Huda luknja
Huda luknja is an underground gem of the remote karst and undoubtedly one of the major natural landmarks of the Koroška region and the Šaleška Valley. As one of the first Slovenian caves opened to visitors, it is a true treasure trove of natural and historical wonders. The cave lies right along the Štrekna trail, which passes through a breathtaking gorge squeezed between the steep slopes of Tisnik and Pečovnik—a unique natural passage that in itself invites a stop.
A visit to Huda luknja takes you into a world of subterranean beauty, where the Ponikva stream flows, and the dripstone Bear’s Tunnel (Medvedji rov) is accessible with experienced spelunkers as guides. The cave stretches over 2,300 meters, with a lower section featuring a 400-meter-long water tunnel, while the upper part extends over two levels connected by a picturesque waterfall approximately 10 meters high.
Natural Attractions
Nearby, you can also visit the Špehovka and Pilanica caves. Archaeologists have found stone tools and weapons from various periods of the Stone Age in Špehovka, along with numerous bear bones. A unique feature are the so-called “bear rubs,” where bears used to remove parasites from their fur by rubbing against the rocks. In Pilanica cave, pieces of high-quality, beautifully decorated pottery from ancient times have been discovered.
The cave’s rich history dates back to the Ice Age, as evidenced by Paleolithic finds. From Roman times, a bronze coin of Emperor Antoninus Pius and various pottery fragments were uncovered in the cave.
The cave is also known for its exceptional biodiversity—it serves as a habitat for endangered plant and animal species, giving it special conservation significance.
History
As early as 1895, locals prepared the cave for tourist visits, and today it offers visitors much more than just a walk through the underground world. Through the local caving club, you can embark on an adrenaline-filled two-hour adventure equipped with proper caving gear. Enthusiasts of karst underground can also participate in a caving school, where they learn rope techniques, attend expert lectures, and explore various caves together with experienced guides.
An additional mark on this beautiful landscape was left by Archduke Ivan, who at the beginning of the 18th century commissioned the construction of a new road through the gorge. In gratitude, the locals erected a monument that still stands today as a reminder of the connection between humans and nature.
Contact for cave tours:
KOROŠKO ŠALEŠKI JAMARSKI KLUB “SPELEOS-SIGA” VELENJE
Črnova 52a (p.p. 138), 3320 Velenje
+386 41 801 876
www.speleos-siga.org