Cool off at one of Slovenia’s natural bathing sites

Cool off in summer in natural bathing sites and bathing areas where you can enjoy crystal clear waters and beautiful natural scenery.

Swim in crystal clear waters

What could be better than cooling off in a lake, river or sea, which invites you just by the sight of its crystal clear water!

In Slovenia, there are officially 48 bathing waters regularly monitored for water quality. Among them are 30 bathing areas and 18 natural bathing sites. Even though safety and additional facilities are provided at natural bathing sites, you bathe at your own risk in most natural bathing areas.

In addition to bathing waters, where regular official water quality testing is carried out, you can cool off at other popular places along the waterside, which also carry out bathing water quality testing themselves.

The water quality is good in most cases. Here are some tips on where you can swim on hot summer days.

Cooling off in the sea

Most of you probably think of the sea when you hear the word swimming. In Slovenia, you have plenty of reasons to take a dip in it. Along the roughly 42 kilometres of Slovenian coastline, there are 21 officially registered bathing waters, some of which are hotel beaches, while others are more widely accessible.

Beaches of Piran and Portorož

Do you prefer more action-packed areas in and by the sea or are you looking for your own oasis of tranquillity accompanied by a sea breeze? You can find both in Portorož and Piran. Those looking for something more lively can head directly to Portorož’s central beach, while those looking for a more intimate spot can retreat to Moon Bay (Mesečev zaliv). In addition to the sea, there are two freshwater lakes in Fiesa, and the bathing site in Strunjan is also popular. There is quite a lot to choose from. What will you choose?

Beaches of Piran and Portorož

Izola’s beaches

Izola has eight beaches stretching over five kilometres. In the town itself there is a bathing area by the lighthouse. Towards Piran, Simon's Bay (Simonov zaliv) awaits you, a popular beach with an archaeological park nearby. You will also find beaches for the physically impaired and beaches suitable for dogs.

Swimming in Koper

There are two bathing sites in Koper. If you like to be in touch with the city, then it is worth visiting the City Beach (Mestno kopališče) or, as the locals call it, the Wet Cat. Fun water experiences await you at the Žusterna beach. You can also have fun in the water on the stretch of land between Koper and Izola.

Ankaran’s beaches

At the beginning of the Slovenian coast, Ankaran awaits you with its beaches and natural bathing sites. Swim in the sea at Camp Adria. You will find beautiful beaches at Debeli Rtič. Youthful energy can be found at the Student beach (plaža Študent) with its musical entertainment, but you can also enjoy swimming at Valdoltra beach. The beach in St Bartholomew’s Bay (zaliv sv. Jerneja) is popular with those who are environmentally conscious.

Beaches with the Slovenia Green label

Spend your day at beaches where they pay special attention to a sustainable future. These beaches hold the national Slovenia Green label and the internationally recognised Blue Flag environmental certificate. Besides ensuring high-quality bathing water, they also focus on tidy surroundings and safety.

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Grajsko kopališče, Bled

Year after year, Grajsko kopališče (the Castle Bathing Area) in Bled has been awarded the Blue Flag, which guarantees the cleanliness of the water. It was also the first to be awarded the Slovenia Green...

Portorož Central Beach

When in Portorož, you must visit Central Beach, where there is always something exciting going on. They also take care to maintain bathing water quality as well as their sustainability commitments on...

Take a dive into beautiful Slovenian lakes

Slovenia has many natural and artificial lakes, some of which are especially appealing to cool off on hot summer days. Popular destinations for summer swimming are the two largest Slovenian natural lakes, but you will also be able to find a pleasant lake to cool off elsewhere.

Lake Bled

Great fun for the whole family with excellent culinary treats awaits you at the Castle Bathing Site in Bled. Popular bathing spots are also Mala and Velika Zaka near the campsite, where you will find plenty of opportunities for various activities by and on the water. Natural bathing sites are also arranged near the Grand Hotel Toplice and Villa Bled.

Lake Bled

Lake Bohinj

Lovers of beautiful and pristine nature will enjoy Lake Bohinj, whether in the Fužine Bay or in Ukanc. Besides swimming, the lake is popular with surfers, kayakers and canoeists. Anglers and divers will also find plenty to enjoy.

Velenje Beach

Among popular spots for swimming and water activities is Lake Velenje. You can rent paddleboards and surfboards, have fun at the water park or enjoy activities on the coast. By the lake not far from the main beach, there is also an area where your dogs can also cool off.

Šobec Pond natural bathing site

Between Bled and Lesce, you can cool off in Šobec Pond (Šobčev bajer), which is part of Camp Šobec. There is a grassy beach with shade by the pond, and children will enjoy the water park with its trampolines and water towers.

Radlje ob Dravi Water Park

If you are a fan of green natural bathing sites, then drive to the Koroška region, specifically to the Green Resort in Radlje ob Dravi, where you can swim in the first biological pool in Slovenia. And if swimming will make you want to stay, you can spend the night in beautiful glamping houses shaped like watermills.

Swimming in high mountain lakes is forbidden!

High mountain lakes are extremely sensitive and vulnerable habitats due to their small size, long retention time and extreme conditions. By swimming and other water activities, substances are introduced that threaten the lake's ecosystem. Bathing is not allowed, not even for pets. To preserve their beauty and the living and non-living world within them, admire these lakes from the shore and cool off in the bathing waters down in the valley.

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Cool off in clear rivers

Slovenian rivers offer plenty of spots where you can cool off and have fun with various water activities. At some places you can rent a paddleboard, kayak and canoe and spice up your bathing day with other experiences in and by the water.

Kolpa River

The Kolpa River is considered to be the warmest river in Slovenia. On the longest Slovenian river riviera, you will come across a bathing area and numerous campsites at almost every step. You will also find water fun for the whole family at the Podzemelj Camp. Stop in the Radenci ob Kolpi bathing area, known as a natural spa.

Kolpa River

Nadiža River

The Nadiža River is a great place to cool off. It is considered one of the warmest alpine rivers, as the water temperature rises above 20 degrees Celsius in summer. With its clear pools and well-kept bathing areas, it will draw you into the water. It is even said to have healing powers.

Krka River

You can find solace from the summer heat in the Krka River in the Dolenjska region. A popular natural bathing site is Loka near Žužemberk, where you can cool off by jumping into the river or simply lounge on the grassy beach. Food and drinks are available nearby. A pleasant bathing day by the Krka River also awaits you at the dam in Straža.

Soča River

The beautiful turquoise colour of the Soča River invites everyone to at least soak their feet in the water and the bravest to swim in it. The best known are the gravel areas between Kobarid and Tolmin. A popular spot is the confluence of the Tolminka and Soča rivers in Tolmin, where various festivals also take place. A real refreshing experience awaits the most daring in Čezsoča. Lower along the river you can swim in Kanal and Solkan, where there is also a kayak centre.

Idrijca River

The Idrijca River with its deep pools and gorges is great to cool off in summer. You can jump into the water at Slap ob Idrijci, where the water temperature reaches over 20 degrees Celsius in summer. The bathing area is located at Bača pri Modreju. In the upper stream of the Idrijca River, where there is also a landscape park, you can cool off at the Lajšt bathing area.

Let's keep swimming in nature healthy and safe

Although bathing water quality testing by the Slovenian Environment Agency shows whether water at a given location is suitable for bathing, remember that you bathe at your own risk even in these waters. Here are some recommendations to keep your day by the water safe and healthy.

Bathe in rivers, lakes and the sea only where the bathing water quality is monitored.

Graphic showing a cloud with rain and lightning.

Avoid bathing after heavy rain, as waters may be more polluted due to runoff or dangerous due to increased flow or high waves. Leave the water immediately if weather worsens suddenly.

Graphic showing a man jumping into the water.

Before jumping into the water, check its depth and visibility to the bottom. An impulsive jump can be fatal.

Bathing water is suitable for swimming, but not for drinking. Avoid swallowing water when bathing, especially children. Shower as soon as possible after bathing with potable water.

Although you may crave immediate cooling off when overheated, water temperatures in the sea, rivers and lakes are generally much lower, so get in there gradually.

Avoid sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Seek shade and use proper sun protection during this time.

Wild animals may be present near natural bathing waters and leave droppings (rodents). To avoid inconvenience and possible diseases, stay away from these feces.

Think green when cooling off in summer

What could be nicer than jumping and swimming in crystal clear water? In Slovenia, you have plenty of opportunities to indulge in such pleasures. In order for future generations to enjoy these waters as well, we try to make cooling off in water as eco-friendly and responsible as possible. Be a part of this green way of thinking! Visit the destinations that have earned the Slovenia Green Destination label for their green and sustainable efforts.

Come to Slovenia for refreshing pleasures!

Beautiful lakes, clean rivers and the deep blue sea invite you to Slovenia! Escape the summer heat and find shelter in our green country! Discover refreshing experiences that will cool you down and delight you at the same time.

Top water activities

Slovenian waters are amazing and perfect for active experiences. The crystal clear waters will make you want to enjoy all kinds of experiences. Rivers, lakes and the sea are perfect for rowing, swimming, fishing and other adventures that will thrill and refresh you.

Top water activities

Where can you swim in Slovenia?

When the air warms up and it is time to freshen up, stop by Slovenian lakes, rivers and the sea. Everywhere you go you will find natural bathing sights and other places where you can dive into the water. In the cities, visit well-equipped bathing areas where you won't get bored. Whenever you want to go for a swim, you can always visit a spa.

Rivers are a playground for adrenaline adventures

Wild river rapids are the perfect testing ground for all adrenaline seekers. Rafting, kayaking, canoeing or something more daring – try out refreshing fun that will get your blood pumping. Explore narrow gorges in a wetsuit and discover the magic of canyoning by going down a waterfall.

SUPing is super!

Catch the real balance on stand-up paddleboards and enjoy the gliding across the water. On the lake, sea or river. In nature or in the city. If you don't have a paddleboard with you, you can rent one at many waterside locations.

Water adventures in hidden corners of Slovenia

Are you looking for a special water adventure that offers you an active experience of authentic nature and at the same time helps you unwind and find peace? If so, then join a guided kayak, canoe, SUP or boat tour that will take you to the beautiful hidden corners of Slovenia.

Refreshing and invigorating Slovenia

Escape the summer heat and find pleasant refreshing spots in Slovenia – by the water, in the mountains or at the spas, or in the shelter of mighty forests. And do not forget to drink plenty of fluids; you can safely drink tap water in Slovenia.

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Cool off at one of Slovenia’s natural bathing sites