Ščavnica River

The Ščavnica River is a lowland river in the northeastern part of Slovenia. Its source lies at an altitude of 330 m in the northeastern part of the Slovenske gorice hills, in the village of Zgornja Velka. In the past, the Ščavnica carried much more water and powered numerous mills that stood along its course. Today, only the modern Rožman Mill remains. Water has always been vital not only for human life but also for all animal and plant organisms. The river was once full of life. Even today, it is still home to the chub, a fish species that has become rare elsewhere. In spring and autumn, the river often overflowed its banks, flooding nearby fields and meadows. At such times, farmers were angry with it. For the most part, however, the river lived in harmony with the people. It was a place for swimming, fishing, and washing clothes, and it also served as a source of water for livestock. The mills have gone silent, housewives now use washing machines, and bathing is hardly possible anymore due to the lack of water.

The natural riverbed of the Ščavnica River in the Upper Ščavnica Valley is up to 5 meters wide and has preserved its original meandering pattern as well as the natural riverside vegetation. It boasts carefully maintained banks and walking trails.