Skocjan Caves
Far more alluring and peaceful than Postojna, cave exploration doesn't get much better than this. Skocjan is where the first Karstic discoveries were made, and the caves have been spared the onslaught of tourism thanks to the protection of UNESCO. So, no intrusive miniature trains or Disneyland adventure-park atmosphere; here there's a real sense of exploration. Moving through the 3km (1 3/4-mile) subterranean system (which includes rigorous stairways), you almost sense the voidlike drama of Silent Cave, and become increasingly aware of the subdued roar of the Murmuring Cave, coming from the underground Reka River. Besides spectacular stalactites, stalagmites, and rim limestone pools (resembling those in Pamukkale in Turkey), Skocjan includes what is believed to be the world's largest underground canyon, as well as awesome bridges and drop-away galleries where the vastness of the subterranean world (at one point you're told the parking lot is 140m/459 ft. above your head) undoes everything you think you know about the earth. (Tip: While you wait for your tour to begin, don't miss the Belvedere Viewpoint, overlooking a magnificent gorge with a small waterfall.)
Far more alluring and peaceful than Postojna, cave exploration doesn't get much better than this. Skocjan is where the first Karstic discoveries were made, and the caves have been spared the onslaught of tourism thanks to the protection of UNESCO. So, no intrusive miniature trains or Disneyland adventure-park atmosphere; here there's a real sense of exploration. Moving through the 3km (1 3/4-mile) subterranean system (which includes rigorous stairways), you almost sense the voidlike drama of Silent Cave, and become increasingly aware of the subdued roar of the Murmuring Cave, coming from the underground Reka River. Besides spectacular stalactites, stalagmites, and rim limestone pools (resembling those in Pamukkale in Turkey), Skocjan includes what is believed to be the world's largest underground canyon, as well as awesome bridges and drop-away galleries where the vastness of the subterranean world (at one point you're told the parking lot is 140m/459 ft. above your head) undoes everything you think you know about the earth. (Tip: While you wait for your tour to begin, don't miss the Belvedere Viewpoint, overlooking a magnificent gorge with a small waterfall.)
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