The Vintgar Gorge: a natural wonder you shouldn’t miss

The Vintgar Gorge is a spectacular 1.6‑kilometre walk through a deep ravine, where the River Radovna has carved its way between limestone rock walls. You walk over wooden bridges and galleries above the foaming water, pass turquoise pools and small waterfalls, and finish at the impressive 13‑metre Šum waterfall. This gorge near Bled is one of the most beautiful natural attractions in Slovenia and an ideal day trip for anyone who loves nature. In this article you’ll discover why this place is so popular.

What makes the Vintgar Gorge so special?

The Vintgar Gorge lies on the edge of Triglav National Park. It combines rugged nature with cleverly constructed walking paths. The gorge was formed after the last Ice Age, when meltwater from glaciers eroded the limestone. The rock walls rise up to 240 metres high on both sides of the river. The water here has a beautiful emerald green to turquoise colour.

The wooden bridges and galleries bring you close to the water. You look straight down into deep pools and fast‑flowing rapids. Moss‑covered rocks, ferns and the constant sound of rushing water create a special atmosphere. The highlight is the Šum waterfall at the end of the route, where the water crashes down with great force. The Vintgar Gorge is one of Slovenia’s best‑known natural sights. It is comparable to Plitvice in Croatia, only more compact and wilder.

Another striking feature is the stone arch bridge of the Bohinj railway line from 1905. It hangs 33.5 metres above the gorge and spans 53 metres. Trains still run across it. If you are patient, you may see one pass by.

The walking route through the gorge

The walk through the Vintgar Gorge is 1.6 kilometres long and follows the course of the River Radovna. You walk one way, from the entrance at Gorje to the exit at the Šum waterfall. The path consists of wooden walkways and bridges, built against the rock face. The bridges sometimes hang several metres above the water.

The walk takes about 30 to 45 minutes at a relaxed pace. The pace is often determined by other visitors, as the path can be busy in high season. The trail is well maintained and suitable for most walkers. You don’t need any technical hiking experience.

After the Šum waterfall you have two options. You can take a shuttle bus back to the starting point, or you can walk back along a path through the forest, which takes about 20 to 30 minutes. Some visitors choose to walk back so they can take even more photos from a different perspective.

Getting there and parking

The Vintgar Gorge is about 4 kilometres from Bled. You can get there in several ways:

• By car: from Bled head towards the village of Gorje. Follow the signs to Vintgar Gorge. There are several car parks near the entrance.
• By shuttle bus: in high season there is a shuttle bus from Bled to the gorge. Check the current timetable at the tourist information centre.
• On foot or by bike: from Bled it’s about an hour’s walk or 15 minutes by bike to the entrance of the gorge.

Parking costs a small fee. On busy days the car parks can fill up. Arrive early to make sure you get a space. From the car park it’s another 5 to 10 minutes’ walk to the entrance of the gorge.

Tickets and opening times

The Vintgar Gorge is open from around mid‑April to the end of October. The exact dates depend on the weather conditions, and the water level also plays a role. In winter the gorge is closed because of ice and for safety reasons.

You can buy tickets at the entrance or online via the official website. Booking online is strongly recommended in high season, especially in July and August. At that time queues at the entrance can be an hour or more. With an online ticket you usually get through faster.

The best time to visit is early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Before 9 a.m. it is quiet and the light is beautiful for photos. After 4 p.m. it also becomes less crowded. Avoid weekends in July and August if you are looking for peace and quiet.

With children and prams

The Vintgar Gorge is suitable for families with children. Children find the wooden bridges and the water exciting. Do take care: the path is narrow and the bridges can be slippery. Keep a close eye on small children or hold them by the hand.

You can’t go through the gorge with a pram. The wooden bridges have steps, and there are also narrow passages. It is not accessible for prams or pushchairs. Carry your baby or toddler in a sling or carrier – that is the only option for visiting the gorge with very young children.

Accessibility for wheelchairs

Unfortunately, the Vintgar Gorge is not accessible for wheelchair users. The path has too many steps, as well as narrow sections and uneven surfaces. The wooden bridges are not suitable for wheelchairs. There are no alternative routes or facilities for visitors with limited mobility.

Safety in the gorge

Safety is important in the Vintgar Gorge. Keep these points in mind:

• The wooden paths can be slippery, especially after rain. Spray from waterfalls also makes the path wet. Wear sturdy walking shoes with good grip.
• Always stay on the path. Do not climb over fences or onto rocks. It is dangerous and not allowed.
• In strong winds or storms the gorge may be closed. Follow the instructions of the staff.
• If you are afraid of heights, be aware that the bridges sometimes hang several metres above the water. Consider whether this visit is right for you.

Wear shoes that support your feet well and that can get wet. Sandals or flip‑flops are not a good idea.

What is and isn’t allowed?

To protect nature, there are rules in the Vintgar Gorge:

• Swimming in the river is not allowed. The water is cold and the current is dangerous.
• Flying drones is prohibited in Triglav National Park, including in and around the gorge.
• Dogs are not allowed in the gorge. This is for the protection of nature and the safety of other visitors.
• Stay on the designated path. Leaving it disturbs nature and is dangerous.
• Take your rubbish with you. There are bins at the entrance and exit.

Tips for an unforgettable visit

Want to get the most out of your visit to the Vintgar Gorge? Keep these tips in mind:

• Bring water. There are no facilities in the gorge itself.
• Take a jacket or jumper. It is cooler in the gorge because of the shade and the water.
• Charge your camera or phone. You’ll definitely want to take photos of the turquoise water and waterfalls.
• Combine your visit with Bled. The gorge is nearby, so plan a day trip: visit the gorge in the morning and explore Bled in the afternoon.
• Check the weather in advance. After heavy rainfall the water level may be higher and the path more slippery.

Other walks in Triglav National Park also start from the Vintgar Gorge. This is a national park in Slovenia. If you want to hike more, ask at the entrance about routes in the surrounding area.

Go to the Vintgar Gorge!

The Vintgar Gorge shows just how powerful nature is. In a walk of not even two kilometres you experience the rugged beauty of the Julian Alps. The turquoise water, the high rock walls and the roar of the Šum waterfall make this an unforgettable experience. Plan your visit outside the busiest hours for more peace and quiet. Put on sturdy shoes, take your camera and enjoy one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia.