Vintgar Gorge, Slovenia: A Family-Friendly Hike

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Vintgar Gorge in Slovenia is one of the most scenic and accessible hikes in the country – and one of the highlights of our trip. This 1.6 km wooden boardwalk hike winds through a narrow canyon, passing waterfalls, rapids, and crystal-clear pools. It’s an easy walk and incredibly picturesque, with plenty of spots to stop and soak in the views.

What I didn’t realize at first though, is that the trail is one-way only. I assumed we’d do the hike in under an hour – but the return route added another 1.5 to 2 hours. It wasn’t a dealbreaker, but definitely something I wish I’d known in when planning our day.

If you’re planning to visit Vintgar Gorge, here’s everything you need to know—from how to get there and ticket prices to what to expect on the hike and tips for visiting with kids. 

About Vintgar Gorge

Vintgar Gorge has been a must-visit spot in Slovenia for over 130 years. First opened to visitors in 1893, the gorge was made accessible by a series of wooden boardwalks and bridges that allow hikers to walk above the rushing Radovna River.

Located in Triglav National Park, just 10 minutes from Lake Bled, it’s one of the most popular natural attractions in Slovenia. The turquoise waters, small waterfalls, and dramatic rock formations make it a photographer’s dream—and a great, easy hike for families.

Quick Facts

Vintgar Gorge Map 

What to Expect on the Hike

The Vintgar Gorge hike is a 1.6 km one-way trail following the turquoise Radovna River through a narrow canyon. A series of wooden boardwalks and bridges let you walk above the rushing rapids, calm pools, and waterfalls, with plenty of scenic spots along the way.

The hike is fairly flat and easy, but it’s not stroller-friendly, and the narrow trails can get crowded in peak season. If you visit in summer, expect traffic jams on the boardwalk when people stop for photos.

Highlights Along the Trail:

• Boardwalks & Bridges – Walk over the river for amazing views.
• Waterfalls & Rapids – See the water crash through the canyon or slow into crystal-clear pools.
• Bohinj Railway Bridge – A massive stone bridge high above the gorge (if you’re lucky, a train might pass overhead!).
• Šum Waterfall – The tallest river waterfall in Slovenia, located at the end of the trail. For the best view, walk past the kiosk and down the stairs to the wooden viewing platform. 

The Return Hike: Two Route Options

Since the trail is one-way, at the end of the gorge, you must hike back via one of two trails. Both routes lead to P1 parking, but they offer different experiences.

What we did: We took the Red Trail, hoping for a quick return. But it was steeper than expected, and even though my kids are great hikers, it took us closer to 1.5 hours instead of 45 minutes. When planning our visit, we assumed the entire hike would take under an hour—but with the return hike, we ended up spending nearly 3 hours at Vintgar Gorge. If I were to do it again, I’d take the Green Trail— it’s longer but offers better views and is an easier walk.

Note: Since our visit, the trail names have changed, but the routes remain the same.

• The Green Trail (St. Catherine Route) is now called “Vintgaring in the Alps with the King of Triglav Trail.” It’s a sunnier route with open views, making it ideal for morning or late afternoon hikes.
• The Red Trail (Blejska Dobrava Route) is now called “Vintgaring in the Woods with the River of Trees Trail.” This trail is shorter and shadier, winding through the forest—perfect for a cooler midday hike.

While the names have changed, the hiking experience is still the same.

Skip the hike back? The Vintgar Gorge Shuttle runs from St. Catherine Church back to Bled, saving 2 hours of walking.

Planning Your Visit

Is Vintgar Gorge Kid-Friendly?

Yes! The short distance and scenic boardwalks make this a great hike for kids, but there are a few things to consider: 

✅ The trail is mostly flat, so kids can walk independently.
✅ Bridges and boardwalks make it fun, with fish and waterfalls to spot along the way. 
🚫 Not stroller-friendly – The boardwalks are narrow, and strollers aren’t permitted. If visiting with a baby or toddler, a carrier is the best option.

Our experience: My kids loved walking on the boardwalks and watching the rapids, but the return hike was less exciting for them. If you have younger kids, bring snacks, take breaks, and consider the shuttle back to Bled to avoid the long walk back.

How to Get to Vintgar Gorge from Bled

Located just 10 minutes from Lake Bled, Vintgar Gorge is easy to reach by car, shuttle, bike, or even on foot.
🚗 Car: 10 minutes drive
🚐 Shuttle: 10 minutes
🚌 Bus + Walk: 40 minutes
🚶‍♂️ Walking: 1 hour

⭐Best Option? If you have a car, drive and arrive early to get parking. If not, take the shuttle to save time.

Vintgar Gorge from Ljubljana

Ljubljana to Vintgar Gorge is 65 km and takes about 45 minutes to drive. If you’re making the day trip from Ljubljana, it’s best combined with a visit to Lake Bled.  

Tickets & Parking

Tickets can be purchased online or at the entrance, but since entry is limited by time slots, it’s best to book online in advance—especially in summer.

Vintgar Gorge Entrance Fee: 

Opening Hours:

• April: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
• May: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
• June – August: 7:30 a.m. – 7 p.m.
• September: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
• October – November: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Parking at Vintgar Gorge

Parking is available near the entrance, but it fills up quickly. If P1 (main lot) is full, you can park at P3 LIP Central Parking and take the shuttle to the entrance.

Parking starts at 7€ per car in the central parking lot, 10€ at the lot near the entrance, and 10€ for campervans.

What to Pack

While the hike is easy, you’ll want to be prepared.

✔  Good footwear: You’ll want shoes or hiking boots that are non-slip and have good grip, as it can be wet and slippery in spots. Closed-toed shoes or sandals are best. 
✔  Good camera: I only brought my iPhone, but with the rushing water and lighting in the gorge, this is a great spot for fantastic photos.
✔ Gorilla Pod: The Vintgar Gorge is absolutely stunning and you will surely want to take a few photos. But due to the narrow trails, a regular tripod wouldn’t be easy to use, so a small gorilla tripod is perfect to attach to the railings of the boardwalk bridges – just be sure to wait until no one is on the boardwalk at the same time or the boardwalk shakes a bit and results in blurry photos. 
✔ Water & Snacks: While there is a small kiosk at the end of the gorge where you can purchase snacks, there is nothing along the trail, or on the return hike. Bring a water bottle and snacks for the return hike.
🚫 Don’t bring a stroller—the trail isn’t suitable.

Where to Stay near Vintgar Gorge

Staying in Bled is the best option for visiting Vintgar Gorge. It’s not only close, but there are also plenty of great things to do in Lake Bled, including the iconic Bled Castle and Bled Castle. 

Hotel Park

Hotel Park is in a prime location with stunning views of Lake Bled and the Julian Alps. Rooms are comfortable and include a private balcony. The hotel also has an on-site restaurant serving the famous Bled Cream Cake, plus an indoor pool and a covered sunroom with amazing views of Bled Castle.

Garden Village Bled

For a unique stay, Garden Village Bled offers deluxe apartments, glamping tents with private hot tubs and tree house accommodations. Enjoy the Finnish sauna set between the trees over a stream, or the restaurant that has a stream flowing through it. Garden Village Bled is only a few minutes walk from the lake, or 15-20 minutes walk to the centre of town. Be sure to book well in advance, as it is a popular place to stay in Bled. 

FAQs About Visiting Vintgar Gorge

Is Vintgar Gorge accessible?
No, the trail is not wheelchair or stroller-friendly. The boardwalks are narrow, with steps and uneven terrain. If visiting with a baby or toddler, a carrier is the best option.

Can you swim in Vintgar Gorge?
No—swimming is prohibited to protect the environment. The water is also fast-moving in some areas, making it unsafe.

Are there bathrooms at Vintgar Gorge?
Yes, there are restrooms at the entrance and near the kiosk at the end of the trail. There are none along the trail, so plan accordingly.

Can I bring my dog?
Yes! Dogs are allowed on the trail but must be kept on a leash. There’s a €3 pet fee.

Do I need to book tickets in advance?
It’s highly recommended, especially in summer, as entry is limited to time slots and can sell out.

What’s the best time to visit to avoid crowds?
Early morning (before 10 a.m.) or late afternoon (after 3 p.m.) is best. The busiest time is 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Final Thoughts: Is Vintgar Gorge Worth It?

Absolutely! Hiking Vintgar Gorge is an easy, scenic walk through one of Slovenia’s most stunning natural attractions. With wooden boardwalks over turquoise waters, rushing waterfalls, and dramatic canyon views, it’s an experience not to be missed. 

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing hike or a chance to experience Slovenia’s natural beauty up close, Vintgar Gorge is a spot you won’t regret visiting.

⭐Planning a trip to Slovenia? If you’re heading to the area, here’s how to get from Ljubljana to Lake Bled. While you’re there, don’t miss our guide to the best things to do in Lake Bled—it’s full of ideas for families and scenic stops.
If you’re exploring more of the country, we’ve rounded up the most beautiful places to visit in Slovenia. And for a complete route, our Slovenia itinerary has everything you need to plan an unforgettable trip.