Adventure travel in Slovenia is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets. This small country packs alpine peaks, emerald rivers and fairy-tale lakes into a few hours’ drive. Better still, it is easy to reach from the UK.

So, where should you go first? Here is a simple guide to the highlights, and most of them feature on our four-night Mini Slovenia Experience.

Adventure Travel in Slovenia: Where to Go

1. Start in Ljubljana

Overall, Ljubljana is a relaxed and pretty capital. First, you settle into a boutique hotel in the old town. Afterwards, you can wander along the river or head up to Ljubljana Castle for city views.

Also, the old town is compact and car-free, so it is perfect for an easy first evening. In addition, our welcome meeting gives you the chance to meet your guide and your group.

2. Adventure Travel in Slovenia Starts on Velika Planina

Next, the adventure begins. You ride a cable car and a chair lift up to Velika Planina, a high alpine plateau. Also, it is dotted with traditional wooden herders’ huts and wide green meadows.

Moreover, you spend the night in a mountain hut. Later, after a picnic lunch and an afternoon of exploring, you share dinner on the mountain. Altogether, it is a wonderfully simple and memorable stay.

3. Row to Bled Island on Lake Bled

Indeed, Lake Bled is the picture-postcard highlight of Slovenia. You take a boat trip across the water to Bled Island and visit the Church of the Assumption. Afterwards, you enjoy lunch by the lake.

Next, you climb to Bled Castle for sweeping views over the lake and the mountains. For many people, this is the moment that sums up the whole trip.

4. Drive Through Triglav National Park

After that, a scenic drive takes you through Triglav National Park. Also, it is Slovenia’s only national park, and it protects the wild heart of the Julian Alps.

Meanwhile, the road winds past forests, gorges and high peaks. Because the route is so dramatic, you will want your camera close at hand.

5. Try White Water Rafting in Bovec

Finally, Bovec is the adventure capital of the Soča Valley. Here, you can also choose how active you want to be. For example, you can try white water rafting, kayaking or a mountain hike.

Alternatively, you can take it easy. In addition, you can visit nearby mountain churches and waterfalls, or simply relax. Therefore, the day suits every pace and every group.

6. Add Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle

Furthermore, if you have time, Postojna Cave is a fascinating optional extra. Also, it is one of Europe’s great cave systems, and we can arrange a visit for you. However, it is often busy, so we suggest going early.

Nearby, Predjama Castle clings to a huge cliff face. As a result, it makes a dramatic stop for anyone who loves history as well as adventure.

Adventure Travel in Slovenia With Untravelled Paths

Overall, our Mini Slovenia Experience lasts four nights, and you travel in a small group of up to 16 people. Meanwhile, we take care of the planning, so you can simply enjoy the mountains and the lakes.

Highlights of the trip:

• Airport transfer and a welcome meeting in Ljubljana
• Cable car and chair lift to Velika Planina
• A night in a mountain hut, with a picnic lunch and dinner
• A boat trip to Bled Island and a visit to Bled Castle
• A scenic drive through Triglav National Park
• Optional rafting, kayaking and hiking in Bovec

When is the best time to go?

Generally, spring and autumn are our favourite seasons. Also, July and August are busier, so book early if you plan to travel in summer. Best of all, UK, EU and US passport holders do not need a visa.

Ready for adventure?

Places are limited, so do not wait too long. View the Mini Slovenia Experience to see the full itinerary, or browse all of our small-group trips for more ideas.

Written by James Chisnall