Ljubljana and Central Slovenia
Škofja Loka
© Jošt Gantar, www.slovenia.info
Škofja Loka is the home town of the renowned Škofja Loka Passion Play, belonging to UNESCO's intangible heritage. From the historic centre, paths lead to the countryside, caught between three mountain ranges and two valleys, inspiring the creativity of all types – from arts and crafts to gastronomy. Lacing and blacksmithing are at home in the town of Železniki, whereas Žiri is famous for its shoemaking activity. In Gorenja vas – Poljane, two settlements under mount Blegoš, lives one of the most beautiful Slovenian love stories.
Cerklje na Gorenjskem
Bled – Cerklje na Gorenjskem = 41 km
© Luka Kotnik, Mediaspeed, www.slovenia.info
Cerklje na Gorenjskem is the first contact with Slovenia and all those who come to the green land by plane. Krvavec, one of the largest ski centres in Slovenia, is just a few kilometres away from the international airport. Cerklje is the starting point to numerous ascents to the Kamnik-Savinja Alps and cycling adventures across the green countryside. The Strmol Castle, one of the oldest and best preserved castles in Slovenia, is a cultural heritage site beside numerous churches.
Kamnik
© Ana Pogačar, www.slovenia.info
The historic town of Kamnik is known for its craft tradition, which stands out on the picturesque Šutna street. Three castles sit above the town at the foot of the Kamnik-Savinja Alps, each with its own story. A view to the surrounding mountain tops and to the Big Pasture Plateau with one of the largest shepherd settlements in Europe opens up from the town. Romantic souls will be drawn to the flourishing flower beds of the adjacent arboretum. Seeker of tranquillity and active experiences will have their fill in the picturesque valley of Kamniška Bistrica.
Ljubljana
© Jacob Riglin, Beautiful Destinations, www.slovenia.info
The lively capital of Slovenia has a reputation of one of the greenest European cities. Green nature is just a stone's throw away from the very centre of the city, characterised by the rich architectural heritage of Jože Plečnik. The Ljubljana Castle, which may be visited on foot or by cable car, sits enthroned on top of a hill above the city centre. The heartbeat of the urban life of the residents of Ljubljana is best felt at the main marketplace. Various events and festivals and selected culinary experiences give the city its charm.
Idrija
© Marko Šinkovec, www.slovenia.info
Unesco's Idrija is a town of mercury and lace. The former second largest mine of mercury in the world is today a world of thrilling experiences, whereas the mining heritage, scattered through town and the surroundings, reveals the spirit of the mining life long time gone. You will fall in love with the gently interwoven threads of the Idrija lace, which are true pieces of art. While in Idrija, you must try the typical "Idrijski žlikrofi" (stuffed dumplings). Travellers longing for activities and exploration can take a trip around UNESCOI’s Geopark.
Kočevsko
© Jaka Arbutina, Mediaspeed, www.slovenia.info
The vast forests of the Kočevsko area are the kingdom of the brown bear, which you may get to know “in person” accompanied by experienced hunters and naturalists. Nature here is still showing its primal face, which may also be seen in the Krokar primary forest, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Numerous hiking and cycling trails run through the forests, taking you among nature's miracles and cultural heritage. The Kočevje Lake and the upper stream of the Kolpa river simply beg for aquatic adventures.
Novo mesto
© Jošt Gantar, www.slovenia.info
The historic city in the bend of the Krka river is one of the largest archaeological sites of situlas. By talking a walk through the old city centre, numerous other stories from the past will be revealed to you. The city is surrounded by wine-growing hills, home to the typical “cviček” wine from the Dolenjska region. Journey to the Gorjanci hills where the most beautiful views to the Dolenjska region open up and your imagination will be stimulated by mysterious tales and fables by writer Janez Trdina. The Krka green river will invite you to have many aquatic adventures.
Bela krajina
© Jošt Gantar, www.slovenia.info
Bela krajina is the nexus of various cultures, excellent gastronomy and colourful nature. The world by the Kolpa, the warmest Slovenian river, may be explored on foot or by bike, while you may ride down the river by kayak or canoe. Vibrant villages and towns bring to light numerous stories from the past. The legend of the hero from Bela krajina, Green George, to which the oldest Slovenian folklore festival is dedicated, still lives among white birch trees. Typical Bela krajina’s Easter eggs are also a sight to behold.
