Like many of the growing numbers of tourists visiting the Adriatic coastal region, I've been to Slovenia numerous times. What keeps attracting me back to explore more each time is the combination of pure nature, wine and gastronomical offerings, and the hospitality of the local people. I also love the fact that, when it comes to hotels, food, and activities, it's a very affordable place to visit compared to other European tourist destinations. I'd like to share some of my favorite places and things to do in this pint-sized Central European country.
Marina Portorož. Photo by Reeta Laaksonen.
Outdoor Activities from Hiking to Skiing
Slovenia's greatest asset is its natural beauty - from rugged Alps in the north to the lush valleys and emerald coastline of the south. There is plenty to choose from as there are over 4300 miles (7000km) of marked hiking trails to enjoy, some 30 ski resorts to choose from, roads in great condition for biking, and the Soca River, a popular spot for whitewater kayaking.
The Window to World. Photo by Reeta Laaksonen.
Caving
For thrill-seekers, the caves in the Green Karst area offer wonderful opportunities for exploring. There are over 8000 registered caves and 25 are open to tourist. The most famous ones are the Postojna Caves, which is perfect for families to visit.
My personal favorite, however, is the Krizna Jama, with its 22 interconnecting lakes that, in wintertime, create an astonishing crystal mountain. This prehistoric cave also contains well-preserved remains of cave bears bones. The visitor numbers for the longer tours are limited, so don't forget to make a reservation if you'd like to embark on this adventure into darkness. Be warned, it's both strenuous and exciting activity!
Križna Jama. Photo by Reeta Laaksonen.
Slow Tourism
Staying at one of the so-called working "tourist farms" allows you to experience a piece of authentic country life. There you get to enjoy hearty home-cooked meals while appreciating the fresh air, beautiful nature, and a range of local activities from horse riding to canoeing. One of the most beautiful spots I visited was in Levar by Lake Cerknica where we were surrounded by the Dinaric Alps.
Levar Tourist Farm. Photo by Reeta Laaksonen.
Adriatic Coast
The picturesque town of Piran is called the Venice of Slovenia because of the colorful Venetian gothic mansions you see everywhere. The town of Koper and nearby castle are also on musts-visit lists, and my favorite places to stay at is the vibrant Marina Portoroz. The highlight of this region is a visit to the Piran Salt Pans in the Sečovlje Salina Nature Park - and to make the day perfect I'd recommend finishing it off at the Lepa Vida thalasso spa located in the salt pans!
Piran, the Venice of Slovenia. Photo by Reeta Laaksonen.
Wine Tasting and Food
Most people in Slovenia with enough land have some grapes growing for the purpose of producing their own wines. Others rely on local vintners for their daily wine! There are numerous small producers spread across the country's three main wine regions, of which the most southern one in Vipava Valley is my favorite.
With 120 wineries to choose from, I'd either recommend stopping in a Vinoteka in the town of Vipava to sample wines from several producers, or visiting one larger winery such as Vipava 1894, to tour their cellars and learn about the how the wines are produced, and then finish the day off with a couple of smaller, private estates.
Family-owned Miška Winery in the village of Erzelj recently opened their private dining room where you can taste their wines with the owner while enjoying a delicious local meal. Their selection includes two local varieties worth trying - Zelen and Pinela.
Hiking in Sinji Vrh. Photo by Reeta Laaksonen.
Capital Ljubljana for a City Break
Of course one cannot ignore the historic capital Ljubljana. From Roman ruins to baroque palaces, the pedestrian-only historic city center has a lot to offer. The town is dominated by the majestic castle on the hill by the river that splits the town into two.
A boat cruise along the Ljubljanca River reveals all the beautiful bridges and spectacular architecture this town is famous for, and a visit to the open-air market is a perfect opportunity to sample local delicatessen while watching numerous street artist playing music and performing for the visitors.
Ljubljana Market. Photo by Reeta Laaksonen.
This post was written by Reeta Laaksonen of House of Anaïs on behalf of Findery. Follow more of her adventures on Findery!