Our journey begins with two of Slovenia's most famous caves - Postojna and Scotia, which are true pearls in the crown of Slovenia's natural heritage.

Postojna Cave (Postojna Cave) is a true giant among European caves, with an impressive length of 24 kilometers. It is located in Postojna, at Jamska cesti 30, just 50 kilometers from Slovenia's capital, Ljubljana. Access is very convenient - you can get here by car, bus or train. The cave is open all year round, with opening hours varying according to the season (for up-to-date information, visit the official website: https://www.postojnska-jama.eu/sl/).

What makes Postojna so special? First of all, it's the underground train system that takes visitors deep into the cave. This is an attraction that will especially appeal to children - a trip on a small train through the dark tunnels is a real adventure! The tour route is about 5 km long, of which 3.7 km are traveled by train and the rest on foot. The temperature inside the cave remains at a constant 10°C, so it is advisable to bring a warm covering with you.

One of the cave's most fascinating inhabitants is the cave changeling (Proteus anguinus), also known as the 'human fish'. This is an endemic species of amphibian that has adapted to living in total darkness. In a specially prepared vivarium you can see these unusual creatures.

For families with children, Postojna offers special attractions, such as 'Cave Treasure' - an interactive adventure for the little ones. Note that the route is not suitable for baby strollers, but special baby carriers can be rented.

The Škocjanska Caves (Škocjanske jame) are another natural wonder, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. They are located in Matavun 12, 6215 Divača, about 30 km from Trieste. Access is possible by car or bus from nearby towns.

What distinguishes the Scotia Caves is the huge underground canyon of the Reka River. The tour route leads over spectacular bridges suspended high above the rushing river, guaranteeing an unforgettable experience. The tour lasts about 2 hours and requires good physical fitness - you have to climb more than 500 stairs.

For families with children there is a special educational path on the surface, where you can learn about the geology and ecology of the region. Also worth a visit is the cave museum, which introduces the history of the exploration of these underground wonders.

Both Postojna and the Scotia Caves offer various ticket options, including family tickets. Prices and availability can change depending on the season, so it's always a good idea to check the official websites of the caves for up-to-date information before planning a visit.

Both caves are suitable for visitors of varying levels of ability, but due to the nature of the terrain, some parts may be difficult to access for those with limited mobility. In both cases, it is recommended to wear comfortable, non-slip footwear and warm clothing.

Exploring these underground giants is not only a lesson in geology, but also an unforgettable adventure for the whole family. Postojna and Šcotjan are places where nature creates true wonders, and every step brings new and fascinating discoveries.

Continuing our journey through the Slovenian underground, we move on to two lesser-known but equally fascinating caves: the Cross Cave and Črna Jama.

Cross Cave (Križna jama) is a true gem hidden in the heart of Slovenia. It is located in Bloška Polica 7, 1384 Grahovo, about 60 km south of Ljubljana. It is accessible by car, but due to the limited number of parking spaces, it is advisable to arrive early.

What makes the Cross Cave special? First of all, it's the system of underground lakes through which you pass by boat during your visit. It's an extraordinary experience that remains in the memory for a long time. The cave is also famous for its rich paleontological finds - numerous remains of cave bears have been discovered here.

Visiting the Cross Cave requires advance reservations. There are various tours, from a 1-hour lake tour to a 7-hour expedition to the deepest parts of the cave. The basic tour, which lasts about 1.5 hours, is recommended for families with children.

Important information for visitors:

• The temperature in the cave is about 8°C, so warm clothing is essential.
• The cave is not suitable for people with reduced mobility.
• Children under the age of 10 can participate only in the shortest tour.
• Tours are conducted in small groups, with a maximum of 4 people plus a guide.

Črna Jama (Black Cave) is another gem of Slovenian karst. It is located in Veliki Otok, 6230 Postojna, in close proximity to the famous Postojna Cave. Access is easy - the cave is located on the main road leading to Postojna.

Črna Jama, as its name suggests, is characterized by dark walls covered with soot. This is the result of fires that took place in the cave in the past. The cave has a fascinating history - during World War II it served as a shelter for partisans.

A tour of Črna Jama is only possible with a guide. The tour is about 3.5 kilometers long and takes about 1.5 hours. The cave has a constant temperature of about 9°C.

Important information for visitors:

• Črna Jama is part of the Postojna Cave complex and is often visited as part of an extended tour.
• Due to the uneven ground, it is recommended to wear comfortable, non-slip footwear.
• The cave is not suitable for wheelchair users.
• Children of all ages are welcome to participate in the tour, but special care should be taken on slippery surfaces.

Both Cross Cave and Črna Jama offer unique experiences that complement those of Slovenia's better-known caves. They are ideal destinations for families looking for slightly less crowded but equally fascinating attractions.

There are places to rest and dine near both caves. It's worth planning a day trip, combining a visit to the caves with exploring the beauty of the surrounding countryside. Slovenia's karst region offers many hiking trails and viewpoints that perfectly complement underground adventures.

Keep in mind that caves are delicate ecosystems. When visiting, strictly follow the environmental rules and instructions of the guides. This will not only ensure the safety of visitors, but also help preserve these remarkable places for future generations.

At the end of our journey through Slovenia's caves, we will discover three lesser-known but equally fascinating sites: Weaver Cave, Planina Cave and Vilenica. Each of these caves has its own unique character and offers an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventurers.

Weaver Cave (Tkalca jama) is a picturesque cave located in the Rakov Škocjan region, precisely at 1381 Škocjan, Slovenia. Access to the cave is possible by car, taking road No. 914. Parking spaces are available on site, although the number is limited.

What sets Weaver Cave apart? Above all, it is its remarkable history and legend. The cave is named after a stalagmite resembling a weaver who, according to local legends, was turned to stone for working on Sunday. The cave offers spectacular views of the surrounding rocks and wildlife, and there are fascinating rock formations.

Important information for visitors:

• The descent to the cave is steep and can be slippery, so proper footwear and caution is recommended.
• The cave is not suitable for people with limited mobility.
• Admission to the cave is free, but a local guide is recommended.
• The best time to visit is from spring to autumn, when the trails are dry and safe.

Planina Cave (Planinska jama) is another gem of Slovenian karst, located at 6232 Planina. This cave is known for having the largest underground river connection in Europe, which makes it extremely interesting from a geological point of view.

What makes Planina Cave unique?

• The opportunity to observe the phenomenon of the merging of two underground rivers, the Pivka and the Raki.
• The presence of endemic animal species, including the famous cave changeling.
• The unique opportunity to explore part of the cave by boat (available once a day at 5pm during the summer season).

Practical information:

• The cave is partially available for self-exploration, but it is advisable to use the services of a guide.
• The temperature in the cave is about 8-10°C, so warm clothing is essential.
• It is advisable to bring a flashlight, as lighting in the cave is limited.
• Parking is located a few minutes from the cave entrance and is free of charge.

Vilenica is the oldest tourist cave in Europe, located in Lokev 4v, 6219 Lokev. The history of its commercial use dates back to 1633, making it a true witness to the evolution of cave tourism.

What sets Vilenica apart?

• A rich history and tradition of sightseeing dating back to the 17th century.
• Spectacular dripstone formations, including the famous 'Red Room'.
• The Vilenica International Literary Festival, held annually.

Visitor information:

• The cave is open to tourists only on Sundays at 3pm or by advance reservation for groups.
• The temperature inside the cave is about 10°C.
• The tour includes about 450 stairs, which requires good physical fitness.
• Tickets can be purchased online or on site, but due to the limited number of seats, advance reservations are recommended.

Weaver Cave, Planina Cave and Vilenica, while less well-known than their famous neighbors, offer an unforgettable experience for the whole family. They are ideal places for those who want to discover the less crowded, but equally fascinating face of Slovenian karst.

When planning a visit to these caves, there are a few general rules to keep in mind:

• Always check up-to-date information about opening hours and ticket prices on the caves' official websites.
• Dress appropriately - the temperature in the caves is consistently cold.
• Wear comfortable, non-slip footwear.
• Follow environmental rules and the guides' instructions.
• Consider combining a visit to the caves with an exploration of nearby attractions, such as the Škocjanske Jame Regional Park or picturesque karst villages.

Exploring these hidden gems of Slovenian karst is not only a lesson in geology and history, but above all an unforgettable adventure for the whole family. Each of these caves has its own unique character and history, offering visitors a deep dive into the fascinating world of underground natural wonders.