Quick Overview – Martuljek Waterfalls, Slovenia
The Martuljek Waterfalls are a pair of alpine cascades tucked beneath the dramatic Špik mountain range in the Upper Sava Valley. The lower waterfall sits in a narrow, shaded canyon, while the upper waterfall drops from a tall cliff into a wild amphitheater accessible by a steep but rewarding trail.
The route combines quiet forest paths, narrow gorge passages and big-mountain views — one of the best short waterfall hikes near Kranjska Gora.
- Type: waterfalls / gorge
- Region: Alps / Kranjska Gora
- Best seasons: late spring to early autumn
- Ideal for: hikers, photographers, families with older kids
Introduction
The Martuljek Waterfalls hike offers a mix of forest calm and alpine drama. The lower waterfall is reached quickly, tucked inside a narrow canyon with cool air and echoing water. The upper waterfall requires a steeper climb but rewards you with a tall, free-falling cascade under high cliffs of the Špik Group.
The route is varied but accessible, making it a classic half-day option from Kranjska Gora.
Geography / Geological Origin / Background
The waterfalls form along the Martuljek stream, which drains the steep limestone walls of the Špik mountain group. Water has carved a tight gorge in the lower section, while the upper section drops over a tall vertical cliff into a rocky cirque shaped by glacial retreat.
This combination of gorge, forest and high alpine walls makes the hike unusually diverse for such a short distance.
What to See: Key Features
1. Lower Martuljek Waterfall MUST-SEE
A shaded, narrow waterfall hidden in a tight limestone corridor. The confined setting, cool air and echoing sound make it one of the most atmospheric lower-valley waterfalls in the region.
2. Upper Martuljek Waterfall MUST-SEE
The highlight of the route — a tall free-fall cascade dropping from high cliffs into a rocky basin. The amphitheater above the gorge gives a strong sense of alpine scale.
3. Špik Group Backdrop
On clear days, openings in the forest offer views of the Špik peaks rising sharply above the valley, giving context to the dramatic landscape above the waterfalls.
4. Forest & Gorge Path
The approach winds through spruce forest and narrow limestone passages shaped by centuries of erosion.
Best Time to Visit
The waterfalls vary with season and water flow, each giving the route a different character.
- Spring: strongest flow and loudest echo in the gorge.
- Summer: cooler forest shade — ideal on hot days.
- Autumn: warm tones and clear mountain air.
Photography Highlights
The mix of canyon shadow and high cliffs makes light especially important.
- Lower waterfall: soft, even light works best for long exposures.
- Upper waterfall: shoot from lower angles to show height and cliff texture.
- Forest path: moody compositions on cloudy days.
- After rain: rocks darken and colours deepen.
How to Get There
- By car: park at Gozd Martuljek, a few minutes from Kranjska Gora.
- Route: easy start to the lower waterfall; steeper climb to the upper one.
- Time: 2–3 hours total depending on pace.
- Nearby: combine with the Špik viewpoints or Zelenci Springs.
Interesting Facts
- The upper waterfall is over 30 m tall, hidden in a glacial amphitheater.
- The tight lower gorge stays cool even on hot summer days.
- The Špik Group forms one of Slovenia’s most recognizable mountain silhouettes.
- Martuljek valley was traditionally used for forestry and alpine pasture routes.
Conclusion
Martuljek Waterfalls offer one of the most balanced short hikes in the Upper Sava Valley — cool gorge air, dramatic upper cliffs and two distinct cascades along a varied route. It’s an ideal half-day outing near Kranjska Gora with just the right mix of effort and reward.
