Slap Pericnik

Slap Peričnik is one of the best-known waterfalls in the Julian Alps, set in the Vrata Valley above the village of Mojstrana. The valley is a classic glacial trough, with the huge north face of Triglav closing its head, and Peričnik pours out of a hanging side valley in two separate drops. The upper fall is about sixteen metres high, and the lower is roughly fifty metres, making a combined drop of a good seventy metres, and in the lower part the water leaps clear of the cliff.

The real attraction is that the path runs behind the lower falls. A small cave-like hollow in the rock lets you stand behind the curtain of falling water, looking out through the spray at the forest beyond. In sunshine, rainbows form in the mist, and in winter the falls freeze into an ice formation that draws photographers. The path is slippery and often wet, so sturdy shoes and a waterproof jacket make the visit more comfortable.

Most visitors begin at Koča pri Peričniku, a small mountain hut with a car park nearby, from where a short, fairly steep path leads in less than half an hour to the lower fall. A short continuing path climbs to the upper fall, and the whole loop takes about an hour at a relaxed pace. Parking at the trailhead is limited, and drivers should follow local signs. Peričnik also lies along the longer route up the Vrata Valley, which leads toward Aljažev dom, a mountain hut beneath the north face of Triglav, so it is easy to combine the waterfall with a longer walk in the valley.

The waterfall suits families with older children and casual walkers, because the walking is short and the reward is immediate. It is at full strength in spring and after rain, and a little thinner in a dry late summer. Autumn brings colour to the beech forest, and winter brings ice, although the path may be closed or dangerous in icy conditions. Combine the visit with other activities around Mojstrana, such as Ski Touring and Snowshoeing in winter, or a visit to the Slovenian Alpine Museum in the village. The approach also gives a taste of Triglav National Park without a hard climb.