The Best Waterfalls in Slovenia

This small country may be known for its stunning mountains and lakes, but there are also some beautiful waterfalls in Slovenia that are worth exploring. From impressive drops and powerful cascades to smaller, yet beautiful falls spilling into turquoise pools, they’re a perfect way to experience even more of Slovenia’s natural beauty.

And if you’re wondering why so many places start with Slap, that’s the Slovenian word for waterfall. Once you know that, you’ll start spotting them everywhere on the map.

Now, I’ll admit—I’m a huge fan of waterfalls. At home, we spend a lot of time hiking to (or, let’s be honest, chasing) waterfalls, so when we’re travelling and spot one on the map, it’s pretty much guaranteed we’ll make a detour. Visiting waterfalls wasn’t the reason we came to Slovenia, but it turned out to be one of the best surprises of the trip.

Here are some beautiful Slovenia waterfalls to add to your itinerary.

Most Beautiful Waterfalls in Slovenia

Slovenia has over 100 waterfalls across the country, but many of them aren’t easily accessible—if at all. Luckily, some of the best ones are easy to reach. Some are just a short hike from the road, while others take a bit more effort to reach, but the views are always worth it.

Savica Waterfall (Slap Savica)

⭐ One of Slovenia’s most iconic waterfalls, with stunning views of Lake Bohinj along the way.

Located in Triglav National Park, Savica Waterfall is one of the most popular waterfalls in Slovenia—and for good reason. The water flows from the mountains as an underground stream before dropping 78 metres (256 feet) into a turquoise pool below. The trail leads to a designated lookout point right in front of the falls, but you’ll have to be content to see the waterfalls from there, as you can’t hike down to the base or swim here.

The majestic Savica Waterfall near Lake Bohinj, Slovenia, cascades dramatically down a rugged limestone cliff in two streams, converging into a powerful plunge into a turquoise pool below. The lush greenery clings to the steep rock walls, enhancing the natural beauty of this iconic alpine waterfall. — Slap Savica

Savica is near the village of Ukanc, which fittingly translates to the end—because it’s literally at the end of Lake Bohinj. You can drive to the parking lot (there’s a fee to park), and from there, it’s a 15-20 minute uphill walk to the waterfall. The trail has about 500 steps, but it’s manageable, even with kids. There’s an entrance fee of €3 per person, though kids under 6 are free (and in our case, they waved us through even though my kids were 7).

Savica is definitely a popular spot, so expect crowds, especially in the summer. We visited in June, and even then, had to wait a few minutes to be able to get a spot on the viewing platform.

This was one of my favourite waterfalls in Slovenia—not just for the waterfall itself, but also because of the beautiful views of Lake Bohinj from the trail. If you’re in the area, check out more of our suggestions in this guide to things to do in Bohinj.

A scenic view from the Savica Waterfall trail near Lake Bohinj, Slovenia, looking down through a lush green mountain valley toward the distant shimmering lake. Forested slopes frame the landscape, with layers of misty blue ridges fading into the horizon under a soft, cloud-streaked sky. — view of Lake Bohinj from the trail

Peričnik Waterfall

⭐ One of the few waterfalls in Slovenia where you can walk behind the falls for a totally different view.

Located in Triglav National Park, Peričnik Waterfall is not only one of the tallest in Slovenia, but also one of the most impressive. The main waterfall drops 52 metres (171 feet), and what makes it extra fun is that you can actually walk behind the curtain of water. A small trail leads right behind the falls, but be ready to get misted! It’s worth bringing a rain jacket or at least something to protect your camera.

If you’re up for a bit more exploring, there’s also an upper waterfall that drops 16 metres. The sign warns that the trail is very difficult, but we didn’t find it too challenging—definitely manageable if you’re comfortable with a bit of uphill hiking.

A narrow waterfall cascades from a rocky overhang into a shallow pool surrounded by mossy stones and rugged terrain in a forested area in Slovenia. Sunlight filters through the trees, highlighting the contrast between the dark cave-like ledge and the clear stream below.

There’s a parking area near the base of the falls, and while there’s usually a small parking fee, no one was there to collect money when we visited in June. It’s possible they only charge in July and August. Either way, there’s no entrance fee to see the falls, making this one of the few free waterfalls in Slovenia. From the parking lot, it’s about a 10-minute walk to the main viewpoint.

Good to Know: Peričnik is also said to be amazing in winter when the waterfall freezes into giant icicles. If you’re visiting in colder months, it’s worth checking out!

Boka Waterfall

⭐The highest and one of the most powerful waterfalls in Slovenia.

Located near the town of Bovec, Boka Waterfall is Slovenia’s highest waterfall, dropping a total of 144 metres. The water falls 106 metres in the first drop, then cascades another 30 metres immediately after. And it’s not just tall—it’s also 18 metres wide, making it one of the most impressive waterfalls in Europe.

What’s really interesting is how the force of the water hitting the ground causes constant erosion, which means the depth of the waterfall is actually increasing over time.

Boka Waterfall in Slovenia cascades dramatically down a rugged limestone cliff into a rocky gorge below, surrounded by steep forested mountainsides and mist rising at the base.

You can see the waterfall from the road, but it’s worth parking along the Boka River (free parking) and taking the 15-minute walk to the main viewpoint.

If you’re feeling up for more, there’s an option to hike closer to the base of the waterfall, but it’s about an hour-long hike beyond the viewpoint. We were pretty tired by that point in the day—we had just finished driving the Vršič Pass, which is an adventure of its own—so the view from the lookout was more than enough for us.

Good to Know: Boka is best seen in spring and fall when the water is at its most powerful, fed by snowmelt and seasonal rains.

Kozjak Waterfall (Slap Kozjak)

⭐A hidden gem tucked inside a dark limestone gorge, with an emerald green pool at its base.

Just outside the town of Kobarid, Kozjak Waterfall isn’t the tallest in Slovenia at 15 metres (50 feet), but its surroundings make it one of the most beautiful. The waterfall is tucked inside a narrow limestone gorge, giving it a secluded, almost mystical feel. The steep, dark walls make it seem like you’ve stumbled on a secret spot—though it’s definitely popular with tourists! The emerald green pool at the base of the falls adds to its beauty, but swimming is prohibited here.

A narrow waterfall plunges into a vibrant emerald-green pool nestled within a steep, rocky gorge in Slovenia. Smooth stones line the water’s edge in the foreground, while the cavern’s textured rock walls curve inward, creating a secluded and tranquil atmosphere.

To get to the waterfall, park at Kamp Koren (parking is €1.50 per hour), and then it’s an easy 25-30 minute walk to the falls. The trail winds through the forest and crosses several wooden bridges—a highlight for my kids! The walk itself is great for a summer day since the steep gorge walls keep the trail cooler, almost like walking through a cave.

There’s a €5 entrance fee (€3 for kids aged 7-14, or €12 for a family ticket), and the site is open from early April to the end of October.

Personal Tip: Thisis a great hike for families—easy, scenic, and the wooden bridges added a fun twist. Plus, the cooler temperatures inside the gorge are a nice break on a hot day.

Rinka Falls

⭐One of Slovenia’s tallest waterfalls in the beautiful Logar Valley.

Located in the stunning Logar Valley, Rinka Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in Slovenia, with water cascading 90 metres down a sheer cliff face. Its height and power have earned it recognition as a national monument, and it’s a favourite spot for hikers in the summer and ice climbers in the winter when the waterfall freezes over.

The Logarska Trail leads to the waterfall, and it’s an easy 15-minute hike to reach the viewpoint, known as the Eagle’s Nest. The trail is mostly flat, with a set of steps leading up to the viewpoint for a better look at the falls.

A tall, narrow waterfall streams down a rugged cliffside with streaks of orange and black rock, surrounded by greenery and a partly cloudy sky. A wooden viewing platform juts out from the right, adorned with the red, blue and white flag of Slovenia, offering a dramatic vantage point over the cascade.

Good to Know: If you’re in the area, check out Palenk Waterfall, just nearby. It’s 78 metres tall and has become a popular spot for wedding vows thanks to its romantic setting.

Šum Waterfall

⭐The tallest river waterfall in Slovenia, located at the end of the scenic Vintgar Gorge trail.

Šum Waterfall is tucked inside Vintgar Gorge, just a short drive from Lake Bled and part of Triglav National Park. To reach the falls, you’ll need to hike through the gorge, which is an experience in itself. The trail winds along wooden walkways, offering beautiful views of the Radovna River before arriving at the waterfall. For tips on hiking the gorge, check out our full guide to Vintgar Gorge.

Šum is a 13-metre drop into the Radovna River and is the tallest river waterfall in Slovenia—one of only three in the country. You can view the waterfall from above at the café and souvenir shop, but I definitely recommend taking the trail down to the base. A wooden platform gives you a closer look, or you can head a bit further down the road, cross to the other side, and snap a photo from the rocks.

A stunning waterfall cascades into a turquoise pool at Šum Waterfall in Vintgar Gorge, Slovenia. Two children, one wearing an orange shirt and the other in blue, sit on a large rock near the water's edge, admiring the view. A wooden bridge spans the gorge above, surrounded by lush green foliage and rugged rock formations — You’ll have to hike just a bit farther from the gorge exit to get this view

Keep in mind that there’s an entrance fee for Vintgar Gorge (and even a small fee for pets), but it’s well worth it for the hike and the chance to see Šum up close.

Personal Tip: Don’t skip the trail to the bottom of the falls—it’s the best way to really see and appreciate the falls!

Martuljek Waterfalls

⭐A two-part waterfall set against the dramatic backdrop of Mount Špik.

Located near Kranjska Gora, the Martuljek Waterfalls are made up of two impressive sections: the Upper and Lower falls. The Upper Martuljek Waterfall plunges 110 metres over a sheer cliff, while the Lower Waterfall drops another 50 metres into the gorge below. Together, they create one of the most striking waterfall landscapes in Slovenia.

A silky, long-exposure shot captures a stepped mountain waterfall slicing through rugged rock formations with patches of vibrant green moss. The cascading water forms narrow streams as it flows down the angled gorge, creating a dynamic, almost abstract natural pattern.

The first waterfall is about a 30-minute hike from the parking area, and the trail to the second fall is more challenging, but it looks well worth the effort. The waterfalls sit beneath the towering Mount Špik, adding even more to the stunning scenery.

Good to Know: We didn’t get the chance to visit Martuljek Falls on our last trip, but it’s definitely on our list for next time—it looks absolutely stunning.

Virje Waterfall

⭐A multi-stranded waterfall cascading into a bright green pool.

Located near Bovec, Virje Waterfall might be smaller than some of Slovenia’s other falls at 17 metres (39 feet), but it’s still an impressive sight. The water fans out over the rocks in multiple streams, spilling into a vivid emerald-green pool at the base. The setting—surrounded by mossy rocks and lush greenery—makes it feel like something out of a fairytale.

While you might read that swimming is allowed, other sources say it’s prohibited, and either way, the water is icy cold, even in the summer. The flow of the waterfall can vary depending on the nearby hydroelectric dam, so it’s best to visit when the water levels are higher. If you’re up for more exploring, there’s a trail on the right side of the falls that leads to the top, offering a great view of the cascade from above.

A delicate waterfall spills over mossy rocks into a clear emerald pool, framed by large stones and a pebbled shoreline. The long-exposure effect softens the water’s flow into silky streams, creating a tranquil contrast with the rugged cave-like rock face and surrounding forest.

You can park just outside Plužna village for €4 per hour, but keep in mind that motorhomes and buses aren’t allowed. From the parking area, it’s a five-minute walk to the waterfall along a wide path that’s steep in sections. There’s no entrance fee to visit Virje, making it a great, easy stop while exploring the Bovec area.

Grmečica Waterfall

⭐A hidden gem between Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj, with crystal-clear water.

Grmečica Waterfall might not be as well-known as some of Slovenia’s other waterfalls, but that’s exactly what makes it special. Tucked away between Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj, it’s a gorgeous spot that feels completely off the beaten path. The waterfall is reached by a 10-15 minute walk that starts with a suspension bridge, continues along the river, and then follows a dirt path that crosses a stream before reaching the falls.

A woman stands barefoot in the shallow, clear pool at the base of Grmečica Falls near Lake Bohinj, Slovenia, smiling and gesturing toward the small but striking waterfall cascading between mossy cliffs. The serene setting is surrounded by greenery and dappled sunlight.

When we visited, we had the entire place to ourselves, which made it one of our favourite stops in Slovenia. The water looked so fresh and clear, and since it was a warm day, I figured it’d be a good chance to cool off.

But even as a Canadian used to swimming in the Atlantic Ocean, this water was freezing! I walked in to pose for a photo, and by the time my kids were done snapping pictures, I couldn’t feel my toes. It was VERY refreshing, to say the least.

Personal Tip: Finding the parking area was a bit tricky. It’s near the train station—turn into the parking lot of the restaurant, then turn left. It looks like an overgrown trail at first, but it’s actually a gravel road that goes under the railway and leads to a small parking lot.

Map of the Best Slovenia Waterfalls

To help plan your visit, here’s a map showing where each of these waterfalls is located.

Final Thoughts: Best Waterfalls in Slovenia

Slovenia’s waterfalls are just one of many reasons this country is such a great place to explore. From powerful drops like Boka and Rinka to quiet spots like Grmečica and Virje, there’s something magical about each of these falls. Whether you’re adding a quick stop to your day or planning a full hike, these falls are a perfect way to experience Slovenia’s natural beauty up close.

While some of these waterfalls, like Savica and Šum, are popular tourist spots, others—like Grmečica—are more off the radar and were some of the highlights of our trip.

So, whether you’re looking for an easy hike with the kids, a dramatic photo op, or just a cool spot to escape the summer heat, Slovenia’s waterfalls are definitely worth the detour.

Planning a trip to Slovenia? Start with our guide to the best places to visit in Slovenia, or get inspired with our Slovenia itinerary. If you’re travelling with kids, don’t miss these fun facts about Slovenia to share along the way. You can also check out our tips on visiting Postojna vs. Škocjan caves, and find your favourite in our roundup of the best castles in Slovenia.