Soča River

Also called Emerald Queen of Slovenian rivers, the 138-kilometre Soča River is an Alpine beauty that carves its way from the heart of the Julian Alps down to the Karst. It springs to the surface in the Trenta Valley in north-western Slovenia, then runs past the towns of Bovec, Kobarid, Tolmin, Kanal ob Soči, Nova Gorica (where it is crossed by the famous Solkan Bridge), and Gorizia, flowing into the Adriatic Sea close to the town of Monfalcone.

Its colour comes from its crystal-clear properties and the pure limestone bedrock. It is said to be one of the rare rivers in the world to retain its magical colour throughout its course. This pristine river runs through some of the most scenic parts of Slovenia, attracting thousands of domestic and foreign visitors each year.

A mecca for water sports enthusiasts, the Soča’s rapids are particularly inviting for fans of kayaking and rafting, while stand up paddling can be enjoyed in the river’s calmer sections.

The Soča and its tributaries are also a haven for fly-fishing. Its diverse character ensures excellent fishing conditions. The favourite catches among fishermen are marble trout, grayling, rainbow trout and the marble and brown trout hybrids.

During WWI, the Soča and its valley were the stage of major battles where half a million Austro-Hungarian and Italian soldiers lost their lives (Soča Front).

In recent times, the Soča was witness to more pleasant activities. Several scenes for the 2007 Disney film The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian were shot on its banks.