SAMPLE ITINERARY

Slovenia is a picture perfect outdoor destination, with Ljubljana as its historic capital. On arrival spend some time exploring this city, which has as its symbol the Ljubljana dragon that is visible in the city’s coat of arms, the bridge over the river and on the top of the castle tower. Castle Hill is a good place to start and it can be reached by funicular or a 20 minute uphill hike. Once at the top, visit Ljubljana Castle and enjoy the views over the city from the castle watchtower.

Afterwards, come back down and explore the area around Preseren Square and the Central Market. Discover the Old Town or take a stroll along the river, crossing notable bridges such as Dragon Bridge, Butchers’ Bridge, Triple Bridge, Fish Footbridge and Cobbler’s Bridge. Many of the buildings are Baroque in the Italian style. There are also lots of museums of interest, which include the City Museum focusing on Ljubljana’s history, culture and politics, as well as the National Museum of Slovenia and the Museum of Modern Art. The Botanical Garden covers almost six acres and is the oldest cultural, scientific and educational organisation in the country.

When you have explored Ljubljana, collect your hire car (or transfer) and drive northwards through deep green valleys lined with vineyards to your lake hotel in the Julian Alps. Slovenia has been blessed with two great emerald lakes, framed by majestic mountains – Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj – both offering wonderful opportunities for walking, hiking, cycling, fishing, birding and wildlife viewing.

Lake Bled has a clifftop castle and a fairy-tale teardrop-shaped island in the middle, with a church with a wishing bell. Its emerald waters reflect the surrounding mountains and in summer you can swim in its relatively warm waters. It will take about 90 minutes to walk all the way around the lake, or you can take a horse drawn carriage ride or a boat ride. You can also walk through the dramatic Vintgar Gorge near Bled.

Lake Bohinj is Slovenia’s largest lake and it will take around 2 hours to walk around it. Surrounding Triglav National Park, it is home to the highest peak in the Julian Alps and has many walking trails. The mountains are mirrored in the waters of this expansive, tranquil lake that is ideal for swimming and water sports. River fishing and white water rafting are also available. If you drive to Ukanc, you can walk 1.5 hours to the magnificent Savica waterfall.

Further afield, Piran with its salt pans is one Slovenia’s most beautiful Mediterranean towns and Lipica is the cradle of the noble white Lipizzaner horses. The impressive Postojna cave system in the south-west is also well worth a visit, with the Renaissance-style Predjama Castle situated at its mouth. Closer to the border with Italy you will find the even larger Skocjan caves system, which is UNESCO listed as this extensive system of limestone caves is one of the longest karst underground wetlands in Europe.

Slovenia is a member of the European Union and uses the euro. English is widely spoken. The food is delicious and diverse, with influences from both Italy and Austria. River trout features on many menus, as well as lots of organic produce. Their wines are also excellent.

Slovenia can be enjoyed as a stand-alone destination, or combined with Croatia’s famous Adriatic coast, which is only a few hours drive away. From here the Brijuni Islands and Risnjak National Park are all within reach, as well as Venice which is an easy 2 hour day trip. Choose between Porec, Rovinj or Pula on the Istrian Riviera; historic Opatija; or one of the island towns in the Kvarner Gulf.

The Kvarner Gulf has fabulous hidden coves on its islands, which include two of Croatia’s largest islands, Krk and Cres, whilst Rab Town (located on Rab Island & reached by ferry) resembles Dubrovnik in miniature. Mali Lošinj is another lovely island town, with a beautiful waterfront & wonderful coastal walks. Sophisticated and historic Opatija offers a programme of open-air theatre from May to October and its Lungomare pedestrianised seaside promenade is the longest in Croatia, passing through the city and hugging the coastline for 7.5 miles. 

PRICING

Price is based on two adults sharing en-suite accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis. Car hire and flights from London are included, with other regional departures on request.

We offer a choice of hotels at different prices, so please discuss your requirements with us. All hotels are subject to availability.

It is essential that you have personal holiday insurance, and an appropriate driving licence. The AA and FCO should also be consulted.