While most visitors admire Kranj for the breathtaking panoramic views of the mountains to the north, the first inhabitants chose to settle here not for its natural beauty, but for the more practical reason that the 30 metre deep gorge immediately to the east provided a significant defensive advantage. Carved into the colourful conglomerate sedimentary rock at the end of the most recent ice age, the lush green canyon is home an extremely diverse collection of plants and animals, and has been a protected natural site since 1983. For those who would like to explore the area themselves, the most easily accessible public entrance is next to the bridge on Poštna Ulica, and the tourist office stocks a very informative brochure that includes maps as well as details about the area’s flora and fauna, geological history and the milling industry that flourished here until the early 20th century. During the summer months several rocky beaches found along the riverbanks are popular destination for swimmers or those just looking to escape the heat.