Slovenia is fast establishing itself as the green gem of Europe and wild swimming is increasing in popularity all across the country. It is one of the most compelling reasons to visit Slovenia in the summer, between June and September. With numerous beautiful lakes, rivers and the Adriatic Sea, Slovenia has plenty of great options for wild swimming. Both locals and foreign tourists alike like to enjoy reconnecting with nature and taking a dive into pristine waters.

Slovenia’s stunning summer weather and picture-perfect rivers and lakes make one of the best places in Europe to go wild swimming. (photo: Jost Gantar, Slovenia.info)

For all of those who are asking themselves what wild swimming actually is? Essentially, it is nothing more than swimming in naturally occurring bodies of water. Taking a dip in the river, swimming across a lake or bathing in an ocean – if you do any of these activities then you’re a wild swimmer. While wild swimming has recently picked up considerable popularity it is nothing new. However, as simple and fun as it sounds, there are a few factors you should consider before you go wild swimming in order to stay safe and ensure you have a fun, lasting experience.

For many people, wild swimming goes beyond just recreation or exercise. It represents re-connection with nature and adventure. (photo: Jost Gantar, Slovenia.info)

Lake Jasna with a 3 level diving platform and central platform to swim to. (photo: Tomo Jesenicnik, Slovenia.info)

Natural swimming has, over the last few years, attracted massive media attention. (photo: Jost Gantar, Slovenia.info)

Swimming in the pool at the base of the Krampez Waterfall is in general possible, but the water is very cold! (photo: Boris Pretnar, Slovenia.info)

Swimming is the number one activity in Lake Bohinj! At least in summer. A lot of people walk around the lake for a bit and locate a nice secluded bit of pebbles to relax in peace. Sunbathing by the lake is also a totally free activity. (photo: Daniel Taipale, Slovenia.info)

The temperature of Lake Bohinj is constant and around 20°C and you can swim anywhere in lake. Though the water is colder, much more so than its cousin Lake Bled, it is crystal clear. (photo: Drazen Stader, Produkcija Studio, Slovenia.info)

One of the most remarkable spots of the Soca river is the Great Gorge. In summer, the locals and visitors go straight to the end of the gorge to swim, sunbathe and relax. It is quite a unique sight. (photo: Bojan Kolman)

Slovenia is a predominantly landlocked country, mostly known for its lakes and rivers. However, southwestern Slovenia does have short coastline and some beautiful beaches dot that 46-kilometer stretch of coastline. (photo: Matic Klanšek Velej, arhiv Sportida d.o.o., Slovenia.info)