The picturesque confluence of the Sora and Sava rivers is one of Medvode’s most recognizable natural areas, ideal for walks and relaxation. The meeting point of the two rivers inspired the town’s name, Medvode, literally meaning “between waters”.
Medvode
Municipality
ATTRACTIONS
CONFLUENCE OF THE SAVA AND THE SORA RIVERS
LAKE ZBILJE
Lake Zbilje is an artificial reservoir on the Sava River near the village of Zbilje. It was created in 1953, when a dam was built as part of the construction of the Medvode Hydroelectric Power Plant. The lake is 5 kilometres long, up to 250 metres wide and covers an area of 69 hectares. Its water level can reach an elevation of 328 metres above sea level. Lake Zbilje is a popular destination for walking, boating, fishing and enjoying nature.
OLD CASTLE IN SMLEDNIK
The Old Castle, also known as Smlednik Castle, stands on a small hill east of Lake Zbilje and north of Šmarna Gora. Its ruins rank among the most important in Slovenia, while its design and architectural development make it a characteristic example of a medium-sized medieval castle in central Slovenia. Today, it is a popular viewpoint, while in the past it served as an observation point for spotting approaching invaders. An important trade route from the Savinja region towards Italy also once passed by the castle.
BIRTHPLACE OF JAKOB ALJAŽ
The birthplace of Jakob Aljaž is located in Zavrh beneath Šmarna Gora. This simple farmhouse is where Jakob Aljaž, a priest, composer and prominent supporter of Slovenian mountaineering, was born in 1845. Today, the house is an important memorial dedicated to his life and work. A contemporary exhibition brings visitors closer to Aljaž’s life and his influence on Slovenian identity.
CHURCH OF ST. MARGARET
Standing on the slopes of Jeterbenk, the Church of St. Margaret is a popular destination for hikers. The late Gothic church features a star-vaulted nave with figurative bosses. Inside are four Baroque altars and 17th-century frescoes, while a statue of St. Margaret is built into the front of the bell tower. The church is believed to have been built in the early 16th century using remains from the demolished Jeterbenk Castle. This year, it celebrates its remarkable 500th anniversary.
HAFNER'S CHAPEL (PLEČNIK'S CHAPEL)
The monument complex consists of a chapel, a free-standing bell tower and planted trees conceived as an integral part of the architectural design. Standing alone beside a path amid the meadows, it was designed in 1934 by architect Jože Plečnik at the request of merchant Lovro Hafner.
EXPERIENCES
BOATING ON ZBILJE LAKE
The Zbilje Tourist Association operates a popular boathouse offering wooden rowing boats for trips on Lake Zbilje. You can also explore the lake in an electric-powered boat. Several cafés are located along the lakeshore, and there is also a children’s playground.
WALK ALONG THE ŽLEBE EDUCATIONAL TRAIL
The village of Žlebe, locally known as Marjeta, lies in the Municipality of Medvode, nestled beneath Jeterbenk. Inspired by the area’s rich wildlife and diverse plant life, members of the Žlebe–Marjeta Tourist Association spent ten years developing an educational trail along the forest paths and tracks.