Krn lake: Paradise-like scenery
Krn lake is a true gem of the Julian Alps. It is Slovenia’s biggest mountain lake, as it reaches 390 metres in length, 150 in width and its depth goes to as many as 18 metres.
The vast surface of Krn lake reflects the mountains that surround it. The closest mountains to the lake are Veliki lemež and Šmohor, while the majestic Krn, who gave the lake its name, proudly stands in the distance.
Krn lake is home to 40 species of plants, mostly algae, and 24 species of lower animals. Swimming in the lake is not allowed in order to preserve the fragile ecosystem of the lake.
The surroundings inspire with plenty of alpine flowers. Many of them belong to endangered species, such as aconite (Aconitum angustifolium), yellow Kerner Alpine Poppy (P. alpinum subsp. kerneri) and white cottongrass (Eriophorum scheuchzeri).
Rough times during the Isonzo Front
Did you know that the stunning area around the lake and the mighty peaks above it witnessed cruel battles of the Isonzo Front? If you look closely, you can still see the remains from that dark period: caverns, trenches, barbed wire …
To commemorate the end of the war, as a reminder of how important it is to strive for peace, a commemoration ceremony is organised at Krn lake every second weekend in November.
The battles on Isonzo Front took place from May 1915 to October 1917. Isonzo Front, part of the south-west Front of the First World War, followed the Soča valley as many as 90 kilometres: from mount Rombon all the way to the Adriatic Sea. Today, you can take some outdoors ‘lessons’ and visit the key points of the Front on the Walk of Peace, a comprehensive historical trail.
Mount Krn (2244 m) was an important strategic point and was one of the most fortified peaks on Isonzo Front. Mount Batognica (2164 m) nearby even lost some metres of its height due to the mining during the war.
Do you wish to learn more? Visit the Kobarid Museum. Its comprehensive collection on the First World War speaks about the cruelty and nonsense of the war.
Krn lake and its breathtaking beauty is undoubtedly inspiration for peace, understanding and support.
The shortest way to reach Krn lake (1391 m) is from Lepena valley (700 m). The hike will take you about two hours. It is also possible to reach the lake from Bohinj (via Komna) or from the southern side (via Krn).
If you have any questions, you can write me to julija@apartmapretner.com or call me at 00386 41 576 314 / Julija
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