Discovering nature

The priceless solitary mountain Boč rises majestically above the centre of Poljčane. Together with the proclaimed Boč–Donačka gora Landscape Park, it forms a complex natural area of vast forests dominated by beech trees, steep rocky cliffs, preserved water springs and areas with karst phenomena. Together with the 22-metre-high observation tower, the summit reaches exactly 1,000 metres above sea level. From the top, the view stretches across a large part of north-eastern Slovenia.

Every year in spring, the pasque flower blooms on Boč. The preserved habitat of this exceptionally rare and endangered plant species is a precious natural gem that attracts many visitors to Boč. The pasque flower is considered a sensitive steppe plant that grows in an isolated area and withstands numerous environmental influences. The animal world is also diverse and rich. Numerous species of beetles, bats and other mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians have found their home here, which is further proof of the area's remarkable natural preservation.

Many hiking, educational and cycling trails lead across Boč, offering countless opportunities for recreation, hiking, climbing and other outdoor activities, as well as learning in nature. At Boč, near the mountain lodge, visitors can also enjoy a good catering offer.

The Eastern Haloze are recognised as an ecologically important area due to the diverse habitats of rare plant and animal species. Elsewhere, these species are threatened by the rapid transformation of traditional cultural landscapes into intensively used land. As the habitat of the Adriatic stink orchid and butterflies such as the dusky large blue and the scarce large blue, the Eastern Haloze rank among the most important nature conservation areas in Europe.

Cold-loving Alpine plants also grow on Donačka gora, such as the hart’s-tongue fern, alpine rose, spruce, and kresničevje. Donačka gora is also known for several lesser-known plant varieties that can be found specifically on this mountain. On the rocky cliffs, one can find the only habitat of the Croatian iris in the Balkans, as well as the site of Hoppe’s pink and the only known habitat of Juvan’s houseleek in the world.

The Haloze region is also home to a 27-hectare natural reserve, protected as a natural landmark since 1969 because of its primeval forest character. In Slovenia, there are only three beech forests with a primeval forest character. Along its western part runs a well-maintained mountain trail that leads from the mountain lodge to the ridge of the mountain. In Slovenia, only three forests have such characteristics.