Gorje

Photo: The Julian Alps

An idyllic village at the foothills of the Julian Alps between Bled and Pokljuka, Gorje will attract you with its genuine village vibes, magnificent natural landscape and rich cultural heritage. It invites you to discover the traditional crafts of Gorenjska and the natural pearls that have built the environment. The pearl among them is most certainly the Vintgar Gorge.

Gorje – the gateway to the mountainous world of the Julian Alps

Gorje is the entrance to the Julian Alps and to the Pokljuka and Mežakla plateaus. The village was known for its bell-making tradition that has been preserved at the Šobrl workshop in Poljšica. You can find out more about the bell-making tradition at “Pogvajnova kovačnica”, a preserved smithy at Višelnica. Bells have a special role in Gorje because they have been integrated into the municipal coat of arms.

The mighty sounds of bell ringing can be heard from the parish Church of St George in Zgornje Gorje that has a typical bronze bell that also resounds in the most famous chant from Gorje. The Church of Poglej has a different story – it is actually not a church but a rock cave, known as one of the oldest archaeological sites in Slovenia. Today, it appeals to sport climbers.

The green surroundings offer amazing wonders of nature, including the picturesque Vintgar Gorge and the Pokljuka Gorge. Go cycling or walking from the villages of Gorje to the Radovna River Valley, which takes you all the way to the foothills of the Julian Alps.