Discover the Magic of the Alps: Triglav National Park with Lake Bohinj & Waterfall Savica

If you’re dreaming of a day surrounded by unspoiled nature at the foot of the Alps, this tour from Ljubljana promises exactly that. It’s a carefully curated experience that takes you into the heart of Slovenia’s most striking landscapes, away from the crowds and into the quiet beauty of Triglav National Park. We haven’t personally been on this trip, but from what travelers say and the itinerary detailed online, it sounds like an excellent way to get a taste of Slovenia’s natural treasures in a manageable half-day outing.
Two things stand out: first, the chance to see Lake Bohinj, the largest natural lake of glacial origin in Slovenia—less touristy than Bled but equally stunning—and second, the visit to Waterfall Savica, one of the country’s most poetic sights. A potential downside? The tour is fairly condensed, so it’s not designed for those wanting an in-depth, leisurely exploration. That said, it’s perfect for travelers who want to see key highlights without the hassle of planning their own route. This tour suits outdoorsy folks, photography lovers, or anyone craving a scenic escape from urban life, all within a comfortable group setting.
Key Points

- Authentic Natural Beauty: Experience Slovenia’s unspoiled landscapes with visits to Lake Bohinj and Waterfall Savica.
- Comfortable Group Size: Small groups (max 8 travelers) ensure a more personal experience and flexible pacing.
- Expert Guidance: An experienced local chauffeur-guide offers insights and tailors the experience to your interests.
- Value for Price: At $149.23, the tour covers transportation, park entrance fees, and expert guiding—offering good value for a scenic day trip.
- Flexible and Convenient: Pickup from Ljubljana and a roughly 5-6 hour schedule make it accessible for most travelers.
- Authentic Experiences: Pass by traditional villages, hayracks, and bee hives, adding local flavor to the scenic journey.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Ljubljana.
An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience
Starting Point and Transportation
The tour begins early at City Hotel Ljubljana, with pickup at 8:00 am. The small group approach, limited to 8 travelers, means you’re unlikely to feel lost in a crowd. The vehicle is an approachable way to glide through the scenic route while the guide shares local knowledge. The ride itself is described as an “informative hourly ride,” setting a relaxed tone for the day.
The Journey into Triglav National Park
As you leave Ljubljana, you’ll enjoy views of the Julian Alps and pass through charming villages along the Sava River. Expect to see hayracks and bee hives, which highlight the region’s traditional beekeeping and honey production. This is a small but meaningful detail that reveals how locals live in harmony with the landscape, adding a layer of authenticity that many bigger tours might overlook.
Lake Bohinj – Slovenia’s Quiet Gem
The first stop, Lake Bohinj, is a highlight. Known as Slovenia’s largest natural lake of glacial origin, it’s a peaceful spot that’s often overshadowed by the more famous Lake Bled. Here, we loved the chance to see -a- pristine lake with crystal-clear waters, surrounded by towering mountains. The short stop (around 30 minutes) allows enough time to walk along the shoreline or snap a few photos, but it’s not a deep dive into the area—more of a quick taste.
According to one reviewer, “Bohinj and its surroundings are one of the most interesting Slovenian regions as far as ethnology and natural protected area is concerned.” The region’s natural beauty is complemented by the sight of traditional villages, hayracks, and honey-harvesting practices, making this stop both scenic and culturally interesting.
Waterfall Savica – A Poet’s Inspiration
Next, the tour takes you to Waterfall Savica, one of Slovenia’s most celebrated waterfalls. The walk up to the waterfall takes about 30 minutes along a well-maintained forest path, with about 500 steps—so some moderate walking is involved. The waterfall drops 78 meters into a large sink and is often described as “inspirational,” with poets and writers praising its beauty.
Visitors have said, “The Falls was a nice surprise,” and the waterfall’s unique feature—its waterstream divided into two parts within underground caverns—adds a mysterious allure. The view of the waterfall, especially from the viewing platforms, offers classic postcard-worthy scenes of cascading water against lush greenery.
Optional Stop at Bled
On the way back, there’s an opportunity for a brief stop at Lake Bled if time permits. While some find Bled’s glamour undeniable, others note that it can be crowded and less tranquil than Bohinj. If you’re pressed for time or prefer a quieter experience, you might choose to skip Bled altogether.
Return to Ljubljana
After a full morning and early afternoon of exploring, the tour wraps up with a return to Ljubljana, with drop-off at the starting point. The entire experience lasts between 5 to 6 hours, making it a manageable day trip for most travelers.
Comparing the Value

At roughly $150 per person, this tour offers transportation, guided commentary, park entry fees, and scenic stops—all in a half-day package. Travelers have expressed that the guide, Milo, was particularly knowledgeable and able to tailor the experience to their interests, enhancing the overall value. One reviewer noted, “Milo was so informative and interesting to speak with,” which suggests you’ll get more than just pretty views—you’ll learn about local culture and natural history.
While the price might seem steep compared to self-guided visits, consider the convenience: no need to rent a car, plan routes, or worry about navigation. Plus, the small group size enhances comfort and flexibility, which is often lacking on larger tours.
Practical Details and Considerations

- Physical fitness: Moderate, as the walk up to Waterfall Savica involves about 500 steps and uneven terrain.
- Booking slightly in advance: The tour is typically booked about 155 days ahead, indicating high demand, especially in peak season.
- Inclusions: Transportation, English-speaking guide, park drives, and Waterfall Savica entrance are included.
- Meeting point: City Hotel Ljubljana, with a start time of 8:00 am.
- Cancellation: Free up to 24 hours before, adding peace of mind for flexible planning.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This trip is ideal for travelers who want a balanced taste of Slovenia’s natural scenery without committing a full day. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a photo-worthy adventure that also offers cultural insights through passing traditional villages. Outdoors enthusiasts, nature photographers, or those who simply crave a peaceful escape from city life will find plenty to love here.
However, if you’re after a more in-depth exploration or a leisurely pace, you might consider longer or more specialized options. This tour is best suited for travelers with moderate physical fitness and a desire for authentic natural beauty over extensive sightseeing.
The Sum Up
For those visiting Ljubljana and craving a short but scenic journey into the Alps, this tour delivers a solid mix of natural wonders and cultural charm. The stops at Lake Bohinj and Waterfall Savica showcase some of Slovenia’s most picturesque landscapes, all with the convenience of local guiding and shared transportation. While it’s a quick trip, it packs enough awe-inspiring sights to leave a lasting impression—especially if you’re a fan of stunning waterfalls and serene lakes.
The small-group setting, coupled with knowledgeable guiding, makes this an appealing choice for travelers who want a more personal and authentic experience. The price reflects the value of guided insights, park fees, and comfortable transportation, making it a worthwhile outing for nature lovers.
If your itinerary allows for a half-day escape into the Alps, this trip is a smart pick, giving you a memorable taste of Slovenia’s natural splendor without overextending your schedule.
FAQs
Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, transportation from Ljubljana is included, with a pickup at the designated meeting point. The vehicle is shared among a small group, making the ride comfortable and efficient.
How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts roughly 5 to 6 hours, starting at 8:00 am. This includes driving time, sightseeing stops, and some walking.
Are entrance fees included?
Yes, the Waterfall Savica entrance fee is included. You won’t need to pay extra at the waterfall site.
What level of physical fitness is needed?
A moderate fitness level is recommended, as walking up to Waterfall Savica involves about 500 steps on uneven terrain.
Can I visit Lake Bled as well?
There is a brief stop at Bled on the return trip if time permits. It’s a good photo opportunity, but if you want a more in-depth visit, you might need to plan a separate trip.
Is this tour suitable for families?
Most likely, yes, provided children are comfortable with moderate walking. Always check with the tour operator for age restrictions or specific needs.
In the end, this tour offers a well-rounded snapshot of Slovenia’s natural beauty, perfect for those wanting a scenic, manageable day trip. It’s an accessible way to enjoy the Alps’ splendor, especially if you’re short on time or prefer guided comfort over DIY exploring.
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