Introduction to Predil Pass
Predil Pass is a mountain pass in the Julian Alps which connects Italy – Friuli-Venezia Giulia region to Slovenia – Bovec . As far as mountain passes go , this is a rather short one about 32km long. It is not very steep compared to other Mountain Passes like Wurzenpass or Vrsic pass. There are just gorgeous views of the majestic mountains with small towns at the base along the pass. As with all Alpine Mountain passes , do check if they are open before going with the link here.
Driving through Predil Pass
Over a weekend, we decided to take a leisure drive across 3 countries – yes! this is possible in Europe without borders. We have the great privilege of living close to the borders of Italy and Slovenia. All beautiful countries in their own right. First, we drove across the border to Italy enjoying real Italian Pizza and Pasta. Ok, not the healthiest in the world but really delicious. Then, we took a slow drive through Italian countryside and small towns , stopping by to admire a brook or two.
Our first designated stop was at Lago del Predil at the Italian side. A picturesque lake with majestic mountains like the Kanin , the water is clear and cold from the mountain. The lake was a refreshing stop before proceeding up the Pass.
After the Border to Slovenia the view opens up to some pretty awesome mountains! There is also a sign that we are now in Bovec municipality.
We arrive at a juncture which turning left will lead to the road to Mount Mangart and to the right is across the Viaduct towards the Soca Valley in Slovenia. Visiting Soca river was our destination for the day.
More impressive views await us as we started the descent to Soca Valley in Slovenia. Isn’t it breathtaking ?
We finally reached our destination the Soca river to have a dip – a cold one.
Watch our bike ride on Predil Pass
Day Trip Ideas
Lots of avid cyclists use the Predil Pass both ways. One popular destination is up Mangart or cycling from the Italian side to Lake Bled in Slovenia.
It looks like such a gorgeous drive that I cannot believe it is so short! The Predil Lake looks magnificent, definitely a place I’d like to stop at for a scenic break. The views on the descent to Soca Valley in Slovenia are breathtaking too!
It is indeed , i love mountain passes they bring you so close to the actual mountains which are so majestic
I love drives like this, even if they aren’t too long, the scenery along the way looks so stunning and certainly photogenic too. I’ve not yet visited Slovenia, so am adding this to my wishlist!
I need to get over to Slovenia one day. I love scenery like this
This sounds so cool! That’s one of the things I love about Europe, that you can drive through 3 countries in just a weekend. Those views are incredible too. Makes me wish I lived in a little mountain village!
I guess having a long drive isn’t a bad idea especially when you got to enjoy this kind of view. ITALY is also my dream place to visit in Europe. Thanks for sharing this wonderful tip!
This would be ny choice as well! I love the drive through mountains. The Slovenia nature is a hidden gem!
Wow! I had no idea it was possible. A leisure drive across 3 countries sounds like the perfect getaway. For some, it may even seem unbelievable by land.
Thank you for sharing your wonderful experience. Would love to take this trip in the future.
I love this road trip idea! It looks like there are many lovely places to stop along the way, too. I need to get back to Europe soon!
Yes, the pizza and pastas are not quite healthy, but absolutely tempting! The Predil Pass drive across three countries sounds so exciting and I can see by your photographs that the places are absolutely breathtaking. Slovenia is truly a hidden gem, so beautiful. I would love to visit Soca Valley some day! Loved reading about your experience.
This looks beyond scenic! I would love to visit here some day, your photos are stunning. I haven’t heard of this location before but I’m so glad I was introduced to it by your post.
Slovenia is lovely , in my opinion it is the best place to visit for yet untouched nature.