Europe’s most popular hidden gem? Paradox, yet in Slovenia, this sentence still makes sense. Slovenia is certainly not the first country that comes to mind when planning your Eurotrip. Our small, chicken-shaped country nests among the giants of European tourism: Austria with its ski resorts, Italy with its history and gastronomy and Croatia with its islands! Despite its ever-increasing recognition, many visitors stop here by chance, by accident or with cold-blooded pragmatism on their way to Croatia. First they are surprised and in awe. Then they fall in love with the discovery. Then they extend their stay and keep coming back because Slovenia finds its way into their heart. What if the magic of Slovenia lies precisely in this paradox?

It’s a new year, and Slovenia landed on National Geographic’s list of 25 countries you should visit in 2023. Describing the multi-layered Slovenian character in one blog would be a careless act. Therefore, in this blog, we want to inspire you and scratch your interest just enough that you get a sense of why Slovenia is one of our favorites and why you should visit it this year!

The chick nestled in the heart of Europe

Looking at the map, the easiest way to discover Slovenia is to slide your finger up to the edge of the Italian boot and turn right. Slovenians have an inexplicable reaction every time someone puts us in the Eastern corner of Europe. Geographically, Slovenia belongs to the countries of Central Europe. Because of this central position, Slovenia is an excellent base for trips to other parts of the old continent. Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, is only a 2-hour drive from Venice and Zagreb, and it takes about three and a half hours to get to Vienna and Budapest.

Slovenian identity is one rich European mince pie. It is an extremely dynamic country with one foot in the Adriatic Sea, tail in the Julian Alps, head in vineyards, and a forested belly. Balkan hospitality, Germanic orderliness, Italian taste – all this can be felt in the atmosphere, architecture, never-ending coffee-drinking culture and the countless shades of dialect, food, and drinks.

Mountains, sea, vineyards, forests – all in one bite

Where in the world can you find so many things to see and do in such a small area? From the snow-capped peaks in the north to the shimmering Mediterranean coast, bright turquoise rivers, old forests, rolling hills, old historical villages and vibrate little cities – All squeezed into 20,273 km² of land.

Slovenia is home to the Julian Alps, a true hiking treat. Adrenaline sports and outdoor activities flourish here. Lake Bled, with an island in the middle, a mountain background and a castle on top of a cliff, is one of the most iconic destinations in Slovenia. While Bled is spectacular, there is so much more to Slovenia! Not far away is Bohinj, with the largest Slovenian lake and wild nature. Visit Kranjska Gora with lake Jasna and cruise over the Vršič pass into the turquoise valley of the Soča River! Always out and about, in Slovenia, there is a strong national attachment to the mountains. So much so that locals claim you are not a true Slovenian until you have climbed Triglav – the highest Slovenian mountain.

The Mediterranean wind blows in the south of the country. Slovenia has a short and sweet 46 km long coastline, dotted with picturesque Mediterranean towns such as Piran, Izola and Koper. Standing firm above the coast is the Karst, a limestone landscape of underground rivers, caves and stone villages. In addition to the beautiful dry-stone walls, you can explore the Škocjan caves, UNESCO’s natural and cultural heritage. The most famous among the other 8,000 caves in the region is Postojna cave – home to the blind, long-living, mysterious, baby-dragon-looking underground olm, better known as “human fish.” 

In the east of the country, life dances at a slower pace. Storks, sweet wine, mineral springs, lively Roma culture and an incomprehensible dialect are at home here. In the country’s south lies the Kočevje primeval forest with its brown bears.

In the middle of all this diversity lies Ljubljana. The lovely capital is full of beautiful architecture, creative street art, dragons and cosy cafe culture. Ljubljana is big enough to feel the lively city vibe and small enough that no one seems to be in a hurry.

Slovenian culinary explosion

If you ask Slovenians what a traditional Slovenian dish is, you will get a messy bowl of answers. Like nature and culture, Slovenian cuisine is also a magnificent mixture of local ingredients intertwined with the influence of surrounding cultures. Almost every region and village has its own, signature dish. Slovenia’s varied and rich gastronomic offer allows you to taste the most recognizable delights in as many as 24 culinary regions. Kranjska kolbasa, jota, prekmurska gibanica, štruklji, žlikrofi, žganci, beef soup, frika… Where the official list ends, the creative minds of high chefs and cooking enthusiasts begin. 

Tourist farms, cute bistros, culinary festivals and top restaurants all conjure up authentic flavors. Every culinary journey begins with fresh local ingredients. Products such as premium cheeses and dairy, cured meat, quality wines, brandy, olive and pumpkin oil, and honey can be found on store shelves or at markets. The best taste of local life and environment is at the very place of origin. Admiring the mountain meadows, meandering along the wine trails, visiting ecological villages, salt pans, etc. – each place has its unique flavor, rich tradition and a story to tell. 

Modern Slovenian cuisine has developed from tradition, modest ingredients and the grandmothers’ masterminds. Ana Roš, with Hiša Franka, her restaurant in the Soča Valley, put Slovenia on the global culinary map. In 2021, Slovenia was declared the European Gastronomic Region of the Year. Here is just another reason to visit it!

Slovenia is a destination that truly satisfies all needs, wishes and whims. Whether you’re heading for a rest and reboot, an active adventure, a cultural excursion, or a solid mix of everything, Slovenia is the right choice for you.

An adventure, wellness and cultural immersion trip through Slovenia is unique precisely because of its balance. Join us on an unforgettable AdZENture Retreat in the Soča Valley. Get to know Slovenia and the Soča Valley through unforgettable and authentic adventures!

See you in SLOVEnia

Slovenia is a destination that truly satisfies all needs, wishes and whims. Whether you’re heading for a rest and reboot, an active adventure, a cultural excursion, or a solid mix of everything, Slovenia is the right choice for you.

An adventure, wellness and cultural immersion trip through Slovenia is unique precisely because of its balance. Join us on an unforgettable AdZENture Retreat in the Soča Valley. Get to know Slovenia and the Soča Valley through unforgettable and authentic adventures!