Vodice – Between The Fields And The Alps

Close to the City, Embraced by Nature

Just a few kilometers from Ljubljana, Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport, and Kranj lies the municipality of Vodice. It consists of 16 villages interspersed with green fields, quiet country roads, and numerous paths perfect for active leisure.

Vodice is an excellent starting point for cycling, hiking, running, or a relaxing day trip. With the capital and great transport links nearby on one hand, and nature, open views, and a calm rural character on the other – everything is close and easily accessible.

Vodice on Two Wheels

The mostly flat and gently rolling landscape is perfect for short bike trips, family exploration, and recreational tours. While riding, cyclists can connect individual villages, discover cultural and natural landmarks, and enjoy views of the surrounding hills and alpine peaks.

Approximately 21 kilometers of marked cycling links run through the municipality. They form part of the broader Network of Cycling Routes LAS Za mesto in vas (LAG For Town and Countryside). This network connects Vodice with Mengeš, Komenda, and Medvode. Within the municipality, it links villages such as Utik, Šinkov Turn, Skaručna, Polje, Repnje, and Zapoge. The routes mostly run along existing municipal roads and paths, clearly marked with directional and ground signs.

To make your stops more comfortable, there are nine cycling rest areas throughout the municipality. They are equipped with bike racks, tables, and benches. Select locations also feature bike service stations, while three areas offer charging points for electric bicycles.

This makes Vodice an excellent choice for anyone who wants to discover the area and its surroundings slowly, actively, and at their own pace.

A Landscape That Tells Stories

While exploring the municipality, visitors are accompanied by numerous natural and cultural points of interest. Skaručna features the pilgrimage Church of St. Lucy, Šinkov Turn impresses with its restored castle walls and pavilion, and Repnje is the birthplace of the famous linguist Jernej Kopitar. The character of the local villages is shaped by churches, shrines, old homesteads, and traces of a rich local history. The roads and paths between settlements offer views of the Škofja Loka Hills, the Kamnik-Savinja Alps, and on clear days, the view stretches all the way to the Julian Alps.

It is precisely this blend of open landscape, picturesque villages, and the mountain horizon that gives Vodice its special charm.

A Taste of Vodice Tradition

When visiting, you simply cannot miss the famous Vodice pretzels (vodiške preste). The Jagodic family has been baking them according to a traditional recipe for four generations. Their distinctive shape, handcrafted preparation, and long tradition have turned Vodice pretzels into one of the municipality's most recognizable symbols.

However, the culinary experience does not end there. Visitors can experience the flavors of traditional and Slovenian cuisine in local inns, including Gostilna Skaručna run by Slavko Žagar, Gostilna pri Anzelnu in Bukovica pri Vodicah, and elsewhere. Homeliness, hospitality, and a diverse culinary offer beautifully round off the Vodice experience.

Experience Vodice at Your Own Pace

The Merkur zavarovalnica L’Etape Slovenia is an opportunity to get to know Vodice in a sporting rhythm. However, it is well worth returning even when you do not need to check the clock or your odometer. Come for a bike trip, to explore the cultural heritage, taste local delicacies, or simply to unwind in nature.

Welcome to Vodice, a green oasis of nature between the fields and the Alps – close to everything, yet far enough for a true getaway.