Family Adventure in Triglav National Park

Day 1: Into the Heart of Triglav

After months of planning and anticipation, our family adventure in Triglav National Park has officially begun! Leaving Heidelberg behind, Greta, Marko, and I embarked on a scenic drive through Southern Germany and Austria, finally arriving at the doorstep of Slovenia's natural masterpiece. There's nothing quite like the feeling of setting foot in a place you've only dreamed about, and I couldn't wait to share this experience with my family.

Our first stop was the Triglav National Park Headquarters. It felt essential to get a lay of the land and gather as much information as possible. The headquarters was very helpful, providing us with maps and insights into the park's diverse ecosystems, hiking trails, and responsible tourism practices. Marko, of course, was most interested in the wildlife, and the ranger happily pointed out the best spots for potential animal sightings – though I reminded him (and myself) to keep a respectful distance. We also made sure to grab a few souvenirs from the shop. I picked up a detailed hiking map, while Greta chose a beautiful calendar featuring scenes from the park, and Marko, predictably, went for a plush Goldhorn, the mythical mountain goat.


Explore the breathtaking beauty of Triglav National Park Headquarters, your gateway to Slovenia's stunning natural landscapes and outdoor adventures.

Before heading to our campsite, we had a hearty breakfast at Gostilna Vintgar. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong coffee filled the air as we stepped inside. We enjoyed a traditional Slovenian breakfast, fueling up for the day's adventures. I opted for some local cheese and prosciutto, while Greta enjoyed a delicious pastry, and Marko devoured a plate of scrambled eggs. It was the perfect way to start our day immersed in Slovenian culture.


Experience authentic Slovenian cuisine at Gostilna Vintgar – a culinary haven set against stunning natural beauty.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we ventured towards the renowned Vintgar Gorge. The drive itself was breathtaking, with glimpses of the Julian Alps through the trees. As we approached the gorge, we could already hear the rushing sound of the Radovna River, hinting at the natural spectacle that awaited us. I had pre-booked our tickets online, thankfully, as the line for entry was already quite long. It seems many others had the same idea of experiencing this natural wonder on a Saturday morning. The convenience of the Vintgar Shuttle e-bus was also a great option for those who prefer not to drive directly.


Explore Vintgar Gorge, a stunning natural preserve with turquoise waters, lush landscapes, and breathtaking views just outside Bled, Slovenia.

The Vintgar Gorge was truly a sight to behold! The 1.6-kilometer gorge, carved by the Radovna River, is a mesmerizing display of nature's artistry. Wooden boardwalks and bridges snaked along the turquoise waters, offering stunning views of the cascading waterfalls and towering cliffs. The emerald waters of the Radovna, combined with the lush greenery, created a vibrant and picturesque scene. Marko was absolutely thrilled, running ahead (with Greta close behind) to explore every nook and cranny. The gorge was teeming with visitors, but the one-way system helped manage the flow and allowed us to appreciate the beauty without feeling too crowded.

Sometimes, the most rewarding journeys are those that lead us into the heart of nature's untouched beauty.

We took our time, stopping frequently to take photos and soak in the atmosphere. The air was fresh and crisp, carrying the scent of damp earth and pine. The sunlight filtered through the dense canopy, creating a magical play of light and shadow on the water. It was a truly immersive experience, engaging all our senses. We even spotted a few small fish darting through the crystal-clear water, much to Marko's delight.

After our exhilarating walk through Vintgar Gorge, we were ready for lunch. We decided to try Restaurant Triglav Bohinj, enticed by its stunning views of Lake Bohinj. The restaurant lived up to its promise, offering a delightful culinary experience with a focus on local ingredients. I opted for the local trout, prepared in a traditional style, while Greta chose a vegetarian dish featuring seasonal vegetables. Marko, of course, went for the classic pasta Bolognese, which he devoured with gusto. The service was impeccable, and the sommelier, Damir Salkič, was incredibly knowledgeable, helping us choose the perfect wine to complement our meal.


Experience authentic Slovenian cuisine with breathtaking views at Restaurant Triglav Bohinj – a true culinary gem in nature's embrace.

The afternoon was dedicated to exploring more of Triglav National Park. We took a leisurely drive along the scenic roads, stopping at various viewpoints to admire the panoramic vistas. The landscape was incredibly diverse, ranging from lush meadows to dense forests and rugged mountains. We learned about the park's rich biodiversity and the importance of preserving this natural treasure for future generations.

As evening approached, we set up camp at a designated camping area within the park. Pitching the tent was a family affair, with everyone pitching in to get the job done. Despite forgetting insect repellent and a portable phone charger, we were well-prepared with our hiking boots, camping gear, warm clothing, sunscreen, and first aid kit. Surrounded by towering trees and the sounds of nature, we felt a sense of peace and tranquility wash over us. Camping in Triglav National Park is truly an immersive experience, allowing you to connect with nature on a deeper level.

For dinner, we opted for a traditional Slovenian meal at Gostilna pri Hrvatu, Branko Slamar s.p. This family-run restaurant, with its 130-year history, offered a warm and inviting atmosphere. We enjoyed a hearty meal of local specialties, including sirove štruklji (cheese rolls) and ajdovi krapi (buckwheat dumplings). The food was delicious and comforting, providing the perfect end to a long day of exploring. The friendly staff made us feel right at home, sharing stories about the region and its culinary traditions.


Experience authentic Slovenian cuisine at Gostilna pri Hrvatu in Bohinj - where every dish tells a story.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post from our cozy tent, I can't help but feel grateful for this incredible experience. Triglav National Park has already exceeded my expectations, and I know that the coming days will be filled with even more adventure and discovery. Tomorrow, we plan to visit Savica Waterfall and explore the Seven Lakes Valley. I'm particularly excited about the Seven Lakes Valley, as I've heard it's one of the most beautiful areas in the park. We'll also be stopping by Koča pri Triglavskih jezerih, a mountain hut near the lakes. And perhaps, if we're feeling up to it, we'll enjoy a drink at Kult Pub Bled in the evening.

Despite the minor setbacks of forgotten essentials, today was a resounding success. Triglav National Park has already captured our hearts with its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. I look forward to sharing more of our adventures with you in the days to come. Goodnight from the heart of Slovenia!