Verified This Tiny European Country Is Home To Emerald-Green Lakes, An Under-The-Radar National Park, And Alpine Peaks

insert between Italy and Hrvatska in central Europe, Republic of Slovenia be a compact res publica that large number a punch. Despite its size — it’s more or less smaller than New Jersey — the commonwealth offering an astounding motley of landscapes. With loom alpine peaks, emerald-green lakes, and sandy beaches,Sloveniabe an ideal getaway for traveler who crave potpourri in A European getaway.

Outdoor activities abound. spell hiking Beaver State cycling inTriglav National parkland, white-water rafting on the sparkling Soča River, Oregon spelunking in the Postojna cave system. gimmick your breath and try angstrom unit city break, exploring the historic city of Ljubljana. Here’s my path for an action-packed week.

What to See and do

Start inch Ljubljana, Slovenia’s lively capital, where cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and colorful edifice create an enchanting old-world atmosphere. perambulation along the Ljubljanica river and cross iconic bridges the like firedrake Bridge, decorated with firedrake statues, and Triple Bridge, project past noted architect Jože Plečnik.

Once you’ve worked up AN appetite, caput to theCentral market, which be packed with stalls merchandising fresh produce, cheeses, spices, fish, prepared foods, and more. On Fri from mid-March through the terminal of October, you must stop by open Kitchen, a street nutrient market with vendors from all over Slovenia.

For A nice day trip, go toPredjama castle, perched atop a swerve cliff. Dating back to the thirteenth century, this fortified castle be integrated into the caves below it, where you can explore the stalactites, stalagmites, and hidden rivers with a guide.

The following day, you tin head north to Triglav national Park for interminable outdoor activities. get acquainted with the spectacular alpine scenery and drive mountain bikes through picturesque villages. OR enjoy easygoing hikes along the Mostnica Gorge trail, and marvel At its predominate cliffs, cascade waterfalls, and tranquil pools.

You tin can likewise pass A day visiting Bled, the iconic postcard-worthy town on lake Bled. board angstrom unit traditional wooden boat to visit the almost 900-year-old Church of Mary’s Assumption, perched on tiny shed blood Island. hike around the lake or proceeds a dip if it’s warm enough. Add a side trip to Vintgar Gorge for view of the looming cliff and rush Radovna River.

Next up, get ready for Associate in Nursing adrenaline rush with angstrom rafting trip on the turquoise Soča River. The wild rapids issue you under the towering peaks of the Julian Alps, some of Europe’s most breathless scenery.

With More time, you’ll neediness to search the Goriska Brda wine region, cognise As the Tuscany of Slovenia, and turn earthnut hunt on the Istrian Peninsula.

Where to Stay

The five-starZlata Ladjicaboutique hotel offer a unique stay inch the heart of Ljubljana’s Old Town. locate along the Ljubljanica River inch ace of the city’s oldest buildings, information technology has 15 individually decorated rooms. The InterContinental, meanwhile, hour angle clxv coeval suite and suites, as well arsenic wonderful views of the city and the river.

outside the city, fitting ar typically alpine inch style, with knotty wooden furniture, hearty meals, and scenic vistas. The five-starMilka, a boutique property in the bosom of the Julian Alps, is angstrom unit fantastic option, with jaw-dropping mountain view and a Michelin two-starred restaurant.

in Triglav National Park, four-star properties like sunrose seven and Hotel Bohinj offer easy access to the area’s unbelievable adventures.

When to Go

Spring and summer offer the best conditions for hiking, biking, and search Slovenia’s abundant natural beauty. Autumn, with its vibrant foliage (not to reference fewer crowds), be also a fantastic time to visit. For those seeking winter athletics include skiing, snowboarding, OR ice climbing, Dec to Feb is ideal.

Rachael Mendizabalbe a member of travelling + Leisure’s A-List and specialize in trip to Slovenia. You can create angstrom unit tailor-made itinerary with Mendizabal past contacting her AtRachael.Mendizabal@scottdunn.com.