Soča – emerald river
You are beautiful, daughter of the mountains!
The Soča River springs from the end of a narrow gorge in Trenta. The waters, which accumulate in the areas of Jalovec, Šit, Travnik, and Mojstrovka, flow out of a karst cave with an underground lake through a narrow george. Soon after, it forms a 10-meter waterfall and continues its journey with a multiple small cascades and rapids. The source of the Soča is less accessible and requires good equipment, while the trail to the waterfall is relatively short and easy.
The Soča River flows for 137 kilometers to the Adriatic Sea. It passes through the towns of Bovec, Kobarid, Kanal, Most na Soči, Solkan, Nova Gorica... eventually flowing into the Gulf of Trieste near Tržič.
In the emerald river resides the marble trout, an endemic species that was once severely threatened due to hybridization with the brown trout. Through extensive programs and significant efforts, fishermen have managed to prevent the extinction of the marble trout since the 1960s. Today, they are breeding genetically pure fish and releasing them back into the river.
The Soča River, with its breathtaking views, is a true paradise for lovers of unspoiled nature. The deep and narrow gorges carved into the rock are popular destinations for visitors. Attractions like the Mala Korita, Velika Korita, the gorges of Mlinarica, the well-maintained Soška Pot and others attrack adventurers. Due to its rapids and waterfalls, it is also a favorite spot for kayakers, canoers, and other water sports enthusiasts.
Between 1915 and 1917, the Soča Valley and the surrounding mountains were the site of the Soča Front, which claimed more than 300,000 lives, many of whom were Slovenians and members of other Slavic nations. Numerous military cemeteries, fortified positions, and other remnants testify to the former conflict, along which the Peace Trail from the Alps to the Adriatic runs.
And last but not least, Soča is our national symbol and inspiration. Simon Gregorčič wrote a unique and time-defying eulogy to our emerald river in his distinctly patriotic poem Soči ... and it is true: "You are beautiful, daughter of the mountains!"