Govic Waterfall

A magnificent and rarely observed torrential waterfall hides on the southern slope of Pršivec, approximately 130m above Lake Bohinj. It shows itself in all its glory only for a few hours after heavy rain. However, locals say that it is the Govic Dragon, slumbering at the bottom of the chasm awaking only during heavy rain, that causes the waterfall to come to light. You can visit his cave, but only with a guide and proper equipment. If you want to peacefully observe this mighty waterfall, go to the opposite shore (from Naklova glava bay to Ukanc) or the Rjava skala vantage point on Vogel. But you really ought to seize the opportunity, sometimes it can take several years for the dragon to re-awaken!

THE LEGEND OF THE GOVIC DRAGON

The Govic Waterfall is a steep mountain stream that occasionally flows out from a tube-shaped tunnel with smooth walls on the hillside of Pršivec. According to a legend, the waterfall gushes out because of a dragon named Govic who sleeps at the bottom of the gulf. When the higher water level tickles his belly, he gets angry and furiously starts to flick his tail, producing a booming and powerful waterfall that flows out above the peninsula known as Na Jami, cutting down trees and turning over rocks on its way. When the water level drops, the dragon calms down and falls back asleep.

WHEN AND WHERE TO SEE THE GOVIC WATERFALL

The Govic Waterfall is a rare phenomenon that can be best observed from the opposite shore (from Naklova glava to Ukanc) or from the Rjava skala at Mount Vogel. To witness this powerful nature’s spectacle, a huge amount of rain is required to fill the widely spread tunnel and siphon system. Sometimes it takes a few years for the next eruption to occur.

CAVING ADVENTURES IN THE GOVIC CAVE

During dry periods, a part of the cave can be explored with the help of an experienced guide. The guide takes you to the lowest point of the Govic Cave with a beautiful small lake. As the caving trip also includes three longer descents with the rope, we recommend it only to participants with some previous experiences.