Planica Ski Jumping Hills | Bohinj

Planica Ski Jumping Hills are one of the most iconic landmarks in Slovenia, known for their long history in ski jumping and their position as a major venue for international ski jumping competitions. Located in the Planica Valley in the Julian Alps, near the town of Kranjska Gora, the ski jumping hills are renowned for their world-class facilities and are part of Slovenia’s strong tradition in winter sports.

Overview of Planica Ski Jumping Hills

Location:

• Planica is situated in the Planica Valley, which is approximately 5 kilometers from the town of Kranjska Gora, in the northwestern part of Slovenia. The valley lies at the foot of the Julian Alps, providing stunning alpine scenery.
• The venue is easily accessible from both Kranjska Gora and Bled, making it a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts and tourists.

History:

• The history of Planica as a ski jumping venue dates back to 1934, when the first ski jumping hill was built in the valley. Since then, the site has evolved into one of the most important locations in the world of ski jumping.
• Planica has hosted numerous prestigious competitions, including the FIS Ski Flying World Championships, the FIS World Cup, and the Four Hills Tournament. The venue has played a key role in shaping the sport’s development and establishing the standards for modern ski jumping hills.
• Planica has earned a reputation for setting world records, with the largest jumps in history often taking place here.

Ski Jumping Hills:

• The Planica Valley is home to a series of ski jumping hills, with different hill sizes and specifications. The most notable hills include:
  • The Large Hill (HS140): The main hill, with a K-point of 140 meters, has hosted numerous world-record jumps. It is the site for FIS Ski Flying World Cup competitions.
  • The Nordic Hills: These smaller hills are used for training and junior competitions, providing a space for up-and-coming athletes to hone their skills.
  • The New Ski Flying Hill (HS240): The largest ski jumping hill in the world, which opened in 2024 after a major reconstruction. It is capable of hosting the highest-level competitions, including ski flying events where jumps exceed 200 meters.

World Records:

• Planica is famously associated with several ski jumping records. The first world record for ski jumping was set here in 1936, with a jump of 98 meters.
• In 2015, the ski flying world record was broken at Planica, when Peter Prevc from Slovenia jumped 251.5 meters, a record that stood for several years. This record highlighted the technical prowess of the facility and the athletes.
• In 2024, the HS240 hill made history with the longest jumps ever recorded in the sport, breaking multiple world records.

Facilities and Infrastructure:

• Planica has undergone major renovations and upgrades in recent years to enhance its role as a premier international ski jumping venue. The new infrastructure includes:
  • A state-of-the-art inrun tower, designed to offer athletes a smooth and efficient take-off.
  • Modern spectator seating, with panoramic views of the valley and surrounding mountains.
  • Training facilities for athletes, including jumps of varying sizes to suit both elite and up-and-coming competitors.
  • An innovative cooling system that ensures optimal conditions on the hill, particularly during warm weather or inconsistent snow conditions.
  • A new stadium and accompanying facilities that host large crowds during competitions, along with entertainment options.

Ski Flying:

• Planica is one of the most important locations for ski flying, a variation of ski jumping that involves even longer distances. Ski flying competitions involve jumps that exceed 200 meters, and Planica’s HS240 hill is considered the pinnacle for this discipline.
• Ski flying is a thrilling spectacle, and Planica has been the setting for many historic jumps, where athletes compete to achieve the farthest distance in a series of attempts.

Planica Nordic Centre:

• The Planica Nordic Centre, which includes the ski jumping hills, is a multi-sport complex that also hosts cross-country skiing, biathlon, and other winter sports.
• It features a cross-country skiing track, biathlon range, and other training facilities for winter athletes. The Centre also serves as a hub for tourism and sports enthusiasts, offering various recreational activities year-round, from skiing in the winter to hiking and mountain biking in the warmer months.

Competitions and Events:

• Planica regularly hosts high-profile events on the FIS Ski Flying World Cup circuit, drawing crowds of ski jumping fans from around the world.
• The Planica Spring Tournament is another major event held each year, attracting the world's top ski jumpers. The competitions often culminate in dramatic final jumps, with athletes vying for world records and championship titles.
• World Cup competitions, FIS World Championships, and world record attempts frequently take place at the venue, making it a significant location in the sport of ski jumping.

Visitor Experience and Tourism:

• Visitors to Planica can experience a range of activities and enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the Julian Alps.
  • In the winter, ski jumping competitions are the main draw, but the valley also offers excellent opportunities for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and winter hiking.
  • During the summer, tourists can explore the beautiful alpine landscape, mountain biking trails, and hiking routes around the Triglav National Park.
• Planica is also home to several visitor-friendly facilities, including hotels, restaurants, and guides, making it an ideal destination for winter sports tourism and alpine recreation.

Nearby Attractions:

• Kranjska Gora: A popular ski resort, Kranjska Gora is just a short drive from Planica, offering additional winter sports, hiking trails, and a charming alpine village atmosphere.
• Lake Jasna: A beautiful alpine lake located near Kranjska Gora, ideal for swimming, relaxing, and enjoying the surrounding natural beauty.
• Vršič Pass: A famous mountain pass in the Julian Alps, offering panoramic views and serving as a starting point for various mountain routes.
• Triglav National Park: Slovenia’s premier national park, known for its pristine wilderness, hiking trails, and diverse flora and fauna.

Conclusion:

The Planica Ski Jumping Hills are an iconic symbol of Slovenia’s prowess in winter sports, particularly ski jumping. With its rich history, record-breaking jumps, modern facilities, and beautiful alpine setting, Planica remains one of the world’s premier venues for ski flying and ski jumping competitions. Whether you're an avid winter sports fan, a casual visitor, or someone who enjoys alpine scenery, Planica offers something for everyone, making it a must-visit destination in Slovenia.