Slovenia is popping up all over travelers’ bucket lists, and we couldn’t be more pleased! This small country, nestled between Italy and Croatia, has been overlooked for too long. With stunning, sculpturesque architecture, mirror-like lakes and thick forests, Slovenia is a paradise for both the outdoors enthusiast and the amateur historian!
In Spring this year our clients Bob and Joyce drove around this lovely land, exploring the exquisite Lake Bled and the underground Škocjan cave. Another client spent their Christmas holidays on the lakeshore. Whatever the season, Slovenia is a natural playground thanks to its Alpine lakes, white rivers and snow-capped peaks. Visitors can take part in white-water rafting, spelunking, cycling, hang-gliding.
Ljubljana
Ljubljana is a fascinating capital, with lush green spaces, a white-washed, fanciful Old Town, outdoor cafés and the Ljubljanica River that separates the older and the modern districts. You’ll also find mansion-like Ljubljana Castle, ruins of Roman City Walls, and Metelkova City—a self-declared autonomous district for artists and various subcultures. The military barracks has been converted into bars and nightclubs. The “City of Bridges” is so-called thanks to the Dragon Bridge, with its four dragon statues, and the Triple Bridge, is a trifecta of three bridges that connects the old town with the modern.
Postojna Cave
Postojna Cave is a 15-mile long karst cave system in southwestern Slovenia. The cave train has been taking visitors for 140 years on its 2.3 mile long journey.
Lake Bled
The iconic Lake Bled is one of the more famous destinations in Slovenia. On the lakeshore, taste Slovene cheese and Bled cream cake. You can also visit the imposing Bled Castle, perched on a cliff overlooking the lake.
Piran
Venetian-styled, pastel colored Piran is a coastal town with heavy Italian influences. Even the dialect of Slovene sounds ever so slightly Italian.
Goriska Brda
Often called a “Fairytale Landscape,” the Goriska Hills are a microregion of vineyards and olive orchards. The ideal setting for a cozy farmstay amid fruit trees.
Portorož
Portorož, the “Port of Roses,” is a seaside resort and spa town, a popular site for health resorts since hte 19th century.
Lake Bohinj
Lake Bohinj is located within the Julian Alps, a local mountain beauty. You can walk along its verdant shoreline or catch a cable car to Mt. Vogel.
How to Go
We recommend to rent a car from Italy, spend a few days in Slovenia, before continuing south through the Istrian Peninsula and the Dalmatian Coast. Call Willamette Intl Travel plan your itinerary, car and hotels!
If you prefer going with an expert guide and group, our friends Tradesco Tours offer an affordable 7-Day / 6-Night Highlights of Slovenia.