Škocjanski zatok is a natural reserve, located right next to Koper, and there is a circular walking trail all around it. The place itself is the remaining of the Koper bay and there is still some salty water in the area, mixing with rivers and streams. It is a walking trail, but, in fact, you can also go running, cycling or rollerblading there. If you walk, it will take you about an hour, if you run, you should get back to the starting point in about fourty minutes. Cycling and rollerblading is faster, and it will only take you about half an hour. There are no bars or shops on the way, so make sure you bring enough to drink with you and maybe something to eat also.
What is so interesting about this natural reserve?
Since the trail is circular, you can walk (or bike or whatever you will do) it in the clockwise or counter – clockwise direction. The total length of the trail is about six kilometers. The Škocjanski Zatok is interesting because it is a home to many rare plants and animal species.
Where to start?
The easiest point to start is at the Tuš Planet shopping centre, because it is located right next to the Koper bus and train station, and it is easy to spot from the distance. Once there, you have to decide in which way you will walk. Find the detailed instructions below.
How not to get lost?
It is hard to get lost while walking the trail, however it is not marked where you have to take a turn. But in general, it is enough if you follow the fenced area. You will probably also see other people, walking the same trail.
If you start walking in the clockwise direction, you keep walking straight from Tuš Planet Shopping centre in the direction of Ankaran (just follow the road signs) until you reach a roundabout. There, you have to turn right. After about a kilometer, you will reach the junction with a sign of a bike on it. At this sign, you have to turn right again.. It is quite a narrow path, wide enough for one car. After about five hundred meters, you will see two houses on your right. After that, it is possible that you will see the train, driving by on your right, heading to the Koper train station. On your left, there is a motorway. After about a kilometer and a half, you will reach Koper bus and train station, and right next to it you will see the Tuš Planet Shopping centre.
If you decide to walk in the counter – clockwise direction, you obviously have to do everything, listed above, in the opposite order.
What can you see there?
Inside the natural reserve, there are some of the protected and endangered animals and plants. You can see them through special 'windows' that are located in the wooden fence all around the trail.
What is the best time of the year to go to Škocjanski zatok?
You can visit Škocjanski zatok at any time of the year, although the best times are spring and autumn. In summer, it tends to be too hot to walk the trail, and in winter, there are usually strong, cold winds, so it is not really comfortable to walk.
