Peet van G.
Google
Driving over the Vršič Pass (Prelaz Vršič) in autumn was one of those rare road trips that feels like a moving postcard. The climb itself is spectacular: dense larch and spruce forests gradually open up to rugged limestone peaks of the Julian Alps, and with every switchback the views get wider and wilder. In fall, the landscape turns into a patchwork of gold and copper, with that crisp mountain light that makes everything look extra sharp—peaks, valleys, and the distant ridgelines all layered like a painting.
The road is an experience in its own right. The famous series of tight hairpin bends (many of them cobbled, especially on the Kranjska Gora side) makes the pass feel adventurous without being extreme—just take it slow, use lower gears, and enjoy the rhythm of the climb. There are plenty of pull-outs and viewpoints, and it’s worth stopping often: you’ll catch dramatic panoramas, steep rock faces, and sweeping valley views that change every few minutes. Even if you’re “just passing through,” this is absolutely not a drive to rush.
What makes Vršič even more meaningful is its history. This pass road was built during World War I, largely by Russian prisoners of war working under harsh alpine conditions, because the route was strategically important for supplying the Isonzo/Soča Front. The human cost of that effort is hard to imagine today while admiring such beauty. A tragic reminder lies near the pass: the Russian Chapel (Ruska kapelica), built to honor the prisoners who died—many in a devastating avalanche in 1916. Stopping there adds a quiet, reflective layer to the visit; it’s a small place, but it carries a powerful story. The contrast between the serene mountains and the memories of war makes the pass feel not only beautiful, but also deeply moving.
We also loved how varied the surroundings are. One moment you’re in thick forest, the next you’re above the tree line with open alpine scenery. Depending on the direction you drive, you can easily combine the pass with the emerald waters of the Soča Valley, making the whole day feel like a highlight reel of Slovenia’s best landscapes.
Practical tips: go early or later in the day if you can—traffic and cyclists can slow things down, especially on weekends. In autumn, weather can change quickly, so bring a warm layer and check conditions if clouds roll in. And if you’re not used to mountain roads, just take your time—this is a place where the journey is the destination.
All in all, Vršič Pass is more than a scenic drive: it’s a stunning alpine crossing with a powerful historical backdrop. We left with full camera rolls, happy tiredness, and a lot of respect for the stories these mountains hold. Highly recommended—especially in fall.
