Step by step, discover the remarkable natural heritage of Pohorje.
The diverse geological structure of Slovenia’s largest silicate mountain range, its varied terrain, and its extensive network of surface waters form the foundation of Pohorje’s exceptionally well-preserved natural environment and landscape. These include vast centuries-old forests, mountain meadows carved out of the woodland, and valuable wetlands such as peat bogs, lakes, and streams.
For centuries, the respectful relationship between the people of Pohorje and their natural surroundings has helped shape and preserve one of the most valuable nature conservation areas in Slovenia and Europe. The highest part of this outstanding landscape is now protected as the Pohorje Regional Park.
The beginning or the end of the Alps?
Pohorje marks the south-eastern edge – or, depending on your perspective, the beginning – of the Alps, Europe’s largest mountain range, stretching from Monaco in the southwest to Vienna in the northeast and reaching as far as Maribor in the southeast.
Slovenia’s oldest rocks call Pohorje home
As Slovenia’s largest silicate mountain range, Pohorje is geologically very different from much of the country’s predominantly sedimentary landscape.
Once dominated by beech forests, today largely spruce
As far as the eye can see, vast forests cover the slopes of Pohorje. Beneath their canopies lives a rich variety of wildlife – and, according to local folklore, even mythical creatures.
The mysterious world of Pohorje’s peat bogs and lakes
The peat bogs of Pohorje remain one of the region’s most fascinating and mysterious natural features.
The colourful Pohorje grasslands, where cattle graze, are covered by a characteristic grass known locally as volk. While the word usually means “wolf” in Slovenian, here it refers to a grass that is characteristic of Pohorje’s mountain meadows.
In the kingdom of Vodovnik, the Pohorje water spirit
The constant companions of visitors exploring Pohorje’s natural treasures are its well-preserved streams.