Debeli rtič

Debeli rtič is a broad cliff-lined headland west of Ankaran, near the Italian border, whose reef continues underwater as a shallow bank several hundred metres out to a lighthouse. Most life is found above about 8 m: rocks with sponges, corals and sea lettuce on the south and west sides, and tall seagrass on the north side, which is a stronghold of pen shells. History lies here too – the stone banks of a Roman fish farm at only 2 m off the campsite beach and an ancient breakwater on the western side. The west coast below the cliff is considered the most beautiful part.

Facts

Region: Slovenia – Coast
Area: Koper & Ankaran (Debeli rtič)
Depth: 0–10 m
Level: beginner
Current: low
Type: reef, bay, night
Coordinates: 45.5925, 13.7025
Highlights: pen shell, seagrass meadows, sponges, corals, sea lettuce, remains of a Roman fish farm (~2 m), ancient breakwater on the western side, shallow reef stretching to the lighthouse
Permit: Under the Debeli rtič Landscape Park decree, scuba diving in protection zone 1 is only allowed by arrangement with the park manager (Municipality of Ankaran, Režijski obrat), for research, monitoring and organised guided visits. Park-wide, anchoring is banned in the 200 m coastal belt and boats are limited to 7 knots. Arrange your dive with the park office in advance. Check current terms.
Issuer / contact: Debeli rtič Landscape Park (Municipality of Ankaran)
- Phone: +38656653036
- Email: kpdr@obcina-ankaran.si
- Website: https://www.visitankaran.si
Tips: Access only at a few points because of cliffs up to 20 m: the spa beach, the campsite, two staircases through the vineyard to the north-west coast (about 400 m walk in full gear) or near the former Lazaret border crossing. The western cliff coast lies in the first (strictest) zone of Debeli rtič Landscape Park, where scuba diving is only allowed by arrangement with the park manager; anchoring is banned within 200 m of the coast and boats are limited to 7 knots. Near the lighthouse expect heavy motor-boat traffic – surface carefully with a marker buoy.

Debeli rtič

Facts

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