I traveled to Slovenia earlier this year, and fell in love with this small, green, varied and beautiful country. As travelers seek new horizons in Europe, Slovenia may be a great choice for anyone interested in active holidays, food and wine, history, culture, and wellness. Slovenia’s small size (roughly the same area as New Jersey) combined with a superb infrastructure, means getting around is easy. The Alps, Adriatic, wine country, and Eastern plains are all less than 90 minutes’ drive from the capital, Ljubljana. I believe we follow our passions when we travel, so here are suggested journeys for outdoor enthusiasts, epicures, and history and culture buffs.
Slovenia for Outdoor Enthusiasts
Because of Slovenia’s varied terrain, the country offers a wide range of options for travelers seeking active holidays. Start in the Alps, heaven for hikers of all levels. One of my favorite spots is the Upper Savinja valley, home of Logarska Dolina -- a narrow glacial valley offering myriad natural attractions, soaring snowcapped peaks and endemic flora and wildlife. If you are feeling energetic, climb Mt. Triglav, Slovenia’s highest mountain and a rite of passage for the country’s citizens. Another recommendation is Kranska Gora, Slovenia’s premier ski destination, offering challenging treks from spring to fall. Hikers can also explore sections of Europe’s major trails that cross through Slovenia, such as the E6 Baltic to Adriatic path, or the famous Via Alpina, which runs from Monaco all the way to Trieste. Raft fast rivers such as the Soča, a breathtaking float down blue-green waters rushing down from the Julian Alps. Cycle or mountain bike through green valleys and challenging Alpine foothills, or as slower-paced paths near Lake Bled and the Krka Valley. For adrenaline junkies, try ballooning, canyoning, or paragliding near Bovec or Bohinj. Slovenia is also known for its exceptional caving, canyoning, and rock-climbing opportunities, so the hardest thing to do is decide on which path to follow. For the ultimate thrill in Slovenia, zipline down the steep descent over Planica Hill, the longest ski jump in the world.
Slovenia for Gourmets & Wine Connoisseurs
Long before ‘slow food’ and ‘farm to table’ menus were popular, Slovenian chefs were ahead of the curve with an obsession for fresh, locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. Slovenian cuisine, by virtue of the country’s location, borrows from Austrian, Hungarian, Italian, and Croatian neighbors, creating unique dishes and combinations you have not tasted before. Despite its small size, Slovenia has 23 distinct culinary regions. Begin your discoveries in Ljubljana, where you will find excellent restaurants such as Strelec Ljubljana, located in the city’s castle tower; Monstera Ljubljana, the slow food bistro by Bine Volcic; and Gostilna Grič, perhaps Slovenia’s best contemporary farmhouse inn, set in the hills overlooking Ljubljana and a member of the Jeunes Restaurateurs movement. Outside the capital city, try Chateau Zemono in a charming countryside setting in the Vipava Valley, and if you are lucky, book a table at Hiša Franko in Kobarid, considered one of the top 50 restaurants in the world. The restaurant is run by Ana Roš, celebrated by culinary experts as the #1 female chef. Hiša Franko is the hardest reservation to secure in Slovenia. Plan ahead to avoid disappointment. Don’t miss uniquely Slovenian specialties like pumpkin seed oil, Karst prosciutto, Tolminc cheese and Prekmurska Gibanica – the country’s rich and multi-layered dessert.
There are over 20,000 wineries in Slovenia, so there is a vineyard for every oenophile. Slovenia is known for its bright red wines like Teran, superb whites and sparkling wines, and fruit-flavored brandies. Although there are many celebrated wine regions, I recommend the Vipava Valley and Goriška Brda, for the quality of the wines, coupled with outstanding dining and places to stay.
Slovenia for Culture and History Buffs
Launch your cultural pursuits in Ljubljana, Slovenia’s manageable, livable and charming capital. Because of the city’s relatively short distances, get around on foot, bicycle, or public transportation. To get your bearings, ride the funicular to the top of Ljubjlana’s castle, for panoramic views of the city and an overview of Slovenia’s history. Wander through the Old Town (Staro Mesto), the most important part of the city, along the banks of the Ljubljanica river, with charming squares, historic bridges, markets, and beautifully preserved churches. Connecting the old town with the city center is and Prešernov Square, favorite meeting point of city residents. Take time to walk along the river, down the grand avenues, or – better yet – catch a boat ride that will give you a new perspective on Ljubljana’s neighborhoods. Throughout the city you will notice the distinctive architecture of native son Jože Plečnik, star disciple of Viennese master Otto Wagner, who designed a series buildings and public works in a unique amalgam of Art Nouveau, Art Deco, Arts & Crafts movements. Two Plečnik masterpieces are The National University Library, completed in 1941 with grand colonnades and distinctive doors, and the Dragon Bridge, commemorating 50 years of the reign of Austro-Hungarian emperor Franz Josef. Ljubljana offers great museums such as the National Gallery of Slovenija or the Museum of Modern Art. Outside the city, visit the awe inspiring Predjama Castle, a one-of-a-kind fortress built into a cave; the medieval town of Ptuj; and Piran, Slovenia’s gem on the Adriatic, a beautiful Venetian city proud of its rich history -- complete with a bell tower that will remind you of St Mark’s square.
Whatever you do, don’t leave Slovenia without seeing Lake Bled, Slovenia’s most beautiful Alpine lake. Take time to visit Bled Island on a traditional boat called pletna, and catch the views from the historic castle, high above the lake.
For active travelers: Stay at the Hotel Plesnik (www.plesnik.si) in the heart of the Logarska Valley, a fully furnished treehouse or tent at Garden Villa Bled (www.gardenvillagebled.com) , or at an Alpine chalet.
For food and wine aficionados: Consider Hotel Gredič (www.gredic.si) , a beautifully restored five-star, 17th century castle in the heart of Goriška Brda (Slovenia’s answer to Tuscany), or ultramodern Almavista (www.almavista.si) , a sleek luxury villa with every creature comfort.
In Ljubljana, two recommendations: The InterContinental (www.intercontinental.com/ljubljana) , a modern glass tower with spacious rooms and fantastic views near the city center, and the intimate Cubo Hotel (www.hotelcubo.com) in the heart of Slovenia’s capital.
1. Work with a destination specialist to help you craft your itinerary
I traveled with Roundabout Travel, Slovenia’s leading Destination Specialist (www.dmcroundabout.com/en). Managing partner Mitja Jus and his team of experts have been in business for over ten years and create custom itineraries for independent travelers, families, or groups. A great resource on location makes all the difference.
2. Travel in ‘shoulder’ season
March & early April, or late October and November are great times to travel, with lower prices and fewer crowds. High season runs from May to September/early October.
3. Book way ahead for holidays.
Ljubljana and its Christmas markets are very popular, so book as far in advance as possible.
4. Combine Slovenia with a Mediterranean cruise departing from/to Venice, or a Danube river cruise sailing from/to Vienna. Ljubljana is only a 2.5 hours’ drive from Venice, and a 30-minute flight from Vienna.
