Picture this: you’re floating gently upwards, leaving the valley floor behind as a fairytale plateau dotted with peculiar wooden huts comes into view. This is how your adventure on the Velika Planina cable car begins, and it's the only way to truly access one of Slovenia's most magical alpine pastures. For our team at Outdoor Slovenia, this is so much more than just a lift up a mountain; it's the start of a story you won't forget.
Your Alpine Adventure Starts Here
Velika Planina is an absolute must-do day trip, especially if you're staying in popular spots like Lake Bled. It's the perfect mix of jaw-dropping natural beauty and a living, breathing culture that feels a world away from the hustle and bustle below. As you glide upwards, the Kamnik-Savinja Alps unfold around you in a spectacular panoramic show.
Once you step off at the top, it’s not just the views that greet you, but a deep sense of history. The famous shepherd's settlement, with its truly unique architecture, makes you feel like you've wandered onto a film set. It’s a fantastic spot for families, active hikers, and anyone just looking for a genuine slice of Slovenian mountain life.
The Heartbeat of the Mountain
It was the cable car that really transformed this once-remote herders' settlement into the beloved destination it is today. When it opened back on September 13, 1964, it created a vital link to the plateau, and now it brings around 85,000 passengers a year up to the sprawling 5.61 km² highland. Amazingly, it remains Europe's largest functioning herders' settlement, a real testament to its lasting legacy. You can dive deeper into its story on the Kamnik Museum website.
This journey is the perfect introduction to the alpine world. It’s accessible, stunningly beautiful, and offers a unique glimpse into a traditional way of life that has thrived for centuries on this magnificent plateau.
What Awaits You at the Top
The Velika Planina experience is packed with things to see and do for every type of traveller. Here’s a little taste of what makes this place so special:
- Breathtaking Vistas: Soak in uninterrupted views of the surrounding alpine peaks from over 1,600 metres up.
- Unique Cultural Heritage: Wander through the charming shepherd's village and admire the oval-shaped wooden huts that you won't find anywhere else.
- Authentic Local Flavours: If you visit during the summer grazing season, you can try fresh dairy products like sour milk (kislo mleko) and the famous Trnič cheese right from the source.
- Year-Round Adventure: From summer hiking trails that crisscross the plateau to winter snowshoeing and sledging, there’s always something happening up here, no matter the season.
Riding a Slovenian Engineering Marvel
The Velika Planina cable car isn't just a ride to the top; it's an experience in its own right—a genuine piece of Slovenian history. The journey is a thrilling, seamless glide over a vast forest canopy. It feels less like a cable car and more like you're soaring, a sensation that’s pretty unique in this country.
That incredible feeling is all down to some seriously clever design. What makes this trip so special is that it’s the longest cable car in Europe built without a single support tower between the valley and the summit. This gives you completely unobstructed, panoramic views and a uniquely smooth ascent, making the five-minute ride feel like a private scenic flight.
A Journey Back in Time
Picture stepping into one of the silver gondolas for the first time on 13 September 1964. On that day, it became the first of its kind in what was then Yugoslavia. Even today, it remains one of only three such aerial lifts in all of Slovenia. This engineering masterpiece, designed by Vlado Kopač, covers an impressive 2,625 metres and climbs a steep 1,050 metres, totally changing how people accessed the Kamnik Alps.
You can dive deeper into its story on the official Velika Planina website.
The cable car fundamentally changed life on the plateau. It transformed a secluded, seasonal community of shepherds into a beloved, accessible destination for everyone, all while preserving the timeless charm of the alpine pasture.
While its history is fascinating, its modern operation is all about safety and reliability. The system has been consistently updated to meet the highest contemporary safety standards, ensuring every journey is as secure as it is breathtaking. Our guides at Outdoor Slovenia have immense respect for this marvel, which opens up the high alpine world to so many. It plays a similar role to the one on Vogel, another of Slovenia’s spectacular mountain lifts. You might be interested in our guide on the Vogel Ski Resort and its famous cable car.
Key Technical Features
A few key numbers really help you appreciate the scale of this ride. Here’s a quick breakdown of what makes it all work so well:
- Capacity: Each of the two cabins can hold up to 30 people, keeping things moving even on busy days.
- Speed: It travels at a brisk but comfortable 6 metres per second, so the trip is quick and enjoyable.
- Elevation Gain: The journey kicks off at 556 metres in the Kamniška Bistrica valley and whisks you up to 1,606 metres, with dramatic changes in scenery all the way up.
This impressive mix of historic design and modern performance ensures your adventure begins the second you step into the gondola, setting the stage perfectly for the wonders waiting on the plateau above.
Planning Your Cable Car Trip
Getting the logistics sorted is the first step to a brilliant day out. Planning your trip on the Velika Planina cable car is actually pretty straightforward, whether you're driving from Ljubljana or coming from the fairytale charm of Lake Bled. We've got the practical details covered, so you can focus on the incredible adventure waiting for you at the top.
From Ljubljana, it's an easy, scenic drive of about 45 minutes to the lower cable car station near Kamniška Bistrica. If you're starting your day at Lake Bled, budget about an hour to wind through some beautiful Slovenian countryside. The route is well-signposted, and there's a large car park at the station, though it does fill up fast on sunny weekends, so an early start is never a bad idea.
Tickets and Operating Hours
To help you map out your day, here’s a quick rundown of what to expect for the cable car schedule and tickets.
Velika Planina Cable Car At a Glance
This table gives you a quick snapshot of the essential details for planning your visit.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Summer Hours (Jun-Sep) | First ride up around 8:00 AM, running every half hour. Last descent is usually around 6:00 PM. |
| Off-Season Hours | Shorter hours, typically starting later and finishing earlier. Always check the official site! |
| Ticket Options | Purchase a return cable car ticket or a combined ticket that includes the chairlift at the top. |
| Discounts | Family packages and reduced prices for children and seniors are available. |
| Online Booking | Recommended during peak season (July/August) to skip the queues. |
While the cable car runs year-round, its hours definitely shift with the seasons. It's crucial to check the official Velika Planina website for the most up-to-date timetable before you head out. Trust us, you don't want any surprises!
You can grab tickets right at the station when you arrive. You'll see a few different options: a simple return ticket for the cable car is one, but we recommend the combined ticket that also includes the two-seater chairlift at the top. It's a great way to save your legs and get you straight into the heart of the high pastures.
Expert Tip: If you're visiting during the peak months of July and August, do yourself a favour and buy your tickets online in advance. It lets you waltz past the queue and head straight for the gondola.
Planning a bigger Slovenian adventure? It's always smart to learn how to find cheap vacation packages to make your travels a bit more budget-friendly. And for a really deep dive into all the ways to reach the plateau, check out our complete guide on how to get to Velika Planina. A little bit of planning makes sure your trip to this alpine paradise is perfectly smooth from start to finish.
Exploring the Plateau in Summer and Winter
Stepping off the Velika Planina cable car feels like entering another world, one that completely transforms with the seasons. Depending on when you visit, you could be wandering through a living museum of alpine tradition or gliding down snowy slopes. The plateau has its own unique rhythm, shifting from the gentle cowbells of summer to the quiet hush of a winter snowfall.
Each season offers a completely different adventure. Summer paints the landscape in vibrant green, crisscrossed by hiking trails and alive with the sounds and culture of the local herdsmen. Winter, on the other hand, blankets the pastures in a sparkling white playground, perfect for families and anyone looking for some safe, accessible winter fun.
Summer Adventures Among the Herdsmen
When the sun is warm, Velika Planina truly comes alive. The biggest draw is without a doubt the enchanting shepherd’s village—it's the largest of its kind in Europe. You can easily spend hours just meandering between the unique, oval-shaped huts with their distinctive shingled roofs. It honestly feels like you've stepped back in time.
For a deeper dive into the local culture, a visit to the Preskar Museum is an absolute must. This preserved hut gives you a fascinating peek into the simple yet resourceful life of the shepherds who have worked this land for centuries.
The real taste of summer on the plateau comes straight from the source. Many herdsmen sell fresh dairy products directly from their huts—you can't leave without trying the local sour milk (kislo mleko) or the distinctive, pear-shaped Trnič cheese.
Hiking, of course, is the main event up here. There are routes for every fitness level, so everyone can get out and explore:
- Easy Stroll: A leisurely walk through the main settlement is perfect for families and takes about an hour, giving you plenty of time to soak it all in.
- Moderate Hike: For different perspectives and more charming huts, take the trail over to nearby Mala Planina.
- Ambitious Trek: If you’re chasing incredible panoramic views, make the hike up to the peak of Gradišče at 1,666 metres. It’s worth every step!
Winter Wonderland on the Plateau
As soon as snow blankets the pastures, Velika Planina becomes a friendly, laid-back winter resort. The atmosphere is relaxed and perfect for families or those who are new to snow sports. The focus here isn't on black-diamond runs, but on simply enjoying the serene mountain environment in a safe way.
The main winter activity is skiing and snowboarding on the family-friendly slopes. In a major upgrade, 2023 saw the launch of the brand-new Šimnovec six-seater chairlift, replacing a beloved classic from 1964. This state-of-the-art lift dramatically improves access from the cable car station to Gradišče peak. It can carry up to 1,500 people per hour on its 1.3 km journey! You can read more about this impressive new addition on the Kamnik Museum website.
Beyond skiing, winter offers other simple joys. Sledging is incredibly popular, and there are designated areas where you can rent a sledge and just have fun. For something a bit quieter, snowshoeing is a peaceful way to explore the silent, snow-covered landscape, giving you a completely different perspective of the shepherd's village in its winter slumber.
Insider Tips for a Perfect Day Out
To really squeeze every drop of magic out of your day on the plateau, a few local insights can make all the difference. As a team that spends countless hours in the Slovenian Alps, we’ve picked up a few secrets along the way—the kind of stuff that turns a good trip into one you’ll talk about for years. It all boils down to respecting the mountain's famously fickle personality.
The first rule of any alpine adventure is to expect the unexpected. Even if you start the day basking in glorious sunshine, the temperature can plummet and the wind can howl out of nowhere. Layering your clothes isn't just a suggestion; it’s essential. Think a moisture-wicking base layer, a warm fleece, and a waterproof shell. And please, don't even think about coming up here without sturdy, comfortable shoes with good grip. Safety first!
Timing is Everything
If you want to dodge the crowds and soak in that truly special atmosphere, your timing is key. Getting an early start not only helps you snag a good parking spot but also rewards you with the soft morning light and an almost sacred quiet that blankets the plateau before most people arrive.
Then again, showing up late in the afternoon during summer has its own reward: the legendary "golden hour." This is when the setting sun paints the entire landscape in a warm, ethereal glow, making the shepherds' village look like something straight out of a fairytale.
Expert Tip: For that postcard-perfect photo, find the gentle slope just west of the main shepherd’s settlement. This spot gives you the perfect angle to frame those unique wooden huts against the dramatic backdrop of the Kamnik-Savinja Alps. It’s a shot you won't regret setting up.
A few more nuggets of wisdom to make your day seamless:
- Bring Cash: The main restaurants will take cards, no problem. But some of the shepherds selling their incredible homemade cheese or snacks from their huts are cash-only.
- Pack Water and Snacks: You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so stay hydrated and keep your energy up. While you can buy food up top, having your own stash means you’re free to wander wherever the trails take you.
- Respect the Pastures: Please, stick to the marked trails. The alpine flora is incredibly delicate. And remember, this is a working farm—give the cows and other animals their space. They’re the real locals here!
With these simple tips in your back pocket, you’re ready for an incredible day exploring everything the Velika Planina cable car journey has to offer.
Combine Your Visit with an Outdoor Slovenia Adventure
Why let the adventure stop when you step off the Velika Planina cable car? A morning spent wandering the peaceful alpine pastures is the perfect wind-up for an afternoon of pure excitement. With Outdoor Slovenia, weaving these two experiences into one unforgettable day is completely seamless.
Picture it: you spend your morning breathing in that crisp mountain air, surrounded by the charming shepherd's huts. Then, instead of just heading home, you meet up with our expert guides for a whole new kind of thrill. We sort out all the logistics—transport from a convenient spot, all the necessary safety gear, and professional guidance—so you can just focus on having a brilliant time.
From Alpine Peaks to Rushing Rivers
Slovenia packs an incredible amount of diversity into a tiny space, which makes it easy to go from tranquil highlands to dynamic rivers in a single day. Think about extending your trip to other iconic spots like the stunning Lake Bled, Slovenia, which is the starting point for many of our adventures.
Here are a couple of popular ways our guests pair the beauty of Velika Planina with an adrenaline rush:
- Pastures & Canyons: After a morning exploring the shepherd's settlement, meet us for an afternoon of canyoning near Lake Bled. You’ll be abseiling down waterfalls and sliding into crystal-clear pools—an exhilarating contrast to the calm of the mountain meadows.
- Mountains & Rafting: For a fantastic family-friendly day, follow up your plateau visit with a fun-filled rafting trip on the Sava Dolinka river. It's the perfect way to see the landscape from a totally different angle, with gentle rapids that are exciting for everyone.
Booking a combined experience means you get the best of both worlds without any of the hassle. We create a smooth, coordinated day trip that lets you see more of Slovenia's natural wonders in a fun, safe, and organised way.
Make It a Full Day of Discovery
By pairing the Velika Planina cable car experience with one of our guided trips, you turn a great day out into an epic Slovenian adventure. You don't have to choose between cultural exploring and active fun—you can absolutely have both.
If you’re looking for more ways to explore the incredible trails in the area, check out our guide to the best hiking near me for more inspiration. Let us help you build a day you'll be talking about long after you've gone home.
Your Questions Answered
Still have a few questions about the Velika Planina cable car? We get it. Planning the perfect trip means ironing out all the little details. This is where we’ll tackle some of the most common queries we hear from travellers.
Think of this as your final checklist before heading up into that incredible alpine wonderland. Let's make sure your visit is as smooth and memorable as possible.
Is the Velika Planina Cable Car Good for Families?
Absolutely. The ride up is a real thrill for all ages, and the views alone will keep the little ones glued to the window. Our guides can attest that safety is paramount, and the cable car is professionally operated and maintained.
Once you’re at the top, the plateau is surprisingly easy to walk around. The paths through the shepherds' village are relatively flat, so they’re manageable even for smaller legs. Plus, with places to eat and tons of open space to run around, it’s a fantastic spot for kids to just enjoy the fresh mountain air. If you're visiting in winter, the ski slopes here are famously gentle and perfect for beginners.
How Much Time Should I Set Aside for a Visit?
We’d recommend planning for at least 3 to 4 hours. That gives you enough time to enjoy the cable car and chairlift rides, wander through the main settlement, pop into the Preskar Museum, and still have time for photos and a snack without feeling rushed.
If you’re keen on a longer hike over to Mala planina or want to sit down for a proper meal at one of the mountain huts, you’ll want to give yourself more like 5 or 6 hours.
Should I Book My Cable Car Tickets in Advance?
It's not always essential, but if you’re visiting during the peak summer months (July and August) or on a sunny weekend, booking online ahead of time is a smart move. It can save you from waiting in a long queue. You can grab your tickets on the official Velika Planina website or just buy them at the ticket office when you arrive.
Ready to turn your alpine exploration into a full-blown adventure? Outdoor Slovenia can perfectly pair your trip to Velika Planina with an afternoon of heart-pumping canyoning or rafting. Check out the options and book your next adventure right here: https://outdoor-slovenia.com.