Pre-Meeting: 26 September – 30 September 2026
Main Meeting: 1 – 4 October 2026
Location: Kranj, Slovenia
INTRODUCTION
The 19th European Cave Rescue Meeting will take place in Kranj, Slovenia, from 1 to 4 October 2026.
The pre-meeting programme will be held from 26 September to 30 September 2026.
The meeting is organised by the Cave Rescue Service of Slovenia (JRS) on behalf of the European Cave Rescue Association (ECRA).
The event will provide an opportunity for cave rescue organisations across Europe and beyond to exchange knowledge, experience, operational procedures, and technical developments.
The programme will include practical workshops, technical and medical sessions, cave-diving activities, commission meetings, presentations by participating organisations, and the ECRA General Assembly.
The pre-meeting programme will offer visits to some of Slovenia’s most renowned karst areas, caves, and natural attractions.
Further updates and last-minute information will be published on the ECRA website.
We look forward to welcoming you to Kranj and the Slovenian karst.
Organizing Committee
Table of Contents
PROGRAM
The detailed program will be published before the meeting.
You are welcome to send your proposals on presentations/practices/workshops to the commission chairpersons.
PRESENTATIONS AND CONTRIBUTIONS
All presentations and documents should be written in English.
Members/participants can present important achievements in cave rescue operations.
- Please note we especially encourage newcomers in ECRA to present their services, structures, and operational histories.
- Time for each presentation will be a max of 15 min. If a presenter needs more time to present a very important topic, the organiser can allow additional time.
The email address to send your presentations is info@caverescue.eu.
Main Meeting Venue
Kranj, Slovenia
Kranj (Latin: Carnium, German: Krainburg) is the capital of the Gorenjska region in the Republic of Slovenia, the seat of the Kranj city municipality and the administrative unit, and the Gorenjska statistical region. It represents the economic, commercial, transport, educational and cultural centre of Gorenjska.
With 38,000 inhabitants (2025), it is, together with Celje, the third- or fourth-largest Slovenian city. In the narrower urban area, which includes the surrounding areas (Britof, Kokrica, Mlaka, Predoslje, Orehovlje, Hrastje, Breg ob Savi, Jama, Praše, Mavčiče, Zgornje, Srednje and Spodnje Bitnje), Kranj has around 10,000 more inhabitants.
In contrast, the wider conurbation, together with some neighbouring municipalities (Naklo, Šenčur, Preddvor, and Škofja Loka, etc.), has a total of between 80 and 100 thousand people.
The city also has a rich tradition of speleological research. We can boast of the first cave laboratory. Further venue information will be provided in future updates.
Exercise areas
The exercise locations have been selected to best meet the current training objectives. Should the operational or training requirements change, individual exercise areas can be relocated to more suitable locations.
Usually, no special equipment is needed for the exercise during the meeting. Required equipment for excursions will be specified in the pre-meeting section.
Kamnitnik climbing area, Škofja Loka
The Kamnitnik climbing area will be used for the exercise and for presentations by the technical rescue team. It is located approximately 15 km away.
If the committee would prefer a location closer to the camp, we can provide the covered shelter of the Kranj Fire and Rescue Service, which is situated immediately next to the camp.
Kranj Fire Rescue Service, Kranj
Backup location
Kranj Fire Rescue Service can be used as backup location. It is close to the camp and under the roof.
Training Centre for Civil Protection and Disaster Relief, Ig
The diving part of the exercise will take place in the training pool of the Slovenian Civil Protection and Rescue Centre in Ig. The pool is 4.5 metres deep and measures 16 × 8 metres. A unique feature of this facility is the observation windows built into the basement level, allowing participants to watch diving activities live from outside the pool.
Hotavlje Marble Quarry, Hotavlje
The Rock Enlargement Service will have the opportunity to conduct a practical demonstration at the Hotavlje Marble Quarry.
PARTICIPATION FEE
The participation fee is EUR 80 and is payable in cash upon the participant’s check in.
Please note: For registrations made after 03 September 2026 or on site, the participation fee will be EUR 100.
The participation fee includes accommodation, breakfast, lunch and dinner during the ECRA Meeting. Drinks are at your own expense.
The participation fee doesn’t include costs for the pre-meeting.
ONLINE REGISTRATION
Registration form for the 19th European Cave Rescue Meeting
Registration deadline: 03 September 2026
ACCOMMODATION
At the camp, large accommodation tents will be provided for multiple occupants. There will also be a designated camping area for participants who wish to bring their own smaller tents.
Adjacent to the campsite, space will be available for motorhomes, and a parking area for private vehicles will be provided. Sanitary facilities and showers will be located nearby for participants’ convenience.
A larger area will also be available close to the campsite for catering services, communal meals, and the closing social event.
Accommodation options will include:
- Camping area
- Camper parking
- Additional local accommodation
Detailed information will follow.
MEALS AND DRINKS
Meals will be provided during the meeting. Additional drinks and refreshments will be available on site.
CITY MAP
ARRIVAL AND TRANSPORT
By Air
Nearest airports:
By Car
Kranj is located approximately 25 km from Ljubljana and is easily accessible via the Slovenian motorway network.
By Train
Regular rail connections are available from Ljubljana and neighbouring countries. Kranj is one of the stops on the international train from Belgrade (SRB) to Zurich (CH).
PICKUP SERVICE
We will be picking up people from Ljubljana airport, Kranj train station and Kranj main bus station. Organised transport from selected transport hubs may be available.
Further information will be announced.
HEALTH AND INSURANCE
Participants are responsible for ensuring that they have valid health insurance.
European participants are encouraged to carry their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).
VISA INFORMATION
Participants requiring a visa should contact the organising committee as early as possible.
Invitation letters can be issued upon request.
CURRENCY
Currency in Slovenia: Euro (€)
Credit cards are widely accepted.
POWER SUPPLY AND INTERNET
Power supply: 230 V / 50 Hz
Power plug types: Type C and Type F
Wi-Fi: We are currently working to offer free Internet. Now, it is only possible to access the web through mobile data (EU).
HELP DESK
If you have any questions, please contact the Helpdesk.
Help Desk: helpdesk@caverescue.eu
Local contact:
- Robert ANZIC
- +386 40 88 92 29
- cavediving-commission@caverescue.eu
MEETING OFFICE – INFO POINT / CHECK IN
PRE-MEETING PROGRAMME
The pre-meeting will take place from 26 September to 1 Oktober 2026 and will provide participants with the opportunity to explore some of Slovenia’s most important karst areas, caves, and natural attractions.
Participants may choose from several activities depending on their interests, experience, and available places. Detailed schedules, participant limits, equipment requirements, and registration procedures will be published later.
Planned Activities
The organizers reserve the right to modify the programme or relocate activities, if necessary, due to weather conditions or other operational requirements.
Pre-Meeting Calendar
| 26. 09. | PM-01 | PM-02 | PM-08-01 | |||
| 27. 09. | PM-01 | PM-02 | PM-08-01 | PM-03-01 | ||
| 28. 09. | PM-01 | PM-02 | PM-08-02 | PM-03-02 | PM-04 | |
| 29. 09. | PM-01 | PM-02 | PM-08-03 | PM-03-03 | PM-05 | PM-06 |
| 30. 09. | PM-01 | PM-02 | PM-08-04 | PM-03-04 | ||
| 01. 10. | PM-01 | PM-02 | PM-07 | PM-03-03 |
(PM-01) SOS Proteus Information Centre and Tular Cave Lab, Kranj
Photos: Tular Cave Lab
The Tular Cave Lab, established in 1960 by biologist and caver Marko Aljančič in Kranj, is one of only two such underground research facilities in the world. The lab focuses on the olm (Proteus), an endangered cave amphibian, using innovative methods such as environmental DNA tracing and AI-based remote sensing to support conservation efforts that keep Proteus and cave ecosystems pristine. Additionally, Tular serves as a rehabilitation centre for proteus washed out of caves during floods. Since 1976, all activities have been driven by the voluntary work and dedication of the researchers (further readings: https://www.biographic.com/saving-slovenias-human-fish/).
Public education about the vulnerability of Proteus and its cave habitat is promoted at the SOS Proteus Information Centre, in partnership with the City of Kranj. The story of Proteus is presented along a 120 m path through the Tunnels under the old town of Kranj, covering the history of its research, the life of Proteus in subterranean rivers, informing about the growing threats of pollution in the karst landscape and the loss of drinking water resources on the planet. At the end of this path, visitors observe Proteus in two large aquaria, experiencing the living story of the karst. For the first time, the public display of proteus does not negatively impact natural populations and is animal-friendly, based on 65 years of experience at the Tular Cave Lab.
We sincerely invite cavers to support us directly by visiting the SOS Proteus Info Centre, as for the first time in the world, all entry fees are reinvested in research and protection of this endangered cave amphibian!
| Scheduled: | Every day from 26. September until 01. October |
| Entry fee: | 15 € / person |
| Duration: | 1 hour |
| Equipment: | Warm clothing, due to the cave temperatures |
(PM-02) Lake Bled with the surrounding
Photos: Robert Anžič
During your free time before the meeting, you may also wish to visit one of the jewels of the Gorenjska region – Bled. Surrounded by the Julian Alps, Bled is renowned for its picturesque lake, charming island church, and breathtaking scenery. You can take a walk around the lake (approximately 6 km), enjoy a traditional pletna boat ride to the island, visit Bled Castle, or explore the nearby Vintgar Gorge. Whether you are looking for relaxation, beautiful photography, or a taste of Slovenian natural and cultural heritage, Bled offers an unforgettable experience.
More information about Vintgar Gorge is available on the Vintgar Gorge Official Website.
| Scheduled: | Every day from 26. September until 01. October |
| Entry fee: | Boat ride: 20 € / person; Bled Castle: 19 € / person; Vintgar Gorge: 15 € / person |
| Duration: | Up to the group/person |
| Equipment: | Daily walking clothes |
(PM-03) Cave Exploration Tours
(PM-03-01) The Cave of the Three Kings
The Cave of the Three Kings is one of Slovenia’s finest dolomite caves, accessed through a historic military tunnel built as part of the Rupnik Line in the 1930s. The cave features a complex network of narrow passages, meanders, and vertical shafts extending for more than 750 metres. Once famous for its delicate aragonite crystal formations, it remains a fascinating but fragile cave system. As there are no tourist trails or lighting, visits require full caving equipment, rope techniques, and experienced guides.
| Scheduled: | 27. September |
| Entry fee: | / |
| Duration: | 4 – 6 hours |
| Equipment: | SRT equipment |
(PM-03-02) Lipica cave
Photos: Andrej Markun
Lipiška Cave is a significant karst cave near Sežana, first documented in the late 19th century. Over the decades, exploration has revealed an extensive network of passages reaching depths of 250 metres, including several major discoveries made since the 1970s. Today, the cave is a protected natural monument, and access is restricted to preserve its fragile underground environment. Visits are possible only with experienced cavers and appropriate equipment.
| Scheduled: | 28. September |
| Entry fee: | / |
| Duration: | 4 – 6 hours |
| Equipment: | SRT equipment |
(PM-03-03) Osoletova Cave
Photo: Aleš S. Stražar
Osoletova Cave is the most beautiful karst cave in the Domžale–Moravče karst area. With a depth of 260 meters, it ranks eleventh among the deepest caves in Slovenia. A unique feature of the cave is that it formed at the contact between Carboniferous and limestone strata. The cave is at its most beautiful in its upper section and in the hall below, where a 40-meter-deep shaft is located. All its speleothem (dripstone) wealth has remained undamaged, thanks to a nearby farmer, Vincenc Ribič – Osole, after whom the cave was named.
Conditions for visiting: Difficulty: The cave lacks organised tourist routes or lighting. Visiting the deeper parts requires full caving equipment, rope technique for overcoming the steps, and the accompaniment of experienced cavers.
| Scheduled: | 29. September and 01. October |
| Entry fee: | / |
| Duration: | 4 – 6 hours |
| Equipment: | SRT equipment |
(PM-03-04) Leška cave
Photo: DZRJ Kranj
Leška is the largest cave on the Jelovica karst plateau. The entrance chasm was discovered in 1976, and new parts are still being discovered today. Two years ago, we measured a new deepest point of -578 meters, and the total length of the tunnels is 4381 meters. The entrance part of the cave is formed by stepped chasms, and at a depth of -170 meters, spacious halls open up. The cave extends across several geological layers, so its awe-inspiring features vary from one area to another. The cave also boasts the largest stalactite in the Gorenjska region, along with other beautiful cave formations. It is technically demanding and fitness-demanding in places, and terrifying in its scale.
| Scheduled: | 30. September |
| Entry fee: | / |
| Duration: | 4 – 6 hours |
| Equipment: | SRT equipment |
(PM-04) Canyoning – Grmečica
Photos: Gašper Finžgar
Grmečica Canyon is one of Slovenia’s hidden gems for adventure enthusiasts. Surrounded by pristine alpine nature, the canyon features crystal-clear pools, narrow rock gorges, natural water slides, exciting jumps, and waterfall rappels.
The highlight of the experience is a spectacular 10-metre cliff jump into a turquoise pool, while several rappels offer an equally thrilling way to descend the canyon. Whether you prefer jumping or using ropes, Grmečica provides the perfect combination of adrenaline, fun, and breathtaking scenery.
| Scheduled: | 28. September |
| Entry fee: | 70 € / person |
| Duration: | / |
| Equipment: | Clothes for changing |
(PM-05) White water rafting – Sava Dolinka
Photos: Gašper Finžgar
Experience an exciting rafting adventure on the Sava Dolinka, a beautiful alpine river flowing through the stunning landscape around Bled. With fun Grade II–III rapids, the trip is suitable for beginners, families, and anyone looking for an enjoyable outdoor experience.
Professional, licensed whitewater guides will ensure a safe and memorable adventure. All rafting equipment, as well as transport to and from the starting point, is included—just bring your swimsuit and a towel.
| Scheduled: | 29. September |
| Entry fee: | 50 € / person |
| Duration: | / |
| Equipment: | Clothes for changing |
(PM-06) Triglav’s North face
Participants will have the opportunity to choose between several outdoor activities in the Slovenian Alps.
(PM-06-A) Option A: Mount Triglav Ascent – Slovenian Route (max. 10 persons)
This guided ascent follows the Slovenian Route (grade II/III+) to the summit of Mount Triglav, Slovenia’s highest mountain and national symbol. The route includes exposed sections and basic scrambling, requiring good physical fitness, sure-footedness, and no fear of heights.
(PM-06-B) Option B: Triglav Hiking Tour (unlimited persons)
A guided hiking excursion in the Triglav area for participants who prefer a less demanding mountain experience while still enjoying the spectacular scenery of the Triglav National Park.
(PM-06-O) Optional – Mount Storžič Hiking Tour (unlimited persons)
Depending on interest, an additional guided hiking excursion to Mount Storžič may be organised. This option offers beautiful alpine landscapes and panoramic views of the Gorenjska region.
| Scheduled: | 29. September |
| Entry fee: | Triglav climbing: 70 € / person; Triglav hiking: 40 € / person |
| Duration: | All day |
| Equipment: | Equipment for via ferata |
(PM-07) UNESCO Škocjan Caves Visit
Participants will have the opportunity to choose between two guided cave visits:
(PM-07-A) Option A – Hanke Canal Tour
- Price: €60 per person
- Maximum number of participants: 20 persons
This special tour includes a visit to the famous Hanke Canal, one of the most impressive sections of the Škocjan cave system, offering a unique experience in a spectacular underground environment.
(PM-07-B) Option B – Tourist Cave Tour
- Price: €14 per person
- Capacity: 40–50 persons
This tour includes a visit to the main tourist route through Škocjan Caves, as well as the nearby Mahorčič Cave and Marinič Cave.
Photos: Škocjan Caves
About Škocjan Caves
Škocjan Caves are one of Slovenia’s most remarkable natural attractions and a world-famous karst phenomenon. The cave system was designated a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance on 18 May 1999.
Together with the Reka River’s underground course, the caves form one of the longest underground karst wetlands in Europe. The explored passages extend for approximately 6.2 kilometres and have developed within a 300-metre-thick layer of Cretaceous and Palaeocene limestone.
The entrances to the cave system are located within the Great Collapse Doline (Velika dolina) and Little Collapse Doline (Mala dolina). At Velika dolina, the Reka River disappears underground and continues its journey through the karst for approximately 34 kilometres, re-emerging near Monfalcone in Italy. There, it contributes roughly one-third of the flow of the Timavo River, which continues for another 2 kilometres before reaching the Adriatic Sea.
Škocjan Caves are recognised as one of the most important underground natural heritage sites in Europe and are renowned for their vast underground chambers, dramatic river canyon, and exceptional karst features.
| Scheduled: | 01. October |
| Entry fee: | As per above text |
| Duration: | All day |
| Equipment: | Warm clothing, due to the cave temperatures |
(PM-08) Cave Diving Programme
Regulations!
Safety warnings: Divers must be certified for cave diving, hold valid insurance, and possess a medical certificate. Prior to the dive, all divers will sign a liability release waiver (diving at one’s own risk). Full cave diving equipment is required.
During cave diving, the maximum depth is 30 meters, and the maximum dive time is 1 hour. All caves will be equipped with continuous guidelines, marked with appropriate markers indicating the direction to the cave exit.
In the event of adverse weather conditions, dive activities will be adapted as necessary and may be modified or cancelled.
(PM-08-01) Veliko and Malo Okence (Large and Small Window)
Located near Retovje, Veliko Okence and Malo Okence are two of Slovenia’s most important cave-diving springs and the source of the Ljubljanica River. Veliko Okence is the more accessible site, featuring crystal-clear water, a maximum depth of 25 metres, and passages suitable for recreational cave diving. Malo Okence is significantly more demanding, with narrower passages, lower visibility, and depths of up to 45 metres, making it suitable only for experienced cave divers. Weather conditions can strongly affect visibility and water flow at both sites.
Malo Okence. Photo: Janez Vengušt
| Scheduled: | Veliko Okence: 26. SeptemberMalo Okence: 27. September |
| Entry fee: | / |
| Duration: | All day |
| Equipment: | Side mount, back mount, open circle, or CCR |
(PM-08-02) Mežica Mine
Please note: This activity is not yet fully confirmed, and an additional diving fee may apply.
Experience a unique cave dive in the flooded tunnels of the former Mežica Mine. Divers enter the mine by an authentic mining train before descending to the dive site. Crystal-clear water, constant 10 °C temperatures, and the fascinating underground mine environment make this one of Slovenia’s most exceptional diving locations. Dive depth will be limited to 30 metres, and drysuits are mandatory.
Photo: Janez Vengušt
| Scheduled: | 28. September |
| Entry fee: | / |
| Duration: | All day |
| Equipment: | Only CCR! |
(PM-08-03) Bilpa Cave (Jama Bilpa)
Photos: Janez Vengušt
Bilpa Cave is a spectacular karst spring located in the canyon of the Kolpa River. Known for its exceptional underwater visibility and impressive flooded passages, it is one of Slovenia’s premier cave-diving sites.
Divers enter directly through the spring pool at the base of an 80-metre limestone cliff. Dive depth for this activity will be limited to 30 metres. Water temperatures remain between 8-10 °C, while visibility is excellent in dry conditions but can deteriorate rapidly after heavy rainfall. As the site lies on the Slovenian Croatian border, participants should carry valid identification and the required diving permits.
| Scheduled: | 29. September |
| Entry fee: | / |
| Duration: | All day |
| Equipment: | Side mount, back mount, open circle, or CCR |
(PM-08-04) Šteberk Cave (Jama Šteberk)
Šteberk Cave is a lesser-known karst spring cave located near Lake Cerknica, beneath the ruins of Šteberk Castle. It is one of the estavelles that feed the intermittent lake and offers a challenging dive for experienced cave divers.
Access requires a short walk over rugged terrain to the cave entrance. Water temperatures range between 7-9 °C, with visibility varying from crystal clear to poor depending on weather and water conditions.
Photo: Janez Vengušt
| Scheduled: | 30. September |
| Entry fee: | / |
| Duration: | All day |
| Equipment: | Side mount, back mount, open circle, or CCR |
ORGANISING COMMITTEE, CONTACTS
Local Organizing Committee
E-mail: helpdesk@caverescue.eu
Robert Anžič
Phone: +386 40 889 229
Marko Zakrajšek
Phone: +386 41 810 090
Den Vrhovnik
Phone: +386 51 627 296
Samo Milanič
Phone: +386 51 651 808
Andrej Markun
Phone: +386 41 926 120
Dinko NOVOSEL
President of ECRA
Hrvatska Gorska Služba Spašavanja / HGSS, Croatia
E-mail: president@caverescue.eu
Phone: +385 91 517 94 31
Werner ZAGLER
Vice President of ECRA
Höhlenrettungsverbund Deutschland / HRVD, Germany
E-mail: vice-president@caverescue.eu
Phone: +49 151 750 41 557,
+49 89 856 1328 (landline)
Ewelina RACZYNSKA
General Secretary of ECRA
Cave Rescue Group, Poland
E-mail: general-secretary@caverescue.eu
Phone: +48 602 614 691
Giuseppe CONTI
Chairperson of the Technical Commission
Corpo Nazionale Soccorso Alpino e Speleologico / CNSAS, Italy
E-mail: technical-commission@caverescue.eu
Denes Akos NAGY
Chairperson of the Medical Commission
Hungarian Cave Rescue Service / HCRS, Hungary
E-mail: medical-commission@caverescue.eu
Robert ANZIC
Chairperson of the Cave-diving Commission
Jamarska Reševalna Služba Slovenije / JRS, Slovenia
E-mail: cavediving-commission@caverescue.eu
Werner ZAGLER
Chairperson of the Passage Enlargement Commission
Höhlenrettungsverbund Deutschland / HRVD, Germany
E-mail: pec@caverescue.eu
Pete ALLWRIGHT
Communications Working Group
ECRA (Honorary Member)
E-mail: communications@caverescue.eu
Antoniya VLAYKOVA
Responsible for ECRA web visibility
Cave Rescue Bulgaria / CRB, Bulgaria
E-mail: web@caverescue.eu
