Embark on a Grand Adventure: Discovering the Allure of Slovenia's Four Corners.

Slovenia, a small yet enchanting country, is a haven for those seeking a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and cultural richness. A destination that consistently astonishes first-time visitors, Slovenia offers a myriad of delightful surprises across its four distinct corners.

This European gem, often kept under wraps by those in the know, boasts sustainability, safety, authenticity, and exclusivity, making it an ideal retreat for discerning travellers. Join us, The Curious Travel Company, as we invite you to explore the hidden treasures of Slovenia's North, Karst, Istrian Coast, and Dolenjska regions.

Slovenia - Europe’s Well-Kept Secret

Slovenia, often regarded as one of Europe's best-kept secrets, unveils its wonders as you venture from the mountainous North to the mysterious Karst area, the elegant Istrian coast to the picturesque Dolenjska region. Each corner is a revelation, promising unique experiences for every traveller. Let’s start in the beautiful, family-friendly and romantic capital - Ljubljana.

Ljubljana - The Vibrant, Green Capital

Begin your journey in Ljubljana, the charming capital that effortlessly merges ancient streets with riverside spots, creating a haven for shoppers, foodies, and wine enthusiasts. Immerse yourself in a guided food and wine walking tour through the Old Town, where stories of the city's history unfold against a backdrop of medieval, baroque, renaissance, and art nouveau architecture. Indulge in Slovenia's gastronomic delights, savouring nine traditional dishes paired with four different wines.

Cap off the day with a visit to the iconic Ljubljana Castle, offering panoramic views over the city and the Julian Alps.

Find serenity at the end of the day by staying at our favourite luxury boutique hotel - Zlata Ladjica - perfectly situated on the banks of the Ljubljanica river.

Julian Alps - To the Mountains

Next we recommend venturing north to the Julian Alps, where pristine wilderness awaits. Explore the Velika Planina plateau's green pastures and traditional herdmen's huts. Delve into the unique architecture of Kamnik, and discover the natural beauty of Mali and Veliki Predaselj gorges. For beer enthusiasts, a tour of microbreweries awaits, with Kamnik proudly holding the title of the most breweries per inhabitant in the world.

The famous Lake Bled beckons, with its glacial Alpine resort, old Castle terraces, and a tiny romantic island accessible by traditional "Pletna" boat. Escape the crowds at Lake Bohinj, where a short hike leads to a lovely waterfall, and experience an overnight stay at the sustainable Alpine lodge, Bohinj Hotel. We also love to get luxury guests out to visit Jezersko to stay in the luxurious Vila Planinka - one of our favourite hotels in Slovenia. For guests that want to stay in Bled, we like the Bled Rose Hotel

Soca Valley & Goriska Brda Wineries - Adventures Await

Journey from Bled through Slovenia's highest mountain pass, traverse Mt. Vrsic, and arrive in the stunning Trenta valley. Adrenaline junkies can brave the emerald-green Soca River in Bovec with a white water rafting experience. For a more leisurely pace, Kobarid offers an unmissable WW1 museum, along with the allure of Goriska Brda, a region known for producing some of Slovenia's finest wines.

As the day concludes, find solace at the Gredic Hotel in Goriska Brda.

Idrija - UNESCO Town

Embark on a journey to discvoer the UNESCO town of Idrija, famed for its historic mercury mine and delicate lace craftsmanship. Explore the oldest preserved entrance to the mine, Anthony's Shaft, and delve into the town's distinctive architecture, including the Renaissance-era Gewerkenegg Castle. Witness a demonstration of Idrija lace-making, a delicate craft that has thrived in this ancient industrial heartland.

For a regal stay, choose the stately Kendov Dvorec hotel, a Relais Chateaux property.

Karst Country and the Istrian Coastline - Coastal Beauty

Continue your odyssey to the dramatic Karst region, passing through the picturesque Stanjel and exploring Lipica, the home of the famous Lipizzaner horses. The Škocjan Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site, beckon with their mesmerizing underground realm. Transition to the glittering Adriatic at Portoroz, a seaside gem known for its luxurious resorts, thermal spas, and sun-soaked promenade. Unwind at the Kempinski Hotel for a night of pure indulgence.

Caves, Castles, and Fairytales - Subterranean Magic

Embark on an exploration of Postojna Cave, the most popular karst cave globally, reached by an electric train ride. Discover Predjama Castle, a fairytale fortress perched dramatically in the village of Predjama. Peer into historical exhibits, including dungeons and living quarters, capturing the essence of Slovenia's rich history.

Dolenjska region - Fine Foods and Wines

Enter the historic Dolenjska region, home to the Cistercian Monastery of Kostanjevica na Krki. The monastery, situated on an island in the Krka River, boasts a harmonious blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque elements. Delight in the ornate frescoes and altars that reflect the Cistercians' commitment to simplicity and spiritual reflection.

After a monastery tour, savor lunch at Otocec Castle, Slovenia's only water castle and a Relais Chateaux property. Consider an overnight stay at the Kendov Dvorec hotel for a luxurious break before continuing to Novo Mestro, the region's capital. Novo Mestro, with its cultural heritage and vibrant atmosphere, promises a delightful stopover, featuring a distillery and the chocolatier, Berryshka.

Maribor - Oenophile's Paradise

Discover Maribor, Slovenia's second-largest town, a haven for wine enthusiasts. Savor tastings along the Jeruzalem Wine Road, exploring the road's excellent wines and eventually reaching Ptuj, one of the most beautiful towns in the country.

Logar Valley - Adventurous Finale

Conclude your grand adventure with an adrenaline-fueled exploration of the awe-inspiring Logar Valley. Stop in Ljubno for white water rafting on the crystal-clear waters of the Savinja River, marvel at the Rinka waterfall, and enjoy a quick swim at Terme Snovik. Return to Ljubljana for a final evening in sublime Slovenia.

Reflecting on an Extraordinary Journey

What a magnificent odyssey! We trust that this example of a two-week tour of Slovenia has sparked your curiosity and ignited a desire to travel to this unique and cost-effective European destination.

We hope you were inspired by this fun-filled, adventurous journey around the four corners of Slovenia. Want to know more? Get in touch with us at The Curious Travel Company, so that we can tailor-make a dream trip to Slovenia. We would love to work with you to create a personalised exploration of this hidden European gem.