Introduction
On the southern edge of Slovenia’s coast lies one of its most atmospheric landscapes — the Sečovlje Salt Pans (Sečoveljske soline). Spread across more than 650 hectares, this network of basins, channels and wooden structures forms the country’s largest coastal wetlands and its oldest center of sea-salt production.
Unlike most coastal scenery shaped by cliffs and waves, Sečovlje is shaped by people, sun and wind. For more than 700 years, local families worked with simple tools and natural processes to produce salt, and part of that rhythm still survives today. The result is a place that feels both natural and cultural — a living fragment of Mediterranean heritage.
History of Salt Making
Salt has been produced here since at least the 13th century. The traditional method relies on:
- clay beds
- shallow evaporation basins
- wooden tools
- manual raking and harvesting
The final layer, called petola, is a natural carpet of algae and minerals that prevents the salt from mixing with the mud below. This old technique produces clean, mineral-rich sea salt valued across the region.
Twentieth-century industrialisation almost ended the traditional craft, but preservation efforts saved the Salinas from abandonment.
Today Sečovlje is both a cultural monument and a protected nature park.
Landscape and Nature
The salt pans form a rare, open coastal landscape. Instead of cliffs or forest, the horizon is shaped by:
- geometric basins
- stone channels
- long straight dykes
- old wooden pumps
- small salt-worker houses
This geometry creates mirror-like reflections at sunrise and sunset, when the water turns gold, pink or pale blue — perfect for photography.
The wetlands are also a key habitat for wildlife:
- more than 270 bird species
- nesting areas for herons, stilts and avocets
- rich insect and amphibian life
- plants adapted to salty soil
It is one of Slovenia’s most important ornithological sites.
What to See in Sečovlje
1. Lera Section (northern part) Must-see
The more accessible area, home to preserved tools, salt houses and the Museum of Salt Making.
2. Fontanigge Section (southern part)
A quieter, more remote zone with abandoned salt houses slowly blending into the wetlands. Great for slow walking and photography.
3. The Sea Dykes
Long footpaths with open views of the sea, wetlands and Piran Bay.
4. Birdwatching Platforms Must-see
Sunrise here is especially peaceful — shallow basins, soft light and migratory birds starting their day.
Best Time to Visit
Spring & Early Summer
Evaporation increases and bird activity peaks during migration.
Late Summer (Harvest Season)
The traditional salt harvest takes place — a rare cultural experience.
Autumn
Warm, soft light and fewer visitors.
Winter
Minimalistic scenery, excellent visibility and quiet walks.
Photography Tips
- Sunrise gives the best colors and reflections.
- A telephoto lens helps with bird photography.
- Sunset lights up the dykes and basins on clear days.
- Avoid harsh midday light — it flattens the landscape.
How to Get There
- By car: Parking is available at the Lera entrance.
- By bike: Excellent cycling paths from Portorož, Lucija and Piran.
- By foot: Coastal walking route from Lucija.
- Public transport: Buses connect Portorož and Lucija, then a short walk to the entrance.
Park access is regulated and some areas require a ticket.
Conservation Rules
Sečovlje is a strictly protected area:
- Stay on marked paths
- Do not disturb wildlife
- Drone use is restricted
- Do not enter abandoned houses
- No swimming in basins
Respecting these rules protects both nature and cultural heritage.
Conclusion
Sečovlje Salt Pans are more than a scenic location — they preserve one of the last traditional salt-making systems in the Mediterranean. The mix of centuries-old craft, stillness and wetland biodiversity makes this a uniquely atmospheric place on Slovenia’s coast.
