The best running trails around Kobarid

Shortly before the large Slap Kozjak lies its little brother, Mali Kozjak. The Kozjak stream plunges here in several low steps over mossy rocks before forming the well-known main waterfall further down. The cascade can be seen well from the developed footbridge – a pretty foretaste that most visitors pass by on their way to the large fall. Considerably daintier and less spectacular, but an atmospheric motif in the shady, damp green of the gorge. 📸 Beautiful detail motif – with longer exposure, the water becomes soft and silky 🌿 Damp, mossy surroundings – the rocks and footbridges are often slippery here 🚶 Located directly on the path to the large Slap Kozjak, no detour necessary 👀 Easy to overlook – pay attention to the stream on the left/right shortly before the main waterfall 🎟️ Already located in the paid section (admission to Kozjak, as of 09/2026: €5 p.p.)

🕳️ World War I Caverns Between the suspension bridge and Slap Kozjak, a dark entrance opens up on the rocky slope next to the path: a cavern of the Italian army from the time of the Isonzo Front. From 1915 to 1917, the Italians built their 3rd line of defense around Kobarid – trenches, positions, and shelters blasted into the rock, intended to provide protection from artillery fire. The structures are part of the Kobariška zgodovinska pot and the cross-border "Path of Peace" (Pot miru). During the breakthrough in October 1917, they were overrun within a few hours. 🔦 Bring a headlamp – a few meters inside it becomes pitch dark, the ground is uneven and damp ⛑️ Don't go too deep: loose rock, no safety measures 🪖 Further restored trenches (Jarki) and shelters are located downstream on the east bank and on the slope below Tonocov grad 📖 Information boards along the path explain the course of the line; the context is presented in detail in the Kobariški muzej 📸 The entrance, with a view of the green forest, makes for an atmospheric photo

🌊 Soča rapids Between the suspension bridge and the Napoleon bridge, the Soča changes its character several times: calm, deep green pools give way to short rapids where the water foams white between limestone blocks. The section is part of the classic Trnovo–Kobarid whitewater course, which is very popular with kayakers and rafting boats. The play of currents and colours can be observed well from the bank path – it becomes lively especially where the river narrows before the gorge near Kobarid. 🛶 On warm days, boats pass by almost every minute – a good opportunity to watch 🪨 The blocks on the bank are smooth and algae-covered – do not step on wet rocks 🏊 Do not swim in the rapids; choose calm spots further downstream or upstream 📸 With a short exposure time, you freeze the spray; with a long one, you achieve the soft "milk effect" 🌧️ After rain, the water level rises quickly and the rapids become significantly stronger

🏘️ Kobarid (Karfreit / Caporetto) Small town with around 1,000 inhabitants at the confluence of the Soča and Nadiža rivers, framed by Krn, Stol and Matajur. It became world-famous in 1917 through the 12th Battle of the Isonzo, the "Breakthrough at Karfreit", which Hemingway immortalized in "A Farewell to Arms". Between the World Wars, Kobarid belonged to Italy, and since 1947 to Slovenia. Today, the town thrives on hikers, whitewater sports, and amazing gastronomy – with Hiša Franko, it boasts a world-class restaurant. ▫️ Kobarid Museum of World War I – European Museum of the Year 1993, also worthwhile in the rain ▫️ Italian Ossuary with the Church of St. Anthony on the hill above the town ▫️ Napoleon Bridge over the Soča on the outskirts, starting point for the Kozjak waterfall ▫️ Kobarid Historical Trail: 5 km circular route to front lines, bridge and waterfall ▫️ Good parking on the outskirts; it is narrow in the center

A classic suspension bridge as is common in this area, The suspension bridge leads to a bathing spot in the Natisone.

A pleasant, shady resting spot with drinking water from a well built in 1917.

A beautiful emerald river.

Magnificent view of the turquoise Soca