Gračnica valley

The Gračnica river has its source at Planina pri Sevnici and its stream is most of the time directed from the east to the west, and near Rimske Toplice, it flows into the Savinja river. This splendid valley, formed by a small river, is a result of the rock structure, terrain and climate. Its features and beauties have been known for a long time, so it is to no surprise that this wonderful piece of the Laško municipality was included in the NATURA 2000 network of nature protection areas in the European Union.

The Gračnica valley is an important botanical area with numerous endangered and rare plant species. Marshy river bank biotopes are a habitat to some endangered animal species, and humid meadows are home to rare birds. But that’s not all. Here, natural beauties intertwine with cultural attractions, which give the entire valley a slight touch of mystery, if not even magic. Magnificent waterfalls and the remains of the once majestic Jurklošter monastery carry stories from the past which are worth rediscovering.