Salt Meadow – Ankaran

A Natural Wonder That Grew Beside the Sea

In the northwestern part of Koper Bay, in Ankaran near St. Nicholas, lies a Mediterranean salt meadow – the only meadow of its kind in Slovenia and one of the few along the eastern Adriatic coast. This unique and ecologically important area is designated as a natural asset of national importance and is part of the Natura 2000 network. The meadow is a true natural gem where sea and land meet, creating a distinctive ecosystem rich in life.

A Wooden Boardwalk and Educational Trail Through the Salty Landscape

An educational trail leads across the meadow, allowing visitors to walk along a wooden boardwalk while discovering the richness of local nature. The boardwalk connects the Aleš Bebler – Primož Memorial Park with the St. Catherine area, where an outdoor fitness area is also located. It was built to protect sensitive vegetation that could otherwise be damaged by careless visitors. A walk along this path is both educational and relaxing – ideal for nature lovers, families, and anyone seeking peace by the sea.

A Unique Ecosystem and a Haven for Rare Species

The salt meadow between St. Catherine and St. Nicholas represents a special type of coastal environment that is neither rocky nor sandy, but muddy, moist, and shallow. Because of this, the area is of exceptional importance for many bird species and salt-tolerant plants, including rare and endangered ones. This fragile wetland ecosystem acts as a true natural laboratory, revealing how plants and animals adapt to life between sea and land.

Nature Protection and Cooperation for the Future

To preserve this special area, an extensive nature conservation project was carried out in cooperation with the DOPPS – BirdLife Slovenia, co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund. The goal of the project is to protect the meadow while allowing visitors to experience it in a way that does not threaten its balance. By respecting the rules of conduct, we can ensure that this exceptional piece of nature is preserved for future generations.