Waddle to Peričnik Waterfall in Vrata Valley

Peričnik Waterfall is the one thing you need to see in Slovenia. The first is Lake Bled, and the second is this magical waterfall. This waterfall will knock your socks down. It offers a unique experience that also allows you to waddle behind it. Get ready to get wet and read on to learn everything you need to know before visiting. 

Peričnik is a protected natural heritage site where there have been ideas about using its water to generate electricity in the past. The waterfall has changed its path several times as it cuts through the wall. Looking closely at the top, you can see grooves in the wall. In the 1930s, the riverbed above the lower Peričnik became clogged, causing Peričnik to flow like a two-stranded waterfall for some time. Today, this only happens during heavy downpours. 

How to get to Peričnik Waterfall 

• Public Bus. Buses from major cities like Ljubljana and Bled can take you to nearby towns like Mojstrana. From Mojstrana, you should take a taxi or waddle the remaining distance to the trailhead. Check local bus schedules and routes in advance to plan your trip effectively. 
• By Car. Driving is often the most flexible and convenient way to reach Pericnik Waterfall. We arrived by car from Lake Bled, about 30 kilometers away, and it typically takes around 30 minutes. To get to Pericnik Waterfall from Lake Bled, drive east on Route 209 towards the town of Mojstrana; from Mojstrana, follow the signs directing you to the Pericnik Waterfall trailhead.

Parking close to Peričnik Waterfall 

There is a designated parking area located at the start of the trail. It’s a good idea to arrive early, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure you get a spot. The road leading to the waterfall parking area is well-marked but can be narrow and winding, so drive cautiously. The parking lot is conveniently close to the beginning of the trail, making your visit to this natural gem hassle-free.

The parking fee is 3€ per hour, but till 10 am it is free. 

What Makes Peričnik Waterfall Unique 

Peričnik Waterfall stands out for its remarkable feature that you can waddle behind the cascading water. This incredible vantage point allows you to experience the waterfall differently. As you waddle behind the curtain of water, you’ll be enveloped by the roar of the falls and the cool mist, creating an unforgettable sensory experience. This is what we enjoyed the most: the waddle behind this majestic waterfall. 

Basic Facts about Peričnik Waterfall

• The waterfall was created after the last Ice Age.
• It is one of the youngest waterfalls in Slovenia. 
• The waterfall has two parts: the Upper waterfall, 16 meters (52 feet) high, and the Lower waterfall, 52 meters (170 feet) high. 
• The appearance of the waterfall changes dramatically with the seasons. 
• It freezes in winter in the form of thousands of icy candles, drips, and creates the most breathtaking view.

Local Legend of The Enchanted Falls

According to local legend, Peričnik Waterfall is the home of a magical creature known as the “Vodna Vila” or Water Fairy. The story goes that the Water Fairy protects the falls and ensures that its waters remain pure and strong. It is said that if you waddle behind the waterfall and listen carefully, you might just hear her singing, adding a touch of enchantment to your visit. 

According to another legend, a brave shepherd named Luka discovered a hidden cave behind Peričnik Waterfall, guarded by a dragon and filled with treasure. Determined to help his struggling village, Luka ventured into the cave while the dragon slept and stole a magical amulet believed to control the beast. As the dragon awoke, Luka narrowly escaped, leaving the dragon trapped inside the cave without its power. The treasure Luka brought back helped his village thrive, and it’s said that the dragon’s roar can still be heard behind the waterfall, waiting to reclaim its amulet.

Our waddle:

• • Waddle duration: 43 minutes
  • Distance: ~1 km (~0.6 miles)
  • Route: none
  • Map: link
  • Things to see: Peričnik Waterfall

Our Waddle to the Peričnik Waterfall

The journey to Pericnik Waterfall is a short adventure but worth it. You can see the waterfall from the parking lot and hear its ancient roar. Starting from the parking area, you waddle along a well-marked trail that gradually leads you closer to the waterfall. The forest you go through is lush green and mystical, especially when it rains, as it did with our waddle. 

As you approach the falls, the roar of the water grows louder, building anticipation for the stunning sight ahead. Once you arrive, you can enjoy a spectacular view of the waterfall cascading down from 52 meters (170 feet). The roar is really loud, and it will give you goosebumps. And it’s not even the most thrilling part. 

The most thrilling part is wadding behind the waterfall, where you can experience nature’s sheer power and beauty up close. It was a first-time experience for us to waddle behind a waterfall, and it was unique. It’s hard to describe with words. 

After having our fair share of the waterfall (and due to the rain), we descended back down. We came early, and the weather was rainy, so we had the waterfall all to ourselves. Back in the car, we had some coffee, which we had initially wanted to have at the waterfall, which we had brought, but the weather pushed us to descend. From here, we continued to Vršič Pass.

Enjoy the waterfall and waddle on!

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