Trip Guide: Whitewater SUP Adventure in Slovenia

Ready to take your SUP skills to the next level in Slovenia’s stunning waters? This guide covers everything you need to show up confident and prepared for six days of SUP progression from calm lakes to exhilarating whitewater rapids.

We’re not just paddling pretty lakes here (though Lake Bled and Bohinj are both stunning). On this adventure you’ll explore glacier lakes in the Julian Alps, vibrant rivers in the Soča Valley, and hiking routes through the Vipava wine region. Add in canyoning, hiking, and Slovenia’s incredible food scene for a week that builds both skills and memories.

Women stand-up paddleboarding through whitewater rapids on a river with forested banks

Helmeted paddlers on a whitewater SUP in a rocky canyon beside a waterfall

Getting There

Ljubljana is surprisingly easy to reach from the UK. Most people fly EasyJet from Gatwick – early morning departure gets you there for our mid-morning transfer. The alternative BA flight from Heathrow lets you arrive the day before if you prefer avoiding early starts.

Slovenia sits perfectly positioned for European adventures. Ljubljana Airport is small and efficient, about 40 minutes from the city centre and our meeting points. We’ve got three pickup options to make logistics as smooth as possible.

Where should I fly into?

Ljubljana Airport is your entry point for this adventure. Our transfer will pick you up from there before making the hour long trip to our start base.

What if I can't make the transfer times?

If you don’t think you’ll get in early enough for our transfer, then arrive the night before and meet us at Lake Bled or Ljubljana city centre. Alternatively you can travel via Venice – a FlixBus takes four hours, or GoOpti offers private/shared transfers taking 3-4.5 hours.

Can I fly from other UK airports?

Yes, though you’ll likely have to connect via European hubs. Direct flights from Gatwick and Heathrow offer the best value and timing for our transfers.

Where exactly do we meet in Ljubljana?

Either at the airport, or close to the train station at the bus stop across from the GoOpti stop. We’ll send exact details and connect everyone via WhatsApp before departure.

What are the transfer times?

A group transfer is included on both the arrival and departure days. There is one transfer each way, and your flight must match the timing. If it doesn’t, you’ll need to make your own arrangements.

Arrival Day:
Ljubljana City Pickup: 09:55
Ljubljana Airport Pickup: 10:25
Lake Bled meeting point: 11:15*

Departure Day:
Lake Bled Drop off: 18:30
Ljubljana Airport Drop off: 19:20
Ljubljana City Drop off: 19:50

*Please note Lake Bled pick up may change a little depending on traffic and logistics on the day – your host and guide will keep you updated via the WhatsApp group.

What if my flight is delayed or cancelled?

Start by booking flights that line up with the transfer times, and give yourself enough of a buffer to reach the pickup comfortably rather than cutting it fine. That’s the best way to avoid problems in the first place. If something does go wrong on the day, let us know as soon as you can, through the WhatsApp group so your host and guide are in the loop.

We can’t guarantee the transfer will be able to wait, so for a longer delay or a cancellation you may need to make your own way to the start point. Your host will be able to support you through this. This is exactly why we ask everyone to have travel insurance, so any extra costs are covered.

Turquoise river winding through a green mountainous valley in Slovenia, with people on the riverbank

Fitness & Skill Level

Let’s be clear about what moderate means on this trip. You’ll be active 4-6 hours daily – paddling 5-12km, hiking up to 5km, as well as having a go at canyoning. It’s not mountaineering, but it’s not a gentle paddle either.

The whitewater SUP days will get your adrenaline pumping. You need comfort with speed, falling off your board, and self-rescuing in moving water.

Five consecutive active days can be demanding. Your shoulders will know about those long paddling sessions, and your legs will feel rocky canyon descents. If you regularly do 45-minute cardio sessions and don’t mind getting sweaty, you’ll cope fine.

Required SUP Experience:

Formal lessons from a qualified instructor
Minimum five SUP sessions with 10+ hours total
Completed at least one 10km paddle
Comfortable standing for several hours
Confident with self-rescue techniques
Able to swim 100m in open water

I meet the SUP requirements but am worried about the whitewater - should I book?

If you’re comfortable falling off your board and getting back on in moving water, you’re ready. We build skills progressively from flat water to gentle rapids before tackling the Soca. Our guides are experts at reading water and won’t put you in anything unsafe.

How should I prepare physically?

Cardio fitness matters most – running, cycling, HIIT classes. Aim for two to three weekly 45-minute sessions to build heart rate and strength. Swimming helps with water confidence and any core strength work supports long paddling sessions.

What does a typical active day look like?

Morning briefing, 3-5 hours paddling with breaks for snacks and photos, lunch by the water, maybe an afternoon hike, canyoning session or more paddling. Active time varies but expect to be moving most of the day (with breaks).

Can I opt out if something feels too challenging?

We’d love for everyone to try, however there’s no pressure. If whitewater SUP or canyoning isn’t happening for you on the day, sit it out. We can’t provide refunds, but your safety matters more than completing every activity.

Women stand-up paddleboarding on a clear, fast-flowing river with rocks and greenery in the background

Women canyoning in a rocky gorge, wearing helmets, wetsuits and ropes in flowing water

Sleep & Eat

On this trip you’ll move between locations, so we’ll stay in three-star family-run hotels and an authentic farm accommodation. Think more comfortable, clean bases rather than luxury resorts. You’ll have hot showers after long days on the water, proper beds for recovery, and WiFi that works (mostly).

The Julian Alps hotel sits near Lake Bohinj – think mountain lodge atmosphere with hearty breakfasts. The farm stay in Vipava Valley produces its own food and wine – rustic charm with incredible local flavours. Soca Valley’s accommodation overlooks the village square in Kobarid, perfect for evening drinks after adventures.

Slovenia earned European Region of Gastronomy status in 2021, and you’ll understand why. We’ll eat at incredible restaurants, showcasing local ingredients and traditional techniques.

What are the rooms like?

Rooms are clean, comfortable three star standard with private bathrooms and heating. The farm stay is more rustic – more countryside charm, rather than hotel polish. You can choose twin rooms with another Gutsy Girl or private rooms throughout.

Can you cater for dietary requirements?

We can cater for most needs, though choices may be limited when working with local restaurants and farms. Vegetarians will have good options. Vegans are welcome, but be aware the choices will be restricted.

The one thing we can’t accommodate is coeliac or severe allergies. Part of your stay is at a family-run farmhouse where meals are cooked the traditional way, and while every precaution is taken, some meals are at local restaurants with a single kitchen, so we can’t guarantee zero cross-contamination.

For that reason this trip isn’t suitable if you’re coeliac or have a severe allergy. Get in touch before booking and we’ll point you towards a trip that works better

Is there WiFi everywhere?

Hotels have decent WiFi, though the farm stay has limited connectivity (which is probably good for switching off!) You’ll be offline during most activities anyway.

Street view of a hotel building with balcony terrace beside a church clock tower in Slovenia

Plated cubes of food with edible flowers and microgreens on a dark plate

Weather

August and September offer great SUP conditions in Slovenia, with warm weather but a mountain breeze.

Evenings can be cooler, so you’ll want layers for dinner and socialising. Weather can also be changeable in the mountains, so you might see sunshine and rain in the same day. For any bad weather days guides will adjust plans accordingly.

Temperature: 20-28°C during the day, cooler evenings
Sun exposure: High, especially on water where reflection intensifies UV
Rain possibility: Mountain showers can appear quickly
Water temperature: Refreshing alpine water that’ll wake every nerve ending

What happens if rain affects paddling?

Our guides monitor conditions closely with backup plans ready. Light rain doesn’t stop SUP – you’re getting wet anyway, however heavy rain or storms mean alternative indoor activities or location changes.

How cold is the water?

18–25 litres

The Soča River runs cold year-round, but you’ll be in drysuits for whitewater sessions. The lakes are more pleasant for swimming in summer.

Should I check weather forecasts before travelling?

Definitely, although don’t panic about rain predictions. Mountain weather changes fast, and guides make daily decisions based on real conditions. Pack for variable weather and trust the experts – they know these conditions better than anyone.

How do I protect myself from the sun whilst out on water?

Water reflection doubles UV exposure. Bring high-SPF waterproof sunscreen, a hat and long-sleeved UV protection tops. Sunglasses with floating strap are also essential – losing them in a lake isn’t fun.

Clear river rapids in Slovenia with forested banks and mountain peaks under blue sky

Good to Know

Money: Slovenia uses euros. Budget €20-30 daily for drinks, snacks, and personal purchases. Most places accept cards, but it’s always good to have a bit of cash with you too.

Tipping: Tipping is not compulsory on our adventures, but if you’ve had a great trip and brilliant service, a tip for your guide or host is always appreciated. We recommend giving €20-€30, or whatever you can or feel is the right amount.

Communication: If you’ve got a data package that enables it, there’s good mobile coverage in populated areas, but expect patchy service in the mountain valleys. WiFi is available at accommodations, though the connection at the Farm Stay can be unreliable. You’ll be offline during activities, which is probably exactly what you need.

How many guests on this trip?

Max 7 guests.

When should I buy travel insurance?

As soon as you book, not the week before you fly. Booking early means you’re covered if you need to cancel before departure, not just for issues while you’re away. Your policy should cover travel delays, missed connections, trip cancellation, medical emergencies and evacuation, baggage and equipment loss, and all activities on your itinerary.

What if I get injured?

Guides carry first aid kits, and travel insurance covering adventure activities is mandatory. Please ensure whitewater paddleboarding is included in your policy.

Any local customs I should know?

Tap water is drinkable in Slovenia. Environmental awareness is important – respect natural areas.

Women paddleboarding on a SUP board on a river in Slovenia, surrounded by green forest and hills

Women hikers sitting on rocks beside a turquoise river in a forested valley

Packing List

Aqua Shoes: Crucial for safe water entry and exit on rocky shores. Regular flip-flops won’t cut it – you need proper grip and protection.

Sun Protection: Slovenia’s mountain sun is strong, and water reflection intensifies exposure. Waterproof SPF50+ is essential (don’t forget one for your lips too), plus physical barriers like rashguards for long paddle days.

Quick-Dry Fabrics: Cotton takes forever to dry and stays cold when wet. Synthetic or merino wool materials dry fast and stay comfortable. Pack multiple quick-dry layers for rotation.

Hand Luggage Priorities: If you’ve got a checked in suitcase (make sure it’s not too big) and are worried about it going astray, don’t forget to pack aqua shoes, medications, swimwear, and one change of quick-dry clothes in your carry-on. Ljubljana has outdoor shops, but you may not have much time after landing to buy replacements.

What We Provide

SUP Equipment:

All-round touring boards suitable for lakes and rivers
Quality paddles and leashes
PFDs
Dry bags for personal items during paddling
Shorty wetsuits for cooler conditions

Whitewater Equipment:

Specialist whitewater SUP boards
Full drysuits and thermal layers
Safety helmets and buoyancy aids
Throw bags and safety equipment

Canyoning Kit:

Harnesses, helmets, and ropes
Wetsuits and protective equipment
All technical gear for safe descents

What You Need to Bring

Essential Water Gear:

Water shoes or aqua shoes with a solid sole
Comfortable walking trainers or shoes
Swimwear
UV protection rash vest or long-sleeve top
Quick-dry shorts or leggings
Quick-dry t-shirts
Softshell or windproof jacket
Waterproof jacket
Loose clothes or a dress for after wet sessions
Casual clothes and warmer layers for evenings
Flip flops for the accommodation
A good-sized towel or changing robe
Cap or wide-brimmed hat

Personal Kit:

Sunglasses with a floating strap
Daypack (15–25 litres)
Water bottle(s) — 2 litres minimum (1x2L or 2x1L)
High-SPF waterproof sunscreen
SPF lip balm
Insect repellent
Microfibre travel towel
Snacks — energy bars, nuts, dried fruit
Toiletries and personal medication
Small personal first aid kit — painkillers and blister plasters especially
Rehydration tablets or electrolytes (useful if it’s a hot week)

What should I wear for paddleboarding on the lakes and rivers?

Swimwear under a UV rash vest, with quick-dry shorts or leggings over the top. Add water shoes, sunglasses with a floating strap, and a hat. We provide the wetsuit for when you need it — don’t wear anything you’d mind getting wet.

What should I wear for canyoning?

Old trainers or water shoes with closed toes and some grip — something you’re happy to soak. Your guides kit you out with a wetsuit, helmet, and harness on the day. Don’t wear anything you care about.

Can I bring my own paddleboard?

We’d ask you not to. The boards we use are suited to the locations and the progression of the week, and adding personal kit into the logistics across three locations gets complicated.