Tolmin Gorge, Slovenia: All about a perfect visit!
The Tolmin Gorge in Slovenia is a true wonder of nature and is one of the most spectacular gorges in the country. Located in the world-famous Soca Valley at the southern entrance of the Triglav National Park, fascinating scenery like you know it from picture books awaits you here. Over thousands of years, the Tolminkav River and the Zadlascica River have formed this gorge into one of the deepest in Slovenia. During a hike through Tolmin Gorge, one is amazed by steep rocky slopes and the turquoise waters where paths lead through the gorge. You’ll discover stone formations like the Bear’s Head, hike across the Devil’s Bridge, visit Dante’s Cave, and watch thermal springs gushing from the ice-cold river. This gorge is a highlight in Slovenia that should not be missed.
In this guide, we provide you with all the important info on Tolmin Gorge in Slovenia. In addition, we show you amazing pictures, reveal tips for the hike and where to find the best accommodations in Tolmin.
Good to know!
If you are looking for a perfect accommodation in Tolmin, we can recommend the beautiful, modern Apartmaji 43 in a wonderful location.
The entrance fee to Tolmin Gorge is currently 8,- Euro per person. However, a discount is offered for groups, children, students and pensioners.
The village of Tolmin is an ideal starting point to explore the beautiful Tolmin Gorge and many other attractions of this region, such as Kobarid with the Koziak Waterfall or Bovec.
Not far from the gorge, in the midst of fantastic mountain scenery, is the beautiful Javorca church. A visit to this impressive wooden church is a real insider tip in the Tolmin area!
What to expect from Tolmin Gorge
Tolmin Gorge is located in the west of Slovenia and is the most important attraction of the same named village Tolmin. The starting point for the hike is the ticket office, just a few hundred meters from the small village of Zatolmin, from where a small path leads to the inside of the gorge. Here you can also get a map of Tolmin Gorge, on which the most important sights of the circuit and the route are marked. The paths in Tolmin Gorge are not long, but sometimes steep and exposed, which may need to be considered when it comes to older people or families with small children.
Tip: The trail is open from April to early November. In winter the Tolmin Gorge is closed and cannot be visited.
For the entertaining hike through the breathtaking Tolmin Gorges you can generally plan about 1 ½ hours. Although the route is relatively short with 2.5 kilometers, you still need some time to admire all the beautiful natural wonders. On the way through the Gorge you can admire a fascinating landscape with magnificent viewpoints and the rushing river, which will delight you with its turquoise color. You walk on small paths and trails right next to the high rock walls and past wild waters and whirlpools. In some parts this gorge is even 60 meters deep and, together with the rushing river, it creates an impressive backdrop.
Interesting is the place directly under the Devil’s Bridge, because here is a small thermal spring with a water temperature of about 20°C. The temperature of the Tolminka River is only around 5-9°C, and so you can truly see the spring bubbling. The section of the gorge with the many tunnels and the high rocks is also really scenic and a popular photo motif.
A bit further on the path becomes a bit more strenuous and you have to hike up a few steps to the other part of the gorge, where the “Bear’s Head” – the so-called Medvedova glava is located. This is a large rock stuck between the walls of the gorge and completely covered with moss. From the two viewing platforms you have an amazing view over the canyon and the mystical green forests.
Tip: A bit further back is a cave called Dante Cave, but it can only be visited on guided tours. Reservation in advance is absolutely necessary here.
The last part of the Tolmin Gorge hike leads over the dizzying Devil’s Bridge. From the bridge the view is simply incredible! By the way, the name Devil’s Bridge is quite common in Slovenia: bridges that lead over a dangerous narrow hollow often bear this name.
How to get to Tolmin Gorge
Tolmin Gorge can be reached from Tolmin in less than 5 minutes by car. There are plenty of parking spaces on site, and parking currently costs 3 euros per hour.
During the summer months, from July to August, a shuttle service is provided from the town of Tolmin to the gorge.
Where to Stay in in Tolmin
In the village Tolmin, but also in the surrounding area there are some fantastic housing options. The accommodations are mostly apartments and guesthouses, but also cheap hostels for backpackers can be found here. Here are our recommendations for the best accommodations in Tolmin…It’s worth a look!
- Vacation Apartment: The Apartmaji 43 is a new, spotlessly clean, chic vacation apartment in a wonderful location. Mountain bikes can also be rented on request!
- Glamping: The Glamping Tinka is a real insider tip! It is located on a hill with a fantastic view over the mountains. Tolmin Gorge can be reached via a hike.
- Cottage: The Nature View House with Sauna is a beautiful cottage that scores especially with its inviting interior, the 3 bedrooms and the great terrace in a beautiful location.
Find the best accommodation in Tolmin:
Read more about Slovenia:
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Bovec: Outdoor Paradiese in Slovenia
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Soca Valley in Slovenia: 15 Best Places to Visit!
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10 Unique Things to do in Lake Bled, Slovenia
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20 Amazing Things to Do in Ljubljana (Slovenia)
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Top 15 Amazing Things to Do in Maribor (Slovenia)
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Top 20 Amazing Things to Do in Slovenia
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