Information
Landmark: Triglav Lakes ValleyCity: Bohinj
Country: Slovenia
Continent: Europe
Triglav Lakes Valley, Bohinj, Slovenia, Europe
Overview
Tucked deep in the Julian Alps, Triglav Lakes Valley (Slovene: Triglavska jezerska dolina) lies at the heart of Triglav National Park, where clear alpine lakes mirror jagged peaks.The valley’s known for its chain of clear, glacial lakes, sweeping mountain views, and the steady stream of hikers and nature lovers who come to explore.Triglav Lakes Valley sits in the heart of Triglav National Park-Slovenia’s only national park-named for Mount Triglav, the country’s tallest peak at 2,864 meters.Tucked between Lake Bohinj to the south and Mount Triglav to the north, it’s easy to reach by trails from the Pokljuka Plateau or Krma Valley.Here, seven shimmering glacial lakes stretch across the valley floor, their surfaces catching the light like pieces of glass.Tucked between rocky cliffs, alpine meadows, and dense forests, these lakes form one of Slovenia’s most breathtaking landscapes.The two largest-and most visited-are Lake Lower (Spodnje jezero) and Lake Upper (Zgornje jezero), though the valley hides smaller gems like Prvi jezero (First Lake), Drugi jezero (Second Lake), and Tretji jezero (Third Lake).Their glass-clear waters mirror jagged peaks and shifting clouds, drawing photographers and outdoor lovers alike.You can reach the valley by several hiking routes, and it’s a favorite stop for multi-day treks.The Triglav Lakes Valley Hiking Trail is one of the park’s most famous routes, winding past a chain of clear, blue-green lakes and linking to other areas of Triglav National Park.Most hikers set out from the Pokljuka Plateau, following well-marked paths to the Triglav Lakes Hut (Triglavski dom na jezerih).You can also approach from Krma Valley, though that route is longer and steeper.Formed by ancient glaciers, the valley still cradles the shimmering lakes left behind when the ice retreated.Alpine meadows sweep into dense forests and jagged cliffs, shaping the valley’s raw, rugged beauty.Here, marmots whistle from the rocks, chamois leap across ledges, and red deer move quietly under golden eagles circling above, while alpine blooms scatter color through the grass.The area’s perfect for birdwatching, and the lakes-bright as glass under the thin mountain air-sit in a secluded valley that ranks among Slovenia’s most breathtaking sights.Triglav Lakes Valley draws hikers above all, with trails ranging from easy strolls to steep climbs that test your legs and lungs.The hike to the lakes takes you through deep green forests, over clear, cold streams, and up steep, rocky trails.In the valley, the Triglav Lakes Hut offers weary hikers a place to rest and enjoy hearty local dishes before they set off again.Climbers are drawn here too, since the valley is ringed by dramatic peaks, including Mount Triglav itself.Come winter, the place turns into a hushed, white landscape perfect for snowshoeing or gliding along on cross-country skis.The valley’s name comes from nearby Mount Triglav, a national symbol of Slovenia.Local legends swirl around the lakes, drawing Slovenian nature lovers to their quiet shores, while the 19th‑century Triglav Lakes Hut has long given weary hikers and mountaineers a warm place to rest.This spot carries real historical weight-it’s where hikers meet to map out their climbs of Mount Triglav or the nearby peaks, sometimes over a steaming cup of coffee.The Triglav Lakes Valley is at its best from June to September, when warm, clear days make the trails inviting and the air smells of pine.This time of year, the lakes brim with clear, cold water, and the alpine meadows glow a deep, fresh green.Autumn brings its own magic-the trees blaze with color, and the valley grows quiet after the summer crowds fade.Bring sturdy boots for the hike; the trail can be tough.You’ll need the right gear for a hike-sturdy shoes that grip the trail, a rain jacket for sudden downpours, and a map you can fold into your pocket.Mountain weather shifts in a heartbeat, so pack for sun, wind, and sudden rain.Nearby, Mount Triglav-Slovenia’s tallest peak-draws climbers from all over.You can hike up to the summit from the valley, where the view stretches across jagged alpine peaks dusted with snow.Nearby, Lake Bohinj-Slovenia’s largest-invites you to paddle a boat, dive into its clear water, or follow a trail along its shore.The high Pokljuka Plateau links to the valley and turns into a cross‑country ski haven in winter.Around Lake Bohinj, the valley bursts with trails for hikers and cyclists alike.All together, the Triglav Lakes Valley captures the wild, unforgettable beauty of Slovenia’s Julian Alps.Snow-fed lakes shimmer between jagged peaks, and the trails promise more than a fair share of adventure-it’s a place you can’t skip if you want to feel the country’s mountain spirit.You can hike to crystal-clear lakes, wander through the quiet forests, or just breathe in the still, cool air-either way, this valley leaves nature lovers and outdoor adventurers with memories they won’t forget.
