Slovenia: Europe’s hidden gem
Slovenia is one of Europe’s hidden gems. It may be small, but it packs a picturesque punch from its aquamarine lakes, fairy tale castles and white birch forests. You’ll find landscapes from the stunning Soča Valley, with its vivid blue river, to the soaring Julian Alps and bluish-green Lake Bled. Sandwiched between the holiday hotpots of Italy and Croatia, Slovenia is a cultural amalgam of its neighbours.
Only a two-hour flight from London is the capital of Ljubljana, with its candy-coloured Baroque architecture and hilltop castles. As one of Europe’s greenest and cleanest cities, Ljubljana delights with its decorative footbridges and cobbled piazzas – and a burgeoning food scene. If you’re heading for coastal and vineyard Slovenia, consider flying to Trieste in Italy, as it is only 10 minutes from the border.
Join one of our tailor-made adventures to explore the waterfalls and rapids in Skocjan Caves, or hone your rowing skills with a private lesson around the church-dotted islet of Lake Bled with an Olympic champion. But also set aside time to enjoy the Istrian coast, and ride one of the dazzling Lipizzaner stallions.
Ever since chef Ana Roš showed off her native Slovenia in an episode of Chef’s Table, the world has woken up to its culinary delights. The varied terroir is inspiring winemakers and a new generation of chefs, who have put sustainable farming at the heart of their cooking. In 2020, the Michelin Guide bestowed its first-ever stars to six top restaurants, including two stars for Roš’s renowned Hiša Franko.
Enjoy breakfast prepared by Roš when you travel with us and take a cookery lesson at the family homestead of Nona Mima. While the food takes centre stage you can also sample the wine; with more than 28,000 winegrowers in the country there’s plenty of choice. There is also the chance to forage for truffles alongside a hunter and his dog.
Cool boutique hotels are waiting to welcome you, from an eco-haven near the oldest ski resort in Slovenia to a wellness retreat overlooking the waters of the Adriatic.