Velika Polana: Storks, Wetlands and Pilgrimage Routes

Velika Polana brings together stork-related attractions, wetlands and routes connected with local history and crafts. Dežela štorkelj Park is in the village center; other destinations are nearby. If you are looking for a hotel in Velika Polana, you can plan your trip around whether nature, cycling, the history of Danijel Halas or traditional crafts are your main interests. The places and routes described here each have a different focus.

Storks and wetlands

Native plant and tree species typical of the local marshland and wetlands grow in Dežela štorkelj Park. Their composition may change with the seasons. Velika Polana and Mala Polana hold the title of European Stork Village, awarded by the Euronatur Foundation in 1999. The title therefore applies to both villages.

Educational trail, pilgrimage route and walking trail

The Štrkova educational trail in the park provides information about white storks and other sights in the municipality. The Halasova pilgrimage route has a different focus: it connects places where Danijel Halas lived and worked. You can complete the entire route or travel it in stages on foot, by bicycle or by car. The parish church in Velika Polana is stop 8 on the route.

The Miško Kranjec homestead is also the starting point for a trail: the Miškova pot walking trail begins there. Visits to the homestead are possible by prior appointment. Arrange your visit in advance if you would like to see the homestead.

The memorial room for Danijel Halas displays objects he used, photographs of his work and funeral, and a portrait. The pilgrimage route and the memorial room thus offer different biographical perspectives: the route connects places from Halas’s life and work, while the memorial room displays objects and photographic records.

Cycling through Velika Polana and Mala Polana

The Dolinska pot cycling route passes through Velika Polana and Mala Polana. It is also considered suitable for families; the flat landscape, safety, light traffic, opportunities to take breaks and additional activities are among the relevant features. The route, individual stops and conditions may change. Check the current route and conditions before setting out.

Historic mill and traditional crafts

The Copekov Mill is located near Velika Polana. It is protected as a historic monument and is considered an example of ethnological heritage. It is the only surviving mill on the Črnec stream; its restored waterwheel is still in operation. Visits are possible by prior arrangement, so you should plan your visit in advance.

Nearby, Pomelaj offers visits to a traditional homestead and organizes craft workshops. Traditional skills and weaving with willow and branches are taught there. As workshop availability may change, check current visiting and workshop options before you arrive. This will help you choose destinations around Velika Polana based on their respective focus: nature and storks, pilgrimage traditions, cycling or regional crafts.

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