Natural points of interest in Slovenia (17)

The Škocjan Caves, also known as Škocjanske jame in Slovene and Grotte di San Canziano in Italian, are a cave system located in Slovenia. Recognized for their exceptional significance, the caves were designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986. They are renowned as one of the most important caves globally, situated on the Karst Plateau and boasting a diverse ecosystem due to unique microclimatic conditions. The caves, with an explored length of 6,200 meters, feature the Big Collapse Doline and Little Collapse Doline as their entrances. The Reka River disappears underground at the Big Collapse Doline, forming one of the longest karst underground wetlands in Europe. With its historical importance dating back to ancient times, the caves have been explored since the 18th century and hold immense archaeological value, indicating human habitation for over ten thousand years. Tourism in Škocjan Caves has a long history, with the modern era beginning around 1819. Today, approximately 100,000 visitors annually explore the caves, which offer guided tours in multiple languages, showcasing the breathtaking underground canyon and its natural wonders.

Lake Bled, known as Blejsko jezero in Slovene and Bleder See or Veldeser See in German, is a stunning alpine lake nestled in the Upper Carniolan region of northwestern Slovenia, adjacent to the town of Bled. Renowned as a prime tourist destination, Lake Bled is conveniently located 35 km (22 mi) from Ljubljana International Airport and 55 km (34 mi) from the capital city, Ljubljana, with the Lesce–Bled train station just 4.2 km (2.6 mi) away. With a mixed origin stemming from glacial and tectonic forces, Lake Bled spans 2,120 meters (6,960 ft) in length and 1,380 meters (4,530 ft) in width, boasting a maximum depth of 29.5 meters (97 ft) and featuring a picturesque island within its waters. Surrounded by majestic mountains and verdant forests, the lake exudes natural beauty. Throughout history, Lake Bled has held significance as an important cult center, dating back to the Bronze Age. Archaeological findings, including gold appliqués from the 13th-12th century BC, suggest its cultural and religious importance. The medieval Bled Castle, situated atop the north shore, offers insight into the region's rich heritage and houses a museum. At the west end of the lake lies the Zaka Valley. Lake Bled has also been a venue for prestigious events, hosting the World Rowing Championships in 1966, 1979, 1989, and 2011, further enhancing its global acclaim. Throughout the centuries, Lake Bled has attracted European visitors seeking both recreational pursuits and medicinal benefits. Emperor Henry II, ruler of the Holy Roman Empire, was so enamored with the lake's charms that he constructed Bled Castle in 1004, establishing it as an imperial estate. Today, the castle stands as a beloved tourist destination, reflecting the enduring allure of Lake Bled.

Beneath the majestic Špik Mountain lie two exquisite waterfalls, considered jewels of the Slovenian Alpine landscape. Among them, the Upper Martuljek waterfall stands out for its remarkable beauty, cascading down three levels over a vertical wall spanning 110 meters. While the trail leading to the waterfall is relatively straightforward, access to the immediate vicinity of the waterfall is reserved for well-equipped mountaineers. Further downstream, the creek continues its journey over Jasenje Mountain, where the Lower Martuljek waterfall plunges over a 50-meter precipice into the Martuljek Gorge, a narrow limestone formation stretching 400 meters in length. The ideal time to visit both waterfalls is in late spring when they are at their fullest, nourished by the melting snow. Enhancing the experience, visitors can indulge in delicious homemade cuisine at the renowned 'Pri Ingotu' cabin and explore a traditional charcoal pile along the way, completing a truly unforgettable journey.

The Glijun stream, sourced from the subterranean waters of the Kanin mountain range, cascades into a multi-stranded waterfall measuring 20 meters wide and 12 meters high. Below, a picturesque pool of emerald green emerges, nestled amidst lush vegetation and moss-covered rocks. While inviting for summer refreshment, the water of the Virje Waterfall remains icy cold, and swimming in the pool beneath is prohibited to preserve its pristine beauty for future generations. Virje Waterfall and Glijun Stream: Mysteries of the Kanin Waters The Glijun stream stands as a rare karstic spring that never runs dry, often characterized by heavy precipitation that orchestrates a natural water symphony with surrounding streams. During summer, water levels rise due to the melting snow in the central Kanin mountain range. Emerging among glacial stones, the spring water maintains a chilly temperature of up to 7°C. Accessing Virje Waterfall Virje Waterfall offers an excellent opportunity for a leisurely stroll in the Soča Valley, accessible by bicycle or on foot along the enchanting paths of the Kanin waters. From Plužna village, follow the signs for Virje along the road towards the artificial lake (hydropower plant). Just before the bridge over the Glijun stream, a wide path veers left and downward (approximately 50 meters), leading to the karstic source of the Glijun stream and the nearby artificial lake Plužna. Parking Information for Virje Waterfall Parking fees are €5 for cars and €10 (data February 2024) for other vehicles, valid for 2 hours of parking. Note that access is restricted for motorhomes and buses.

Lake Bohinj, known as Bohinjsko jezero in Slovene and Wocheiner See in German, spans 318 hectares (790 acres), making it Slovenia's largest permanent lake. Situated in the picturesque Bohinj Valley of the Julian Alps, within the northwestern Upper Carniola region and part of Triglav National Park, Lake Bohinj boasts stunning natural beauty. Measuring 4.2 kilometers (2.6 miles) in length and with a maximum width of 1 kilometer (0.62 miles), Lake Bohinj is a glacial lake formed by a moraine. Its primary inflow comes from the Savica, also known as the 'little Sava,' originating from Črno jezero (Black Lake), the lowest-lying lake in the Triglav Lakes Valley. At the eastern end, the Jezernica creek serves as the outflow, merging with the Mostnica to form the Sava Bohinjka, which eventually joins the larger Sava River at the confluence with the Sava Dolinka. Notably, it was observed by Belsazar Hacquet in the 18th century that Lake Bohinj loses more water than it receives, attributed to subterranean water sources. The lake's crystal-clear waters are home to various aquatic species, including brown trout, burbot, European chub, common minnow, Arctic char, and numerous algae species. Popular among day trippers, Lake Bohinj offers opportunities for swimming and various water sports. Along its shores stands a statue of the legendary Goldhorn (Zlatorog) chamois, immortalized in the writings of poet Rudolf Baumbach.

Rinka Falls is situated in the Logar Valley, within the Municipality of Solčava in northern Slovenia, serving as the origin of the Savinja River. Recognized as a natural heritage site, Rinka Falls is renowned as one of Slovenia's most stunning and well-known waterfalls, drawing numerous tourists year-round. With a remarkable drop of 105 meters, it stands as the tallest among the 20 waterfalls in the Logar Valley, featuring a longest step spanning 90 meters. The waterfall attracts visitors in every season, including winter, where it is frequented by ice climbers. Additionally, the vicinity hosts four mountains named Rinka: Carniola Mount Rinka (Kranjska Rinka; 2,453 m), Carinthia Mount Rinka (Koroška Rinka; 2,433 m), Styria Mount Rinka (Štajerska Rinka; 2,374 m), and Little Mount Rinka (Mala Rinka; 2,289 m). The name 'Rinka' originates from the Slovene term 'rinka,' meaning 'ring, hoop, or link of a chain,' borrowed from German roots. This designation historically referred to rounded or ring-like topographic features.

Boka waterfall, situated in the western region of Slovenia near the Soča River, originates from a karst spring and comprises two distinct stages. The first stage boasts a remarkable height of 106 meters and a width of 18 meters, while the second stage stands at 33 meters high. The waterfall derives its water supply from a karst spring beneath an almost vertical limestone wall, resulting in a significant discharge facilitated by underground drainage in the Kanin mountains. Water flow ranges from approximately 2 cubic meters per second during dry periods to an impressive 100 cubic meters per second after heavy rainfall. The stream, known as Boka, cascades over a rocky shelf for about 30 meters before plummeting as a magnificent waterfall, divided into two stages with heights of 106 meters and 33 meters respectively. Boka Creek, which flows beneath the waterfall, traverses a steep valley with a stony bottom before joining the Soča River, making it one of Slovenia's shortest streams. Accessing the waterfall is convenient via the regional road between Kobarid and Bovec, approximately 2.2 kilometers upstream from the village of Žaga or 6.1 kilometers downstream from Bovec. The waterfall is visible from the road, with a parking lot and gravel road leading uphill toward it. A secured climbing path on the left side of the stream offers access to the waterfall's source, while a separate path on the right leads directly to the waterfall itself.

A marked path from Mojstrana leads to Peričnik waterfall, making it accessible on foot or by bike. Protected as a natural heritage site, Peričnik waterfall has resisted past attempts to harness its water for electricity generation. Over time, the waterfall has altered its course, leaving grooves in the wall visible from the top. In the 1930s, a blockage in the riverbed led to Peričnik flowing like a two-stranded waterfall, a phenomenon now only seen during heavy downpours. A unique feature of Peričnik is the ability to walk behind the waterfall, adding to its global allure. Visitors can easily access the lower waterfall from Peričnik hut, where informational boards provide details about the site. However, caution is advised when navigating the wet and slippery trail behind or under the waterfall. Ascending to the upper waterfall is possible, though it stands at a height of only 16 meters. Peričnik Falls, situated within Triglav National Park, comprises two waterfalls: Upper Peričnik Falls and Lower Peričnik Falls. The name 'Peričnik' originates from the verb 'prati,' meaning 'to strike' or 'beat,' reflecting the cascading water over steep cliffs, a sight accessible after crossing Bistrica Creek and ascending a nearby scree slope.

The Kozjak Waterfall, located near Kobarid and overlooking the emerald green Soča River, is a natural wonder nestled within the Kozjak stream gorge. Standing at 15 meters high, the waterfall creates a picturesque scene with its limestone-covered walls, reminiscent of a hidden paradise. Visitors can access the waterfall via an arranged footpath, occasionally crossing small wooden bridges, leading to a terrace offering a mystical view of the rocky amphitheater surrounding a green pool and the cascading white water. Considered by many as Slovenia's most beautiful waterfall, the Kozjak waterfall is nestled within a stony chamber and fed by the Kozjak Stream originating from the Krnčica mountain. Only two of its six waterfalls are accessible, including the 8-meter-high Mali Kozjak waterfall. As a protected natural area, swimming in the pool beneath the Kozjak Waterfall is not permitted to preserve the original experience for all visitors. Instead, visitors are encouraged to enjoy bathing in designated areas along the Soča, Nadiža, and Idrijca rivers. The Kozjak Waterfall is open for visitors from April 2nd to October 31st, with varying opening hours throughout the season.

Postojna Cave, located near Postojna in southwestern Slovenia, is a 24.34 km long karst cave system, making it one of the country's top tourist attractions. Initially described by Johann Weikhard von Valvasor in the 17th century, it has a rich history of exploration and tourism. The cave became an official tourist destination in 1819, and electric lighting was installed in 1884, contributing to its popularity. During World War II, the cave was used for storing aircraft fuel by German occupying forces and was later damaged by Slovene Partisans. After the war, it underwent modernization, including the replacement of the gas locomotive with an electric one. Today, around 5.3 kilometers of the cave system are open to the public, attracting nearly 1 million visitors annually. Recent explorations have extended the cave system's length, and it also houses the world's only underground post office. The cave's natural environment features stunning formations like stalagmites, stalactites, and curtains, and it is home to the endemic olm, the largest troglodytic amphibian globally. The tour through the cave, which lasts about 1.5 hours, includes a train ride covering 3.5 kilometers and a guided walk through 1.5 kilometers of passages. The cave maintains a constant temperature of around ten degrees Celsius (fifty degrees Fahrenheit).The visitors' book of Postojna Cave, dating back 200 years, offers a glimpse into the rich history of this remarkable natural wonder. Initially, signatures adorned the cave walls until the introduction of the first official visitors' book. The leather-bound tome contains signatures from over 2,900 visitors, including notable figures like Archduke Ferdinand and Wolfgang A. Mozart, who marveled at the cave's beauty during the Romantic Era. As tourism flourished, so did the frequency of signatures, reflecting the growing popularity of the cave, especially after the opening of the Vienna-Trieste railway line in 1857. The meticulous records provide insight into the diverse backgrounds of visitors, ranging from military commanders to Thomas Cook, the founder of the world's first travel agency. The introduction of the Golden Book of Visitors in 1857 reserved for esteemed guests further elevated the cave's prestige. Today, Postojna Cave continues to captivate millions of visitors worldwide, preserving its legacy as a timeless marvel of nature.Postojna Cave welcomes visitors daily, even on public holidays, offering a captivating tour experience. The tour, lasting an hour and a half, features a scenic cave train ride followed by a leisurely stroll along an easy footpath. Knowledgeable tour guides accompany each group, delivering engaging commentary in Slovenian, Italian, English, or German, unveiling the cave's wonders in exquisite detail. For further immersion, audio guides are available in 17 languages. Suitable for all ages and abilities, including families with young children and those with mobility limitations, the cave maintains a constant temperature of 10°C year-round, prompting the recommendation of warm clothing and sturdy footwear for a comfortable exploration.