The Glinščica Valley is a true hidden gem in the Trieste Karst, where history and beautiful nature intertwine. We started our hike in the village of Krvavi potok and set off on a journey through the village of Mihele, past Žegno , all the way to the Glinščica Valley and the church of St. Mary. Here is our impression and some useful information if you would like to explore this beautiful valley yourself.
Starting point: Bloody Creek
We parked at the cooperative home in Krvave potok, where there is enough space for a few cars. From there, we went down the asphalt road to the village of Mihele, through the village and past the cemetery and church, and turned left along the path down by the abandoned building. The path then led us to a wide gravel road - an abandoned railway line. Here you continue your walk for a few hundred meters and then, on the Italian side of the border, in front of the abandoned building, you turn left again down the path that leads you to the village of Draga. This way you take one bend. A short walk through the village of Draga and you are back on the old railway line. You continue left.
Abandoned Vienna–Trieste railway line
This railway line was once part of the southern railway, which connected Vienna and Trieste, one of the most important ports of the Habsburg Monarchy. The section that runs through Glinščica was later abandoned and today it is a beautiful cycling and walking path. As you walk or cycle, you go through tunnels and past abandoned stations.
Walking along this trail is easy and suitable in all seasons (just avoid the hot parts of the day in the summer months).
Descent to the village of Botač
After the third tunnel, we turned left at the sign and started descending towards the village of Botač along a well-trodden path. The path offered us a beautiful view of Trieste and the sea. The path here is very well-trodden, so be careful in places where the terrain can be a bit slippery.
In Botač we encountered the Glinščica River, the only surface watercourse in the Trieste Karst. In the 19th century, around 30 mills operated in the valley, the remains of which can be seen along the way.
Walk along the Glinščica Canyon
We left the village of Botač and at the end of the village turned left (signs for the church of St. Mary on Pečah), where the path begins to climb slightly and leads us along the edge of the canyon. We walked along a shady path with a beautiful view of the valley and the waterfall. The path is rocky, a little exposed, so be careful on this part if you are a family with children.
Our next destination was the church of St. Mary of Peče , which stands on a hill and offers a beautiful view of the valley. There we stopped for a snack, enjoyed the peace and gathered energy for the return journey.
Return and the wine cave
We returned along the same route, where we finally visited the wine cave , a new local attraction where you can serve yourself wine on a self-service basis.
Our entire walk was a good 10 kilometers long, which translates to about 3 hours of walking . You can watch the video of the walk here . The link to the map and GPX route is via my Stravetu .
Alternative routes to Glinščica
If you want to avoid our route, access to Glinščica is also possible from the village of Beka. This route is more shady, muddy in places, but about the same length.
Another option, if you don't have much time or want a flatter walk, you can opt for an easier version of the hike and stay on the old railway.
For those who prefer cycling, this area is a true paradise. The route is ideal for cyclists of all ages, as the path is well maintained and easy (it climbs slowly).
Why visit Glinščica?
The Glinščica Valley is a wonderful combination of historical, natural and cultural attractions. Walking along the abandoned railway, exploring the gorge, small villages and enjoying the sea views are truly beautiful experiences.