Ok, this article may be a little off the beaten track in terms of our usual content covering all manner of wild swimming locations largely in the UK, but bear with us.
We recently got hitched (yay us!) and had a brief break (a mini-moon of sorts) in Slovenia, which was the perfect antidote to the all the wedding craziness.
From a swimming perspective, Slovenia is primarily known for Lake Bled, one of the main tourist attractions in this stunning country. We stayed in Bled so we’ll cover this in this article, though what are the other wild swimming locations in Slovenia that we discovered during our trip? Let’s dive in.
What Makes Slovenia So Great for Wild Swimming?
It may be an overused term these days, but Slovenia is truly a hidden gem and a paradise for nature lovers seeking pristine and untouched swimming spots, often surrounded by gorgeous forests and rolling hills.
Nestled between Croatia to the south, Italy to the west, Austria to the north and Hungary to the northeast, Slovenia offers so much in terms of a diverse landscape of emerald rivers, tranquil lakes, and cascading waterfalls.
It’s not as busy as its Balkan neighbour Croatia, and is large enough to find some real hidden gems with little footfall, particularly in terms of wild swimming.
You get can in either by flying direct to its capital Ljubljana, or from hopping across the border from a neighbouring country, as we did from the Croatian capital, Zagreb. Public transport in Slovenia is well developed, though we recommend hiring a car so you can access the below locations with greater freedom.
Here are our top 5 picks for the best locations for wild swimming in Slovenia!
Lake Bled
Ok, we’ll start with the obvious one. We were based in Bled during our stay in Slovenia, and to be honest, could have happily stayed here the whole time. Yes it’s popular with tourists and yes there are a few busy beach-like areas where swimmers congregate, but it’s big enough to locate secluded entry points into the water to decamp and chill the day away.
Lake Bled is undoubtedly one of Slovenia’s most iconic and breathtaking locations. Nestled at the foothills of the Julian Alps, this glacial lake’s crystal-clear waters are surrounded by lush greenery and overlooked by the stunning Bled Castle. Wild swimmers can explore the lake’s perimeter, where secluded spots, such as Velika Zaka and Mala Zaka, offer a serene and peaceful swimming experience.
Moreover, the small island in the middle of the lake, home to the picturesque Church of the Assumption, is a rewarding destination for intrepid swimmers seeking an unforgettable adventure. Swimming across to the island takes about 10 minutes from the edge of the lake, though watch out for boats and stand up paddle boarders!
Our favourite secluded spot was an entry point near the steps up to Bled Castle, which was a wooded enclosure slightly lowered from the main path before you get to the main bathing area on the north east side of the lake.
Soča River
The Soča River, known for its vibrant turquoise hue, winds its way through the Julian Alps. This Alpine gem is perfect for thrill-seeking wild swimmers, as it offers both calm sections for leisurely swims and more adventurous rapids for experienced swimmers.
The area around Bovec is particularly popular, providing access to various entry points and hidden pools that reward explorers with stunning panoramas of the surrounding mountains.
Lake Bohinj
Our favourite spot in Slovenia that wasn’t Bled itself! If you’re looking for more natural vibe, with plenty of camping opportunities, hiking trails and secluded beaches, Lake Bohinj is the one.
Nestled in the Triglav National Park, Lake Bohinj is the largest permanent lake in Slovenia, boasting tranquil waters and a tranquil ambiance. The waters here are a lot cooler than Lake Bled’s, but this secluded gem offers an idyllic setting for wild swimmers who seek a serene escape from the more popular swimming spots in Slovenia.
The lake’s northern shore, near Ukanc, features several secluded coves and bays where swimmers can dip into the refreshing waters while surrounded by untouched nature. We parked up near Camp Bohinj and walked around the western edge of the lake to the north, where there were plenty of secluded beaches to enter from.
Vintgar Gorge
For a unique wild swimming experience, Vintgar Gorge, located near Bled, provides an unforgettable opportunity. The gorge features wooden walkways along the Radovna River, leading visitors through narrow passages and past picturesque waterfalls.
You can’t swim in the rapids in the gorge itself (for obvious reasons!) though enjoy the view along the gorge before you arrive at the Šum Waterfall at the end of the trail, where you can swim in a nearby pool. The water here is very cold so take care!
Kozjak Waterfall
Hidden deep in the lush forests of the Soča Valley, Kozjak Waterfall is a true natural wonder. Accessible by a short hike, this magnificent waterfall plunges into a deep pool, inviting wild swimmers to immerse themselves in its refreshing waters. Surrounded by verdant foliage and the soothing sound of cascading water, Kozjak Waterfall is a haven for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path wild swimming spot.
The hike (particularly our one in the July heat) is certainly worth it once you get to the pool!
