Pekel Cave – Slovenia’s “Hell Cave”
Photo: Andrej Grilj / Tourist Association Sempeter
Discover Pekel Cave, also known as the “Hell Cave”, a fascinating natural attraction just 15 km from Celje.
Located in the Ponikva karst area, about 4 km north of Šempeter v Savinjski dolini, the cave takes its name from its striking rock entrance, shaped like a devil’s head. In winter, warm, moist cave air meets the cold outside air, creating visible vapour. Because of this eerie “breathing” effect, locals called it the 'Hell Cave' and feared it for many centuries.
The 1,159-metre-long cave has two levels: a water and a dry section. Guided tours reveal spectacular stalactites, stalagmites, columns and sparkling calcite crystals. The highlight is a 4-metre-high underground waterfall, the highest in Slovenia, formed by the Peklenščica stream. Many rapids and small pools, a unique natural bridge, and fascinating rock formations (the tour guide will show you frogs, devils, Bled Island, and more) complete the experience.
The cave is part of a landscape park, with cars prohibited within the park. A short walk leads from the bus stop to the cave, and a scenic outdoor path surrounds the area.
ENTRANCE FEE: Pekel Cave
- Adults – single ticket: 17 €
- Seniors, secondary school students - single ticket: 14 €
- Children (4-15 years) – single ticket: 10 €
The fee includes the guided tour by qualified local guides. Pets are not allowed in Pekel Cave, both to protect the fragile cave ecosystem and for their own safety.
Recommended accommodation nearby (20 km): Apartments and Wellness Korosec
Contact us to explore the Pekel cave with an experienced local guide! Send us your inquiry to info@inlandia.com
Interesting about Pekel Cave
The Pekel Cave is a karst cave with a long history. Dating back over 3 million years, it is the only cave in Slovenia where human bones from the Palaeolithic era have been discovered.
- The word Pekel means Hell in Slovenian.
- A rock above the entrance shaped like a devil.
- Cave length: 1.159 meters
- Two levels: a water part and a dry part.
- Suitable for visitors since 1860.
- Natural monument: a 4-meter-high waterfall.
- Cave temperature: 10° C.
- Entry to the cave is allowed exclusively under the supervision of a guide.
- Guided tours are available in English and German.
- Tour duration: one hour.
- Highlights: passing a 4m-high waterfall; the Silent Hall with great acoustics; the Hall of Fantasy.
- When to go: spring, summer, autumn.
- Sights in the surroundings: Roman Necropolis, Celje Old City, Mozirski Gaj gardens.
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