What Is Vintgar Gorge? Complete Visitor's Guide

Vintgar Gorge is a 1.6 km-long and up to 250-meter-deep canyon carved by the Radovna River, It features wooden bridges, scenic viewpoints, and ends with the impressive Šum Waterfall.

Vintgar Gorge in Slovenia’s Julian Alps is one of the most beautiful gorges in the world. Nature had the wild Vintgar Gorge to itself for more than 10,000 years – since the end of the last ice age. Today the gorge is the gateway to the Triglav National Park. More than 600 species of plants can be found along the 1,600-metre path through the gorge.

More about the origins and discovery of Vintgar Gorge

The legendary Vintgar Gorge was sculpted and shaped by glaciers. As they began to melt and retreat, the Bled Lake formed in the valley. At that time, the Radovna River began to carve a new path at the lowest point between the Hom and Boršt hills. After the end of the last ice age, the water persistently continued to carve the Vintgar Gorge. Only at the end of the passage, due to resistant rock, the level in the form of the picturesque Šum waterfall has been preserved to this day.

Where Is Vintgar Gorge Located?

Vintgar gorge is located 4 km away from Bled city centre, main bus station and 8 km away from railway station Lesce – Bled.

Trail Length and Highlights

Visiting Vintgar Gorge is a 3+ hour experience that connects a one-way path through the Vintgar Gorge with two return thematic paths, leading back to the Vintgar entrance point.

Walking one-way path through the Vintgar Gorge: 1.6 KM / 1 h

Walking trails from the end of Vintgar gorge – Visitor centre (entrance):

THE RIVER OF TREES TRAIL / 2.7 KM / 1.5 h – more with stops
THE KING OF TRIGLAV TRAIL / 4.1 KM / 2 h – more with stops

The Vintgar Gorge is the largest natural monument in Slovenia. It is the first protected natural attraction in Slovenia, which accepts a limited number of visitors. Since its opening in 1893, an organized, guarded path has led through the Vintgar Gorge.

Entrance Fee and Opening Hours

Entrance Fee

Adults, students, and seniors €15 eur
Children 3-15 years €5 eur
Pets €3 eur

We advise against visiting the Vintgar Gorge for children under the age of 3 due to the difficulty of the trail.

Opening hours

April – 25. May 9:00 -16:30

26. May – 22. June 8:00 -17:30

23. June – 24. August 7:00 – 18:30

25. August – 7. September 7:00 – 17:30

8. September – 21. September 8:00 – 17:30

22. September – 5. October 8:00 – 16:30

6. October – until the end of the season 9:00 – 15:30

Plan your visit in the morning or afternoon hours. The Vintgar Gorge is most crowded between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Vintgar Gorge is closed to visitors during the winter months

Tips for Visiting

Visiting Vintgar Gorge can be a wonderful experience. Here are some tips to enhance your visit:

Check the Weather: Before you go, check the weather conditions, as they can greatly affect your experience. The gorge can be slippery when wet.
Wear Appropriate Footwear: Hiking shoes or sturdy walking shoes are recommended, as the path can be uneven and may involve some steps.
Arrive Early or Late: To avoid crowds, try visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon, especially during peak tourist season.

Take Your Time: The gorge is about 1.6 kilometers long. Make sure to take your time to enjoy the stunning views, waterfalls, and the crystal-clear waters.
Bring a Camera: The natural beauty of Vintgar Gorge provides excellent photo opportunities, so don’t forget your camera or smartphone.
Stay Hydrated: Carry water and some snacks with you, as the hike can take a couple of hours, and it’s nice to take breaks along the way.
Visit the NaTour Bar: visit the NaTour Bar at the end of the gorge offers a fantastic spot to relax. Try some local beer or traditional Slovenian dishes for a delightful finish to your hike. Book Vintgar gorge experience with tasting in Natour bar.
Respect Nature: Follow the marked trails, do not litter, and be respectful of the natural surroundings to help preserve the beauty of the gorge.
Plan Your Route: If you are planning to visit other attractions nearby (like Lake Bled), consider starting at Vintgar Gorge to maximize your time.
Look for organised trip from Bled to Vintgar Gorge: If you prefer a stress free trip to Vintgar gorge, consider joining a Natour shuttle from Bled. For sure the easiest and fastest experience of visiting the gorge.

Enjoy your visit to Vintgar Gorge!

How to Get to Vintgar from Bled

Visiting Vintgar Gorge can be a wonderful experience. Here are some tips to enhance your visit:

Check the Weather: Before you go, check the weather conditions, as they can greatly affect your experience. The gorge can be slippery when wet.
Wear Appropriate Footwear: Hiking shoes or sturdy walking shoes are recommended, as the path can be uneven and may involve some steps.
Arrive Early or Late: To avoid crowds, try visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon, especially during peak tourist season.

Take Your Time: The gorge is about 1.6 kilometers long. Make sure to take your time to enjoy the stunning views, waterfalls, and the crystal-clear waters.
Bring a Camera: The natural beauty of Vintgar Gorge provides excellent photo opportunities, so don’t forget your camera or smartphone.
Stay Hydrated: Carry water and some snacks with you, as the hike can take a couple of hours, and it’s nice to take breaks along the way.
Visit the NaTour Bar: visit the NaTour Bar at the end of the gorge offers a fantastic spot to relax. Try some local beer or traditional Slovenian dishes for a delightful finish to your hike. Book Vintgar gorge experience with tasting in Natour bar.
Respect Nature: Follow the marked trails, do not litter, and be respectful of the natural surroundings to help preserve the beauty of the gorge.
Plan Your Route: If you are planning to visit other attractions nearby (like Lake Bled), consider starting at Vintgar Gorge to maximize your time.
Look for organised trip from Bled to Vintgar Gorge: If you prefer a stress free trip to Vintgar gorge, consider joining a Natour shuttle from Bled. For sure the easiest and fastest experience of visiting the gorge.

Enjoy your visit to Vintgar Gorge!

*Vintgar gorge official map, from About the Vintgar Gorge – Vintgar