The Trail from Šteberk to Karlovec Castle

The marked route along the legend of the origin of Lake Cerknica from Šteberk Castle to Karlovec Castle runs along the lake the entire way.

The hike begins in Podšteberk (officially part of the village Lipsenj) at the remains of Šteberk Castle and continues along a former castle path that passes the source of Štebrščica, or a little later Lipsenjščica, toward the church of Sveti Štefan.

At the intersection, it begins to climb to the hill above Lipsenj, where the church of Sveti Rok once stood. From the hill it descends to the paved road and continues through the village of Goričice. In the village you can see a house about 200 years old with a thatched roof, which bears witness to the architecture of that era.

Our path then leads to Gorenje Jezero through the forest, and in good weather a lovely view of the Julian Alps is offered to us.

At Gornje Jezero, the path turns toward the village of Laze. On the way to Laze we cross the Stržen – the stream that springs from Obrh and Cemun (these are the biggest springs that fill Lake Cerknica).

We continue toward the village Otok. We approach the edge of  Lake Cerknica directly above the Tresenec spring, which got its name from the cold water. The path leads us through the village Otok, which is considered the only island village in the country. When we cross the island, we reach a bridge that connects the Drvošec peninsula. Along the way to Ribiški Kot, we enjoy the best views over the surface of Lake Cerknica  toward Slivnica. 

Our path continues along a panoramic road at the foot of the majestic maple forests. On the rock under the road, just before the intersection with the forest road toward the village Dolenja Vas, lie the visible foundations of the Karlovec castle's fortress wall. The rock is surrounded by a wide defensive trench. Our view opens to the Velika and Mala Karlovica caves - which represent the most important outflow area of the Cerknica plain (Cerkniško polje). 

The route continues toward the village Dolenja Vas, where we reach the premises of the Društvo Lovrenc.

Because the route is not circular, it is recommended to participate in the annual traditional organized hiking festival, as there is also bus transport to the starting point available at that time. The hike takes place in September.

A map of all hiking trails in the mystical land of Cerknica Lake can be purchased at the Visitor Center Lake Cerknica for an affordable price of 2.00 €.