Slovenia

Types of trips: Natural, Geographical, Exploration/Hiking, Local History/Culture, Relaxation, Sport

Best known for: Wine (specifically from the Žametna Črnina berry), Skocjan Caves, Ski Jumping in the Planica Valley, Limestone formations, Lipizzaner Horses, "The Old Vine"

Why Go?: Slovenia is a nation that has managed to make the most of its environment without overpowering it - the hilly formations are perfect for skiing in winter, and the lower, warmer regions of the country have thriving vineyards. Visit here to see a country really in harmony with its physical surroundings - and also marvel at how untouched the majority of the landscape is.

Fact File

Population: 2,050,000

Capital: Ljubljana

Language(s): Slovene 

Ties to the UK?: Good politcal relationship, both members of the EU and NATO

Landscape: Mostly hilly and mountainous, but the eastern plains are basically flat. Big numbers of forests and vineyards

Climate/Seasons: Warm summers from May - September, and the winter season has good skiing conditions between December - March.

When to Go: Depends on the aim of your visit; in general, the summer months are the most pleasant and have more events, but the winter is excellent for snowsports.

Reasons to Visit: Slovenia will be a great place to visit for sports fans, as the populace all either take interest in or practice a wide variety of interesting sports you don't see commonly in the UK. It's also scenically stunning, and the towns and castles sprinkled throughout the hills and mountains all have fascinating histories and some wonderful architecture - there is something for everyone here.

How to Get There: You could travel to Slovenia through Europe on the ground, but it would take about 18 hours depending on your start location - travelling via air would be much quicker and less complex, and the capital city Ljubljana has a good international airport. Once you are in the country there is an excellent bus system that is a favourite with locals, so getting around is no problem.

Places to Go: Ljubljana, Ptuj, Velika Planina, Lipica Stud Farm, 

Famous People: France Preseren, Jani Golob, Anze Kopitar, Melina Knauss-Trump, Zoran Music

Natural Wonders/Wildlife: Mt. Triglav and the Triglav National Park, Lake Bohinj, Boka Waterfall, Lake Bled, Skocjan Caves, Postojna Caves, Savica Waterfall, Vintgar Gorge

History: Involved in both World Wars, with Germany, Italy and Hungary all invading Slovenia during WWII,10 day Independence War with Yugoslavia in 1991

Architecture: The Triple Bridge, Bled Castle, Ljubljana Cathedral, National Gallery of Slovenia, Kranj Town Hall, Katzenstein Castle

Culture: Strong visual arts culture including Architecture, Design, Sculpture and Fine Art, Local music styles, Book fairs

Sport: Handball, Skiing, Basketball, Volleyball, Ice Hockey, Football, Rowing, Swimming

Events: Beer and Flowers Festival (Oktoberfest equivalent), Ljubljana Festival, Medieval Days Festival, Wine celebrations, Summer Festivals in most towns

Watch Out For: Generally a pretty safe country, but always be wary in busy city areas for occurrences of petty crime

Medical Issues:  No vaccinations are required, but check with your doctor anyway as some boosters may be recommended for you

Watch this video about visiting Slovenia!