Feel like retreating from the high temperatures to cooler places? Want to breathe in the fresh forest air and feel the crystal clear water on your skin? Slovenia is full of such corners, most of which can be found on plateaus and higher up in Alpine Slovenia. Lonely Planet placed the Julian Alps among the top 10 regions of the world, as there are cool spots by rivers, lakes and waterfalls around every corner – perfect to retreat from the heat. Here are a few places trending on Instagram that are perfect for cooling off in the summer.
With its healthy Alpine atmosphere, the town of Bled, with its iconic Lake Bled and Bled Island, is one of the most popular locations in Slovenia where many people go to cool off. Take a dip in Lake Bled, where the water is a comfortable 25 degrees Celsius, or retreat from the scorching sun to the shade of the nearby mountains and enjoy the breath-taking views of the lake and Alpine peaks.
Lake Bohinj is a bit cooler than Lake Bled, but it is perfect in the summer. In addition to swimming, you can also take a kayak or a canoe out on the lake, you can paddle a boat, go fishing, diving, or even wind surfing. The lake is surrounded by the mountains of Pršivec, Komna and Vogel; you can ascend the latter in a cable car and enjoy not only the fresh mountain air, but also the stunning view of the largest permanent lake in Slovenia.
Set off to the Soča Valley and pay a visit to the stunning Soča River and its mountainous surroundings. You will be amazed at its signature turquoise colour and its freshness, which is much needed in those summer months. Feel the refreshing drops of water on your skin during your water adventures on the Soča River or take a rest in the shade of the trees along its banks and those of its tributaries.
On the way to the glacial Vrata Valley, the Peričnik Waterfall, one of the most remarkable waterfalls in Slovenia, magnificently cascades over a precipitous overhanging cliff. There are two waterfalls – the smaller upper waterfall and the larger 52-metre-high lower waterfall. You can reach it by taking a small forest path, and, if you walk behind it, you are sure to get a dose of freshness. The most enthusiastic visitors can take the more demanding trail to the upper waterfall and relax there in peace.
Hike to the Kozjak Waterfall, trapped in a rock amphitheatre, not far from Kobarid. Enter the underground cave that will blow you away with its breath-taking magnificence, greenish blue stream pool and a 15-metre-high torrent of water. A perfect retreat from the summer heat.
When driving or cycling from Kranjska Gora towards the Vršič mountain pass, take a minute to enjoy the gorgeous Lake Jasna before you start heading uphill. The crystal clear water reflects the surroundings peaks, among them Mount Razor and Mount Prisank, giving the lake a stunning backdrop. Lake Jasna is the perfect location to cool off in the summer, either in or by the water.
The steep rock face of Mount Komarča in Bohinj is where the magnificent Savica Waterfall bursts forth from a fault. This mystic waterfall is one of the most visited in Slovenia. Slovenia’s greatest poet France Prešeren found inspiration in the waterfall for his epic poem The Baptism on the Savica that will send you back to the time of the Christianisation of the pagans. Let the waterfall be your inspiration to defy the summer heat.
Nestled between the hills near Bled, the Radovna River has created a stunning gorge – the Vintgar Gorge. Hide from the scorching sun and feel the freshness. Take a walk on the wooden bridges and enjoy the views of the picturesque streams, pools, rapids, waterfalls, and the largest river waterfall in Slovenia.
In the heart of Triglav National Park, between Bohinj and Trenta, the picturesque valley of the Triglav Lakes stretches between the ridges high up in the mountains. The seven lakes, some large, others small, serve to mirror the mighty Triglav mountain range and the breath-taking Alpine landscape. Put down your backpack, sit by the crystal clear water and take in the freshness of the mountain air.
Near the triple border between Slovenia, Austria and Italy, only a few steps away from the regional road, you can find a true natural water gem. The blue and green lake, Zelenci, with numerous water springs and majestic mountain backdrop excites with its invigorating beauty. The area is home to many rare animal and plant species, and is thus protected as a natural reserve.
In addition to the cool spots in the Julian Alps, cool off in natural swimming spots as well as urban and thermal swimming pool across Slovenia. Take a dip in the sea on the Slovenian coast.
Julian Alps - a paradise for active adventures and relaxation in nature.
Enjoy crystal clear water and the wonderful natural backdrop of Slovenian natural bathing sites.
Thermal water parks = fun. Experience it in spas.
Spend your holiday on the Slovenian coast!
Discover the freshness and purity of Slovenia’s waters.
Add variety to your city summer holiday by visiting urban swimming pools.
Share your photos and clips of lakes, rivers and waterfalls in Slovenia with #ifeelslovenia.
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