Alpine Adventures in Slovenia

As one of the earliest cities in Europe to make its city center car-free, Ljubljana has long been a leader in urban sustainability. Weave through a charming maze of cobblestone streets rich in Renaissance, Baroque, and Art Nouveau architecture, leading to the Ljubljanica River, whose banks are lined with cute cafes and artisan markets. Eclectic museums and vibrant street art, plus a growing handful of East-meets-West fusion cuisine at independent eateries, are all set against a backdrop of innovative eco-friendly design. 

Set against a backdrop of the glorious Julian Alps, Bled is a captivating little Slovenian town on the edge of glacial Lake Bled. The area’s natural beauty is best seen on a hike into the mountains, offering sweeping views of spruce forests, snow-covered alpine pasture and farmland. For a different perspective, glide across Lake Bled in a traditional, locally crafted pletna boat to visit the little island on the lake home to the 17th-century baroque Church of Mary the Queen. The alpine region above the town is dotted with pretty hill towns and villages such as bee-keeping capital Radovljica. 

Slovenia’s Adriatic coast is small by European standards, but its palm-fringed oceanfront, fresh catch of the day and sail-stirring winds ensure it’s not one to be skipped. Piran’s pedestrian-only Old Town is lined with Venetian and medieval architecture, whilst the UNESCO World Heritage site Skocjan Caves is all limestone stalactites and endemic salamander. Piran’s pedestrian-only Old Town serves up seafood and sailing opportunities.