Triglav Lakes Valley | Bohinj

Triglav Lakes Valley (Slovene: Triglavska jezerska dolina) is one of Slovenia’s most beautiful and scenic mountain valleys, located in the heart of Triglav National Park in the Julian Alps. The valley is famous for its series of glacial lakes, breathtaking landscapes, and as a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers.

Overview of Triglav Lakes Valley

Location:

• Triglav Lakes Valley lies within Triglav National Park, Slovenia’s only national park, which is named after Mount Triglav, the highest peak in Slovenia (2,864 meters).
• The valley is located to the north of Lake Bohinj and to the south of Mount Triglav, making it a central part of the park and easily accessible from various hiking routes, including the Pokljuka Plateau and Krma Valley.

Triglav Lakes:

• The valley is home to several beautiful glacial lakes, with seven major lakes in total. These lakes are set amidst rocky cliffs, alpine meadows, and forests, creating one of the most stunning natural landscapes in Slovenia.
• Lake Lower (Spodnje jezero) and Lake Upper (Zgornje jezero) are the two largest and most visited of the lakes, but the valley also features smaller, lesser-known lakes such as Prvi jezero (First Lake), Drugi jezero (Second Lake), Tretji jezero (Third Lake), and others.
• The lakes are known for their crystal-clear waters, surrounded by dramatic alpine scenery, and are a paradise for photographers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Accessibility:

• The valley can be accessed via several hiking routes, and it is a popular destination for multi-day treks. The Triglav Lakes Valley Hiking Trail is one of the most well-known routes, taking visitors through the valley’s lakes and connecting to other parts of the Triglav National Park.
• The hike to the valley typically starts from the Pokljuka Plateau, where visitors can reach the Triglav Lakes Hut (Triglavski dom na jezerih) by following well-marked paths.
• The valley is also accessible from Krma Valley, with a longer and more challenging route leading up to the lakes.

Natural Beauty:

• The valley is a glacially-formed landscape, meaning the lakes are remnants of ancient ice sheets that once covered the region. The surrounding alpine meadows, dense forests, and rocky cliffs contribute to the valley’s rugged beauty.
• The valley is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including marmots, chamois, red deer, and golden eagles, as well as numerous alpine plants and flowers. The area is also a great place for birdwatching.
• The clear blue waters of the lakes, combined with their remote mountain setting, make the valley one of Slovenia’s most picturesque spots.

Hiking and Outdoor Activities:

• Triglav Lakes Valley is primarily a hiking destination, offering a variety of trails for both beginners and experienced hikers. The hike to the lakes involves navigating through lush forests, crossing streams, and ascending rugged mountain paths.
• The Triglav Lakes Hut, located in the valley, serves as a base for hikers to rest and enjoy local food and drinks before continuing their trek.
• The area is also popular with mountain climbers, as the valley is surrounded by towering peaks, including Mount Triglav itself.
• In winter, the valley becomes a quiet, snowy wonderland, attracting those interested in snowshoeing or cross-country skiing.

Historical and Cultural Context:

• The name “Triglav Lakes Valley” derives from the nearby Triglav Mountain, which is an iconic symbol of Slovenia. The lakes are steeped in local legends, and the area is a popular destination for Slovenian nature enthusiasts.
• The Triglav Lakes Hut, built in the 19th century, has long served as a refuge for mountaineers and hikers. It holds historical significance as a place where hikers can gather and plan their climbs of Mount Triglav or other surrounding peaks.

Visiting the Triglav Lakes Valley:

• The best time to visit the valley is in the summer months (June to September), when the weather is most favorable for hiking and outdoor activities. During this time, the lakes are full of water, and the alpine meadows are lush and green.
• Autumn is also a great time to visit for those who enjoy seeing the changing colors of the trees and the tranquility of the valley after the summer crowds have diminished.
• Visitors should be well-prepared for the hike, as the terrain can be challenging. Proper hiking gear, including sturdy shoes, rain jackets, and maps, is essential. The weather in the mountains can change rapidly, so it is important to be prepared for varying conditions.

Nearby Attractions:

• Mount Triglav: Slovenia’s highest peak and a famous destination for mountaineers. The summit can be reached from the valley, and it offers spectacular views of the surrounding alpine landscape.
• Lake Bohinj: Located nearby, it is Slovenia’s largest lake and offers opportunities for boating, swimming, and hiking.
• Pokljuka Plateau: A high plateau that provides access to the valley and is popular for cross-country skiing in the winter.
• Bohinj Valley: The valley around Lake Bohinj is known for its scenic beauty and offers a variety of hiking and cycling routes.

Conclusion:

Triglav Lakes Valley is a breathtaking destination that showcases the stunning natural beauty of Slovenia's Julian Alps. With its series of pristine glacial lakes, rugged landscapes, and opportunities for outdoor adventure, it is a must-visit for anyone seeking to experience the country's mountainous charm. Whether hiking to the lakes, exploring the surrounding forests, or simply enjoying the tranquil atmosphere, the valley offers an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.