This unique natural gorge is among the most beautiful natural sights on the Soča and a precious element of the Triglav National Park. The Great Soča Gorge is located along the Vršič–Bovec road, around 11 km before you get to Bovec. It consists of a series of emerald pools forming a gorge that is 750 m long, just a few metres wide and up to 15 m deep, and opening up at the end into deep basin-like pools of turquoise water. You can admire the Great Soča Gorge on foot if you follow the famous Soča Trail, or from the wooden suspension bridge at the start of the gorge. Alternatively, you can drink in its emerald beauty at the other end of the gorge, where the rapids calm and the river forms deep pools. This is also a place to sit on the bank and admire the brave swimmers as they leap into the chilly water in summer.

The Little Soča Gorge is just a few kilometres from the Great Soča Gorge, in Lepena. It is 100 m long, up to 6 m deep and in some places less than a metre wide. A stone bridge crosses the gorge, offering a wonderful view of the emerald river below. The Little Soča Gorge may be less spectacular than its bigger relative, but it is still a marvel of nature well worth a visit. Sports activities are not permitted on this section of the river.

While you are in the vicinity of Bovec, we recommend visiting the impressive Virje Falls on the Gljun stream. This picturesque waterfall is fed by water from the Kanin mountain range. The water tumbles over the cliff in a forked waterfall that is 12 metres high and 20 m wide. Beneath it is an enchanting pool. Moss-covered rocks complete the stunning sight. The waterfall can be reached on foot from Bovec. There is also a car park nearby. The path to the waterfall is well marked and also suitable for children.

Along the road from Bovec towards Kobarid and Tolmin you can stop and admire the Boka Falls, Slovenia’s most abundant and powerful waterfall, with a total height of 144 m and a width of 18 m. The Boka Falls are considered one of the most magnificent waterfalls in Europe and are particularly impressive and photogenic in spring, when the snow melts, and in autumn, when rainfall is more plentiful. At these times of the year the waterfall reaches its highest rate of flow. The waterfall is visible from the road, while an easy, well-marked path leads to a viewpoint. This can be reached in around 15 minutes, walking at a moderate pace, and is therefore also suitable for children. Skilled climbers and the curious can continue at their own risk up a steep and, in places, precipitous path that offers increasingly spectacular views of the waterfall and ends at a viewpoint above it. Climbing this path will take around 45 minutes. The Juliana Trail, a long-distance walking trail, also passes by here, and we recommend hiking this part of the trail in order to enjoy the beautiful views along the Soča.

Many people consider the Kozjak Falls to be one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Slovenia. Trapped in a dark stone chamber, this hidden 15 m waterfall is a popular natural attraction in the gorge of the Kozjak stream, not far from Kobarid. To begin with, the path leads along the beautiful river Soča, offering stunning views, and then turns uphill and follows the Kozjak stream. The waterfall is hidden between the high walls of a karst cave, so you will only catch sight of it when you reach your destination. The path to the waterfall is well marked and maintained. En route it passes the Mali [Small] Kozjak Falls, which are equally mysterious and beautiful and over 8 m high.

The confluence of the Tolminka and Zadlaščica rivers forms one of the area’s most beautiful natural sights: the Tolmin Gorge. Lying at a height of 180 metres above sea level, the Tolmin Gorge is the lowest and perhaps most beautiful point of entry to the Triglav National Park. A relatively easy 2 km circular trail will lead you through the gorge where the rivers Tolminka and Zadlaščica come together in a confluence that is unique in Slovenia. Along the way, the two wild rivers create a wonderful series of gorges, rapids and waterfalls. Enjoy the wonderful blue of the water, the green of the vegetation and, in summer, the pleasant coolness as you walk along the trail. Don’t miss the other sights of the Tolmin Gorge, including the Bear’s Head, the 60 m high Devil’s Bridge, Dante’s Cave, a thermal spring and the confluence itself. The marble trout still survives in its original form in the waters of the Zadlaščica, thanks to the natural characteristics of the gorge.

On the trail with experienced guides!

If you enjoy adrenaline-boosting outdoor activities, why not try rafting, canoeing or kayaking on the rapids of the river Soča. Alternatively, you can hike into the high mountains or explore the beautiful valley by bicycle. Does caving give you a thrill? Set off and explore the dark underworld. If you don’t have much experience of rivers, mountains and caves, the best thing to do is to visit one of the local agencies and hire a guide to accompany you. A number of outdoor agencies operate in the Soča Valley, including Positive Sport, Soča Freeride in Kobarid and Soča Fun Park in Solkan.

Where to sleep in the Soča Valley

Planning a longer stay in the Soča Valley? If you enjoy sleeping out of doors, you can try one of the area’s many campsites. The Koren Eco-Campsite in Kobarid, located next to the path to the Kozjak Falls, is very well known. The Soča Valley also offers numerous private accommodation options and hotels, including Hotel Boka by the Boka Falls (near Bovec), Penzion Jelkin Hram in Drežnica near Kobarid, Penzion Kobala in Poljubinj near Tolmin, Hotel Dvorec in Tolmin and Hotel Sabotin in Solkan.