Mountain kingdom of Bohinj Cheese

Just three hours’ drive from Zagreb, hidden in the heart of Triglav National Park, lies Bohinj – Slovenia’s winter paradise that combines a crystal-clear lake, Alpine peaks and unforgettable nature trails that are fascinating all year round. Triglav National Park protects this magical valley with 84,000 hectares of unspoilt nature – from waterfalls to high-mountain pastures that turn into ski slopes in winter. Bohinj is not overcrowded like some similar destinations – here peace and authentic Alpine hedonism prevail, and it is precisely this combination of untouched nature, welcoming hosts and a touch of adrenaline that turns this jewel of the Julian Alps into a perfect place for a holiday.

Bohinj is home to the largest freshwater lake in Triglav National Park (and the largest lake in Slovenia, reaching a depth of 45 metres), as well as the source of the Sava Bohinjka River, which flows into the beautiful Savica Waterfall, one of Slovenia’s symbols and Bohinj’s most famous excursion spot. A well-maintained hiking trail and a series of forest steps lead to the waterfall.

The viewpoint offers an impressive view of the water cascading in the shape of the letter A, and the excursion is ideal for families as well as a lighter activity between other adventures. There is also Mount Vogel, reached by a panoramic gondola that virtually “flies” you to the summit at 1,800 metres. Sorica (Soriška) Mountain, a unique meeting point between Triglav National Park and the Slovenian Littoral, is a winter paradise for families who enjoy skiing, while in the warmer months it becomes a favourite destination for hikers and motorcyclists alike.

For those who prefer a more relaxed way of enjoying nature, there is the scenic trail around Lake Bohinj (about 11.5 kilometres long, well marked and accessible to everyone; the walk around the lake takes roughly four hours). For those who wish to reach the highest peaks and test their fitness, there is also the ascent of Mount Triglav and its neighbouring summits.

For those who prefer a more relaxed way of enjoying nature, there is the scenic trail around Lake Bohinj (about 11.5 kilometres long, well marked and accessible to everyone; the walk around the lake takes roughly four hours). For those who wish to reach the highest peaks and test their fitness, there is also the ascent of Mount Triglav and its neighbouring summits.

If you visit Bohinj in winter, be sure to take advantage of the opportunity to experience skiing within a ten-kilometre radius of the lake. Vogel, one of Slovenia’s most popular ski resorts and the only one located within Triglav National Park, offers several exciting experiences. From Ukanc at the foot of the mountain, you take the cable car to the summit. Operating continuously, it carries around eighty passengers to an altitude of 1,800 metres, where 22 kilometres of ski slopes of varying difficulty await.

There is also a popular sun terrace and guides who will encourage non-skiers to try snowshoeing or winter hiking. A slightly smaller resort than Vogel is Soriška Planina, whose summit can be reached by car. You park just below the ski area and begin exploring depending on your level of skiing. This resort offers around 8 kilometres of gentle slopes, with snow covering them for nearly 70 days each winter, and the ski pass is very affordable.

If you would like to stay overnight in the mountains, Soriška Planina also has the Lajnar Guesthouse and Restaurant, offering family-friendly rooms and excellent food to restore your energy after skiing. Adrenaline enthusiasts can head to Pokljuka (about 30 minutes by car), which features 28 kilometres of biathlon trails where even beginners can test their skills.Together, these three resorts form Bohinj’s winter ski triangle. An additional advantage is the Bohinj Guest Card, a tourist card that offers discounts of up to 20% on ski passes for Vogel, Soriška Planina and Pokljuka, as well as free public transport, museum entry and cable car rides. With it, you can also visit Savica Waterfall free of charge, explore the Mostnica Gorge, and in warmer months enjoy a complimentary panoramic boat ride across Lake Bohinj.

Together, these three resorts form Bohinj’s winter ski triangle. An additional advantage is the Bohinj Guest Card, a tourist card that offers discounts of up to 20% on ski passes for Vogel, Soriška Planina and Pokljuka, as well as free public transport, museum entry and cable car rides. With it, you can also visit Savica Waterfall free of charge, explore the Mostnica Gorge, and in warmer months enjoy a complimentary panoramic boat ride across Lake Bohinj.

Today’s shepherds live in modern homes in the villages around Bohinj, producing dairy products within family farms – especially the iconic aged cheeses. One such family-run dairy can be found at the Pr’ Prangarček farm in Brod near Bohinjska Bistrica. The dairy is known for its award-winning Bohinj cheese with the label “Selected Quality – Farm Product (Bohinjsko / From Bohinj brand)”. During a tasting led by farmer Andreja, you will hear the fascinating story behind this cheese.

At the tasting you can sample various cheeses made from the milk of cows grazing on Bohinj’s mountain pastures, as well as the unique Mohant cheese – a traditional, strong, semi-soft cheese from Bohinj with protected geographical indication, famous for its intense aroma and slightly bitter, piquant flavour. Visitors can also tour the farm and meet the Bohinj cattle breed (Cika), adding the perfect finishing touch to the tasting experience.

In Bohinj you can also enjoy hearty stews, Carniolan sausages with buckwheat žganci, and discover the blend of traditional and modern cuisine. Gastronomic experiences can be found both in mountain lodges and along the shores of Lake Bohinj. For example, the restaurant Danica in Bohinjska Bistrica welcomes guests with locally sourced ingredients from Bohinj and the surrounding region, transformed into true culinary delights – a perfect choice for lunch or dinner after a day of exploring.

As you can see, Bohinj is unique in many ways throughout the year. At the beginning of the year, place it at the very top of your must-visit destinations – whether for an unforgettable weekend escape or a longer holiday.

Photo: Nikola Zoko & Promo Materials