Triglav National Park is among the most famous parks in Slovenia and it is the only national park in the country as well. Encompassing more than 328 square miles it is one of the largest national parks in Europe as well. Its namesake, Mount Triglav, is located within the park and is the highest peak in Slovenia, rising 9,396 feet above sea level. Mount Triglav, which is part of the Julian Alps, is also featured in the national flag, demonstrating the pride its beauty inspires. Filled with dozens of breathtaking wonders, including lakes, forests, mountains, and meadows, Triglav National Park offers tourists an unmatched experience of outdoor adventure and picturesque scenery.
Pokljuka is an important name featured in the Triglav National Park; it is both the name of a forest and a gorge within the park. The forest plateau, which is situated at an altitude of 4,265 feet, is appealing to tourists throughout the entire year, but especially during the winter months because of its excellent facilities for winter sports, such as the Biathlon World Cup, which are held here every year. The ravine, which was formed from melting waters of Pokljuka glaciers, features a river coursing over its bed for 1.25 miles. A scenic waterfall called Pokljuka Luknja, falling from a height of 78 feet above the ravine, feeds into the Pokljuka gorge.
Another important site in Triglav National Park is the Soca Valley, pronounced "socha," This valley claims is home to some of Europe's most beautiful rivers and lush green meadows, as it extending along the Soca River that flows through western Slovenia into Italy. Brushing along Mount Triglav before flowing south and passing through several towns, including Bovec, Kobarid, and Tolmin, the estuary eventually meets with and flows into the Adriatic Sea.
Soca Valley, a remarkable feature in the limestone of the Slovenian Alps, has a rich yet bloody history, particularly with regard to World War I, when it was the site of twelve major battles along the Italian front. Now, the blue-green waters of the Soca River flow peacefully through this enchanting valley, and travelers can engage in a number of outdoor activities, including hiking and kayaking. Near the northern region of the valley, Bovec is an excellent place to find hotels and other activities, and the history of the area is also preserved in some of the museums in Kobarid.
This tourist haven also provides opportunities for spending time on and in the waters of the river. White-water rafting draws visitors from all over the world throughout the year, but especially between the months of April and October. Fly-fishing is one of most enjoyable sports in Soca Valley, as the region provides perfect conditions namely transparent waters. The most abundant type of fish found in this area is the marble trout, which is the largest of the European trout family, and can weigh up to 44 pounds.
Hiking enthusiasts are sure to enjoy the numerous trails of Soca Valley, which are clearly marked and regularly maintained by the Slovenian Alpine Association, which operates the national park. Equipped with mountain huts and cabins offering food, drinks, and scenic accommodations, the Triglav National Park is a paradise for adventure vacationers, and if you're seeking to spend time outdoors in breathtaking surroundings, it is the perfect place to visit during a vacation to Slovenia.