Slovenia, a travel destination often overlooked for its more established neighbours in Europe but it shouldn’t be. Located in the heart of Europe, Slovenia is the ideal place to get away from it all. In one of Europe’s greenest countries, you’ll be treated to vineyards and meadows throughout with snowy white peaks never too far away. It’s home to one of Europe’s most colourful and quaint capital cities, the beautiful Triglav National Park, arguably one for the Adriatic’s prettiest coastal towns and of course the iconic Lake Bled. Here we’ve listed 5 of our favourite must-see destinations on any visit to Slovenia.

Ljubljana

Slovenia’s capital and largest city perfectly mix baroque facades with 20th-century native architecture. Its iconic Tromostovje (Triple Bridge) spans the tightly curving Ljubljanica River. With colourful houses, cobbled streets, and Ljubljana Castle, which sits impressively on a hill looming over the city, it is impossible not to be charmed. Slovenia’s most famous architect, Jože Plečnik, is largely responsible for the city’s pretty matchbox feel. Ljubljana is known for its green spaces, including the expansive Tivoli Park, which lead to the city being awarded the prestigious green Capital of Europe in 2016. The central old town is pedestrianised which makes exploring the city’s sights all the more pleasant. Ljubljana has many museums, including the National Museum of Slovenia, displaying historic exhibitions, and the Museum of Modern Art, home to 20th-century Slovene paintings and sculptures.

Lake Bled

Famous for being Slovenia’s most popular attraction, Lake Bled is a destination not to be missed. Set in the middle of the lake on the incredibly picturesque and iconic island is the stunning Church of the Assumption. In its present form, it dates back to the 17th century when it was renovated after another earthquake. The bell tower was built in the1 5th century and contains the “wishing bell” which is said to grant whoever rings the bell a wish. Bled Castle is thought to be the oldest in Slovenia. Perched atop a steep cliff 130 meters above the lake below, the medieval castle offers fabulous views of the lake, the Church of the Assumption, and the mountains. Enjoy a wander around the castle towers and ramparts and learn about its captivating history.

Velika Planina

Near Ljubljana and only a few kilometers from the town of Kamnikyou will find a cable car which takes you into the mountains to Velika Planina, a stunning plateau surrounded by nature and mountains in the heart of the Kamnik Alps. Velika Planina translates as big pasture plateau and it’s not difficult to see why! Stunning scenary, with livestock roaming the lush green pastures and against the magnificent mountain backdrop. You can explore your surroundings with a tour of the herdsmen’s settlement, learn about their traditions and be sure to taste their organic dairy products. For those that want to you could even help with the milking! There is also the Preskar Museum which offers more information on the area.

Triglav National Park

Magnificent views from the tall peaks, green Alpine valleys, babbling brooks and lakes that reflect the blue sky, and a huge diversity of flora and fauna. No, you’re not dreaming! You can experience all of this in Triglav National Park, Slovenia’s largest protected area and only national park. It takes its name from Slovenia’s highest mountain, Triglav (2,864 m), and is seen by many as a kind of holy mountain. The park encompasses the majority of the eastern part of the Julian Alps. Apart from the abundance of nature and wildlife, there are plenty of activities to keep you occupied, in particular, for adrenalin lovers there is whitewater rafting, canyoning and kayaking, and hydro-speeding on one of the two large rivers that pass through the area, the Soca and the Sava which flow into the Adriatic and the Black Sea, respectively. For those wanting to keep dry, there is zip-lining, plenty of panoramic hikes as well as the fascinating forts Kluze and Hermannwhich both share history with the Napoleonic and First World wars.

Piran

Piran is a beautiful multi-pastel coloured coastal town and the biggest on what little coastline Slovenia processes. It’s a tranquil town with a small port and crystal clear waters. It’s renowned for its Venetian architecture, colourful building, and fortifications. Many choose simply to relax and soak in the seaside atmosphere, people walk and stroll through Tartini Square but there is also plenty to see. Take the short uphill walk to the Cathedral of St. George and its bell tower, which is separate and sits next to the Cathedral. The Cathedral sits above the town and offers fabulous views, from which, on a clear day you can see both Croatia and Italy. Then take a walk along the city walls, which offer a different perspective of the city. For something different, the is also the surprisingly interesting and pretty Magical World of Shells Museum to visit which features more than 4,000 specimens of rare and unusual mollusks.

If you’re interested in coming and visiting for yourself please don’t hesitate to get in contact or have a gander at our Slovenia Experiences on our website.

Written by James Chisnall