The sound of falling water marks the exit from the gorge, dominated by Vintgar’s mighty gatekeeper – Šum Fall.
“I threw myself into the waterfall.
I scream in ecstasy, to outcry
the waters that surround me…
Everything is waves.
I too am a wave, foaming, roaring
and singing in chorus with the waters
as they rise and bend over the rocks…”
(Under the Waterfall by Miran Jarc)
Congratulations, together we have conquered Vintgar Gorge. The sound of falling water marks the exit from the gorge, dominated by Vintgar’s mighty gatekeeper – Šum Fall.
The picturesque sight of the waterfall has long been an inspiration to painters and photographers and has served as an impressive backdrop to numerous events. The first suspension bridge above the waterfall was built a century and a half ago.
With a drop of almost 15 metres, Šum Fall is the highest river waterfall in Slovenia. As you stand on the bridge above it and look down, you will see a deep pool that is constantly being hollowed by the falling water with a viewing terrace next to the river below. Look into the distance and you will be greeted by the sight of a “caravan” of picturesque mountains. Those are the Karavanke, Slovenia’s longest mountain range, with a characteristic series of ridges and valleys and their highest peak, Stol, which you can see on the far right.
Before setting off back to the crossroads by the Snacks and Souvenirs shop above Šum Fall, where you will turn right for the King of Triglav Trail or left for the River of Trees Trail, go and look at the waterfall from below. Meditation comes naturally at such a sight.
The waterfall tells of the power of nature, of beauty that never fades. It reminds us that we are only temporary guests in the natural world, not hosts.
We locals will do everything in our power to conserve Vintgar Gorge and the Triglav National Park for future generations. Come and join us!
