Bohinjska Bistrica Spring, Žlan, Slovenia

## Overview Bohinjska Bistrica Spring is a striking natural spring located near the village of Žlan in the Julian Alps region of Slovenia, not far from the town of Bohinjska Bistrica. Often described as a waterfall due to its impressive volume and flow, this large spring emerges dramatically from the rocky landscape, making it a memorable sight for visitors exploring the Bohinj area. The surrounding alpine environment lends a refreshing coolness to the air — visitors have noted that the air temperature near the spring tends to be noticeably cooler than the water itself, a characteristic common to karst springs fed by underground aquifers in the Julian Alps. The spring sits at an elevation consistent with the mountainous terrain of the Triglav National Park region, an area renowned for its pristine water sources and spectacular geology. Several smaller springs are also visible along the approach, hinting at the rich underground hydrology that feeds this part of Slovenia's limestone karst landscape. ## Directions 1. Start from the town of Bohinjska Bistrica. 2. Head toward the village of Žlan (GPS: 46.256168, 13.923459). 3. Follow the road leading to the spring — note that the final stretch is a stony, unpaved track. It is passable by small all-terrain or high-clearance vehicles, but standard cars may struggle. 4. Keep an eye out for smaller springs along the way, which signal you are on the right path. 5. The spring is approximately one hour from Bohinjska Bistrica by car, factoring in the rough road conditions. ## What to Expect Upon arrival, you'll be greeted by a large, powerful spring that many visitors liken to a waterfall due to its vigorous flow. The water emerges from the rocky terrain with considerable force, creating a dramatic natural spectacle. The microclimate around the spring is noticeably cool, so bringing an extra layer is a good idea even in summer. The approach road is stony and rough — small all-terrain or four-wheel-drive vehicles are recommended. The drive itself is scenic, with several smaller springs visible along the route. The area is relatively remote, so plan accordingly: bring water, snacks, and ensure your vehicle is fueled up before setting out. The spring is classified as a public drinking spring, and the water has historically been used by locals and visitors alike. However, as with any natural water source, conditions can change, and water quality cannot be guaranteed at any given time. The surrounding landscape is typical of Slovenia's Julian Alps — lush forests, limestone rock formations, and clean mountain air — making this an excellent stop for nature lovers, hikers, and anyone seeking an off-the-beaten-path alpine experience.