Stone village wells and a well-preserved settlement layout are at the heart of Nova Vas; the wider Bloke area also offers trails and seasonal activities. When planning your visit, it is worth treating the village’s history and the various route and event options as distinct highlights.
Wells and Local History
Nova Vas is a roadside settlement with well-preserved buildings and an intact village layout. Large stone village wells were built in the centre in the late 19th century. The water supply to the village centre dates back further: in 1863, water flowed from the Sušica spring into the village centre through wooden pipes. The wells and water pipeline are therefore part of the village’s longer history.
The area around the oldest surviving well in the centre has been extensively renovated. A surviving water pipe made of pine wood is on display beside the well. Those interested in the village’s architectural history will find a tangible point of reference here: the wells are not merely stone features of the village, but are also connected to its former water supply.
Circular Routes and Activities
For cyclists, the 33-kilometre Bloška kolesarska pentlja starts and ends in Nova Vas. This makes it possible to plan the loop from here; check current route conditions in advance. In the wider Bloke area, the Krpanova pot is a 19-kilometre circular route through the landscape, with a longer 23-kilometre option. These two distances offer a clear choice between the shorter and longer loop.
The annual Krpan Hiking Day is a dedicated hiking event: the marked route is considered suitable for all generations, and you can choose the length and difficulty according to your abilities. Check the date separately before planning your trip around it. At the TIC Bloke in Nova Vas, hikers can get a leaflet with a map describing and marking attractions along the Krpanova pot. Check whether the leaflet is available before making plans.
Seasonal Experiences and Water
In winter, access to the cross-country skiing area depends on the season and snow conditions. From the car park beside the Bloški smučar hall, it is a 100-metre walk to the access point. North of the parking areas is an open-air theatre with wooden seating for 200 visitors. It is suitable for cultural events and open-air concerts; the events held there may vary.
Nearby, Bloško jezero offers a seasonal change of scene: in summer it attracts swimmers, and in winter, when the surface freezes, ice skaters. There is also a playground for children on the shore. The Bloščica presents a different water scene: when water levels are high, it flows past Nova Vas in an otherwise dry riverbed as far as Fara, where it disappears into numerous swallow holes.
Events and Horse Activities
Mihaelov Sejem takes place every September in Nova Vas as part of the municipal holiday celebrations. Products and produce from local manufacturers and growers are offered there; the selection may vary from one edition to the next. Check the current event date before travelling.
Tek po Blokah is a recurring running event held as part of the municipal holiday celebrations. The 15th edition took place in 2025. At a race in 2011, the start was beside the grass sports field in Nova Vas; this detail refers to that particular race.
Horses are available for hire at Ranč Bloke, Nova Vas 3a, by prior arrangement. The farm also boards visitors’ horses and offers the breaking-in of young horses as well as Western riding lessons. Make arrangements in advance if you wish to take part.
Discover more destinations: Stari Trg Pri Ložu, Cerknica, Rakek, Runarsko, Iga Vas, Markovec, Žerovnica, Grahovo.
Back to the main travel overview: Cerknica.
