Martuljek Waterfalls
Discover the dramatic gorge and crystal-clear turquoise waters of Martuljek Waterfalls, a hidden gem in Slovenia's Julian Alps.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Martuljek Waterfalls
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the dramatic gorge and crystal-clear turquoise waters of Martuljek Waterfalls, a hidden gem in Slovenia's Julian Alps.
"Amazing views and waterfalls, crystal clear water, and rock towers made by the ancient "Towino Betodo" tribe."
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The trail can be steep and rocky in parts, especially towards the upper falls. Good hiking shoes are a must!
⏰ Allow 2-3 Hours
Take your time to enjoy the views and the hike. It's a perfect half-day adventure.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Upper Martuljek Waterfall
Martuljek Forest
A dramatic cascade plunging into a gorge, framed by towering cliffs and lush greenery. Truly a hidden gem.
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Lower Martuljek Waterfall
Martuljek Forest
Easily accessible and a great starting point, this waterfall offers a serene introduction to the area's natural beauty.
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The Gorge Walk
Between Lower and Upper Waterfalls
A breathtaking path along the Martuljek river, with sheer rock faces and stunning alpine views reminiscent of Zion.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Best Views
Trail Difficulty and What to Expect
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The trail can be steep and rocky in parts, especially towards the upper falls. Good hiking shoes are a must!
⏰ Allow 2-3 Hours
Take your time to enjoy the views and the hike. It's a perfect half-day adventure.
🐶 Dog-Friendly (Leashed)
Well-behaved dogs on a leash are welcome, but be extra cautious on the final, steeper sections.
⚠️ Watch for Falling Rocks
While nets are in place, be aware of potential rockfalls, especially in the gorge.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The trail can be steep and rocky in parts, especially towards the upper falls. Good hiking shoes are a must!
⏰ Allow 2-3 Hours
Take your time to enjoy the views and the hike. It's a perfect half-day adventure.
🐶 Dog-Friendly (Leashed)
Well-behaved dogs on a leash are welcome, but be extra cautious on the final, steeper sections.
⚠️ Watch for Falling Rocks
While nets are in place, be aware of potential rockfalls, especially in the gorge.
🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
Parking near the Triangel Hotel is best, but can fill up. Be prepared for limited roadside options.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Martuljek Waterfalls are praised for their stunning natural beauty, dramatic gorge, and clear turquoise waters, offering a less crowded alternative to other Slovenian attractions. While the hike is generally manageable, some find the parking challenging and advise caution regarding falling rocks.
"Not as overrun as Peričnik, but a beautiful waterfall with an easy path suitable even for small children. Stunning nature all around, no big crowds. A great tip for a trip."
Láďa Šedý
"Parking is easy if it’s not crowded, but it wasn’t for us in mid-August. There are many parking spaces next to the Triangel Hotel. From the parking you follow an asphalt cycle path for a few hundred metres, then turn left onto a forest trail. The walk is pleasant and leads quickly to the first waterfall, the Lower Martuljek waterfall in about 20 minutes. Don’t stop there: cross the small bridge, turn right, and follow the path along the cliff through the gorge. The views are amazing and reminded me a little of parts of Zion National Park. The trail follows the Martuljek river and becomes a bit steeper near the end, which is the section that leads to the second bridge overlooking the large waterfall (not a climb up to the second waterfall). . It is totally doable with a dog, but for safety keep your dog on a leash on the final section. If you take your time and enjoy the views, the whole trip can be done in under two hours. A very peaceful walk."
Benoit
"Amazing views and waterfalls, crystal clear water, and rock towers made by the ancient "Towino Betodo" tribe (Tourists with nothing better to do)"
Matt Miles
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Martuljek Waterfalls are located near Kranjska Gora. You can drive to the parking area near the Triangel Hotel. From there, it's a pleasant walk along an asphalt cycle path before turning onto a forest trail.
While direct public transport to the trailhead is limited, you can take a bus to Kranjska Gora and then arrange a taxi or a longer walk to the starting point.
The most common access is via the marked hiking trail starting from the parking area near the Triangel Hotel. This leads to both the lower and upper falls.
Visiting in winter is possible but requires caution. Trails can be icy and snow-covered, and some sections might be inaccessible. Check local conditions before you go.
While not as common as for other attractions, some local tour operators in Kranjska Gora might offer guided hikes to the waterfalls, especially during peak season.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee to visit Martuljek Waterfalls. It's a natural attraction accessible to everyone.
The waterfalls are accessible year-round, 24 hours a day, as it's an outdoor natural site. However, hiking during daylight hours is recommended for safety.
Parking near the Triangel Hotel is generally free, but it can get crowded. If parking is full, you might need to find alternative spots further away.
Since there's no admission fee, advance booking is not necessary. You can visit spontaneously.
There are no official restrictions on visiting hours, but it's advisable to visit during daylight for safety and better visibility.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The round trip to the lower waterfall takes about 40 minutes, and to the upper waterfall, it's about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your pace and how much you stop to enjoy the views.
Yes, the path to the lower waterfall is quite easy and suitable for children. The trail to the upper falls is steeper and has some challenging sections, so it's better for older children or those used to hiking.
The trail starts on an asphalt path, then transitions to a forest trail with some rocky and steep sections, including a part with steel steps near the upper falls.
There are no facilities directly at the waterfalls. You'll find some amenities in Kranjska Gora or near the Triangel Hotel.
Expect stunning views of the Julian Alps, dramatic rock faces, crystal-clear turquoise water, and lush pine forests.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Early morning or late afternoon light offers the most dramatic and soft lighting for photography. Midday sun can be harsh.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the gorge and waterfalls. A tripod can help with long exposures to smooth out the water.
The gorge itself offers many dramatic viewpoints. The bridge overlooking the upper waterfall is a prime spot.
Drone usage may be restricted in national parks or sensitive natural areas. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
Look for shots of the turquoise river, the towering rock walls, the lush forest, and of course, the waterfalls themselves.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families with slightly older or more adventurous children, the trek to the Upper Martuljek Waterfall provides an added challenge with its steeper sections and steel steps. Remember to keep a close eye on children, especially near the gorge and water. Packing snacks and water is always a good idea, as there are no facilities on the trail.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Nature lovers will be captivated by the crystal-clear turquoise water and the lush, dense pine forests. The area is a haven for photography, with numerous viewpoints offering breathtaking shots of the waterfalls and the surrounding Julian Alps. Don't forget your camera and perhaps a tripod for capturing the water's movement.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Hike to the Falls
As you progress, the trail becomes more rugged, transitioning into a forest path. The hike to the Lower Martuljek Waterfall is relatively straightforward and takes about 20 minutes. For those seeking more, crossing the small bridge and following the path along the cliff leads to the Upper Martuljek Waterfall. This section is steeper and includes a memorable stretch with steel steps, adding a touch of adventure.
The entire hike, including time to admire both waterfalls and the stunning gorge, can be completed in under two hours for a round trip. The views along the way are spectacular, with sheer rock faces and the vibrant, turquoise Martuljek River carving its way through the landscape.
Geological Marvels and Natural Beauty
+1The water itself is a striking feature, often described as turquoise and crystal clear. This vibrant color is due to the glacial meltwater carrying fine rock particles that reflect sunlight. The surrounding thick pine forest adds to the pristine, untouched feel of the area, making it a photographer's paradise.
+1While the natural beauty is undeniable, visitors are reminded to be aware of their surroundings. The steep gorge walls can be prone to rockfalls, and while protective nets are in place, it's wise to remain vigilant.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit