TRIGLAV NATIONAL PARK

TRIGLAVSKI
NATIONAL PARK

This is not a fairy-tale, this is our home.

INTERESTING FACTS     |      THE SOČA RIVER     |      THE THREE-HEADED TRIGLAV     |      HIKING IN SAFETY 

INTERESTING FACTS

about the Triglav National Park

  • The Triglav National Park is the only national park in Slovenia. The park takes its name from Mount Triglav (at 2,864 metres it is the highest Slovenian mountain) and its three peaks or heads, which rise highest in the very heart of the park. 
 
  • The area of the Triglav National Park is almost entirely a special protected area and a special conservation area of the European ecological network Natura 2000.
 
  • It encompasses 840 square kilometres, which is 4% of Slovenia’s surface.
 
  • It is among the oldest parks of its kind in Europe, the first conservation efforts dating back to 1924, when the Alpine Conservation Park was established, as its whole area includes an extraordinary variety of ecosystems.
 
  • Here one can admire the distinctive mountain flora and fauna, with characteristic features on rock faces and scree slopes, as well as high-altitude meadows and lakes
 
  • The rivers, streams and waterfalls tell their life stories, as do the peat bogs and the numerous caves which speleologists have been studying intensely since the early 20th century.
 
  • It extends to the border with Italy and Austria in the south-eastern part of the Alpine massif and almost completely overlaps with the Eastern Julian Alps.

THE SOČA RIVER

The emerald Queen of the Alps

Just a minute’s walk from Residence Soča is the emerald river, which originates in the Trenta Valley in the heart of Triglav National Park.

 

Between its source and confluence with the Tolminka River, the Soča River remains untouched and is declared a natural monument. Known for its deep and narrow gorges carved into the lively valley floor, as well as its stunning waterfalls. The most breathtaking Alpine river in Europe develops its emerald green color in the lower part of Trenta, where its bed flows over white river pebbles.

 

The Soča River Valley and the surrounding hills are also known for their history. Between 1915 and 1917, battles were fought along the Soča River, where more than 300,000 Italian and Austro-Hungarian soldiers lost their lives. The emerald flow of the Soča River is lively, flowing over rocks and carving its way on its 136-kilometer journey to the Adriatic Sea, creating numerous lagoons and embankments in its delta.

 

The Soča River is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. The upper valley of the river is ideal for lovers of rafting, kayaking, and observing the beautiful surrounding nature while enjoying the adrenaline rush of the rapids.

THE THREE-HEADED TRIGLAV

A symbol of Slovenia

Triglav, the king of the Julian Alps, is undoubtedly the main attraction for many hikers, as it is the highest mountain in Slovenia. A unique icon that rises to a height of 2,864 meters above sea level, it attracts crowds of visitors in both the summer and autumn months.

 

The intertwining of many routes allows for a variety of approaches to conquering Triglav. Among them stands out the famous North Face, a monumental mountain formation in the Eastern Alps, which, however, requires experience and technical skills from those who decide to take on the challenge of conquering it.

 

Conquering Triglav is not only a physical achievement, but also an extraordinary experience that can be perfected with the help of experienced guides, who will help you get safely along the diverse routes that emerge from the Alpine valleys and lead you towards the summit with expert knowledge and safety guidelines.

HIKING IN SAFETY

Equipped and ready

Mountains are not insurmountable – unless the mountaineer is mental. Especially one who is inadequately equipped and unprepared. In order to be really able to safely enjoy the expansive views from the Slovenian peaks, take a look and follow these few instructions from the Alpine Association of Slovenia.

1. Getting fit

Hiking is an endurance sport. It makes the heart and circulation work, which requires you to be healthy and to realistically assess your fitness. Try not to rush and walk at a tempo where nobody in the group gets out of breath.

 

2. Careful planning

Hiking maps, guide books, the internet and experts can inform you about the length, height difference, difficulty and current conditions of a hike. You should always choose which hiking trails you will take according to the skills of the group. Pay particular attention to the weather forecast because wind, rain and cold increase the risk of an accident.

 

3. Complete equipment

Make sure you have the right equipment for the hike you are taking and that your rucksack is not too heavy. Protection from the rain, cold and sun should always be packed in your rucksack, as should a first-aid kit and a mobile phone (European emergency number 112). Maps, apps and GPS will help you find your way.

 

4. Appropriate footwear

Stable hiking boots protect and provide relief to your feet and improve your footing. When choosing a pair of shoes, make sure that they fit perfectly, have non-slip soles, are waterproof, and that they are light.

 

5. Sure footing is key

Falls as a result of slipping or tripping are the most common cause of accidents. Make sure that you do not lose your footing or concentration because you are going too fast or are tired. Take special care when descending! Careful walking prevents falling rocks!

 

6. Stay on marked paths

In areas without any signs there is an increased risk that hikers will lose their way, will fall or that rocks will fall. Avoid short cuts and go back to the last point you recognise if you stray from the path. Steep old snow fields are often underestimated and very dangerous as one can easily slip.

 

7. Regular breaks

Regular rest helps hikers to recover, enjoy the landscape, and makes the hike more sociable. You need to eat and drink to sustain your concentration and energy levels. Energy drinks are ideal for quenching your thirst.

 

8. Responsibility for children

Discovering the landscape in a fun and varied way is very important for children. In passages where there is a risk of falling, an adult can only look after one child. Very difficult hikes, which require long periods of concentration, are not suitable for children.

 

9. Small groups

Small groups are more flexible and allow members to help each other. Tell everyone in your group your end destination, route, and return route. Stay together in your group. Attention to those hiking alone: even minor incidents can require serious emergency assistance.

 

10. Respect for nature and the environment

To protect the natural mountain areas, do not leave rubbish behind, stay on the paths, do not disturb wild animals or livestock, do not touch the plants, and respect protected areas. Take public transport or use carpooling to get to your destination.

PLAN YOUR ACTIVE BREAK

In cooperation with local guides, we have prepared for you a selection of experiences and activities in the Triglav National Park and the Soča Valley.