The Julian Alps are among the most beautiful mountains in Slovenia. With high waterfalls, gorges around turquoise rivers and hiking trails that take you over the highest peaks. Here’s a list of 20 hiking tips and the best things to do in the Julian Alps in Slovenia.
The article also includes tips on where to stay in the Julian Alps so you can get an idea of what places are nearby. At the end you will find an overview map that you can download, edit and plan your holiday in the Slovenian Alps.
Join us for a look at the most beautiful hikes and the best things to do in the Julian Alps in Slovenia.
Julian Alps, Slovenia
The Julian Alps (Julijske Alpe) are a mountain range that stretches across the north-west of Slovenia and part of Italy. They are named after the Roman emperor Julius Caesar.
The Triglav National Park, which covers most of the Julian Alps in Slovenia, is one of the oldest national parks in Europe.
At 2,864 metres, Triglav is the highest point in the Julian Alps and Slovenia. It is the country’s national peak and is even depicted on the Slovenian flag.
Julian Alps: Best hikes and things to do
Entrance to the Triglav National Park is free, no entrance fee is charged.
In the entire national park there is a ban on collecting mushrooms and plants, bathing, camping outside the designated areas.
Note: Approximate times are calculated in the outward and return direction unless otherwise stated.
1. Vintgar and Šum waterfall
- Difficulty: easy
- Time: 1.5-2 hours (circular route)
- Restaurant: before entering the gorge
The Vintgar Gorge (also Bled Gorge) is the most visited gorge in the Julian Alps and in Slovenia. The trail is only 1.6 kilometres long, but thanks to suspended walkways and bridges you can enjoy spectacular views of vertical rock walls and the bright blue Radovna River with its clear pools. The perfect place for hot summer days, where you can cool off among the rocks in the shade of the trees.
At the end of the trail you will reach the 13-metre high Šum waterfall, which is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Slovenia. It takes about an hour to walk the route. The trip is one-way and you can choose one of the marked routes back, including Lake Bled.
How to visit the Vintgar Gorge
There is a paid parking lot at the entrance to the gorge, or you can come here by bus.
In high season there are queues, so it is better to arrive early in the morning and buy tickets in advance. Follow this link for the current opening times and admission prices for the Vintgar Gorge.
2. Lake Bled
Lake Bled is one of the most beautiful lakes in Slovenia. Iconic mountain lake, famous for its small island with a church in the middle. Lake Bled is surrounded by the majestic Alps and a medieval castle rises right on a rocky cliff above the lake.
Try a ride on a traditional wooden boat called a “pletna”, which takes you to the islet with the church. The lake is an ideal place for an active holiday, including hiking, cycling, swimming, rowing and in winter skating. Bled is lined with trails where you can enjoy spectacular views of the lake.
The Vintgar Gorge is nearby and there are plenty of other things to do around Lake Bled.
HOTELS LAKE BLED 😴
3. Zelenci Nature Reserve
The Zelenci Nature Reserve is located near the town of Kranjska Gora in the northwestern part of the Julian Alps. The area is named after Zelenice, the source of the Sava River, which has a beautiful emerald green colour. Around the spring there are wetland ecosystems that are home to rare and protected plants and animals.
Thanks to wooden walkways and a viewing platform, you can walk through the nature reserve comfortably. The route is short and suitable as a stop along the way or a trip with small children. The parking lot is just a short walk from the trailhead, which is open year-round for free.
4. Kranjska Gora
Kranjska Gora is a beautifully landscaped mountain village in the northwest of the Julian Alps, strategically located for exploring the Julian Alps and the Triglav National Park. In the village there is everything you need, shops and restaurants.
Tip: If you want to try the excellent local cuisine, go to Lačni Kekec, which also serves grilled specialties, has beautiful mountain facilities and a playground for children.
A 15-minute walk from Kranjska Gora takes you to Lake Jasna (there’s also a parking lot), famous for its ibex statue and emerald-coloured peaks reflecting the Julian Alps. You can sit in the cosy café and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Tip: Kranjska Gora is strategically located for exploring the Triglav National Park and the Julian Alps – from here you can visit the Zelenci Nature Reserve, Lake Jasna, Martuljek Waterfalls, the Soča River bed, the Vršič mountain pass or climb one of the impressive peaks including Triglav. Lake Bled and the Vintgar Gorge are half an hour’s drive away.
The best accommodation in Kranjska Gora:
- Best Western Hotel: Four-star hotel with facilities including a swimming pool, gym, garden, free parking and half board
- Hotel Alpina: Popular 3-star hotel with lounge, restaurant and free parking
- Erjavčeva mountain hut: Traditional mountain hut right in the Vršič saddle
- Vitranc Apartments: Fully equipped apartments with kitchenette, swimming pool and free parking
- Mountain hut in the forest: Traditional mountain chalet in a beautiful setting, offering hotel at a great price
5. Waterfall Virje
- Difficulty: easy
- Time: 30 minutes
- Restaurant: no
The Virje Waterfall (Slap Virje) is a 10 m high waterfall located on the Gljun River near the village of Bovec. A very easy trip, located just 5 minutes from the car park (payable at €5/2hrs). In summer the waterfall may be small, but after the rains or after winter it is full of water and worth seeing.
From the car park, you can also walk a few minutes to the artificial lake with its deep green colour, or you can go further into the mountains.
6. Lake Bohinj
Another beautiful lake in the Julian Alps is Lake Bohinj, located near Lake Bled. Lake Bohinj is bigger and calmer than Lake Bled.
Again, this is a great place for a holiday because you can do water sports, go swimming or hike along one of the hiking trails around Lake Bohinj. Take a trip to the Mostnice Gorge, the Savica Waterfall or the Vogel Peak.
HOTELS BOHINJ LAKE 😴
7. Peričnik Waterfalls
- Difficulty: easy
- Time: 1 hour round trip
- Restaurant: no
Peričnik Waterfalls are among the most beautiful waterfalls in Slovenia. They consist of two waterfalls – the lower cascade is 52 metres high and the upper cascade is 16 metres high.
Behind the lower waterfall there is a trail that allows you to walk behind the falling water and admire the waterfall from a completely different perspective.
The upper waterfall can be reached via the forest trail – there are much fewer people here, as most people only stop at the lower waterfall.
The parking lot is located just below the waterfall. Entrance to the waterfalls is free.
8. Soca River Valley
- Difficulty: easy
- Time: depending on the chosen route – you can choose a short route suitable for children or choose a longer route
- Restaurant: no
The Soča River Valley (Velika korita Soče) is one of the most beautiful places in the Triglav National Park in the Julian Alps. It is a narrow and deep canyon created by the Soca River. It is famous for its incredibly turquoise and clear water. There are bridges over the river, you can walk around the canyon and take a swim.
The venue is free to enter, but be prepared for crowds. You can park right at the entrance to Velika korita Soče – there are several places along the road.
A little further away is Mala korita Soče. This part of the riverbed is known for its narrow and deep canyons that the river has carved into the limestone bedrock. The water here flows fast and swiftly, creating the bright blue and green tones that are typical of the Soca River.
From the trail you will enjoy beautiful views. Free parking is located at the edge of the trail.
Napoleon Bridge
Another beautiful place is Napoleon’s Bridge, located to the south near Kobarid. The name of the bridge refers to the period when the area was under French rule during the early 19th century. The bridge became an important site during the First World War, when the Battle of Caporetto took place in the area. Not far from here is the impressive ossuary of the Italian soldiers killed during this battle.
A little further south, the Tolminka River flows into the Soča River near Tolmin. You can take a bath here if you don’t mind the water being colder.
One of the most popular activities on the Soča River is rafting or canyoning:
Tip: The village of Bovec is strategically located for exploring the western part of the Julian Alps – the Soca River, Kozjak Waterfall, Mangart Saddle, Vršič Mountain Saddle, Virje and Boka Waterfalls.
The best accommodation in Bovec:
- Hotel Soča: Fantastic four-star hotel with outdoor pool and complete facilities
- Hotel Sanje ob Soči: Stylish, modern hotel (rooms and apartments) with wellness and surrounded by nature
- Apartments and Rooms Skok: Modern and fully equipped apartments with kitchenette and outdoor seating for a great price
- Hostel Soča Rocks: Cheap accommodation with shared or separate rooms and shared kitchen
9. Kozjak Waterfall – best things to do in the Julian Alps
Slovenia is a country of beautiful waterfalls. The Kozjak waterfall is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Julian Alps, mainly due to its location – it falls into a narrow rock gorge from a height of 15 metres and below it a lake with beautiful turquoise coloured water forms.
It is located near the town of Kobarid, near the village of Bovec in the west of the Julian Alps. As one of the few waterfalls in Slovenia, Kozjak Waterfall has a fee during the season – you can find current information about opening hours and entrance fees here. The parking lot is located half an hour from the waterfall – from there you will walk along the Soča River with a spectacular view, past the Mali Kozjak waterfall to the Veliki Kozjak waterfall.
10. Mountain saddle Vršič
The Vršič mountain pass is the highest mountain pass in Slovenia and one of the most important transport links through the Julian Alps, connecting the towns of Kranjska Gora and Bovec. The pass is 1,611 metres high and is famous for its winding road with a total of 50 hairpin bends. You can drive it in about an hour if you don’t make any longer stops.
The road that passes through the pass is known as the Russian Road because it was built by Russian prisoners of war during World War I. A Russian chapel was built near the top of the pass in their memory.
Along the pass there are refreshments, rest areas and free parking lots where you can just enjoy the views or venture further into the mountains.
In high season, arrive early to avoid queues. If you go from Kranjska Gora, the turns will be numbered in ascending order.
11. Boka Waterfall
Boka Waterfall (Slap Boka) is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Slovenia. It is located in the western part of the Julian Alps, near the town of Bovec.
Boka Waterfall is a two-tiered waterfall – the first tier is 106 metres high and the second 33 metres, making it the highest waterfall in Slovenia. The best views are in spring, when the snow melts and the tributaries are at their highest. At this time, the inflow can reach up to 100 cubic meters of water per second.
Unlike other waterfalls in Slovenia, the path to Boka Waterfall is a bit more challenging, but it depends on which path you choose. The route is easy at the first viewpoint. If you go to the right, the trail is challenging, but on the other side you will get close to the waterfall. It takes sturdy shoes and a sure foot.
12. Mangart saddle
- Difficulty: easy
- Time: 1 hour if you are not planning to hike
- Restaurant: yes
The Mangart saddle is the highest road in Slovenia, where you can experience a real adventure. The narrow road takes you up to 2,072 metres, from where you have to turn back (the road is not passable). At the top, you’ll enjoy hairpin turns where your adrenaline is sure to soar (especially if you have a respect for heights).
The Mangart Trail winds along the slopes of Slovenia’s third highest mountain, Mangart, which reaches a height of 2,679 metres. From the saddle you can see the Italian side of the Julian Alps and, in good weather conditions, you can see all the way to the Adriatic Sea.
You can drive your car up to two thirds of the way, where there is a car park. The road is not passable and the toll is 10 €.
Here is a list of the 20 best hikes and things to do in Slovenia.
13. Vogel
- Difficulty: easy to moderate, depending on the chosen route
- Restaurant: yes
Vogel Peak (1,923 m) is one of the most popular peaks in the Julian Alps, turning into a popular ski resort in winter and a tourist destination in summer.
From the village of Ukanc on Lake Bohinj, you can take the gondola lift to an altitude of 1,535 m, where there is a mountain hut and a viewpoint with a fantastic view of Lake Bohinj.
From there you can continue along one of the hiking trails and walk, for example, to the top of the Vogel (2 hours) and continue along the ridge.
Here you will find up-to-date information on the timetables and prices for the Vogel cable car.
14. Spodnja Sorica a Planina Soriška
In the Julian Alps there are picturesque villages with the towers of local churches peeking out. Spodnja Sorica is one of the most beautiful villages in the area. With rounded, deep green hills that invite easy walks and photography.
Spodnja Sorica is an ideal place for those looking for accommodation in a quiet, picturesque landscape. V Guesthouse Tolc you will enjoy accommodation in a mountain setting and delicious local cuisine.
A short distance away, at an altitude of 1,277 metres, is the Soriška Plateau, which offers year-round activities – skiing in winter and hiking in summer. There is a large, free parking lot and a mountain hut right in the saddle.
It’s the perfect place if you’re looking for easy routes with fantastic views. But you can also find day trips along the ridges of the Julian Alps.
Tip: If you’re heading to the Slovenian Alps primarily for hiking, the Soriška Plateau is the perfect base. You don’t have to go anywhere and you can go straight from the guesthouse along one of the hiking trails, ridge trails or by bike on the cycle paths.
The Soriška plain is also a good starting point for excursions in the eastern part of the Julian Alps – in half an hour by car you can reach Lake Bohinj or Lake Bled.
This accommodation is located directly in the saddle Soriška planina:
- Guesthouse Lajnar: New, modern rooms and studios with kitchenette, restaurant and breakfast included
- Brunarica: Cozy guesthouse with breakfast included and restaurant, suitable for couples and families with children
HOTELS SORICA 😴
15. Blegoš
Blegoš is a popular peak in the eastern Julian Alps. This is an easy family trip for half a day, where there is a mountain hut for refreshments. Blegoš reaches a height of “only” 1,562 metres, but the views from here are among the best in the Julian Alps.
The starting point is the free forest parking lot in Gorenja Žetina, which is mainly used for the hike to Blegoš. From here a marked trail leads to the top.
16. Triglav
- Difficulty: challenging (high elevation and safe sections)
- Time: full-day to two-day route
- Mountain huts: yes
We move back to Triglav National Park, the heart of which is Triglav, the national peak of Slovenia. There is an all-day route to Triglav itself, which is suitable especially for those who have experience with high mountain terrain (sheltered and steep sections, high altitude).
Still, it’s crowded at the top, so if you want to enjoy Triglav more in peace, you can sleep in a mountain hut a short distance from the summit and be among the first to reach the top in the morning.
There are several routes to Triglav – the easiest starts at the parking lot on the Triglav Trail near the Aljažev dom mountain hut or in the Krma Valley. A popular but challenging route is the one from Trenta in the west of the park.
Read even more tips on what to visit in Triglav National Park.
17. Tolmin Gorges
- Difficulty: easy
- Time: 2-3 hours
- Restaurant: a short walk from the entrance to the gorges
The Tolmin Gorges (Tolminska korita) are one of the most beautiful natural attractions in the Julian Alps. You can find them near the town of Tolmin, on the southernmost tip of the Julian Alps.
The Tolminka and Zadlaščica rivers, which cut deep into the bedrock, created the canyons. From the bridges and observation walkways, you can enjoy a fantastic view of the clear, turquoise blue water, which forms a perfect contrast to the dark rocks.
How to visit Tolmin Gorges
If you are arriving by car, you have a choice of two parking lots: a small paid parking lot right at the entrance and a free parking lot about 20 minutes walk uphill (in the season from the end of June to the end of October, a free shuttle bus runs between the lower parking lot and the entrance to the gorges).
On this link you can find current information about entrance fees and opening hours to Tolmin Gorges.
18. Waterfall Savica
- Difficulty: not difficult, but not suitable for people with reduced mobility and strollers (the path is mostly up stairs)
- Time: 1 hour round trip
- Restaurant: restaurant by the car park
Savica Waterfall is one of the most famous and beautiful waterfalls in the Julian Alps in Slovenia. It is located close to Lake Bohinj. In high season it is better to arrive early in the morning, as there are queues at the waterfall viewpoint.
Savica is unique because of its characteristic “A” shape, which creates two main streams of water. They are rushing into a deep green pool. The main stream is about 78 metres high, while the smaller stream is about 25 metres high.
The way to the Savica waterfall is along a marked trail that starts at the parking lot of the Savica House. On the way to the waterfall, you will climb more than 550 steps with benches and views of the valley.
How to visit Savica Waterfall, Triglav National Park
You can arrive at the Savica house by your own car (parking for 4€ for 3 hours – no one checks how long you take) or by shuttle bus from Lake Bohinj.
From here you will climb for about 20 minutes to the Savica waterfall. There is a €5 entrance fee for the waterfall (reduced for children, students and senior citizens and free for children under 6).
19. Matajur
- Difficulty: easy
- Time: 2 hours
- Restaurant: yes
Matajur is a peak on the Slovenian-Italian border. Even at 1,641 metres, it offers fantastic views of the Slovenian Alps and the Friuli plain in Italy.
The starting point is the mountain hut Rifugio Pelizzo in Italy, which is very easily accessible from Slovenia. From here there are several marked trails to the top – the path is steep but easy and takes 45-60 minutes.
20. Gregorčič waterfall
- Difficulty: challenging
- Time: 2 hours round trip
- Restaurant on the way: no
Last, we have perhaps the most beautiful waterfall in the whole of the Julian Alps (and there is a lot of competition). The Gregorčič waterfall (Gregorčičev slap) is hidden in the woods and there is an unmarked but well-trodden path leading to it, which is suitable for experienced hikers. Proper shoes are a must, as well as caution and sure footing, as the path is steep, in places unsafe and unsuitable for children. But if you want to enjoy a beautiful waterfall without people, it’s worth it.
The route to the waterfall starts in the village of Selce, from where you will see signs to the smaller Brinta waterfall and Gregorčičev waterfall on the other side. The journey is about an hour long. The waterfall is narrow, so it’s good to come after winter or rains so it doesn’t dry up.
Where to stay in the Julian Alps
The Julian Alps are vast, so it’s a good idea to choose your hotel strategically. Below you will find the best areas to stay in the Julian Alps:
Kranjska Gora
The mountain village of Kranjska Gora offers perfect facilities for hiking and winter skiing. A short drive away you can visit the Zelenci Nature Reserve, Lake Jasna, Martuljek Waterfalls, the Soča River bed, the Vršič mountain pass or climb one of the impressive peaks including Triglav. Lake Bled and the Vintgar Gorge are half an hour’s drive away.
- Best Western Hotel: Four-star hotel with facilities including a swimming pool, gym, garden, free parking and half board
- Hotel Alpina: Popular 3-star hotel with lounge, restaurant and free parking
- Erjavčeva mountain hut: Traditional mountain hut right in the Vršič saddle
- Vitranc Apartments: Fully equipped apartments with kitchenette, swimming pool and free parking
- Mountain hut in the forest: Traditional mountain chalet in a beautiful setting, offering hotel at a great price
Mojstrana
The small village of Mojstrana is located in the north of the Triglav National Park, near Kranjska Gora. This is an ideal location for those looking for a quieter backdrop yet excellent accessibility for trips to the west and east of the park.
- House Katja-Privat wellness: 3 bedroom house with outdoor pool and large garden
- Villa Edelweiss Rooms&App Kranjska Gora: Comfortable apartments with complete facilities, garden and outdoor pool
- Hostel Lukna: Beautiful hostel decorated in traditional mountain style, offering accommodation in single or shared rooms
Lake Bled
Bled is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Slovenia. The town is famous for its picturesque lake, castle and church on the island. As a result, it offers a wide range of hotels and apartments, restaurants and leisure options.
- Hotel Ribno: Beautiful mountain hotel with wellness and excellent cuisine
- Hotel Bled Rose: Stylish hotel with wellness, swimming pool, excellent cuisine and surrounded by lots of greenery
- Villa Alpina: New, modern accommodation with views of the countryside and outdoor seating
HOTELS LAKE BLED 😴
Lake Bohinj
Lake Bohinj is another great summer destination for swimming, boating, taking the cable car to the Vogel, visiting the Savica waterfalls and the Mostnica gorge, or hiking along one of the many hiking trails, including the Triglav Lakes Valley. Lake Bled or the Vintgar Gorge can be reached in 20 minutes by car.
- Hotel Jezero: Traditional four-star hotel on the shores of Lake Bohinj
- Triglav Apartments: Fully equipped and newly furnished apartments with a view of the mountains and Lake Bohinj
- House Pr’Pristavc: Pleasant, very cosy hotel with excellent cuisine and great value for money
- Erlah House: Family-run guesthouse with a friendly atmosphere, cosy rooms and outdoor seating
HOTELS BOHINJ LAKE 😴
Bovec
Bovec is a village located on the Soča River, which is famous for its water sports and adrenaline activities, from rafting to zip line. Bovec is ideal for exploring the western and southern part of the Julian Alps.
- Hotel Soča: Fantastic four-star hotel with outdoor pool and complete facilities
- Hotel Sanje ob Soči: Stylish, modern hotel (rooms and apartments) with wellness and surrounded by nature
- Apartments and Rooms Skok: Modern and fully equipped apartments with kitchenette and outdoor seating for a great price
- Hostel Soča Rocks: Cheap accommodation with shared or separate rooms and shared kitchen
HOTELS BOVEC 😴
Julian Alps, Slovenia – map
HOW TO USE THIS MAP: Above you will find a detailed map of the Julian Alps in Slovenia. Click at the top left of the map to see separate layers with highlighted locations. You can hide and show the different layers or click on the icons on the map to see the names of the places mentioned in the guide on what to visit in the Julian Alps. If you want to save the map, star it. It will then be saved to your Google Maps and can be retrieved at any time on your mobile phone or computer. For a larger version of the map, click on the icon in the top right corner.
These were tips on hiking routes and the best things to do in the Julian Alps in Slovenia. Do you have a question? We’ll be happy to answer it in the comments below. Have a safe journey!
More information about Slovenia
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In a separate article you will find even more tips for trips in Triglav National Park.
