Skofja Loka Slovenia
One of the best preserved old town centers
Skofja Loka is one of the best-preserved town centers in Slovenia.
Watched over by an old castle, surrounded by a diverse countryside shaped by rivers and hills, it truly is worthy of a visit.
Where is it?
Skofja Loka lies Northwest of Ljubljana, some 30 km away from the Slovenian capital.
There is a parking at the entrance of the old town, across the street from a bus terminal.
You can cross the Sora river and enter the town from there, but we suggest a short hike via Podlubnik, so you get a better feeling of the area.
A little hike
Just follow the river upstream on the right bank, pass secondary and primary schools and then cross two-foot bridges to get to the right bank of Sora. Turn left there and then after a few minutes break up the hill on the right.
Don't worry. It is not strenuous, just a few minutes, but be sure to follow the left path while climbing as it will bring you to the castle wall.
Follow the wall and you should come to the main entrance and castle garden which offers an excellent view over Skofja Loka.
History of Skofja Loka Slovenia
Škofja Loka was first mentioned in the year 973.
Became a town in 13th Century and was surrounded by city walls by 15 century, when it was attacked at least twice, once by invading Turk army.
In the year 1511, an earthquake destroyed most of the town. Some of the houses from the time of rebuilding stand even today, despite two large fires in the 17th century.
So does the castle. In the 18th century, they brought the walls and city gates down, but some of it still remain visible.
Things to see
There are many things to see in Skofja Loka. It is like an open museum. Apart from the Castle be sure not to miss
- Nace house built in the 17th century with very well preserved interior,
- St. Jakob and Capuchin Franciscan churches
- Rupnik defensive line, built after the WW1, with around a hundred bunkers.
- and much more
What to do in skofja loka
You can just relax and check a daily rhythm of the city and have a coffee at Homan house. Or you can enjoy a meal at one of the restaurants.
Or you could mix it with a bit of adventure, bring sports clothes along and make Skofja Loka visit a wonderful one day trip.
Biking and hiking
Skofja Loka is wonderful for cross-country biking. Many hills have very good roads and are included in some of the most scenic bike trails.
If you are a seasoned biker we suggest a circle across Stari vrh. Start through Poljanska valley and then return on the other side through Selska valley.
Stari vrh is a ski resort and can be reached by car as well. Those who love hiking can visit Krizna gora or Lubnik.
They both offer excellent views and delicious food.
Visit Kranj too
We suggest you visit Kranj too once in Skofja Loka. It's just 11 km away and it has many similar features. An old town center, a river canyon cut through the city and just as rich in heritage.
Hotels in Škofja Loka Slovenia
There are various hotels in and around Kranj.
For other tourist information please visit Local tourist information office.
ATET OFFICE DISTANCES
| Ljubljana | 19 km | 24 min |
| Koper | 123 km | 1h 22 min |
| Ljubljana Airport | 18,8 km | 27 min |
| Maribor | 143 km | 1h 45 min |
Rent a Car and start exploring beautiful Škofja Loka and all surroundings. In case you would need any additional information, please feel free to contact us on ... or call us on 00386 1 320 82 30. We are always glad to help you with everything!
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