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Stories from Slovenia

Experience the richness of Slovenia’s rivers

The crystal-clear waters of Slovenia’s rivers are beautiful to look at and even more fun to play in. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation along and on the rivers. 

My way of going with the flow

Slovenia has an exceptional abundance of water. Did you know that Slovenia has nearly 30,000 kilometres of watercourses, the highest in Europe compared to surface area? The crystal-clear water is a magnet for everyone looking for refreshing adventures. The pleasant burbling of the streams and rivers is relaxing, and the water washes away your everyday worries, at least for a while. Although Slovenia is crisscrossed by numerous streams and rivers, we will focus on the five that you shouldn’t miss when visiting Slovenia.

The River Soča

When you visit this emerald green river in the middle of the summer heat, it will feel like you are breathing in all of the freshness provided by the surrounding woods. Enjoy the natural beauty, gaze at the river with a fish hook in hand and try to catch the famous Soča trout. Marvel at the river current as you walk down a path. Those who are more courageous can also experience an adrenaline adventure in Soča’s white waters.

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The Sava

Even the source of Slovenia’s longest river is special. Its upper course is comprised of two rivers: The Sava Dolinka, which crests the surface in picturesque Zelenci, and the Sava Bohinjka, which originates as the Savica Waterfall. The two courses meet in Radovljica, and from there they continue on as the Sava. The river then turns towards the Ljubljana Basin, and by the time it gets to the Posavje region it is already completely calm. It concludes its journey over Slovenian territory in Brežice. Learn about the Sava through various activities along and on it, from rafting on the rapids to traditional timber rafting in the calm sections.

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The Drava

The Drava begins its course through Slovenia in Dravograd and ends in Ormož. First it spends a bit of time winding through the Alpine landscape of the picturesque Drava Valley. Its path continues past the city with the world’s oldest grapevine, Maribor, and Slovenia’s oldest town, Ptuj, where it flows past winegrowing hills and onto the Pannonian Plain. One good way to get to know the river is by bike, as the international long-distance Drava cycling trail runs alongside it.

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The Mura

The lazy-flowing Mura is a perfect place for dreamers. The Mura is characterised by numerous backwaters and oxbows that remained after the river chose another course. One of these interesting and romantic places is the Island of Love. The Mura features exceptional biodiversity, owing to which the Mura region in Slovenia has been placed on the list of UNESCO biosphere reserves. You can take a ferry across the Mura and visit the preserved mill in Ižakovci. In the old days, the river was dotted with such mills. Despite its lazy flow, the Mura also has its surprises for lovers of more dynamic water activities.

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The Kolpa

The Kolpa begins at the edge of the Kočevje forests and wends its way through Bela Krajina. During the summer, this lush green riparian area offers numerous opportunities for pleasant relaxation, as it is Slovenia’s warmest river. You will find several glamping sites and camps along its banks, where you can spend a relaxing holiday. The land along the Kolpa is a hidden gem that is becoming increasingly popular due to its authenticity and diversity, and has also been awarded the title of European Destination of Excellence (EDEN).

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It’s all happening on the rivers

Which do you prefer, riding wild river rapids or meditating in peaceful pools with a fishing rod in your hands? Or maybe discovering the towns and countryside from the river’s perspective? Try the wide range of activities available on Slovenia’s rivers.

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Water activities

Treat yourself to a swim in some of the many thermal spas and swimming pools. In summer, take a dip in the sea, lakes or rivers. Slovenia is rich in natural water resources. Visit Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj or one of the many natural swimming areas located on the coast.

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A rush of adrenaline in Slovenia’s rivers

Experience refreshing and daring fun on the wild waters of Slovenian rivers.

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Fishing in Slovenia

Due to its indigenous fish in clean rivers, lakes, and the sea, Slovenia is a fishing and fly fishing paradise.

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Swim in crystal clear water

Are you looking for true refreshment on summer days? Come to Slovenia! Clean water and the picturesque surroundings of natural bathing areas on the coast, on lakes and on rivers await you.

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View from the water

Take a small boat on the river, explore the shore from an SUP, experience the rafting tradition or simply admire nature from the water perspective – choose your activity on water.

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Share your impressions on @FeelSlovenia

How did you enjoy Slovenia’s rivers? Share your photos and videos using #ifeelslovenia & #myway.

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