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Logar valley and Rinka waterfall, Slovenia - the road less travelled !

  • Writer: rachnamone
    rachnamone
  • Jul 2, 2019
  • 8 min read

Updated: 42 minutes ago


Logar Valley, nestled in the Kamnik Alps in northern Slovenia near the Austrian border, is a haven of stunning natural beauty. While planning our trip to Slovenia, we came across a photo of Logar Valley and Rinka Waterfall—and instantly fell in love. We knew right away that we had to visit this hidden gem for ourselves.


Scenic drive into Logar Valley with mountains and green meadows
Logar valley is super stunning!

While planning our trip, I read numerous blogs and websites but still felt unsure about what to expect from Logar Valley Slovenia. The pictures looked stunning—so beautiful that we felt we had to experience Logar Valley and Rinka Waterfall for ourselves. And let me tell you, the photos don’t come close to capturing the magic of this untouched hidden gem in the Alps!


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Scenic drive into Logar Valley with mountains and green meadows
The picturesque road in Logar valley

After finally experiencing it ourselves, here are the things we discovered and learned during our visit to Logar Valley Slovenia:

How to Get to Logar Valley Slovenia -

Logar Valley is located in a relatively remote part of Slovenia, tucked away from the usual tourist routes. Because of this, public transport to Logar Valley can be infrequent, time-consuming, and weather-dependent. If you want a smooth and stress-free experience, the best option is to rent a car in Ljubljana. Having your own vehicle allows you to explore Logar Valley—along with the drive to Rinka Waterfall—at your own pace.

Driving also gives you the freedom to stop anywhere along the scenic route (and trust me, you’ll want to stop often because the views are breathtaking!). Takes around 1hr30 min to get here from Ljubljana.

Another option is hiring a taxi from Ljubljana or Bled, which typically costs €90–€110 one way. While doable, it’s not the most cost-effective choice, especially if you plan to explore more than one spot inside the valley.

There’s a fee for motorised vehicles, usually €10 for a car (rates vary by vehicle type).


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Logar valley Slovenia with Hotel Plesnik in the backdrop , where you can rent bicycles.
Logar valley Slovenia with Hotel Plesnik in the backdrop , where you can rent bicycles.

When to Visit Logar Valley

We visited Logar Valley Slovenia in September, during early autumn. This is a fantastic time to explore the valley—the daytime temperatures are pleasant, making it ideal for walks, hikes, and the scenic drive up to Rinka Waterfall. However, it does get noticeably colder in this part of the Alps, especially in the evenings and early mornings, so be sure to pack a couple of jackets and dress in layers to stay comfortable throughout the day.

Summer and late spring (May to August) are also excellent seasons to visit Logar Valley. The weather is warmer, the landscapes are lush, and it’s the perfect time to enjoy the many family-friendly trails and viewpoints the region offers.


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Family-friendly meadow near Logarski kot with scottish cows.
Meadow near Logarski kot with cows

Where to Stay

Slovenia is known for its many family-run farms, which offer an authentic way to experience local life while staying close to nature. These tourist farms are especially popular among families and are an excellent base for exploring Logar Valley Slovenia.

We stayed at the beautiful Govc-Vršnik Farm, located in the peaceful Robanov Kot valley. The location is superb—quiet, serene, and surrounded by breathtaking alpine scenery. The farm is lovingly managed by Mariana and her wonderful family, and the place exudes warmth, character, and charm.

The rooms are beautifully designed, functional, and incredibly cozy—perfect after a full day of exploring Logar Valley or hiking to Rinka Waterfall. Breakfast is served on a terrace overlooking the mountains, and the views are simply unforgettable.

Although Logar Valley is just a 10-minute drive away, returning to this farm after biking, hiking, and sightseeing truly felt like coming home. Honestly, the pictures don’t do justice to how magical the farm and its surroundings are!


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Farm stay in Robanav kot
Farm stay in Robanav kot

Food

The population of this region is only around 200 people, so restaurants are few and mostly serve delicious local Slovenian cuisine. While the menus are limited, most places do offer a few vegetarian options, and the food is incredibly fresh—often coming directly from nearby farms.

That said, if you’re traveling with kids or have dietary preferences, it’s a good idea to carry some snacks and fruits purchased earlier from supermarkets in Ljubljana or Bled. This ensures you have something handy during your day in Logar Valley Slovenia, especially since cafés and restaurants are spread out across the valley.

While here, definitely try the local farm-to-table dishes—they’re simple, hearty, and full of alpine flavour!

Farm to table meal at farmstay in Robanav Kot , Slovenia
Farm to table!

Language

Many people in this region speak English, and locals are warm, welcoming, and happy to help. Communication is rarely a problem, even in the more remote parts of Logar Valley Slovenia.


Things to Do in Logar Valley

Apart from simply admiring the incredible scenery everywhere you look, there is plenty to do in Logar Valley Slovenia, depending on how much time you plan to spend in the region. We explored Logar Valley on mountain bikes and then continued on foot to Rinka Waterfall, and it was one of our favourite days in Slovenia.

You can also enjoy the many nature trails, visit Velika Planina, or drive along the stunning Solčava Panoramic Road, among other attractions this region offers.


1) Cycling in Logar Valley

Cycling is one of the best ways to explore Logar Valley, especially with kids. The valley floor is mostly flat, making it ideal for families and beginner cyclists.

Bikes can be rented from Hotel Plesnik, located at the entrance of the valley:

  • €10 for 3 hours

  • €20 for a full day

  • Baby carriers are provided free of charge, which is a huge bonus for families traveling with younger children.

Cycling gives you the freedom to stop wherever you like for photos—and trust me, in Logar Valley you’ll want to stop a lot.

Biking along forest trail in Logar Valley, Slovenia
Biking along forest trail in Logar Valley

You can bike all the way to Rinka Waterfall, but we chose to stop at Plansarija Logarski Kot—a small restaurant and the last settlement before the waterfall. Our little one had fallen asleep, so we decided it was the perfect spot to take a short break, grab a snack, and rest before continuing the journey on foot.

We ordered their delicious blueberry pancakes and asked them to pack them for the hike. It was the perfect treat to enjoy on the way to Rinka Waterfall!

Plansarija Logarski kot - small cafe in Logar valley
Plansarija Logarski kot is a really beautiful place. Do stop by for a drink or snack.

After parking our bikes at Logarski Kot, we continued on foot along one of the many marked walking trails leading to Rinka Waterfall. The walk is easy, family-friendly, and takes less than 30 minutes through peaceful, shaded woods.

The trail itself is incredibly beautiful—quiet, calm, and surrounded by nature. Since we visited at the beginning of autumn, the trees were just starting to change colour, creating a surreal mix of greens, yellows, and golds.

It felt like the perfect escape from busy city life and a wonderful opportunity to slow down and enjoy quality family time in the heart of Logar Valley Slovenia.

Family walking to Rinka waterfall , through green forests!
walking to Rinka waterfall , through green forests!

2) Rinka Waterfall (Slap Rinka)

Locally known as “Slap Rinka”, this is one of the most beautiful and well-known waterfalls in the Logar Valley region. There are several waterfalls in this area, but Rinka Waterfall stands out for its dramatic drop of nearly 100 metres and its stunning setting, surrounded by towering alpine peaks.

The walking trail from Logar Valley ends at a small café/restaurant, which also happens to sell ice creams—very important for keeping young hikers happy! 😊

From the café, there is a moderate 15-minute uphill trail leading to the base of the waterfall. Along the way, you’ll pass ancient trees, fascinating intertwining roots, and even a few small caves tucked into the hillside.

As you get closer to the waterfall, the temperature drops noticeably due to the glacial water cascading down the cliffs. It’s chilly—but incredibly refreshing and absolutely worth the short climb. The sight and sound of Rinka Waterfall Slovenia up close is nothing short of magical.


Close-up of Rinka Waterfall with mist from the glacial waters
Slap Rinka or Rinka waterfall

There’s a small restaurant, the Viewpoint Café (Orlovo Gnezdo), right beside the waterfall, offering beautiful views of the falls and surrounding mountains.


Orlovo Gnezdo viewpoint café overlooking Rinka Waterfall
Orlovo Gnezdo viewpoint café overlooking Rinka Waterfall

On our way back to Logarski kot, we walked through a small meadow with donkeys and calves — and A had the best time with them!

Beautiful ladscape in Logar Valley


Lasko at a local restaurant in Logar valley.
Conclude the day with dinner and great views!

What to Pack for Kids

  • Light jacket (it gets cold near the falls)

  • Sunglasses (glare from snowmelt water)

  • Extra socks for kids who get shoes wet

  • Snacks and water

  • Small towel for mist from the waterfall


Budget

Expect to spend €60–€80 for private-room accommodation.

Renting a car is usually the most affordable and convenient way to get around.

Meals in restaurants typically cost €10–€20 per person.


Important Tips

  • Wear good hiking shoes for the trails.

  • Carry a hiking stick (or pick one up along the way like we did — an eco-friendly option!).It’s especially useful on the final stretch, which is covered with small rocks and pebbles.

  • Bring enough water and snacks for yourself and the kids.


Nearby Places You Can Combine -

  • Solčava Panoramic Road (epic viewpoints)

  • Matkov Kot Valley

  • Robanov Kot


Our visit to Logar Valley turned out to be one of those rare travel experiences that completely takes you by surprise — in the best way possible. We arrived with modest expectations and left absolutely spellbound. The quiet meadows, the towering Alps, the crunch of leaves under our feet, the icy spray of Rinka Waterfall, and the simple joy of watching A play with donkeys and calves… it all felt magical, grounding, and unforgettable. Logar Valley wasn’t just beautiful — it was unexpectedly mind-blowing. A peaceful reminder that sometimes the least touristy places end up giving you the biggest memories. And this one will stay with us for a long, long time.


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FAQs About Visiting Rinka Waterfall & Logar Valley


1. Is the hike to Rinka Waterfall kid-friendly?

Yes. The walk to Orlovo Gnezdo café is easy. The final 15-minute climb to the waterfall is moderate with some rocky patches—manageable for kids with supervision.


2. How long does the entire visit take?

Around 2–3 hours, depending on how much time you spend at the café, the waterfall, and the meadows.


3. Do you need hiking shoes?

Yes, especially for the last stretch. The trail can be slippery due to glacial water spray.


4. Is there food available near the waterfall?

Yes. Orlovo Gnezdo café (the viewpoint café) sells warm food, drinks, and ice creams—great for kids.


5. Is there an entry fee for Logar Valley?

Yes — there’s a fee for motorised vehicles, usually €10 for a car (rates vary by vehicle type).

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