Rafts were first used for transportation on the Drava river over five hundred years ago. First, they were used to carry soldiers and military equipment. Rafts for the transportation of wood were first mentioned in 1371. The rafts were first simply logs tied together with vines, but they were soon replaced with larger and stronger 'šajke' which allowed large amount of wood and other goods to be transported over great distances. Rafting reached its golden age during the first half of the 20th century, but it began to decline after the second World War as the railroad became more and more popular. Today, the only rafts on the river are used for the transportation of tourists. A raft ride full of fun and surprises is an excellent way to get to know the old traditions!
