Hike past the waterfalls, gorges and picturesque streams running through this enchanting valley town in Slovenia’s only national park.
Gozd Martuljek lies in a valley of green fields encircled by forests and imposing mountains. As part of the Martuljek mountain chain, it is an area of extraordinary natural beauty. Amble through the quaint town to meet some of its few residents and get a sense of the culture. Explore old flour mills, ironworks and charcoal burners that have been recently restored. Many date back to the early 19th century.
Among the intriguing sites in this valley is the yellow Church of the Assumption of Virgin Mary on the way to Kranjska Gora. Gaze beyond the church toward the snowy 8,110-foot (2,470-metre) tall mountain of Špik southwest of the town.
Follow the main stream toward Špik to encounter the spectacular waterfall of Upper Martuljek. The water drops in several stages from a total height of 330 feet (100 metres) and is bordered by forests.
Continue past the Jasenje Meadow to reach the smaller waterfall of the Lower Martuljek. Enjoy a traditional homemade meal at Pri Ingotu, an Alpine hut.
Trek northwest to reach the quaint settlement of Srednji Vrh. Appreciate the spectacular vista of Gozd Martuljek and the mountains from this vantage point. The 1827 Hlebanj Homestead in the town has been restored as a typical Alpine building.
Nearby see other highlights of the Triglav National ParkOpens in a new window. Gaze up at Mount Triglav, Slovenia’s highest peak. Swim in Lake BohinjOpens in a new window and fish for trout.
Prepare for cold, snowy winters in Gozd Martuljek. The countryside is particularly beautiful in spring, when the melted snow contributes to larger waterfalls.
The town is in the Upper Sava Valley in the northern part of the Triglav National Park. Fly to Jože Pučnik Ljubljana Airport and drive northwest for about 40 minutes to get here. The settlement of BledOpens in a new window is just 21 miles (34 kilometres) east.
Gozd Martuljek is a scenic base to start your exploration of the Sava Valley.
