Kozjanski park

Kozjanski park, province in eastern Slovenia is one of the oldest and largest protected areas in Slovenia. The protected area with the status of a regional park is a mosaic of the pre-Alpine Posavje Mountain range, hills and plains along the river Sotla.

Beech forests on Orlica, mountain meadows on Vetrnik and Oslica, old orchards on the hilly slopes, wetlands along Sotla, gorges and ravines are the habitats of many plant and animal species, many of which are rare or endangered.

In the preserved nature is embedded centuries-old work of man: the mighty castles, ancient churches and pilgrimage centers, medieval squares and Kozjansko typical farmhouse with carefully cultivated land.

The high degree of biodiversity places Kozjanski park among the most important nature protection areas in Slovenia and Europe with the majority of the park belonging to the European important special protection areas Natura 2000.

Since 2010, the area of Kozjansko and Obsotelje regions have enjoyed the status of a biosphere reserve under the protection of UNESCO (MAB Programme - Man and biosphere).

Well-maintained hiking trails, biking trails, organized hikes and numerous events with demonstrations of traditional and contemporary creation linking natural beauty, cultural heritage and people.

The Kozjansko apple from the meadow orchards has become a symbol of environmentalism, sustainability, preservation of the heritage, health, and recognition of the Kozjansko Regional park protected area.