Cerklje Na Gorenjskem: ski resort, Krvavec and culture

Cerklje na Gorenjskem is the starting point for numerous hiking and cycling routes, as well as ascents to the Krvavec ski resort. Krvavec is a mountain ski resort about ten minutes from an international airport and is considered the ski resort closest to Ljubljana. Alongside its winter activities, the area also offers a wealth of culture, nature and trails, making the town a versatile base.

Winter and outdoor activities

The Cerklje–Jezerca–Cerklje cycling route starts in Cerklje, is 27.2 kilometres long and has an elevation gain of 1,020 metres. It reaches Planina Jezerca and then follows the same route back. Krvavec Bike Park offers 27 kilometres of marked cycling and downhill trails for different ability levels. Krvavec Summer Park complements this offering with an adventure park and rides on mountain go-karts, micro-scooters and bicycles.

Cerklje's cycling network comprises eight marked routes through the lowlands and rolling hills. An overview map is available in the centre of Cerklje, in front of Petrovčeva hiša. Another route follows the Cerklje–Brnik–Cerklje loop: it starts in Cerklje, leads to Zgornji Brnik and returns to Cerklje via field paths through Vašca.

Culture and history

The Cerklje Municipal Museum presents archaeological, ethnological and historical exhibitions. Regular guided tours of the museum exhibitions take place on Thursdays at 4:30 p.m. and on Saturdays at 9:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.; advance registration is required. Excavations in 2019 uncovered the remains of an anti-Turkish camp in the centre of Cerklje. The same excavations also revealed a large Old Slavic burial ground dating from the 10th century.

Hribarjeva Villa in Cerklje was opened as a municipal museum and is dedicated to the history of the town and to Ivan Hribar. The permanent exhibitions address Ivan Hribar's political, social and personal legacy, as well as the significance of Cerklje. Petrovčeva hiša in the centre houses the tourist information centre, a gallery, a museum and a library. The museum presents archaeological and ethnological collections, while the gallery hosts art exhibitions. Guided tours of the centre of Cerklje also include the Baroque Church of the Assumption of Mary.

The memorial park in the centre of Cerklje features busts of six notable figures. Following conservation restoration, Borštnik House preserves its original floors, wall paintings, carpentry and heating elements. Exhibition panels there provide information about Ignacij Borštnik and the way of life in such a house more than 100 years ago.

Nature

Češnjevek Pond is part of the Natura 2000 network. The forest stream at the pond provides a habitat for the southern damselfly, Europe's largest dragonfly predator. Together, the ponds Lahovče and Češnjevek, along with the forest and other near-natural vegetation, form a refuge for various animal species. At the same time, they are used for fish farming and fishing by beginners and experienced anglers alike.

The themed walking trail Under the Forest Canopy runs through the Municipality of Cerklje. It brings the municipality's natural beauty, cultural heritage and other attractions to life. Large parts of this culturally rich area are protected as natural assets and are included in Natura 2000. Ribja avantura is an interactive educational trail with six stations in the surroundings of Cerklje. There, visitors learn about the importance of fishing, fish farming and fish cuisine in connection with the region's cultural and natural heritage. The trail is approximately 14 kilometres long and is best experienced by bicycle in pleasant weather.

Events and regional traditions

Večer folklore takes place in Cerklje every year and presents traditional dances performed by folklore groups from various parts of Slovenia. Zaigrajmo v pomlad z Godbo Cerklje is a concert held in Cerklje every spring. Every year, the Šenčur Godlarer carnival parade is also presented in the centre of Cerklje. Barletov Memorial is an annual firefighting competition held in Cerklje in memory of France Barle.

Every year before Easter, Petrovčeva hiša hosts a traditional exhibition of Easter and spring decorations. This event passes on knowledge and traditions from one generation to the next. In the wider surroundings of Cerklje, the Beekeeping Farm Museum takes visitors through the history of beekeeping. The museum shop offers local honey, propolis, pollen, honey brandy and beeswax products.

More local pages: Zgornje Jezersko, Preddvor, Naklo, Kranj, Šenčur.

Back to the main travel overview: City Municipality of Kranj.