Soca River (Isonzo River)
Kobarid, Slovenia, 5222
Flowing through the Trenta Valley in Slovenia’s Julian Alps, the Soca (also known as the Isonzo) is one of Europe’s most beautiful rivers. The Soca River is known for its narrow, rocky gorges, hidden canyons, waterfalls, and striking emerald color, which gives the river its nickname the “Emerald Beauty.”
The Basics
The Soca River is a popular spot to enjoy many kinds of watersports, with sections of gentle river suitable for beginners as well as thrilling whitewater that will challenge the most advanced kayakers. Visitors can choose from a variety of family-friendly rafting adventures, scenic float trips, and adrenaline-inducing whitewater adventures. You can also combine a river trip with a canyoning experience, rappel down waterfalls, or glide down natural water slides.
The Soca also offers other types of activities: The river is a popular fly fishing spot with some of the best trout fishing in Europe; it attracts photographers hoping to capture its sparkling green waters; and the valley surrounding the river is a great place for hiking, mountain biking, paragliding, skiing, birdwatching, and more.
Things to Know Before You Go
Kayaking and rafting tours provide all necessary gear, including lifejackets, helmets, and wetsuits.
Canyoning and whitewater rafting trips are not wheelchair accessible and are not recommended for travelers with serious medical conditions.
You’ll need a permit to fish on the Soca.
How to Get There
The Soca River originates in the Julian Alps in northwestern Slovenia and flows through the towns of Bovec, Kobarid, and Nova Gorica before emptying into the Adriatic Sea in northeastern Italy. Most rafting, kayaking, and canyoning adventures being in Bovec. To reach Bovec from Ljubljana, Slovenia’s capital city, take route A2/E61 to route 201, then head southwest on 206, following signs for Bovec; the drive takes about 2 hours. You can also catch a bus to Bovec from the main station in Ljubljana.
When to Get There
You can enjoy hiking and sightseeing activities near the river all year round. Guided rafting and kayaking trips are offered from mid-April through October, and fly-fishing season runs from April through early November. An annual bridge-diving competition in Kanal Ob Soci takes place in August.
The Great Soca Gorge
One of the best spots to see the emerald green waters of the Soca River’s tributaries is at the Great Soca Gorge, which is located just over 6 miles (10 kilometers) east of Bovec, along the Trenta–Bovec road. Once there, you can walk along a series of suspension bridges and trails and enjoy views of emerald pools and waterfalls.
Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas
Get Ideas from the Pros
As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.
Build and Research Your Options
Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.
Book Everything in One Place
From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!