Triglav: Small Group Day Trip & Soca Valley Swim from Ljubljana

Summary

Emerald rivers, mountain passes & laughter echoing in Triglav

You’ll hike to Peričnik waterfall with a local guide, cross mountain passes into Italy for Lake Predil views, and have time to swim or just relax by Soča’s emerald riverbanks. Pickup in Ljubljana makes it easy—and sharing stories over simple lakeside lunch might be what stays with you longest.

What’s the experience like?

“You’re not afraid of a little mist, right?” our guide Luka grinned as we hiked up to Peričnik waterfall. I tried to answer but the roar drowned me out—honestly, it felt good to just let the cold spray hit my face. The path was muddy and my shoes probably still have some Slovenian earth on them. We were only an hour or so from Ljubljana but it already felt like another country. Someone behind me slipped and laughed it off; I think that’s when everyone relaxed for real.

I didn’t expect to end up in Italy on a day trip from Ljubljana, but there we were—Lake Predil shining under low clouds, with coffee that tasted different (maybe just the setting). Luka told us stories about border towns and how people here switch languages mid-sentence. On the drive through Vršič Pass, he pointed out the Russian chapel and this statue of a “pagan girl” staring off into the pines. The air up there was sharp and piney, almost sweet if you breathed deep enough. I kept looking back at those switchbacks—it’s wild how fast the landscape changes.

Soča Valley was louder than I thought—a kind of green-blue noise from the river bouncing off rocks. A couple of us braved a swim (I chickened out after dipping my toes; that water is no joke). Lunch was sandwiches by the bank, nothing fancy but honestly perfect. There was this moment where nobody spoke for a minute—just sun on our faces and water rushing past. I still think about that view sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Triglav National Park highlights

• Hike to Peričnik waterfall
• View Mt Špik range near Kranjska Gora
• Visit Zelenci Nature Reserve
• Visit Predil lake in Italy
• Drive through Predil pass to Soča valley
• Explore and relax by Soča river
• Stop at Vršič Pass and hear legend
• Relax by Jasna lake and spot Goldhorn

Top questions

How long is the Triglav day trip from Ljubljana?

The tour lasts a full day; exact duration depends on traffic and timing.

Is swimming in Soča River included?

You can swim during free time in Soča Valley; bring a swimsuit and towel if you want to join.

Are meals or lunch provided?

No formal lunch is included; bring your own food or buy snacks during stops.

Is hotel pickup included in Ljubljana?

Yes, pickup and drop-off are included from central locations in Ljubljana—even if you’re staying in pedestrian zones.

What’s the group size for this Triglav tour?

The group is small—maximum 8 travelers per tour.

Do I need hiking experience for Peričnik waterfall?

No special experience is needed; moderate walking is involved but suitable for most fitness levels.

Does this day trip visit Vršič Pass?

Yes, you’ll drive through Vršič Pass with stops for stories and photos along the way.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup and drop-off from your accommodation or central spot in Ljubljana, travel by air-conditioned minivan with a friendly local guide leading your small group (up to 8 people), all park entry fees covered, plus plenty of stops for photos, short hikes, and even time to swim if you bring your suit—before heading back as evening sets in.