Smolnik combines a varied landscape with striking traces of technology and local history. The Lobnica flows through a narrow valley and reaches the plain at Smolnik. The hidden Lobnica and Verna Canyon lies in the deep gorge at Smolnik; along the stream, a 19-hectare tract of untouched Pohorje primeval forest also stretches out. Hiking trails and a cycling route offer nature lovers concrete ways to explore the area.
Landscape along the Lobnica
The different landscape features are easy to distinguish: as it flows, the stream connects the narrow valley with the plain at Smolnik, while the Lobnica and Verna Canyon is known for its deep gorge. Covering 19 hectares, the Pohorje primeval forest provides another point of interest in nature along the water. Those interested in the landscape will find not just a single viewpoint, but a variety of geographical features that shape Smolnik.
Trail to the waterfall and cycling route
The Pot ob potoku Lobnica trail leads to the Veliki Šumik waterfall. If the waterfall is the destination of your hike, this route description gives you a specific point of reference. Trail conditions can vary, so check the route’s current condition before setting out.
By bicycle, the Pohorje cycling route (Belvi–Areh–Šumik) reaches Smolnik and then continues to Ruše. The two routes answer different planning questions: the waterfall is the destination on the hiking trail, while the places named along the cycling route and its continuation to Ruše are what matter on the bike ride. Depending on your travel plans, you can choose between a trail with a named waterfall destination and a cycling route that connects Smolnik to a longer journey.
Technology and local history
The railway viaduct is located in the western part of Ruše, in Smolnik. It is one of three surviving structures of this kind on the Koroška Railway line and is classified as a technical monument. Its specific location on the railway line and its distinctive technical classification make it noteworthy.
The Church of St. Mary stands high on the hillside in the hamlet of Hlebovo in Smolnik. It was built between 1859 and 1861. Inside the church is a central, domed space surrounded by pilasters. Pilasters are flat, pillar-like forms that project from a wall. The hillside location and the described interior form offer two different points of reference for those interested in architectural heritage.
The remains of the so-called Turkish Wall are also part of local history; they are made of rubble stone. During the Turkish incursions, locals sought shelter behind the remains. The Dravska kljuža, a defensive wall, is mentioned in historical sources as early as 1147. The date refers to the early mention of the Dravska kljuža, not to its year of construction. By contrast, a specific construction period is recorded for the church: 1859 to 1861.
Group accommodation and trout offering
For a trip with a larger group, Posestvo Šumik rents out the main house together with its grounds to groups of up to 15 guests. Check availability for your travel dates in advance. Stara ribogojnica Smolnik serves grilled and fried trout. As this offering may change, check in advance if it is important to your plans.
Discover more destinations: Kumen, Lovrenc na Pohorju.
Return to the overview of destinations: Ruše.
