The label ‘small yet perfectly formed’ seems very appropriate for Slovenia. This compact country might be half the size of Switzerland and smaller than the US state of New Jersey, but what it lacks in size it more than makes up for in scenery. Rivers and lakes, valleys and vineyards, caves and coast – almost everything in Slovenia is within a two-hour drive of the capital Ljubljana, so holidays here can be as rich and varied as the landscape. To help you plan a trip to this still-under-the-radar gem, here’s our round-up of the most beautiful places in Slovenia.
For Sea View Seekers: Piran
Slovenia probably isn’t the first place that comes to mind when planning a coastal getaway. But its slither of coastline is both petite and picturesque. The resort town of Piran is the jewel in the crown, known for its Venetian architecture and seaside sunsets. Piran is also a popular detour for cyclists following the Parenzana route; a 76-mile former railway line that links Italy, Slovenia and Croatia. If you prefer paddling to pedalling, take a stand-up paddleboarding tour around the peninsula to see the town’s historic charm from the sea. Whether in the saddle, on a SUP or strolling along the seafront, Piran and the surrounding Adriatic coast are some of the most underrated and most beautiful places in Slovenia.
For Cave Connoisseurs: Karst Region
The country’s small size means it never takes long to travel between the most beautiful places in Slovenia. Case in point: the Karst Region. Around an hour’s drive from Ljubljana, it’s a natural-wonder-packed place of rolling hills, verdant valleys and subterranean marvels, including the Škocjan Caves. This UNESCO World Heritage Site consists of more than three miles of awe-inspiring chambers complete with spectacular stalactites and stalagmites. Meanwhile, the remarkable Postojna Cave is the most-visited in Europe and the only karst cave with its own railway. Thanks to this tourist train, you don’t have to be an experienced caver to explore the unmissable underground landscape. Combine your trip to Postojna with a visit to the nearby Predjama Castle; the world’s largest cave castle and a medieval monolith that’s clung majestically to the cliffside for more than 800 years.
For Hikers & Bikers: Pohorje Hills
Slovenia’s second city of Maribor (a scenic spot in its own right) is the gateway to the Pohorje Hills; an alpine wonderland that’s special in every season. In winter, the Rogla Ski Resort draws those who like to play on the powder, while in spring and summer the hiking and biking trails burst into life and the wildflowers bloom. Rogla Bike Park has six mountain biking trails to choose from, with daring descents and obstacles to overcome (as well as a beginner-friendly area). For something more sedate, visit the Pohorje Canopy Promenade, which twists and turns above the treetops to offer unbeatable views of the forest from a bird’s-eye perspective. Whether its walking boots or padded cycling shorts that are top of your packing list, the Pohorje Hills are a haven for holidays where your hobby takes the lead.
For Lake Loungers: Lake Bled
We couldn’t cover the most beautiful places in Slovenia without mentioning Lake Bled. This romantic resort packs plenty of prettiness into its panoramas. There’s the idyllic church-topped islet floating in the enticingly emerald waters, a majestic backdrop of Alpine peaks and lush forest, and a hilltop castle that wouldn’t look out of place in a Disney film. It’s the stuff of fairy tales – and one of the best-loved landscapes in Slovenia. Can’t get enough of life by the lake? Lake Bohinj is less-famous and less-frequented than Lake Bled, but equally lovely. It’s just half an hour’s drive from its better-known neighbour and conveniently close to the tranquil trails of Triglav National Park, the country’s largest nature reserve.
For Wildlife Spotters: Kočevje Forest
Almost 60% of Slovenia is forest, making it the third-most forested country in Europe (after Finland and Sweden). And in the pristine, primaeval forests of Kočevje, the brown bear is king. Led by a local guide, you can follow in the pawprints of this legendary predator. Explore the wilderness until evening, when you can retreat to the shelter of a forest observatory, waiting patiently and quietly to hopefully see bears in their natural habitat. Whether your wildlife spotting is successful or not, this vast woodland is one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia – a centuries-old forest of towering trees, where you can’t help but feel satisfyingly small.
For Adrenaline Aficionados: Soča River Valley
Whether whitewater rafting, kayaking or canyoning, the Soča River Valley is a stunning spot for outdoor pursuits. The turquoise-hued Soča River is one of the most spectacular sights in Slovenia; an aquamarine dream that flows through narrow gorges and tumbles over cascades to create the perfect conditions for adrenaline-fuelled fun. It’s also home to the native Soča trout, which tempts fly fishing enthusiasts from across the globe to try their luck in the immaculate waters. And the Soča River Valley was the first destination in Slovenia to be named a European Destination of Excellence (EDEN) for its sustainable approach to tourism. It’s an Eden by name and an Eden by nature.
For Wine Lovers: Goriška Brda
If vineyard vistas are your favourite view, Goriška Brda has the kind of natural beauty you’ll love. Nestled between the Julian Alps and the Adriatic, the climate here is beautifully balanced for grape growing. The dreamy hills of the ‘Tuscany of Slovenia’ are draped in sun-dappled vines laden with grapes, which are transformed into tipples at more than 600 wineries across the region. Rebula is the Slovenian speciality to look out for; a delightfully drinkable dry white wine that tastes even better after a long day of sightseeing. We recommend pedalling between tasting pitstops on an electric bicycle, discovering the rich landscape of vineyards, olive groves and orchards with ease.
All images by Olivier Romano