5 Must-Visit Locations for a Slovenian Holiday
Blanketed in forests and bejewelled with lakes and castles, Slovenia may be small, but it offers a wealth of outdoors pursuits, while being a treasure-trove of art and culture. If you're seeking a blend of nature, history and fabulous cuisine, Slovenia ticks all the right boxes.
Here are five must-visit destinations in this diminutive yet beautiful central European country.
Lake Bled
With its famous picture-postcard church perched on an islet, clean bluish-green waters and an enchanting cliff-top medieval castle, Lake Bled is the quintessential Slovenian holiday spot.
For outdoors fun there's a host of hiking trails, together with cycling, water-sports and canoeing to enjoy.
At the end of a long day absorbing the amazing scenery and fresh mountain air, you can settle down to a meal in a lakeside restaurant.
It's as rewarding for families as it is for couples and adventure-seeking backpackers.
September is a great time to visit because the tourist throngs have disappeared and the prices have come down. Autumn temperatures are still pleasant, with daytime averages of 20 degrees in September.
Lake Bohinj
No lake in Slovenia can rival Lake Bled - except perhaps Lake Bohinj.
Located just 26km to the south of its more glamorous counterpart, Bohinj makes up for its lack of fame by being quieter and more, well, Slovenian.
As well as being more authentic, Bohinj offers plenty of outdoor pleasures, including horse riding, kayaking and hiking. You can also take a refreshing dip in the blue-green waters, which are at least as clean as those of Lake Bled.
Kranjska Gora
Kranjska Gora is a picturesque mountain town enveloped by pine-clad peaks, where you can enjoy cycling, e-biking, lake swimming and fishing in the surrounding Triglav National Park.
Resorts are well kitted-out, with tennis courts, indoor pools and mini golf.
The town itself is ideal for lounging at pavement cafes as well as exploring: Kranjska Gora boasts a pretty frescoed church and a great local museum.
Due to its location Kranjska Gora has been heavily influenced by Italian and Austrian culture, particularly in the culinary department. But this wonderfully hospitable town has retained its unmistakable Slovenian charm.
Ljubljana
Ljubljana, Slovenia's capital is one of Europe's most liveable and green-minded cities, as evidenced by being the European Commission's Green Capital of Europe 2016.
With large pedestrianised tracts and the emerald-green Ljubljanica River snaking through its heart, Ljubljana is a pleasure to explore.
Graceful bridges and buildings designed by Jože Plečnik add to the capital's eye-pleasing grandeur.
For those seeking effervescent nightlife, the city will not disappoint. Bars and cafes are alive with revellers on most nights, while 50,000 students ensure the clubbing scene is one of the best in central Europe.
Bovec
Nestled in the delightful Soča Valley, Bovec is a mecca for adrenaline-junkies, with a host of adventure sports on offer, including kayaking and rafting.
But it's easy to relax here too, thanks to the stunning Julian Alps and the many hiking trails of the surrounding Triglav National Park.
Slovenian food
Neighbouring Italy, Austria, Hungary and Croatia, Slovenian has absorbed many culinary influences, making it a great place for food lovers.
Among the many treats on offer are:
Dumplings
Humble yet delicious, Slovenian dumplings are bite-sized and packed with tasty fillings like cheese, veal, potato or pork.
Kremna rezina
A decadent layered treat consisting of custard, cream and puff pastry, a kremna rezina is the perfect way to end a meal (or enjoy a mid-morning snack).
Kranjska klobasa
This hearty sausage is distinctly Slovenian, jam-packed with pork meat and bacon, plus some very secret seasonings. Enjoy with a side of sharp sauerkraut.
What about Covid?
Visit Gov.uk for the latest entry requirements, but at time of writing, you'll need to be vaccinated, show proof of having recovered from Covid, or present a recent PCR or Rapid Antigen Test to enter Slovenia.
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