Velika Slivnica is the highest point of the Slivnica ridge, rising above Lake Cerknica and the town of Cerknica in Slovenia's Notranjska region. It's a peak that offers sweeping views, rich karst nature, and centuries-old legends of witches that still capture visitors' imaginations.
The southern and southwestern slopes are gentle and partly covered with mixed deciduous and coniferous forest, while the northern side drops steeply toward the Cerkniščica valley. Meadows and pastures are gradually shrinking as forest reclaims the land. From the summit, built of Jurassic dolomite and partly karstified limestone, there's a lovely view over Lake Cerknica, the Notranjska plain, and the surrounding plateaus. Several karst springs can be found at the foot of the mountain, and in June the Carniolan lily (Lilium carniolicum) blooms on its slopes.
How to reach the summitBelow the summit lies the Coprniška jama (Witches' Cave), described as early as Valvasor's time — warm, moist air rising from the cave in winter creates fog, which for centuries fueled tales of witches gathering here to conjure storms and hail.