Ljubljana to Zagreb

Rain clearing as we stop for the evening in Pajčna

From Ljubljana we headed east, in the rain again, climbing then descending into the Krka River valley. This is a river that springs from an underground cave and is full of dissolved limestone. We entered country known for its hot springs and looked forward to long soaks after days of riding. We didn't go searching for the source of the Krka because of the rain but instead tried to find somewhere to stay for the night.

Fly fishing on the Krka

We followed the river through green farmland, stopping at the occasional castle.

Zužemberk Castle

At the first hot springs, Dolenskja Toplice, we tried out the saunas and baths for a hefty sum at the "wellness centre". There was a strange atmosphere that was something like an invalid's retreat. People hobbling around on crutches and wheelchairs flock to the hot springs for their supposed healing properties and stay in nearby hotels. So at the next opportunity in Otočec we gave the hot springs a miss.

Arriving at Otočec

Camping at Otočec, on the Krka

Continuing along the Krka we had still more intermittent rain that was becoming tiresome. We stopped at Čatež springs, 5km from the Slovenian - Croatian border and found a collection of huge thermal swimming pool complexes (indoor and outdoor) that we played in for a day. These hot springs had a much more jovial atmosphere with water slides, loud music and families on holiday.

Camping at Čatež