Savica Waterfall
The Savica waterfall, also known as “Slap Savica” is a beautiful waterfall near Lake Bohinj in the Triglav National Park. In Slovene, “Slap” means “waterfall”, and the water falls in an unusual “A” shape into a striking emerald pool below. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Bohinj, so can get quite busy in summer. If you can, try to go early or at the end of the day during high, summer season.
A quieter time to visit the Savica waterfall is in spring or late summer, after the snow has melted in the surrounding Julian Alps. This is when Savica has the most water plunging down the rocks and is the most spectacular.
Location
The Savica waterfall is at the west end of Lake Bohinj, above the village of Ukanc. There is parking at the base of the waterfall (€4 for 3 hours), and an attractive mountain hut offering meals and refreshments.
The path is not suitable for buggies as it is mainly stairs. The walk though is suitable for families.
Ticket Options
The entrance fee is about €3 for adults. If you are thinking about visiting other local attractions, then consider purchasing the Julian Alps Card or a Bohinj Package.
Hiking up to the Savica Waterfall
There are 550 steps to the Savica waterfall! We know because we have counted!
The path up to the Savica waterfall is very easy to follow and takes around 20-30 minutes each way. There are resting places where you can admire the views over Lake Bohinj as you go up through the forest.
Most of the walk is under the trees offering shade from the sun or protection from the rain. You know you are nearly there when you can hear the water thundering down the rock face.
Savica Waterfall
You have reached the top! There is a viewing platform from which to watch the waterfall from a safe distance. You can also walk a little closer along a narrow path before you reach a gate (to stop people getting too close).
There is not a lot of space here so it definitely worth choosing a quiet time to visit, especially if you want to get photos without other people in them. On a particularly impressive day you might get sprayed with water, so have your waterproof handy! On a hot day in summer it is lovely to feel the cool, refreshing breeze from the water.
Source to the Savica Waterfall
The Savica waterfall is over 70 metres high and the water just pours out of the rock face from an underground river. The water originates from the Triglav Lakes Valley and from Pršivec and flows underground through cave passages until it bursts through the limestone rock.
The Savica waterfall is considered unique as the watercourse is divided in two; water crashes down in an “A” shape into the emerald pool below. When there is a lot of water shooting out of the rockface, it is spectacular.
If you are visiting Bohinj, then a trip to the Savica waterfall is well worth a visit. It is a beautiful natural wonder that has even inspired the writings of the Slovenian poet Prešeren.