Benete Spring, Benete, Sodrazica, 1317

## Overview Benete Spring is a public drinking spring nestled in the forested countryside near the village of Benete in the municipality of Sodražica, Slovenia. Situated at an elevation typical of the Slovenian karst and pre-Alpine landscape, this spring is one of many natural water sources that have long served rural communities in the Ribnica Valley and surrounding hills. The area around Sodražica is known for its rich woodland, limestone geology, and a tradition of utilizing natural springs for everyday drinking water — a practice that continues to this day. The spring sits at GPS coordinates 45.776426, 14.561863, placing it in the lush forests of southern Slovenia's Notranjska region. This part of the country is characterized by karst hydrology, where rainwater filters through layers of limestone before emerging as cool, mineral-rich spring water. Visitors have historically valued springs like this one for their refreshing taste and consistent flow. ## Directions 1. Head to the village of Benete, located in the municipality of Sodražica (postal code 1317), in southern Slovenia. 2. From the village, look for a macadam (gravel/unpaved) forest road leading into the surrounding woodland. 3. Follow the macadam road into the forest — the spring is located alongside or near this road. 4. GPS coordinates **45.776426, 14.561863** can be used for precise navigation, which is recommended as the spring is in a forested area without prominent signage. *Note: A vehicle with reasonable ground clearance may be helpful on the unpaved road, especially after rain.* ## What to Expect Benete Spring is a charming forest spring accessible via a macadam (gravel) road through the woods near the village of Benete. The setting is peaceful and deeply wooded, offering a quiet retreat into nature. The spring has been described as "amazing" by visitors, suggesting a well-flowing and scenic water source. As a public drinking spring in rural Slovenia, it has traditionally been used by locals as a source of drinking water, though water quality can vary with weather and seasonal conditions. The forested surroundings are typical of the Notranjska region — expect dense deciduous and coniferous woodland, mossy rocks, and the sounds of birdsong. The macadam road provides relatively straightforward access, but visitors should be prepared for unpaved terrain. Sturdy footwear is a good idea, particularly in wet conditions. The spring is best visited during the warmer months (spring through autumn), when forest roads are more easily passable and the surrounding landscape is at its most vibrant.