Cerklje Na Gorenjskem: Cycling Routes, Nature and Culture

When looking for a hotel in Cerklje Na Gorenjskem, your travel plans can provide a useful starting point: the municipality is a base for numerous hiking and cycling routes, as well as climbs to the Krvavec ski resort. Cycling routes, nature experiences and cultural sites offer a variety of ways to plan your stay.

Cycling and Krvavec

Cerklje’s cycling network comprises eight marked routes across the plains and hills. A map overview is available in the centre, in front of Petrovčeva hiša. As maps and markings may be updated, it is a good idea to check the latest information before setting off. The Cerklje–Jezerca–Cerklje cycling route is 27.2 km long, has an elevation gain of 1,020 m and leads to Planina Jezerca; the return journey follows the same route. The distance and elevation gain give you concrete figures to help plan your day.

The Cerklje–Brnik–Cerklje route offers a different itinerary: it leads to Zgornji Brnik and returns to Cerklje via country lanes through Vašca. You can therefore choose between a route to Planina Jezerca with a stated distance and elevation gain, and the named stops and return route of the Brnik route.

Krvavec Bike Park has 27 km of marked cycling and downhill trails for different ability levels. The Krvavec Summer Park offers a seasonal adventure park, as well as rides on mountain karts, micro-scooters and bicycles. Check before your trip whether the summer activities are operating. Krvavec is also a mountain ski resort and the closest ski resort to Ljubljana; it is about ten minutes from an international airport. This is an approximate time, and actual travel time may vary.

Walking Trails and Nature

The themed walking trail Under the Forest Canopy runs through the municipality of Cerklje, offering an experience of its nature, cultural heritage and other sights. Large parts of this culturally rich area are protected as natural assets and included in Natura 2000. Check the current trail route and protected-area information before your walk.

Ribja avantura is an interactive educational trail in the Cerklje area. At six stops, you can learn more about the importance of fishing, fish farming and fish cuisine in relation to the region’s cultural and natural heritage. The trail is about 14 km long and is best experienced by bicycle in pleasant weather. As the route may change, check it before setting off.

The ponds at Lahovče and Češnjevek are also associated with nature and recreation: together with the forest and other natural vegetation, they provide a refuge for various animal species. They are also used for fish farming and fishing by both beginners and experienced anglers; check the local fishing rules in advance. Češnjevek Pond is part of the Natura 2000 area. The forest stream by the pond provides habitat for the great golden-ringed dragonfly, Europe’s largest dragonfly predator.

Museums and Culture in Cerklje

The Cerklje Municipal Museum displays archaeological, ethnological and historical exhibitions. It opened as a municipal museum in Hribarjeva Villa, which is dedicated to the history of the town and Ivan Hribar. The permanent exhibitions explore Hribar’s political, social and personal legacy, as well as the significance of Cerklje. Regular guided tours of the museum exhibitions take place on Thursdays at 16:30 and on Saturdays at 9:30 and 11:30. Advance registration is required. As tour arrangements may change, check the times and registration details before your visit.

In the centre of Cerklje, Petrovčeva hiša houses the tourist information centre, a gallery, a museum and a library. The museum displays archaeological and ethnological collections, while the gallery hosts art exhibitions. Each facility may have its own visiting hours; check them in advance if you are planning a visit.

Archaeological finds offer further insight into the history of the town centre: excavations in 2019 uncovered the remains of an anti-Turkish camp and a large Old Slavic cemetery dating from the 10th century. These discoveries add to the historical themes explored in the local exhibitions.

Recurring Events

Večer folklore takes place every year in Cerklje and features traditional dances performed by folklore groups from various parts of Slovenia. The concert Zaigrajmo v pomlad z Godbo Cerklje is also held every year in spring. Dates may vary; if an event is important to your trip, check the dates for your planned stay.

Discover more destinations: Zgornje Jezersko, Kranj, Šenturška Gora, Naklo, Stiška Vas, Vopovlje, Mlaka pri Kranju, Kokra.

Go to the main travel overview: Kranj.