Can you get cold drinking water at the hut?

Guides for a responsible and safe visit to nature

10 practical guides for responsible and safe visit of nature in Triglav National Park

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Triglav national park – UNESCO

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Can I get drinking water in the hut?

Water is one of the most important resources at Erjavčeva koča mountain hut. Because the hut is located at Vršič Pass in the Julian Alps and is not connected to a regular public water supply system in the same way as buildings in towns and villages, we depend on our own local water source.

The water used at the hut comes from a nearby natural spring. This mountain water source is essential for daily life at the hut, including cooking, cleaning, washing, drinking, and providing basic comfort for guests staying overnight.

Where does the water come from?

Our water comes from a nearby spring. In a mountain environment, this is a valuable and limited resource. Unlike accommodation in towns, where water usually comes from a controlled public water network, mountain huts often depend on natural sources, local storage, and careful water management.

This means that water at the hut must be treated with respect. Every litre matters, especially during the busy summer season, dry periods, or times when many guests are staying at the hut.

Is the water safe to drink?

We use modern water treatment methods to improve water quality, including UV light treatment and water filters. These systems help reduce the risk of contamination and make the water safer for everyday use at the hut.

However, because the water comes from a natural spring in a mountain environment, we cannot guarantee that it is always completely free from contamination. Natural conditions can change, especially after heavy rain, snowmelt, storms, or during periods of increased activity around the pass.

Why can water quality change?

During the summer season, Vršič Pass becomes much busier. More visitors, hikers, cyclists, cars, and activity in the area can affect the surrounding environment. In addition, sheep and cows often graze outdoors in the mountain pastures during the warmer months.

Because the water source is part of a natural mountain environment, there is always a possibility that water quality may be affected by animals, rainfall, soil movement, or other natural factors. This is why we treat the water, monitor the situation, and ask visitors to understand that mountain water systems are not the same as public water systems in cities.

Why water is so important in a mountain hut

When a mountain hut is not connected to a public water supply, water becomes one of the most important parts of daily operation. The hut depends on its own source, its own storage, and its own treatment system. If the source is weaker, if demand is high, or if conditions are difficult, water must be used carefully.

For this reason, visitors should understand that water in a mountain hut is not unlimited. Every shower, every wash, every meal, and every overnight stay depends on responsible water use.

Limited shower time

Because water is a limited and valuable resource, showers at Erjavčeva koča are available with limited running water time. A shower token gives you 2 minutes of running water.

You can switch the water off and on during your shower. This means that if you use the water carefully, you can extend your actual shower time by turning the water off while soaping, washing your hair, or taking a short pause.

This system helps us reduce unnecessary water use while still allowing guests to wash and refresh themselves after hiking, cycling, or travelling through the mountains.

How guests can help save water

Visitors can help protect our water supply by using water responsibly. Please do not leave taps running unnecessarily, use showers efficiently, and remember that every litre of water has to come from the mountain source, pass through the hut’s treatment system, and serve many people.

Responsible water use helps us keep the hut operating, especially during busy periods when many guests depend on the same limited source.

Should I bring my own drinking water?

If you need guaranteed drinking water, if you have a sensitive stomach, if you are travelling with children, or if you are unsure about natural spring water, we recommend bringing your own drinking water or asking the hut staff about the current water situation when you arrive.

Many people who live and work at the hut drink the water, but because natural spring water can be affected by changing mountain conditions, visitors should make their own decision based on their needs and level of comfort.

Final note

Water at Erjavčeva koča is not just something that comes from a tap. It is a local mountain resource that allows the hut to operate, provide accommodation, prepare food, offer showers, and welcome visitors to Vršič Pass.

By using water carefully, every guest helps protect this important resource and supports responsible life in the mountains.

Weather in the High Mountains: Why a Rain Forecast Does Not Mean You Should Cancel Your Visit to Vršič

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A new bus route Kranjska Gora – Vršič Pass – Soča River Valley – Bovec will start operating on 1 June 2026

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Slovenia – Julian Alps – Kranjska Gora – Vršič Pass – Erjavčeva koča Mountain Hut

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Slovenia – Julian Alps – Kranjska Gora – Vršič Pass – Erjavčeva koča Mountain Hut

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Krn Lake

01
Mar

Erjavčeva mountain hut is open year-round. Reserve your stay and spend some time in the natural paradise of Triglav National Park (UNESCO), near Kranjska Gora, on the Vršič mountain pass in the heart of the park.

Reserve your stay