Savica Waterfall | Bohinj

Information

Landmark: Savica Waterfall
City: Bohinj
Country: Slovenia
Continent: Europe

Savica Waterfall, Bohinj, Slovenia, Europe

Savica Waterfall is a double-branched karst spring and waterfall situated in the steep rock face of Komarča at the western end of the Bohinj Valley. It is the source of the Velika Savica, which flows into Lake Bohinj and later becomes the Sava Bohinjka river.

Visual Characteristics

The waterfall features a distinct "A" shape, where the water bifurcates into two separate streams: the larger branch is 78 meters high, while the smaller one measures 25 meters. The water emerges from a hidden underground cave system and falls into a deep, emerald-green limestone pool. The surrounding cliffs are composed of grey Triassic limestone, often shrouded in mist that creates frequent rainbows in the spray.

Location & Access Logistics

The site is located 4km west of Ukanc. Access is via a paved road leading to a dedicated parking area at the Dom Savica mountain hut. From the parking lot, a stone-stepped forest trail ascends for 20 minutes (approximately 500 steps) to the viewing pavilion. Public shuttle buses operate from Ribčev Laz and Ukanc during the summer months. Entrance to the trail requires a nominal fee.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The Savica is a unique karst spring where water from the higher Black Lake (Črno jezero) travels through a complex underground drainage system before surfacing. Historically, the waterfall gained national significance as the central motif of France Prešeren’s epic poem, The Baptism on the Savica, written in 1836, which established it as a symbol of Slovenian identity.

Key Highlights & Activities

The primary activity is hiking the ascending trail to the wooden viewing platform. Photography is the main objective at the summit, focusing on the convergence of the two water branches. The surrounding forest paths offer secondary routes into the Triglav Lakes Valley for experienced hikers.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The base area near the parking lot features the Dom Savica mountain hut with a restaurant and restrooms. There are no facilities or restrooms at the upper viewing platform. The trail is equipped with stone benches for resting. Cell phone signal (4G) is intermittent due to the narrow canyon walls. The entire trail is heavily shaded by dense beech forest.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for photography is in the early morning when sunlight hits the falling water, or after heavy rainfall when the flow is most forceful. May and June are the peak months for water volume due to snowmelt from the Julian Alps. In winter, the waterfall may partially freeze, creating ice formations on the cliff face.

Facts & Legends

A unique geological fact is that the water temperature remains a constant 4°C to 6°C year-round. According to local lore, the "A" shape of the falls represents the eternal struggle and eventual union of two lovers. A specific tip for visitors: during high water levels, the mist can be intense; protective lens covers and waterproof jackets are recommended at the viewing pavilion.