Family Adventure in Triglav National Park
Day 4: Chasing Waterfalls and Homestead History in Triglav National Park
Discover the majestic Peričnik Waterfall and step back in time at the Pocar Homestead in Slovenia's Triglav National Park.
A Day of Nature's Majesty and Historical Echoes
Today, the fourth day of our family adventure in Triglav National Park, was a blend of natural beauty and historical immersion. Despite the somewhat temperamental weather – overcast skies threatening rain – we embraced the day with open hearts and a sense of adventure. It's amazing how a change of scenery can shift your perspective; leaving behind my usual work in renewable energy solutions for the raw beauty of Slovenia has been incredibly refreshing.
Our morning started, as usual, with a hearty breakfast at Gostilna Pri Planincu. The kids enjoyed some warm herbal tea , while Greta and I opted for something more filling from their menu. Fuelled up, we set off to experience the renowned Peričnik Waterfall.
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Waterfall Pericnik in Slovenia’s Triglav National Park, a must-see natural wonder for all nature lovers.
Peričnik Waterfall: A Dance with Nature
The drive to Peričnik was scenic, with glimpses of the Julian Alps through the mist. As we neared the waterfall, the sound of rushing water grew louder, building anticipation. The last bit of the road was a little narrow but nothing our trusty car couldn't handle. We parked the car and started our short hike up to the falls.
The trail to Peričnik is a gentle climb, manageable even for Marko's little legs. As we approached, the lower Peričnik Waterfall revealed itself in all its glory, a cascade of water plummeting over a 52-meter cliff. The mist created a cool, refreshing spray, which was quite welcome. Marko was immediately captivated, pointing and shouting with glee. It's moments like these, seeing the wonder in his eyes, that make these family trips so worthwhile.
Sometimes, the greatest adventures are found not in conquering peaks, but in the simple act of witnessing nature's artistry.
What makes Peričnik truly special is the opportunity to walk behind the waterfall. We carefully made our way along the path, the roar of the water echoing around us. The power of the water was immense, a humbling reminder of nature's force. I made sure we all had good footwear, as the path can be a bit slippery. Greta, ever the pragmatist, reminded us about the importance of being cautious and holding onto the rails. I must admit I felt like a kid again, feeling the mist on my face, and the ground beneath my feet. The kids loved it and despite the slight drizzle, we were all grinning from ear to ear. We even ventured up to the upper Peričnik Waterfall , which is a bit smaller but equally charming. The weather was colder than expected, so we were glad to have packed warm clothing.
Pocar Homestead: Stepping Back in Time
After our exhilarating waterfall experience, we drove to the Pocar Homestead in Zgornja Radovna.
Explore Pocar Homestead, an enchanting ethnographic museum in Mojstrana, showcasing Slovenia's rich cultural heritage and traditions.
This homestead, dating back to the beginning of the 17th century, is one of the oldest in Triglav National Park. It’s a beautifully restored museum that offers a glimpse into life in this region centuries ago.
As we walked through the house, we were transported back in time. The authentic interiors, complete with a family room, a black kitchen, and various chambers, were fascinating. Marko was particularly intrigued by the old farm tools displayed in the outbuilding. Greta, with her teacher's eye, explained the purpose of each item, bringing history to life for Marko. It's incredible to think about the families who lived here, enduring harsh winters and working the land to survive. The last residents, the Jeklic siblings, lived here until 1988, preserving everything from documents to tools.
The Pocar Homestead isn't just a museum; it's an information point for Triglav National Park. It also hosts cultural events in the barn during the summer months. While we were there, the barn was quiet, but I could imagine it filled with music and laughter.
Culinary Delights and Evening Reflections
For lunch, we decided to treat ourselves to Restaurant Milka.
Experience culinary artistry at Restaurant Milka in Kranjska Gora - where traditional flavors meet modern elegance.
Known for its Michelin star and innovative cuisine , it was a bit of a splurge, but well worth it. The menu featured local, seasonal ingredients prepared with a modern twist. I opted for the trout, while Greta enjoyed the deer. Marko, of course, had a simpler dish, but even he was impressed by the presentation. The views from the restaurant were stunning, overlooking a crystal-clear lake surrounded by mountains.
As the day drew to a close, we had dinner at Brunarica Pri Ingotu.
Discover Brunarica Pri Ingotu: Where Farm-Fresh Flavors Meet Rustic Charm in Beautiful Gozd Martuljek.
This charming restaurant, nestled in the heart of Triglav National Park, serves traditional Slovenian dishes. I enjoyed a hearty stew cooked over an open fire, while Greta savored the local meats. Marko devoured the homemade dessert. The warm fireplaces and cozy atmosphere were perfect for a chilly evening.
We rounded off the day with a quick stop at Devil's Cafe & Bar.
Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and vibrancy at Devil's Cafe & Bar, where beautiful views meet delightful drinks in Bled, Slovenia.
Although it seemed more like a family restaurant , it offered a wonderful view of the castle. We enjoyed some drinks before heading back to our campsite, the day's adventures having taken their toll. It’s funny because I always thought a devil's cafe would be more rowdy, but it was a pleasant surprise.
Tomorrow, we plan to hike to Mala Osojnica for the best views of Bled. I'm particularly excited about capturing some photographs from that vantage point. We'll also be visiting the I Feel Slovenia Shop to pick up some souvenirs.
Back at our campsite, as I write this, I can hear the gentle sounds of nature all around me. Despite the rain , today was a resounding success, filled with unforgettable experiences and cherished family moments. It's days like these that remind me why I love to travel and explore new places, and why I started this blog in the first place. I am already looking forward to what tomorrow will bring.
The weather in Triglav National Park can be unpredictable , so it's essential to be prepared for all conditions. Check the forecast and pack accordingly. Trail closures are also common , so check the park's website for updates.
As I reflect on today's adventures, I'm reminded of a quote by John Muir: In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks.
Explore Slovenia's Triglav National Park with your family for an unforgettable adventure in nature, enjoying hiking, wildlife, and camping under the stars.
Meet this Featured Explorer
-
Occupation: Software Engineer specializing in renewable energy solutions
-
Country: Germany
-
Age: 38
Pozdrav! I'm Ivan, a software engineer by trade and a travel enthusiast at heart. Born and raised in Croatia, I now call Germany home, but my love for exploring new places and cultures remains as strong as ever. Through this blog, I share my family's travel adventures, focusing on sustainable and culturally rich experiences. Join me as we discover hidden gems, embrace eco-friendly practices, and create unforgettable memories around the world!
- Sustainable living
- Renewable energy
- Modern architecture
- History
- European culture
Find Similar Travel Diaries
Explore locations from this diary
-
Waterfall Pericnik
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Waterfall Pericnik in Slovenia’s Triglav National Park, a must-see natural wonder for all nature lovers.
-
Pocar Homestead
Explore Pocar Homestead, an enchanting ethnographic museum in Mojstrana, showcasing Slovenia's rich cultural heritage and traditions.
-
Gostilna Pri Planincu
Experience authentic Slovenian cuisine at Gostilna Pri Planincu in Bled - where tradition meets breathtaking views.
-
Restaurant Milka
Experience culinary artistry at Restaurant Milka in Kranjska Gora - where traditional flavors meet modern elegance.
-
Brunarica Pri Ingotu
Discover Brunarica Pri Ingotu: Where Farm-Fresh Flavors Meet Rustic Charm in Beautiful Gozd Martuljek.
-
Devil's Cafe & Bar
Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and vibrancy at Devil's Cafe & Bar, where beautiful views meet delightful drinks in Bled, Slovenia.