Slovenia: Julian Alps – A Land of Crystal Clear Rivers. Waterfalls, and Snow-white Peaks – VIDEO

Although the highest alpine peaks can be found far to the west, the Slovenian Julian Alps have their unmistakable charm. The white limestone, which forms the local mountains and gives their non-forested parts sometimes unnaturally white, is the most involved.

This time I went to the mountains mainly to walk and discover nature. I spent most of my time in the valley of the Sochi River, which acquires a wonderful blue color thanks to limestone. Its pools with crystal clear water and mountain views were clearly tempting to swim. Although the Socha is one of the coldest rivers, in which I just got my feet wet, but this time it was impossible to resist.

One of the most beautiful treks was a hike from the Vršič saddle to the rock window below the Prisojnik hill. With a view of dozens of other peaks and the river in the valley, steep rocks, unique nature and eagles circling at the height, he left an experience of a lifetime.

But I would also like to recommend shorter treks and walks under the Ljubelj pass right on the border with Austria or wonderful paths around Lake Bohinj. Together with the more famous Lake Bled, it clearly invites you to a refreshing bath.

But as I mentioned at the beginning, Slovenia is one of the countries where every lover of adrenaline sports will enjoy. Especially in the town of Bovec and its vicinity, you can try everything from white water rafting to ferrata in the rocks to parachute jumps, bungee jumping and the longest zipline in Europe, where you fly on a rope along a four-kilometer route over a deep canyon.

A hike to Slovenia's highest mountain, Triglav, which rises to a height of 2864 meters, will also provide enough excitement. Along the way you will overcome large elevations, sections with ladders and securing chains and sleep in one of the mountain huts. You will definitely sweat, but the reward will be sweet.

For an unforgettable view, I also took the originally military road under the top of Mangart. Currently, they have started to collect a fee for the entrance, but the way up is worth it. In addition, you get a similar opportunity as in the Vršič klippe - to climb in one day to the very top with almost 100% certainty that you will return to the evening without any problems. Although, remember that you are still in the high mountains and the weather here can change within minutes of a warm summer day in a blizzard.

We are still quite close to Slovenia from the Czech Republic and I will be happy to recommend a visit even if you only go for the weekend. You will not regret.

GPS: Bled 46°22'12.7"N 14°06'02.3"E

Text, photos, and video: Matouš Vinš