This Tiny European Nation Is Residence to Emerald-green Lakes, an Below-the-radar Nationwide Park, and Alpine Peaks

Tucked between Italy and Croatia in central Europe, Slovenia is a compact nation that packs a punch. Regardless of its dimension — it’s barely smaller than New Jersey — the nation presents an astounding number of landscapes. With towering alpine peaks, emerald-green lakes, and sandy seashores, Slovenia is a perfect getaway for vacationers who crave selection in a European getaway.

Outside actions abound. Go climbing or biking in Triglav Nationwide Park, white-water rafting on the glowing Soča River, or spelunking within the Postojna Cave system. Catch your breath and check out a metropolis break, exploring the historic metropolis of Ljubljana. Right here’s my itinerary for an action-packed week.

What to See and Do

Begin in Ljubljana, Slovenia’s vigorous capital, the place cobblestone streets, historic structure, and colourful buildings create a fascinating old-world environment. Stroll alongside the Ljubljanica River and cross iconic bridges like Dragon Bridge, embellished with dragon statues, and Triple Bridge, designed by famend architect Jože Plečnik. 

When you’ve labored up an urge for food, head to the Central Market, which is full of stalls promoting contemporary produce, cheeses, spices, fish, ready meals, and extra. On Fridays from mid-March by way of the top of October, you should cease by Open Kitchen, a road meals market with distributors from throughout Slovenia.

For a pleasant day journey, go to Predjama Fort, perched atop a sheer cliff. Courting again to the thirteenth century, this fortified fortress is built-in into the caves beneath it, the place you possibly can discover the stalactites, stalagmites, and hidden rivers with a information. 

The subsequent day, you possibly can head north to Triglav Nationwide Park for infinite out of doors actions. Get acquainted with the spectacular alpine surroundings and journey mountain bikes by way of picturesque villages. Or get pleasure from leisurely hikes alongside the Mostnica Gorge path, and marvel at its towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and tranquil swimming pools. 

You can even spend a day visiting Bled, the long-lasting postcard-worthy city on Lake Bled. Board a standard picket boat to go to the virtually 900-year-old Church of Mary’s Assumption, perched on tiny Bled Island. Hike across the lake or take a dip if it’s heat sufficient. Add a aspect journey to Vintgar Gorge for views of the looming cliffs and speeding Radovna River.

Subsequent up, prepare for an adrenaline rush with a rafting journey on the turquoise Soča River. The wild rapids take you underneath the towering peaks of the Julian Alps, a few of Europe’s most breathtaking surroundings. 

With extra time, you’ll need to discover the Goriska Brda wine area, generally known as the Tuscany of Slovenia, and go truffle looking on the Istrian Peninsula.

The place to Keep

The five-star Zlata Ladjica boutique resort presents a singular keep within the coronary heart of Ljubljana’s Previous City. Situated alongside the Ljubljanica River in one of many metropolis’s oldest buildings, it has 15 individually embellished rooms. The InterContinental, in the meantime, has 165 modern rooms and suites, in addition to fantastic views of the town and the river.

Exterior the town, lodging are usually alpine in model, with knotty picket furnishings, hearty meals, and scenic vistas. The five-star Milka, a boutique property within the coronary heart of the Julian Alps, is a improbable possibility, with jaw-dropping mountain views and a Michelin two-starred restaurant. 

In Triglav Nationwide Park, four-star properties like Sunrose 7 and Lodge Bohinj provide quick access to the realm’s unimaginable adventures. 

When to Go

Spring and summer time provide the most effective climate for climbing, biking, and exploring Slovenia’s considerable pure magnificence. Autumn, with its vibrant foliage (to not point out fewer crowds), can be a improbable time to go to. For these looking for winter sports activities together with snowboarding, snowboarding, or mountaineering, December to February is right. 

Rachael Mendizabal is a member of Journey + Leisure’s A-Record and makes a speciality of journeys to Slovenia. You’ll be able to create a tailored itinerary with Mendizabal by contacting her at Rachael.Mendizabal@scottdunn.com.