Soča Valley Voyage Tips and guide

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Soča Valley is well known for its sport activities, nature and for the rich natural and cultural heritage. The valley is named after Soča River, which starts its path in Triglav National Park and continues to nearby three small Alpine towns Bovec, Kobarid and Tolmin. Parts of the river are famous for their unnaturally blue colour.

The Soča Valley is easily reached from elsewhere in Slovenia or Italy. Up to 10 trains ^{[dead link]} [1] a day run to parts of the valley from Ljubljana (via Jessenice and Bled) and from Nova Gorica on the Slovenian-Italian border. Alight at stations like Kanal or Most na Soči to reach the most visited areas.

Popular towns in the area include Bovec, Kobarid, Tolmin, Kanal and Most na Soči. With the exceptions of the first two towns none of these settlements have more than around 1,000 residents so don't expect big cities. You will find bars, restaurants and a few shops in all of them though. Bovec is popular with those seeking adventure sports.

The Soca River is paradise for people who love nature. Visitors and locals can choose between short, easy walks nearby the river, quiet fly-fishing or adrenaline water sports as are rafting, kayak, hydrospeed. Kayaking on white water is well known all over Europe.

• Soca Rider, ☏ +386 41 596-104, [email protected]. Focusing on small group trips and nice familiar atmosphere. Offers whitewater kayak courses from beginner to advance level, easy kayak trips for beginners, and family rafting trips for families with small kids from the age of 4. The "half day" adventures have 1½ hour on the river, but time is needed for transfers etc. From €40–45 (half day i.e. 1½ hours), two-day kayak course €120. (updated Jul 2015)

• Black Sheep Bar (BAR ČRNA OVCA), ŠPORTNI PARK, Ledina 7a, 5230 Bovec, Slovenia (The bar is down a single lane road, which branches off another single lane road), ☏ +386 31 588 854. The Black Sheep Bar is the only bar in Bovec which stays open late. The drinks they offer are cheap and it's a great spot to try some of the local brews. <€10. (updated Jun 2019)