Mangart Saddle
Hiking in high mountain areas should always be approached with caution. Every hiker must exercise good judgment and self-assessment when considering daily conditions, whether related to the weather, trail difficulty, or personal physical fitness. Mountain conditions can change quickly, so it's essential to be prepared for unexpected challenges. Always carry adequate gear, water, snacks, and a fully charged phone. Let someone know your planned route, and check the weather forecast before you set out. Safety should remain a top priority to fully enjoy the beauty of Slovenia’s landscapes.
The Mangart Road is a scenic route that winds through alpine landscapes, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and the Soča Valley. This road, which leads to the base of Mount Mangart, one of Slovenia's highest peaks, is famous for its tight turns and spectacular panoramas. Mangart, at an altitude of 2,679 meters, attracts hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, promising unforgettable experiences in the heart of the Julian Alps.
– To discover another Slovenian scenic road, click here: the Vršič pass and the Soča valley –
How to Get to Mangart Saddle?
Accessing the Mangart Pass is easy by car from Bovec. By following the winding road leading to Italy (route 203), you will reach the entrance to the pass road, where a 10€ ecological fee (as of 2022) must be paid to access it. This contribution helps preserve this unique natural environment. The road, although passable by car, is narrow and dotted with sharp turns and tunnels carved into the rock, offering spectacular views at every bend. During high season, it is recommended to leave early to avoid traffic and enjoy the tranquility of the place. Once at the top, the view of the Julian Alps is simply unforgettable, with Mount Mangart in the background and, on clear days, an expansive panorama extending all the way to the Italian Dolomites.
Where to Stay near Mangart Saddle?
You will find several accommodation options around Bovec, the nearest town and an excellent starting point for exploring the pass and the Soča Valley. Bovec offers a wide range of accommodations, from comfortable hotels to charming apartments and guesthouses, as well as campsites for nature lovers. We chose an Airbnb located in the heart of the town.
In summer, and for a stay closer to the pass, the region also offers hostels and some mountain huts, such as the Mangart Saddle Hut (Koča na Mangrtskem sedlu), which provides a rustic setting with stunning views of the Julian Alps. These accommodations allow you to be right next to hiking trails and mountain activities, ideal for travelers who want to enjoy nature from sunrise.
– For our complete Slovenia itinerary, click here: Two Weeks in Slovenia: Itinerary, Tips and Advice –
Discovering Mangart Saddle
Essential Tips
Parking : Free – parking area located near the pass.
Hike: Several marked trails start from the pass. Rather than choosing a specific route, we opt for a leisurely walk at our own pace, enjoying the surroundings. We decide not to climb to the summit, preferring to savor the surrounding landscapes.
We drive up to the Mangart Pass, located at an altitude of about 2,072 meters above sea level, but we are forced to stop below the pass due to a landslide: the road has become impassable from this point. No matter, we decide to park and continue on foot. The place is simply stunning, surrounded by majestic alpine peaks, with Mangart towering proudly before us in all its height. Following a trail that winds through the tall grasses, we start by climbing a gentle slope. As the slope becomes steeper, we finally reach the ridge, where the view opens up to Italy unfolding at our feet.
On the other side, the cliff is steep, and looking down gives us a dizzying thrill. Yet, with surprising ease, a hiker arrives from Italy and casually steps over the fence that marks the border between the two countries.
We walk along the ridge, soaking in the alpine atmosphere, as the soft late afternoon light bathes the landscape in a soothing warmth. A small snake quietly slithers through the wild grasses, adding a touch of wildlife to this enchanting scene, while an edelweiss, the iconic mountain flower, winks at us, symbolizing the delicate beauty of this ecosystem. In that moment, we feel completely grounded in the Julian Alps, awestruck by the grandeur of the nature surrounding us.
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