Begunje lies on a picturesque alluvial fan beneath the Draga Valley, at the meeting point of the Dežela region, the Kamnik–Savinja Alps, and the mighty Karavanke range. Thanks to this strategic location, the village has been an important settlement area for centuries, with its first written mention dating back to the 11th century. From this early period also come the ruins of the former Hudičev Gradič (“Devil’s Castle”), first recorded in documents in 1185. Not far from the settlement is the archaeological site of the Zijalka cave, which offers insight into even older periods of human presence in the area.
In the Middle Ages, Begunje became the centre of the Carniolan estates of the Counts of Ortenburg, who built Kamen Castle in the 12th century on a strategically chosen spot. For centuries, the castle oversaw important routes and protected the surrounding population. Today, its ruins are among the most recognisable cultural landmarks of the region. Yet Begunje is not defined by history alone – it is also surrounded by remarkable natural beauty. The area is home to several waterfalls, including Blatnica and Luknja, which attract nature lovers and photographers. The village also serves as a starting point for numerous hiking trails leading into the surrounding mountains. To the west rises the hill with the small Church of St. Peter, perched at 839 metres above sea level; today it is a popular take-off site for paragliders who take advantage of the favourable winds.
The religious and secular architecture of Begunje reflects its rich cultural heritage. The parish church of St. Ulrich was first mentioned in 1403, while the Katzenstein Manor in Begunje appears in records as early as 1537. Over the centuries, the manor underwent many transformations, and in the 20th century it became a symbol of tragic wartime events during the Second World War. After the war, however, Begunje experienced a period of economic revival that placed it on the global map—most notably through the rise and success of the ELAN brand, which became synonymous with top‑quality skis and sporting innovation.
The village is also world‑renowned for its music. Begunje is the birthplace of the Avsenik Brothers Ensemble, whose distinctive folk‑popular style shaped Slovenian cultural identity and became an international phenomenon. Among the architectural gems of the area is the Chapel of St. Joseph, built in 1940 according to the plans of Jože Plečnik, one of Slovenia’s most important architects. This small yet exquisitely designed structure adds another layer to the rich cultural landscape of Begunje.
Today, Begunje represents a harmonious blend of history, nature, culture, and modern development. It is a place where the past and present meet in the rhythm of everyday life, while also serving as a gateway to exploring the wider Gorenjska region and its many stories.