The Savica waterfall is located at the western end of Lake Bohinj, within Triglav National Park. It marks the source of the Savica River, which feeds the lake. Two distinct water jets — one powerful, one more delicate — plunge from a height of approximately 78 meters into a basin enclosed by limestone walls. It is one of Slovenia's most celebrated waterfalls, accessible on foot from the Savica car park.

Practical information at a glance

• Entrance: paid admission (ticket at the trail entrance)
• Access: paid car park at Savica, then approximately 20 minutes of walking on a marked trail (steps carved into the rock)
• Recommended duration: 1 to 1.5 hours round trip from the car park
• What to wear: hiking shoes recommended — the trail features wet and slippery steps
• Accessibility for disabled visitors: not accessible — trail with steps
• Season: open in summer; check accessibility outside peak season

What you'll see

The waterfall splits into two streams: the main stream, fed by underground waters from the Komna plateau, forms a powerful and continuous jet. The second, narrower stream appears mainly after rainfall. The impact basin is surrounded by limestone cliffs covered in moss. The access trail follows a mountain stream and winds through a forest of beech and spruce.

History and context

The Savica is deeply rooted in Slovenian literature. In 1836, poet France Prešeren dedicated to it his epic poem The Baptism on the Savica, a narrative of the Christianization of the Alpine Slavs. This work is considered a foundational text of Slovenian national literature. The waterfall is thus as much a natural site as it is a cultural symbol.

Highlights of the visit

The viewpoint facing the waterfall

A viewing platform at the end of the trail offers a front-facing view of both jets. The mist created by the impact cools the air even in summer. Bring a lightweight waterproof layer if you plan to get close.

The forest trail

The ascent from the car park traverses dense forest and follows the Savica mountain stream. The steps carved into the limestone rock are an integral part of the experience. The elevation gain remains moderate and is accessible to most walkers.

Combining with Lake Bohinj

The waterfall is naturally visited alongside Lake Bohinj, located just a few kilometers away. Many arrive by electric boat from Ribčev Laz to Ukanc, then reach the Savica car park on foot or by shuttle.

Photography tips

Morning light illuminates the waterfall directly from the east. At midday, the limestone walls cast shadows over the basin. A wide-angle lens allows you to frame both jets and cliffs in a single shot. Avoid using flash — the mist scatters artificial light. A polarizing filter reduces reflections on the water.

Location and access

The waterfall is situated at the western end of Lake Bohinj, in the Bohinj valley, approximately 5 km from the village of Ribčev Laz. From Lake Bohinj, a road follows the southern shore to the Savica car park. In summer, shuttles connect Ribčev Laz to the car park. From Ljubljana, allow approximately 1.5 hours by road via Bled. The site is not wheelchair accessible.

Nearby attractions

• Lake Bohinj — Slovenia's largest natural lake and an ideal starting point to reach the waterfall.
• Lake Bled — approximately 30 km away, with its island and castle perched on a clifftop.
• Mount Triglav — the iconic summit of the national park, accessible from the Bohinj valley for experienced hikers.
• Vintgar Gorge — a spectacular gorge carved by the Radovna River, near Bled.