Situated around 25 kms from the capital city of Ljubjana in the Karst region, is the famous postojna cave . Carved by Pivka river, the cave is 25 kms long and the largest cave in Slovenia and among the largest caves in the world.
The cave is formed over a period of 3 million years and is the only place in the world that is the natural habitat of this endangered species – "baby dragons"! they are actually blind aquatic salamanders, called Olms.
The tour begins with a train ride that takes you through the meandering passages of the cave and it feels like a Harry Potter adventure inside the Gringotts bank! The train tracks are laid over 1 km distance inside the caves and from there the guided tour starts.
The cave is incredible! The stunning stalactite and stalagmite rocks that have taken various shapes over centuries are super impressive! Be careful while walking along the path as it can be slippery due to constant water drops dripping to the ground (believe it or not that’s how the river shaped the cave over centuries). Also remember to not use the flash which clicking pictures as the flash from the camera may destroy the structures formed over thousands of years.
The tour lasts for less than 2 hours. Towards the end of the trip, we came across the 5 metre tall white stalagmite, BRILLIANT, which is the symbol of Postojna caves.
Towards the end of the walking tour of the cave you have the opportunity to see the baby dragons! They are around 25 cm long , have a long tail and photosensitive skin which is pale, almost translucent! They can survive without food for 12 years !
Before you board the train to head back, check out the small shop which sells souvenirs and local products.
Also there are few shops at the entrance to the cave complex, that sell local products and souvenirs.
Ticket price -
Combined ticket of the Postojna cave and Predjama castle costs 35 euros per person.
How to reach:
Though buses are available to travel to the cave, renting a car is the easiest way to reach the cave and head on further to the castle. We were driven to and showed around by a lovely couple (Thanks Teja and Mukul! ) .
You can choose to stay the night in one of the nearby hotels.
What to eat :
There are various hotels and restaurants located around the cave. Stop by for a quick coffee before the cave tour.
Important to remember:
Its cold inside the cave, so be adequately prepared with a jacket .
Wear comfortable walking shoes.
Strollers cannot be used inside the cave, so come armed with a good baby carrier.
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