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Julian Alps Introduce New Tourism Measures: Paid Access at Vršič, Free Savica Waterfall and Stricter Camping Rules

Published:
30.4.2026

Julian Alps Introduce New Tourism Measures: Paid Access at Vršič, Free Savica Waterfall and Stricter Camping Rules

Facing growing visitor pressure in one of the country’s most visited alpine regions, Julian Alps are introducing a series of new measures aimed at managing tourism more sustainably and protecting the fragile mountain environment.

The region, which records nearly two million visits annually and represents a significant share of Slovenia’s tourism overnight stays, has increasingly been confronted with overtourism challenges during the summer season. Local authorities and tourism stakeholders are now responding with new mobility, visitor-management and environmental protection measures designed to balance tourism growth with quality of life and nature conservation.

One of the most significant changes concerns the iconic Vršič Pass, Slovenia’s highest mountain pass and a major gateway to the heart of the Julian Alps. Under the new traffic regime, parking at the pass will be limited to 90 spaces and subject to payment, while vehicle access will be regulated through barrier systems. Visitors will be able to choose between parking, transit access or organized shuttle bus services operating from Kranjska Gora and Bovec.

Changes are also being introduced at some of Slovenia’s most popular natural attractions. Following new legislation, access to Savica Waterfall is currently free of charge, while other high-profile sites such as Vintgar Gorge, Tolmin Gorges and the Mostnica Gorge remain ticketed.

Authorities are also stepping up efforts to combat illegal camping, which has become an increasing issue across the alpine region. Municipalities throughout the Julian Alps have unified and significantly increased penalties for unauthorized camping, with fines now reaching EUR 500 per person. The goal is to reduce uncontrolled overnight stays in sensitive natural areas and limit environmental impacts.

At the same time, the region is investing in smarter tourism infrastructure. A new booking platform, JA BOOK, has been launched to enable direct accommodation reservations and strengthen the local tourism economy. In the future, the platform is expected to expand with mobility services and experience-based offerings.

The new measures reflect broader efforts to position the Julian Alps as a model for more balanced and sustainable tourism development — preserving the region’s extraordinary landscapes while improving the visitor experience and maintaining quality of life for local communities.

Source: Dnevnik
Photo: Jošt Gantar

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