This year, the number of tourists in Posočje is noticeably higher, especially in July.

The Soča Valley has seen a notable increase in tourist visits this year, with July standing out as the busiest month. According to the Soča Valley Tourism Board, there has been a rise in both the number of visitors and overnight stays compared to last year. The board reports that the tourism season is extending into spring and autumn months, indicating a shift in visitor behavior. As of now, July has recorded nearly 326,000 overnight stays, with almost 120,000 tourists spending the night in the valley. This trend is evident across several key attractions, including the Saint Spirit Church in Javorca, which saw a 17 percent increase in visitors during July compared to the same period last year. In addition to the Saint Spirit Church, the Kluža Fortress has also experienced fluctuations in visitation. While April and May saw higher numbers than the previous year, June and July had slightly fewer visitors. However, in recent months, the number of visitors to the underground passage beneath the fortress has increased. Similarly, the Tolminka Caves remain one of the most popular attractions, with a slight decline in June but an overall increase of 18 percent in other months compared to last year. Mija Kokošin, head of the entrance point at the Tolminka Caves, noted that the summer season has been particularly successful. She highlighted that more visitors are purchasing tickets online, allowing them to secure entry times in advance. Additionally, she observed that the number of visitors has expanded beyond traditional hours, with early morning and late evening visits becoming more common. Despite the increased number of visitors, the site remains manageable. Kokošin also mentioned that the new entrance facility, equipped with improved sanitation and a shop selling local products, has contributed to the positive experience of visitors. However, the surge in tourism has brought challenges, particularly in areas like Lepenica, located along the route to the Great Soča River. Local residents have expressed concerns over traffic congestion caused by both domestic and international tourists. On social media, locals have shared frustrations about the difficulty of navigating through crowded streets, with some reporting travel times extending up to an hour between 10 AM and 3 PM. These issues have led to calls for measures such as limiting the number of vehicles, implementing effective parking regulations, increasing enforcement by traffic police, and introducing fees for access to certain parts of the Trboveljski National Park. A notable incident occurred in Lepenica, where a dispute over a parking spot escalated into a physical altercation. An Italian woman was reportedly taken to the hospital following the incident, although no serious injuries were sustained. The situation highlights the growing tensions among visitors and residents due to overcrowding and limited infrastructure. Locals are urging authorities to address these issues promptly to ensure a better balance between tourism and community life. Meanwhile, the Idrija Tourism Board has opened the newly renovated Wild Bait, offering visitors experiences ranging from geological discoveries to educational programs focused on the region's history and culture. The facility, located within the Upper Idrija Nature Park, is open daily except Mondays and includes a market featuring local products on Sundays. The area has attracted interest due to recent archaeological findings, drawing attention to its rich fossil heritage. Director of the Idrija Tourism Board, Robert Šinkovec, emphasized the importance of promoting the region’s unique offerings while ensuring sustainable tourism practices. The initiative aims to provide immersive experiences that educate and engage visitors, fostering a deeper appreciation for the local environment and cultural legacy.