The torrential Nadiža River originates in the Breginj Corner, right below the long ridge of Mt. Stol. Along its course, it creates numerous beautiful pebble beaches, deep pools, and gorges that are perfect for swimming, cliff-jumping, fishing, and relaxed lounging. The Nadiža is considered one of the cleanest and warmest Alpine rivers—on hot summer days, its temperature can rise above 20 °C, making it a fantastic choice for anyone who finds the Soča River a bit too chilly.
The river offers many lovely spots for a refreshing dip, with the most popular equipped parking areas and entry points being Robič, Podbela (past the bridge), the Napoleon Bridge near Podbela, and Logje.
On the first Saturday in August, right in the middle of a major heatwave, our family (two adults and two kids, aged 2 and 6) set off on a refreshing day trip. From our accommodation, Soca Guesthouse in Kanal ob Soči, we drove toward the popular Robič bathing area near Kobarid. We couldn't wait to jump into the water and cool off!
Quick Trip Details
DISTANCE FROM KANAL: 36 km (approx. 40 minutes by car).
BEST TIME FOR SWIMMING: From June to September (on hot summer days, the water temperature ranges between 19 °C and 23 °C).
SUITABLE FOR: Families and swimmers of all ages (Note: dogs are not allowed in the Nadiža bathing areas).
PARKING (Robič): Large paid parking lot: €1.50/hour or €10 for the whole day (payable during the summer season from June 15 to August 31, between 9:00 AM and 7:00 PM). Payment can be made at the parking meter using cash/card or via the EasyPark mobile app.
How to Get to the Robič Bathing Area?
After a delicious breakfast at Soca Guesthouse, we set off around 10:00 AM. We were in no rush in the morning, as the rivers in the Soča Valley tend to be a bit cooler early in the day.
The route from Kanal leads through the scenic Soča Valley, offering gorgeous views of the emerald Soča River and the surrounding mountain peaks. The road passes the town of Most na Soči (if you like, you can take a small detour through the town toward Tolmin and rejoin the main road later). In Kobarid, the road turns left toward Staro Selo, where a magical avenue of trees leads you past the famous Hiša Franko (the restaurant of celebrity chef Ana Roš, holding three Michelin stars). At the next roundabout, take the exit for Robič, and after about 1.5 km, keep an eye out for the parking sign on the right. You will see the parking meter right at the entrance.
Enjoying the Beach at Nadiža
From the parking lot, a short path leads straight to the beach on the banks of the Nadiža. The beach is mostly pebbly, making water access very easy and safe. It's an ideal spot for kids of all ages, offering everything from ankle-deep shallow areas for toddlers to deep pools perfect for jumping off rocks.
Along the bank, you'll also find spacious grassy areas and lush trees providing pleasant natural shade—perfect for spending the whole day relaxing during hot summer days.
Useful Tip: Right nearby in the shade sits the cozy Bife Z’Der,(https://maps.app.goo.gl/rxu4u1bdZwSaZVo37 ) where you can grab a refreshing drink. If you're feeling active, there is a basketball court and a beach volleyball court right next to it. By the parking lot, we also spotted the "Liži" food truck, serving up hot snacks and desserts.
Culinary Finish: Dinner at Hiša Polonka
To wrap up the day, we decided to have dinner at our favorite restaurant in Kobarid – Hiša Polonka (https://hisapolonka.com/domov/). On weekends, the restaurant reopens for dinner at 6:00 PM. Since we didn’t have a reservation and a line forms quickly, we arrived a few minutes before opening.
Practical Info: Hiša Polonka
Location: Gregorčičeva ulica 1, 5222 Kobarid (https://maps.app.goo.gl/NSw9bHnuw8JoFQgw5)
Opening Hours: Monday, Thursday, Friday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM | Saturday & Sunday: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Food: Delicious traditional local dishes (check out their menu here).
Parking: You can park at public parking lots nearby in Kobarid:
Parking Lot 1 (https://maps.app.goo.gl/BEGMjmwwWcAPS1qG9)
Parking Lot 2 (https://maps.app.goo.gl/dACQVLKz5WZyNf7r5)
Parking Lot 3 (https://maps.app.goo.gl/9d4MWQz9juS5zG3A8)
Their menu changes seasonally, but a few classics remain—including our personal favorite: Franko’s English Roast Beef (our kids haven't quite developed an appreciation for it yet!). We also ordered the Polonka Salad and Frika—a traditional shepherd’s dish made of potatoes and local cheese. For the kids, we usually order homemade gnocchi with bakalca (mutton stew), but since it wasn't available this time, they were more than thrilled with the venison goulash and bread dumplings. As an appetizer, we never skip their bruschetta with cottage cheese and candied tomatoes.
Their house-brewed FEO beer pairs wonderfully with the food. We usually go for the Summer Ale—an exceptionally light and refreshing beer served with a lemon slice, perfect for hot days. The kids always happily drink their homemade apple cider.
Although Polonka offers divine desserts (like local Kobarid štruklji and chocolate soufflé), we passed on them this time because the kids had their hearts set on ice cream. In Kobarid, we love visiting two great ice cream spots: Kravca and Sladoledna hiša Janko in Metka. Both operate on a "build-your-own ice cream" concept, which is a huge hit with kids, allowing them to choose their own flavors, toppings, sprinkles, and candies.
Back to Kanal ob Soči
After a full day of swimming in the warm Nadiža, lounging in the shade, and enjoying truly satisfied bellies, it was time for a peaceful drive back to our base at Soca Guesthouse in Kanal.
Day trips to the Nadiža River are truly special, and we wholeheartedly recommend them to all our guests looking to relax in nature and refresh in warmer waters.