoes – also free of charge.

Book your Stay at Lenar Farm.

Hotel Plesnik

Hotel Plesnik is an alternative option if you’re looking for a more luxurious stay in Logar Valley. From the hotel’s outdoor natural pool and sun terrace, you can enjoy unobstructed views of the Kamnik Alps.

You’ll also have access to a renovated wellness center with an indoor whirlpool, sauna, and rest area. Guests can dine in Hotel Plesnik’s on-site restaurant and bar. Breakfast is included in the room rate.

Look for accommodation in Logar Valley.

More Accommodations

Here are some excellent places to stay near Logar Valley.

Budget | Guesthouse Planinski Dom Majerhold is a guesthouse with a gardena and on-site restaurant. Breakfast is available (extra charge).

Budget | Prenočišča Valentina is a great value guesthouse in Solčava with simple, but spotless and spacious rooms. Breakfast is available (extra charge).

Budget | Turistična kmetija Čerček is a farm stay happily situated on the bank of the Savinja River in Solčava. 2 nights minimum stay. Breakfast is available (extra charge).

Budget-Midrange | Farm Stay “Alpine Dreams” is a farm stay situated on the Solčava panoramic road, overlooking Logar Valley and the Kamnik-Savinja Alps. Some rooms have shared bathrooms. 2 nights minimum stay. Breakfast is available (extra charge).

Midrange | Natur Bajta offers two one-bedroom apartments in Solčava, housed in a renovated barn. Natural wood and black fixtures dominate, lending the place a rustic yet stylish look. 2 nights minimum stay.

Look for accommodation in Logar Valley.

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Slovenia Trip Planning Essentials

Use our Slovenia Travel Guide to plan an unforgettable trip.

When to Visit Slovenia

Summer and Fall Seasons. The best time to travel to Slovenia is between May and late October.

The best time to hike in the Slovenian Alps is between June and October. For hut-to-hut hiking, we recommend planning your trek between early July and mid-September.

Winter Season. For skiing and winter activities, the best time to visit Slovenia is between mid/late December and March.

Where to Stay

We’ve summarized our favorite destinations and accommodations in Best Paces to Stay in Slovenia, including Lake Bled, Lake Bohinj, Logar Valley, Kranjka Gora, and Kobarid.

How to Explore Slovenia

Small Group Guided Hiking Tours

If you’re a solo traveler, or friend group who would love to explore Slovenia’s hiking trails with a knowledgeable and licensed mountain guide, consider booking one of these small group hiking tours.

All of these tours are designed by Slotrips, a trustworthy local tour operator that crafts meaningful and memorable itineraries.

Best Walks in Slovenia is an 8-day hiking tour (day hikes only) with fixed and guaranteed departure dates between late May and late September.

Discover the Slovenian Alps is an 8-day hiking tour, which combines a 3-day hut-to-hut hike in Triglav National Park with moderate day hikes.

Best of the Julian Alps Hut-to-Hut is a 3-day hut-to-hut hike in the heart of the Julian Alps. This guided tour departs every Monday from July to September. Hikers have the option to add on Mount Triglav summit with an IFMGA licensed mountain guide.

Self-Guided Hiking, Biking, and Rafting Tours

If you love hiking independently, but want a professional to handle the logistics of bookings, transfers, and luggage storage (when applicable), then we recommend booking a self-guided trip like Mountains and Lakes Hut-to-Hut, or Crossing the Julian Alps.

During shoulder-season (May and October), you can hike, bike, and raft along the 4-day Alpe Adria Trail Adventure, 9-day Mountains to Sea route, or 8-day Best of Alpe-Adria and Juliana Trail.

Road Trip

Though public transit is very good in Slovenia, some destinations like Logar Valley are not accessible with transit.

If you want to explore more off-the-beaten-path and remote areas of Slovenia, we recommend renting a car.

Check out our itineraries for road trip inspiration:

Use the intuitive Discovercars.com car rental reservation platform to search for and book car rentals. This easy-to-use booking platform compares car rental deals from 500+ trusted providers, so that you can choose the best option for your trip.

Tip: If you can only drive automatic transmission cars, as opposed to manual transmission cars (stick shift), book your car rental as early as possible.

Check car rental rates here.

Top Things to Do

Slovenia Guidebooks

Slovenia Hiking Guides

Slovenia is heaven on earth for hikers. We recommend allocating sufficient time to discover both the Julian Alps and the Kamnik Savinja Alps.

In Best Hikes in Slovenia, we’ve summarized the most thrilling day hikes and multi-day hikes across the Slovenian Alps, ranked by difficulty.

If you’re interested in hut-to-hut hiking, read our guide to Slovenian Mountain Huts and Hut-to-Hut Hiking in Slovenia.

Logar Valley, Slovenia, Travel Guide

Moon & Honey Travel is an independent blog created by two passionate hikers. We are able to provide free content to you, because of ads and affiliate links. When you make a purchase using one of these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Happy travels and happy trails, Sabrina and Kati