Paleo Diet Magazine

Lakes or natural pools?

Slovenia is often known more for hiking in the woods than for bathing possibilities. However, there are many great spots for open water swimming and hidden spots that you may never have heard of. Not many people know that it is a nation full of natural pools and free spas that are very beautiful and perfect for taking a bath. But let’s see some of them.

Swimming pools in Slovenia surrounded by greenery

Slovenia, this small European country nestled between the Alps, the Pannonian plain and the Mediterranean to the south is recognized as one of the cleanest and greenest countries in Europe. There is only one island in Slovenia that is located on Lake Bled and it is one of the best destinations for swimming.

Slovenia has several lakes, rivers and over 40 km of the Adriatic coast where it is possible to swim in the sea. People often joke that you can ski in the mountains and go for a swim all in one day. This is possible due to the short travel distances between the two areas.

Water temperatures in summer reach 25 ° C in all waters and this offers several opportunities for outdoor swimming in Slovenia. One of the key elements of open water swimming is safety. Most of the bathing spots in Slovenia will only be surrounded by rowing boats, kayakers, SUP boards and other swimmers or bathers. Therefore, no other motor boats will be allowed. This is another reason why Slovenian lakes are the true swimming pools of Slovenia.

Lake Bohinj is one of the largest freshwater glacial lakes in Slovenia with a length of approximately 4.5 km.

The Bohinj lake

Lake Bohinj is one of the largest freshwater glacial lakes in Slovenia with a length of approximately 4.5 km. The entire lake is located in the Triglav National Park and is a popular hiking and cycling destination. The lake is fed by both the Savica River and underground springs and is known for its surprising turquoise-green clarity. This is arguably one of the best open water swimming spots in Slovenia due to its remote location at the end of the road, stunning scenery, and is regulated by the national park authorities. You can swim and access the lake at any point, but there are properly signposted beaches where most people tend to stay.

The Thermana Laško thermal spa is truly a unique experience. Image source: Thermana Laško

Bled lake

Lake Bled is one of the most visited places by all tourists who come to see Slovenia. It is also the only place that has an island with a church in the middle and where you can swim! Without a doubt Bled is one of the most picturesque places in Slovenia. The lake is 2.3 km long and about 500-1000 m wide. There are several public beaches and lidos next to where you can base yourself. There are also places where it is not allowed to enter the lake for swimming. So far there is no entry fee to pay for swimming, but you need to pay for services such as parking the car or use of sun loungers, etc.

Spa waters are known for providing numerous health benefits, including improved circulation and joint support as well as reduced stress levels. Thermal pools are also a great option for tourists: https://www.thermana.si/hr. Image source: Thermana Laško

Kocevje lake

This artificial lake is located in the southern part of Slovenia near the town of Kocevje and was formed when coal mining in this area ceased in the 1970s. The name of the local lake is Rudnisko jezero. It is a fairly deep lake of about 40 m and today offers an excellent place for open water recreation. There is a nice 3km trail around for walking, running, cycling or you can even camp. In the summer you will often see people sailing, rowing, paddleboarding, fishing, diving and swimming.

It is possible to swim along the entire shoreline of the lake for about 3 km. Occasionally, there will be sailing or rowing boats out and about, so make sure you are aware of other activities on the lake.

Kozjak waterfall

This is a unique place and we would consider it the pearl of natural swimming pools in Slovenia. Kozjak Waterfall is located in the protected natural area near the town of Kobarid in northwestern Slovenia. Most visitors come to enjoy a 30-minute walk on a marked trail. The local tourist office in Kobarid recently introduced a registration fee (4 EUR per person) to walk to Kozjak waterfalls. Once you get there, there is a small narrow valley at the end where you can change and take a dip under the waterfall. Keep in mind that you have to overcome slippery rocks and we highly recommend that you have water shoes to walk more easily. Once there you will see a small round swimming pool with a diameter of about 10 meters. You can swim, but make sure nothing dangerous falls from the waterfall.

Are you ready for your swimming trip to Slovenia?

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