Baza 20

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Open: every day by arrangement;
Tel.: 050/ 633-154

It was from Baza 20 in the Kočevski Rog that the Partisan leadership perfected the strategy which led to the expulsion of Italian and German troops in World War II. You will see that the camp, the Partisans base, was well hidden in the forest. Wooden huts, including a printing press, barracks, and kitchens powered by a generator, were built in sink holes. Although close to the valley villages, the base was ingeniously concealed - in winter, they used hanging ladders to deliver supplies without leaving tell-tale footprints. There is an excellent exhibition and guided tours are available.

Source of the River Krupa

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In a wood just off the road between Semič and Gradac you'll find the source of the River Krupa - where it springs from beneath a high limestone cliff, firstly into a mill pool, then flowing on into a narrow wooded valley. This magical site is a lovely place to rest, soothed by the sound of water, or perhaps to enjoy a picnic of local fare.

Žuniči

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This village was built by Bosnians and Serbs pushed north by the Turkish invasions in the 16th Century. They became well integrated into Slovene society but retained their traditional style of house. Made of wood, the house, stables and barn were built around a courtyard with a gated porch entrance. One house is soon to be open to visitors as a museum.

Mirna gora

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You approach Mirna gora, the 1047m summit of Kočevski Rog, by road or path through woods of beech, oak and spruce and from the viewing tower you can see far over Bela krajina and Croatia. There's also a restaurant, a picnic area and hostel accommodation for school parties and for walkers along the Trdinova pot (path) and forest educational trail Planina- Mirna gora.

Metlika

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Open: Mo - Fri 8-15, Sa 8-13, Su 9-12
Pre-booking recommended
Tel.:07/305-81-77

The delightful small town of Metlika makes a rewarding visit, with its fine Baroque church, fascinating castle and award-winning local wines. Metlika Castle in the main square houses three museums, on the fire service, on winemaking and on local history displaying traditional painted eggs, embroidery, costumes and pottery. In the arcaded courtyard there's a cafe and on summer evenings you may come across one of the town's musical events.

Mithraic temple

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Hidden in woods close to the source of the river Krupa, is a Mithraic temple. The cult of Mithras was strong in the second century A.D. and rivalled Christianity, especially among Roman soldiers.