This small town in western Slovenia is known for its WWI museum, traditional Soča Valley cuisine, and the nearby turquoise Soča River with hiking trails and waterfalls.
Kobarid, a village of 4,400 residents in western Slovenia's upper Soča Valley, sits where the Soča and Nadiža rivers flow between the Julian Alps. You can hike to the 15-meter Kozjak waterfall hidden in a limestone chamber, learn about WWI battles at the award-winning museum, or dine at Hiša Franko, one of two Michelin-starred restaurants in town. The 18th-century Napoleon Bridge spans the emerald Soča River, connecting hiking paths on both banks.
Getting Around the Soča Valley
Kobarid lies 20 kilometers south of Bovec and 16 kilometers north of Tolmin, making it a central point for exploring the upper Soča Valley. Local buses connect to other valley settlements, though a car will help you reach remote hiking trails and viewpoints. Visit between May and September when temperatures stay mild and hiking trails remain clear.
Walking to Kozjak Waterfall
The walk to Kozjak Waterfall takes about one hour from the town center. Follow the marked trail across Napoleon Bridge, turn left at the parking lot, and continue along the river. The 15-meter waterfall drops into a dark rocky chamber, creating an unusual natural amphitheater. The path includes wooden footbridges and steps carved into the rock, passing through forest and along streams.
Activities on the Soča River
You can kayak and raft on the Soča River's clear waters from spring through fall. Local agencies run guided trips from calm water floats to technical kayaking sections. The marble trout in the river attract fly fishers, and you'll find multiple hiking trails starting along the riverbanks.
Kobarid Historical Trail
This 5-kilometer circular trail connects WWI sites and geological formations around Kobarid. Starting at the museum, you'll walk through former military positions, past the Italian Charnel House, and across Napoleon Bridge. Information boards explain the military events and rock formations along the way. The trail takes about three hours at a regular pace.
World War I Sites
The Kobarid Museum documents the Soča Front battles of WWI, with focus on the 1917 Battle of Caporetto. You'll find photographs, maps, and personal items from soldiers who fought here. The Italian Charnel House, built in 1938 on Gradic hill, contains remains of over 7,000 Italian soldiers and gives you views across the valley.
Local Food
Kobarid has grown into one of Slovenia's main food destinations. The restaurants use ingredients from nearby farms and forests, including Tolminc cheese from mountain dairy farms, trout from the Soča River, and local mushrooms. Many chefs follow traditional Soča Valley recipes while adding their own interpretations.
