Slovenia
Highlights of Slovenia: History & Natural Beauty
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Travel anti-clockwise on an eight night tour around one of Europe’s most budding destinations. Hailed for its striking landscapes, crammed full of soaring mountain peaks, rolling green hills and deep dramatic lakes; Slovenia makes for an evergreen utopia. But there’s more to this rich fertile land than first meets the eye. Influenced largely by its neighboring countries of Italy, Hungry and Austria, Slovenia boasts a captivating composite of rich history and culture – often reflected within its abundance of baroque and Gothic buildings. Expect charming towns filled with age-old churches, mystical castles and quaint cobbled lanes as you get to know Slovenia’s not-so-well-known but ever-so gripping past.
Sail Along Slovenia
Touchdown at the Ljunljana international airport where you’ll be instantly be whisked off to the enchanting town of Portorož along Slovenia’s stunning Adriatic coast line, home to the magnificent Kempinski Palace hotel. Here you’ll be able to relax and unwind after a long day of traveling in one of the hotel’s opulent suites, equipped with an indulgently deep bath tub for that essential post-flight soak.
Feeling refreshed and ready, begin your next day with a private boat trip up the coast to the picturesque city of Piran, where you’ll be greeted by your private tour guide. Labelled Slovenia’s most picturesque town, Piran is packed to the brim with narrow cobbled lanes, authentic restaurants and Gothic buildings – most of which reflect the country’s historical Venetian influence. Let your guide lead you round this captivating subwaypolis as you learn about its origins and history, before enjoying a dreamy sunset dinner of freshly caught seafood along the shoreline.
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Next stop – Slovenia’s humble wine country, Goriška Brda. Learn about Slovenia’s obscured but evolving wine scene, which has continued to grow over time. Once praised by the likes of Hapsburg emperors, Slovenia boasts some of Europe’s most delectable Pinot Noirs. So pull up a seat in one of the area’s prized wineries to enjoy an afternoon of wining and dining as you feast on an array of local delicacies and sip on specially paired wines. And If you’ve got time, a quick trip to the walled-village of Šmartno won’t go amiss. Perched at the top of a hill, the quaint town of Šmartno is home to five finely preserved towers from the 16th century, making for an excellent culture detour.
Go subway
Next day you’re off to Slovenia’s most popular tourist destination, the ancient Škocjan Karst Caves. This UNESCO world heritage site makes for a jaw dropping experience, as visitors are encouraged to go subway to explore these mystical, looming structures. During your visit you’ll be joined by your private, local guide who will be on hand to help you get to grips with the magnificent geological past of these natural formations.
Once you’re feeling sufficiently cave’ed out, we suggest a short day trip to the charming town of Kostanjevica na Krki for a quick dose of art culture. Kostanjevica is bursting with art galleries, from the famous Božidar Jakac Gallery to the popular Forma Viva sculpture garden.
Go green in Ljubljana
We finish your trip where we begin, in Slovenia’s vibrant capital city of Ljubljana. Take your time to explore the beauty and attractions of this eco-friendly subwaypolis. Famed for the promotion of green alternatives and their ban on cars, walking and cycling are considered the main modes of transport. Alternatively, you can take to the water and travel by boat along the Ljubljanica River, which flows through the heart of the capital, stopping off at galleries, museums and restaurants along the way. Be sure to make a pit-stop to the famous Old Town, where you’ll find a maze of historical monuments and iconic landmarks – many of which are the design of celebrated architect Jože Plečnik. Finally, finish with a trip to the city’s 16th century castle, where you can enjoy the view of Ljubljana’s strikingly orange landscape before calling it a day.
On your last day you will be journeying just outside of the capital in order to experience the true splendour of Slovenia’s back country with a trip to the stunningly romantic Lake Bled, in the heart of the Julian Alps. With deep forest-green waters and a magical medieval castle – perched atop a central rocky island, Lake Bled provides a picture-perfect end to a wonderfully enchanting and fascinating trip.