Experiences

Bolfenk – Ruška koča

This route is suitable for families with older children or for less experienced cyclists. It begins at the upper station of the Pohorje cable car (elevation 1,042 meters), which is also a popular lookout point over the city of Maribor.

The route passes by the Church of St. Bolfenk on Pohorje, which was built in 1501. This church has a rich history, dating back to the 14th century when it was originally constructed as a pilgrimage church. The beautiful stone church has undergone several renovations and upgrades over the years, remaining an important cultural monument that attracts visitors with its architecture, religious significance, and scenic location in the untouched nature of Pohorje.

From there, the route continues past the Stolp, Videc, and Partizanka ski slopes and through the forest along the ridge, passing by a water reservoir on the way to Areh, located at an altitude of 1,246 meters.

At Areh, there is the Ruška Lodge, a popular mountain hut known for its good food and lovely view of the Church of St. Areh. The church is a branch of the St. Martin parish on Pohorje and is dedicated to St. Henry, whose name has evolved over time into “Areh.” The church was renovated in 1999, with new windows added in 2018. It features a large altar created by Josef Straub, renowned for his stucco work. In front of the church stands a chapel, which, along with the church, forms part of the cultural monument complex. Below the chapel is a spring believed to have healing properties.

There is then time for a rest and a meal, with the option to play a short game of mini-golf.

From Ruška Lodge, there are views over the southeastern part of Pohorje, toward Šmartno na Pohorju, as well as Boč, Donačka Gora, and Medvednica. Near the newly built Ruška chairlift, there is a view to the north, overlooking the Drava Valley between Fala and Maribor, as well as Kozjak and, further west, a view stretching to Golica in Austria.

From Areh, the route continues along the ridge trail, which also passes hidden post-war construction sites, leading back toward the Pohorje cable car. After a small climb, we reach Ledinek’s Kogel, at an elevation of 1,182 meters, where there is a notable radar for monitoring and controlling airspace. A short descent brings us back to the starting point at the upper station of the Pohorje cable car.

Lenght: 13.800 m
Time: 1:40 h
Highest point: 1258 m
Lowest point: 1046 m
Altitude difference: 212 m

Bolfenk – Slap Skalca

It is suitable for families with older children or for less experienced cyclists. The path begins at the upper station of the Pohorje funicular (elevation 1042m), which is also a popular viewpoint overlooking the city of Maribor.

The first stop on our route is the Skalca waterfall. The waterfall is hidden in the green embrace of nature, and its fresh water offers refreshment and a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for photography and relaxation. The waterfall, which descends 16 meters down a rocky slope, will captivate you with its wild beauty and serene surroundings, with a forest idyll in the background. The location offers visitors the opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy its primal beauty.

After viewing the waterfall, we will continue on past the Maribor Lodge, where we’ll take time to rest, refresh, and relax with views of the surrounding forests.

Once we’ve recharged, our path leads us past Reški vrh, known for its beautiful panoramic views and lush vegetation. The view from Reški vrh, facing Kozjak, offers a panorama that encompasses the scenic areas of this region. Far below, we see the Drava River Valley with Selnica ob Dravi and Ruše, as well as the Kozjak Hills. In clear weather, we can also catch a glimpse of the Austrian mountain Golica (Koralpe) in the distance.

We then continue along Rozka’s Forest Learning Path, which will bring us to the church of St. Bolfenk and seven energy points that promote well-being and a connection with nature.

The Church of St. Bolfenk on Pohorje has a rich history, dating back to the 14th century when it was built as a pilgrimage church. This beautiful stone church has been restored and upgraded several times and remains an important cultural monument, attracting visitors with its architecture, religious significance, and picturesque location in the unspoiled nature of Pohorje.

Two unique features surrounding St. Bolfenk and drawing the attention of visitors are:

  • A mighty beech tree that grows in the meadow near the church, splitting into several trunks at the base, making it one of the largest beeches in Pohorje.
  • A true chestnut tree with a circumference of 408 cm and a height of 14 meters, the highest-growing true chestnut in Pohorje, located north of the church.
Lenght: 10.500 m
Time: 1:50 h
Highest point: 1193 m
Lowest point: 934 m
Altitude difference: 259 m