Bovec is the final word vacation spot for outside vacationers in Slovenia and is known for the limitless actions you are able to do there. The comfortable heart of Bovec is small, with a number of energetic cafés and eating places, however the true cause to go to is the character. The village is surrounded by the towering Julian Alps and serves because the gateway to the well-known Soča Valley, the place a crystal-blue river winds its means by dramatic landscapes. From rafting and canyoning to ziplining and mountain climbing, Bovec is Slovenia’s final journey playground. And after a full day of motion, there’s nothing higher than stress-free on one of many terraces with a view of the mountains and the Soča River. Curious what to do in Bovec? Beneath we share all our favourite suggestions!
There’s no scarcity of fantastic issues to do in and round Bovec. Listed here are 8 of our favorites!
Good to know: This text consists of a number of locations that aren’t straight in Bovec however are doubtless alongside your route from Bled to Bovec. We’ve famous this in every title, however remember to add them to your navigation earlier than you go—so that you don’t miss any of the perfect stops alongside the way in which.
Kayaking on the Soča River
Kayaking on the Soča River is likely one of the finest issues to do in Bovec! It’s not simply concerning the sport itself—the environment are actually spectacular. As you paddle down the river, you’ll be surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Julian Alps, proper within the coronary heart of one among Slovenia’s most stunning pure areas.
Earlier than hitting the water, you’ll be absolutely geared up with every part you want: a wetsuit, water sneakers, helmet, paddle, and naturally, a kayak. The Soča River is understood for its chilly, clear water and enjoyable present. Some sections are calm and ideal for stress-free and absorbing the surroundings, whereas others are quicker and require a bit extra steering. Total, it’s a straightforward and accessible exercise that just about anybody can get pleasure from, even with out prior expertise. Don’t overlook to carry a set of dry garments and underwear—you’ll have the possibility to alter earlier than getting again on the bus. Examine availability for kayaking on the Soča River.
Tip: Need much more adrenaline? Go rafting on the Soča River! You’ll sort out rapids, take a refreshing dip, and—if you happen to dare—even attempt cliff leaping from a 7-meter (23-foot) rock. The enthusiastic guides preserve issues protected, enjoyable, and full of fine vibes.
Hike the Soča Path
The Soča Path is likely one of the most stunning hikes in Slovenia. This route follows the emerald-green Soča River, taking you thru dense forests, mountain meadows, and spectacular gorges. Alongside the way in which, you’ll cross small waterfalls and farms, cross a number of suspension bridges, and luxuriate in limitless views of the Julian Alps. Our favourite spot was this suspension bridge, which felt additional particular within the rugged panorama.
The official begin of the path is within the village of Trenta, close to the bus cease Izvir Soče. From there, the route runs linearly for about 25 kilometers (15.5 miles) towards Bovec. It’s well-marked with indicators labeled “Soška Pot,” the Slovenian identify for the Soča Path. Finishing the total path takes 7–9 hours, relying in your tempo and what number of breaks you are taking. Because it’s a point-to-point route, it’s finest to take the bus from Bovec to Trenta and begin the hike from the official trailhead. That means, you’ll end proper on the Bovec bus station with no need to backtrack. The Nomago bus runs day by day and stops at numerous factors alongside the path.
Shorten the Soča Path: Due to the Nomago bus connection between Bovec and the Vršič Cross, you may simply shorten the Soča Path if you happen to don’t wish to hike the total 25 kilometers (15.5 miles). The bus stops at a number of scenic factors alongside the way in which, akin to viewpoints and the Erjavčeva Koča mountain hut. From any of those stops, you may hike a shorter part and catch the bus again to Bovec—creating your excellent customized route with out worrying about transport.
Drive the Vršič Cross (on the Route from Bled to Bovec)
About 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) northwest of Bovec lies the Vršič Cross. At an elevation of 1,611 meters (5,285 toes), it’s Slovenia’s highest steady mountain cross—and an absolute must-see. The street twists by the mountains with 50 hairpin turns, passing rugged peaks, pine forests, and numerous scenic viewpoints that can have you ever stopping for images each jiffy. It’s a well-liked route for street trippers and cyclists, so anticipate to share the street with motorbikes, RVs, and bikers. To keep away from the crowds, begin as early as doable.
Past its spectacular surroundings, the Vršič Cross additionally holds historic significance. The street was constructed throughout World Conflict I by Russian prisoners of battle. Alongside the route, you’ll discover the Russian Chapel, a small wood church constructed of their reminiscence—positively value a fast cease.
Good to know: In summer season, the Vršič Cross is often simple to drive, however in winter it may be closed resulting from snow.
The Longest Zipline in Europe
Harness up and soar 600 meters (1,970 toes) above a 200-meter (656-foot) deep valley—it doesn’t get extra thrilling than this! Ziplining in Bovec is a bucket-list expertise, house to the longest zipline in Europe. In complete, you’ll fly greater than 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) throughout 10 traces, every starting from 500 to 900 meters (1,640–2,950 toes) lengthy. One of many highlights is the tandem zipline, the place you may share the trip with a associate. Touring solo? The guides will pair you with one other participant or be a part of you themselves.
The journey begins with a jeep trip deep into the mountains on rugged off-road trails. After a couple of 30-minute drive, you’ll take a brief 20-minute hike to the coaching space, the place you’ll get a security briefing and discover ways to brake and deal with the wind. After a fast take a look at run, you’ll head to the primary zipline. Between traces, there are brief scenic walks by the forest. The ultimate line is probably the most spectacular—almost 1 kilometer (0.6 miles) lengthy—with breathtaking views of the Julian Alps and the valley under. Examine availability for ziplining in Bovec.
Slemenova Špica Hike (on the Route Between Bled and Bovec)
On the cozy mountain hut Erjavčeva Koča, about 35 kilometers (21.7 miles) northwest of Bovec, you’ll discover the start line of the hike to Slemenova Špica. This path takes you thru quite a lot of landscapes, with ever-changing views alongside the way in which. On the summit, a shocking viewpoint rewards you with sweeping mountain panoramas—and on clear days, you may even see the peaks of Austria and Italy. It’s completely definitely worth the climb. The hike takes round 1.5 to 2 hours up and about 1.5 hours down. We selected to hike up by way of the Vršič Path and descend by way of the Mala Mojstrovka Path, making a loop so that you don’t need to take the identical route twice.
Tip: Convey loads of water, as there are not any refill factors alongside the path. Good mountain climbing sneakers are important, and don’t overlook heat layers and rain gear—the mountain climate can change rapidly.
Canyoning in Bovec
Canyoning in Bovec is named some of the adventurous actions within the Soča Valley. You’ll climb by gorges and waterfalls, making your means by a pure water park carved by time. Outfitted with a helmet, harness, wetsuit, and durable sneakers, you’ll set off into the mountains with a small group and skilled guides. After a 25–30 minute uphill hike, the true enjoyable begins: sliding down rocks, rappelling beside waterfalls, and leaping into vibrant blue swimming pools. Within the newbie route, the jumps attain about 5 meters (16 toes), whereas the “skilled” route consists of jumps of as much as 10 meters (33 toes). At the beginning, contributors are divided into teams so you may select which journey fits you finest.
We went for the newbie tour because it was our first canyoning expertise—and it was wonderful! The primary jumps into the chilly mountain water are refreshing, however the wetsuit retains you heat as you progress. It seems like stepping right into a hidden world of slender gorges and towering rock partitions that you just’d by no means see on a daily hike. The canyoning tour lasts about three hours in complete. Examine availability for canyoning in Bovec.
Tip: Convey a set of dry garments and underwear—there’s time to alter earlier than heading again on the bus.
Go to the Crystal-Clear Lake in Zelenci Nature Reserve (on the Route Between Bled and Bovec)
Alongside the route between Bled and Bovec lies a small however magical cease: the Zelenci Nature Reserve. From the parking space, it’s lower than a 400-meter (0.25-mile) stroll to a stunningly clear turquoise-green lake. The water is so clear that you could see the fish swimming under. The lake is understood for its distinctive ecosystem and the colourful inexperienced aquatic crops lining its banks.
From the wood viewing platform, you’ll have an incredible view of the lake and the encompassing panorama. It’s a brief, simple stroll, making Zelenci Nature Reserve the proper place for a fast break to stretch your legs, breathe within the recent mountain air, and admire this particular ecosystem. Undoubtedly value a cease if you happen to’re driving by!
Drive the Mangart Saddle: Slovenia’s Highest Mountain Highway
Mangart Saddle is one among Slovenia’s highest paved mountain passes, sitting at 2,055 meters (6,742 toes). The street begins in Log pod Mangartom and winds upward by numerous switchbacks and 5 slender tunnels to succeed in the highest. Alongside your complete route, you’ll get pleasure from spectacular views of the Julian Alps and the deep Log Koritnica Valley. As soon as on the summit, you may park your automotive alongside the street and take images, go for a brief hike, or cease on the mountain hut for a break. The street ends at this level, so that you’ll drive again down the identical means.
Mangart Saddle is often open from June to October. Understand that the street is slender, and in lots of locations, there are not any guardrails—so drive slowly and punctiliously, particularly within the curves. Nonetheless, it’s completely manageable with a daily automotive; no 4×4 required. The doorway price for the cross is round €10 (about $11), payable in money solely. From Bovec, it’s roughly a 45-minute drive to Mangart Saddle.
Gostišče Sovdat – Serving Slovenian dishes, do-it-yourself gnocchi, and fantastically plated meals, that is one among Bovec’s top-rated eating places. There’s a comfortable backyard the place you may get pleasure from lunch or dinner within the solar. Reservations are beneficial.
Terramystica Adventures – Craving a wholesome breakfast or lunch? This café serves dishes full of recent components—and has a number of vegan choices too.
Thirsty River Brewing – The go-to spot for craft beers and nice burgers. You’ll be able to even do a tasting of their domestically brewed beers.
Pekarna – A preferred bakery within the coronary heart of Bovec. Seize scrumptious sandwiches right here at an excellent value—a favourite amongst locals and vacationers alike.
Brunarica Restaurant – Situated about quarter-hour from Bovec, this mountain restaurant serves scrumptious goulash with conventional dumplings when you get pleasure from jaw-dropping views. The sunsets listed here are spectacular!
Gostilna pod Lipco Veselin Vujačić – A neighborhood favourite for pasta, salads, pizzas, and hearty meat or fish dishes. Vegetarian choices are additionally accessible, and the parts are beneficiant.
Bar Gouf – The place for a wholesome breakfast or lunch, with a menu stuffed with recent sandwiches and yogurt bowls. Later within the day, chill out on the terrace with a chilly beer within the solar.
Good to know: All supermarkets in Bovec are closed on Sundays.
Adrenaline Examine Tenting is likely one of the most unusual stays in Bovec. You’ll sleep surrounded by greenery in cozy, furnished tents with actual beds. Within the night, collect across the campfire and luxuriate in a sky stuffed with stars. The campsite is positioned about 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) from the middle of Bovec.Want to remain on the town? The fashionable flats at BovecEnter Flats Kaninska vas are an excellent alternative. They’re set on the sting of the village with views over the valley and mountains—the place you’ll typically spot paragliders hovering by. The flats are spacious and have a small kitchen.Touring on a price range? Then Hostel Soča Rocks is ideal. Chill out in a hammock within the backyard, play video games within the widespread space, or seize a drink on the bar. The ambiance is pleasant and laid-back, with welcoming workers who make you’re feeling proper at house.
