Water Springs

Large geological shifts that crafted the present-day relief of the Vipava Valley are responsible for contacts of specific rock types displaying varying degrees of permeability, which has resulted in mighty and extraordinary water springs.

The Vipava River does not spring from one source, instead it bubbles up from a branched system of springs. There are seven permanent springs and at least as many temporary ones – together they make up the famous delta-shaped riverhead, a unique phenomena in Europe. The picturesque karst springs with clean drinking water are set on the rocky outskirts of the town of Vipava, giving the town its unmistakable character.

The Hubelj River springs forth from the steep walls of the Trnovo Plateau just above Ajdovščina. When the waters rise, the spring of the torrential Hubelj River looks magnificent. The highest lying spring can create an up to fifty metre tall waterfall which literally drums as the massive volume of water tumbles into the riverbed.

In places where rocks from different geological worlds meet and high plateaus come into contact with the plains of the Vipava Valley, very peculiar springs have emerged. Another fascinating water feature, besides the Vipava and Hubelj springs, is the occasional spring of the Lijak Creek which is dry most of the year, but surprises with a massive discharge after downpours. Uphill from the Lijak spring is the famous take-off site for paragliders and hang gliders.

Separating the Nanos Plateau and Trnovo Forest Plateau, the Bela Gorge is the real belle of this area, and the torrential Bela Creek has created amazing pools further upstream. The high walls over the picturesque creek are a popular climbing site today.

Occasionally, you will stumble on a water spring in places where you’d least expect it. Take the Erzelj spring for instance which blends together with the numerous small, enduring and therefore precious springs up in the hills over the valley. An interesting hiking trail was set up past the springs.