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Privately guided round trip - Slovenia

Slovenia individual round trip - Sustainable natural paradise

Highlights

  • Privately guided round trip to the most beautiful and sustainable places in Slovenia

  • Numerous activities included, such as a cooking class with Mamma Bojana, a Slovenian housewife

  • Several tastings from wine in Bela Krajina, to cheese and honey in Bohinj, to olive oil from organic and sustainable production

  • A different kind of guided tour through the narrow streets of the capital Ljubljana

  • Underground adventures in the largest cave system in Slovenia and much more!

Description

If one could describe Slovenia in one word, it would be versatility. This hidden secret nestles between Italy, Austria and Croatia and offers incredible opportunities to closer to mother nature. Discover dense forests, vast lakes, majestic mountains, and plenty of new destinations away from mass tourism. Spread across 20,000 square kilometers, you’ll find the Alps, the Mediterranean, and the Pannonian Plain. Immerse yourself in the eventful history and incomparable natural wonders of the small country.

On this round trip, experience the sustainable natural paradise full of scenic and cultural highlights!

Destination

Europe

Ljubljana - Bled - Bohinj - Radovljica - Ljubljana - Ptuj - Verzej - Bela Krajina - Stanjel - Piran - Ljubljana

Welcome to Slovenia’s green capital! Upon arrival at the airport, your tour guide will warmly welcome you.

Afterward, your adventure in Slovenia begins with a trip to the picturesque town of Bled at the Julian Alps foothills. A unique experience awaits you here: Mama Bojana’s family’s culinary secrets. Meet a warm-hearted chef whose efforts go far beyond the cooking pot: Bojana commits to preserving Slovenia’s natural and cultural heritage and is happy to give you an insight into her work. Your visit to the warm-hearted kitchen will round off with a tasting of various seasonal dishes, which Bojana prepares especially for you with a lot of passion and respect for nature’s gifts.

Afterward, continue the journey to Bled Castle. The fairytale hilltop castle rises majestically on a rock at 139 meters high, overlooking the glittering Lake Bled. The oldest castle in Slovenia offers a panoramic view over the lake to the neighboring plateaus and the town of Bled. Our tip: soak up the idyllic scenery over a coffee and an original Bled cream cake. You can already see your next destination from up here: the small wooded island of Blejski Otok in the middle of Lake Bled.

Enjoy a visit to the island by pletna, a traditional wooden boat. Glide across the sparkling waters of Lake Bled in the 2m wide and 7m long gondola-like boat, then explore the island in the middle of the lake with its well-known symbol: the Church of Our Lady on the Lake. An extraordinary sight is a wishing bell in the upper ridge turret above the nave. Legend says that whoever rings the bell entrusts their wishes and requests to Our Lady.

After all the exciting events, you go to your first accommodation. Reflect on your experiences of the day over dinner.

Overnight with breakfast in Bled, Slovenia

Wake up with the pleasant feeling that the most incredible adventures of your trip are still ahead. After a hearty breakfast, your journey continues to Bohinj, a valley surrounded by the Julian Alps. Lake Bohinj is one of Slovenia’s most popular destinations and nestles in the heart of the Triglav National Park.

After a cable car ride over the alpine mountains, you’ll find yourself in breathtaking sceneries. Stroll through wildflower meadows, past streams, and waterfalls, and let your gaze wander over landscapes that burst with originality. The locals are also part of why the alpine mountain region keeps old traditions alive. Visit an organic farm and learn about the unique processes involved in cheese production. And afterward, try the products! Can you taste the cows’ happiness of their independence to graze freely in the alpine pastures?

Your visit helps future generations continue the traditional milk and cheese production methods. But it’s not all cheese or milk: you can also learn about honey production, one of the country’s oldest traditions. After leaving the highlands, you will uncover the secrets of a passionate beekeeper.

Overnight with breakfast in Bled, Slovenia

Today you will get to know Radovljica, the town of gingerbread hearts. The medieval old town is one of the most beautiful in Slovenia and shines with a remarkable wealth of culture. You can feel the heritage of beekeeping, iron forging, and folk music around every corner. Let the small town work its charm on you before setting out for the old town. The traditional Slovenian craft of making gingerbread is still alive today. In the basement of the Lectar Inn on Linhart Platz, an enticing scent of gingerbread will greet you. At the inn, you can visit the museum and see the traditional tools and baking utensils up close and go to the workshop, where you can watch them bake and decorate the hearts.

Next on your itinerary is a stop at the Straw Hat Museum, where you can admire the almost extinct art of straw hat making. And afterward, welcome to Slovenia’s green capital! In the center of Slovenia, Ljubljana awaits you with its diverse characteristics, impressive architecture, and many green spaces. On a city tour with a homeless person, get to know Ljubljana through their eyes and thus, support the association for homeless help and self-help. They ensure that homeless people no longer lose their homes or regain them after years on the streets. Did you know that according to legend, Ljubljana was founded by Jason and the Argonauts? They escaped with the Golden Fleece to present-day Ljubljana, where they met a terrible dragon. It has been the city’s landmark ever since — no wonder the famous Dragon Bridge is the city’s symbol. Explore the city of dragons and let the small bridges, dreamy alleys, and romantic architecture enchant you.

Overnight stay with breakfast in Ljubljana, Slovenia

Get ready for a day of adventure!

The first route takes you to the oldest Slovenian town: Ptuj. A walk through the dreamy streets of Ptuj is like a journey into ancient times: Roman monuments and medieval buildings embrace you in their past and present. Cobblestone streets and romantic squares will take you to one of the most majestic castles in Slovenia, such as Ptuj Castle, boasting incredible views over the roofs of the oldest city.

Stroll through this treasure trove of history before continuing your journey to Verzej. Slovenia’s last operating ship mill awaits on the Mur River, where more than 40 mills of this type were still in operation decades ago. The only one that stands today is “Babic Mill.” Unbelievable but true: the farmers still bring their grain and ground it into flour here.

Afterward, head to the Island of Love in Izakovci. The Mur River has played with nature over the centuries, creating a natural island that locals call the “Island of Love.” According to legend, this island is a place of lovers because Countess Maria Zichy from Beltinci Castle is said to have secretly met her lover here. You can also visit the museum on the island and satisfy your curiosity about mills and their craft. If you prefer to devote your time to nature, walking along the Mur River is worthwhile. A ferry of a different kind will undoubtedly catch your eye: It was built from two flatboats that a platform connects.

Next on the itinerary is a visit to a beekeeper. The proud owner of the 300-year-old octagonal beehive will also give you a taste of their honey liquor! Can you taste the long road of tradition in the sweetness?

The day has another highlight in store for you. Before returning to your hotel in Ljubljana, visit an oil mill. This mill is one of the few that still traditionally produces cold-pressed pumpkin seed oil. Follow the pumpkin seed oil production and allow your taste buds to indulge in the high-quality, healthy oil.

Overnight stay with breakfast in Ljubljana, Slovenia

The day begins with exploring the seventh-largest city in Slovenia: Novo Mesto. The town nestles on the Krka River, which forests, fields, green meadows, and vineyards surround. Novo Mesto is known for its romantic old town and its Cvicek regional wine.

Another cultural highlight awaits you: visit the Bela Krajina region and its melting pot of cultures. The idyllic hilly landscape has many vineyards that will cast their spell on you.

Immerse yourself deeply in the traditions of Slovenia. You can look forward to visiting a traditional village where locals still produce handmade linen with patterns handed down over centuries.

Overnight stay with breakfast in Ljubljana, Slovenia

After breakfast, you’ll set off for Skofja Loka. This well-preserved medieval town boasts a rich cultural heritage merged with untouched nature. The city’s particular highlight is the Loka castle from 1202 and its astonishing view. Take the time to absorb Skofja Loka’s many cultural treasures.

Afterward, your way will lead you to Idrija, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of lacemaking and mercury. Visit the award-winning Municipal Museum, which promises an in-depth look at the local history of mercury and the art of bobbin lace. You can also visit Anthony’s Shaft Mining Museum, an educational center, and entry point into the mine. The tour will equip you with a helmet and coat then lead you down one of the oldest preserved mines in Europe. A tour highlight: the underground chapel.

Today, you will spend a little more time underground. Postojna Cave is the most extensively known cave system in Slovenia! Marvel at the stalactites and stalagmites as you take a train through an enchanting subterranean karst world that you’ll never forget.

A few kilometers from the Postojna Cave is a medieval wonder: the Predjam Castle. It is the largest cave castle globally and has even served as the setting for numerous series and films. In the 14th century, the fortress became the property of the Lueger family. Who knows - maybe you will hear some of the myths and legends about the robber baron Erasmus Lueger? In the 16th century, they built the chateau on the castle’s grounds. Today, you can still see the secret passage that connects the castle with a 14-kilometer-long cave system. Around 700 meters of the cave are open to tourism.

Overnight stay with breakfast in Stanjel, Slovenia

Start your day with a walk through the town of Stanjel. After soaking in the town, visit the Scuka ham factory, where the Scuka family has crafted ham for centuries. Enjoy an authentic learning experience as you look behind the scenes at traditional family craftsmanship. Afterward, you can feast: can you taste the unique Karst air that has helped the ham mature?

Visit a local stonemason and discover the beautiful products they create from karst limestone. Next, the journey continues to the Lisjak family estate, whose wines have won eleven championship titles, hundreds of gold medals, and several awards. Respect for nature and ancestral traditions, coupled with a love for the Karst land, enables the Lisjak family to produce beautiful wines with excellent taste.

In the evening, we have one more special event in store for you: enjoy a well-deserved dinner at the home of a local couple. They will give you an insight into their lives and serve you a traditional meal.

Optional: Bioenergetic therapy or Meridian treatment

Overnight stay with breakfast in Stanjel, Slovenia

Today you can look forward to a tour of Slovenia’s Venice: Piran. The Slovenian resort is on the Adriatic coast and is known for its long pier and Venetian architecture. During your stay in this picturesque coastal town, you will feel like you landed in Italy. Since Piran mined salt, it was a port for the Italians for years.

Your tour continues to Fonda Fish Farm. The Fonda family uniquely breeds sea bass. Instead of breeding as many fish as possible and neglecting quality, the family relies on high-quality feed and the best possible living conditions in free-swimming net cages. You can decide for yourself at a taste whether the Fonda family’s work pays off.

The day will end with a cooking class at a restaurant that uses local produce from their garden. The restaurant operators will bring you closer to the original art of cooking and provide plenty of inspiration for your kitchen.

The last stop on your journey takes you to local gastronomy, where they press their olive oil. Watch the local olive variety get cold-pressed into oil just a few hours after harvest. Try the pleasantly spicy oil and feel the taste of quality on your tongue. Did you know that extra virgin olive oil from Slovenian Istria is one of the best oils in the world?

Overnight stay with breakfast in Stanjel, Slovenia

After breakfast, it’s sadly time to say goodbye. A transfer will take you to the Ljubljana Airport, where you will embark on your flight home with countless memories. Contact us if you wish to add a beach vacation to the trip! We will gladly organize it for you.

itravel - For that moment.

Hotel Park****, Bled

Amid the Alpine pearl of Bled, the elegant Hotel Park nestles on the promenade of Lake Bled and lures with unique views of the inspiring city. Since it’s right on the edge of the Triglav National Park, it combines two crucial natural elements: water and forest. You can look forward to a carefree time between luxury and nature. The hotel offers you a fitness room and a wellness center with a large indoor pool. Guests can enjoy a private balcony with stunning views, a bathroom with a shower or bathtub, a safe, a minibar, and a satellite TV in the rooms.

Hotel Trnulja****, Ljubljana

Trnulja Manor awaits you just eight kilometers from the center of Ljubljana. In addition to tourism, the estate operates ecological agriculture and promises you a stay in harmony with nature and lots of culinary highlights. The wooden-furnished apartments are air-conditioned and have a seating area, a fully equipped kitchen with a dining area, satellite TV, and a private bathroom with a shower. Some apartments have a terrace with a table and chairs. The highlight of the accommodation is the restaurant managed by Slavko Adamlje, one of the most renowned Slovenian chefs.

Hotel St. Daniel****, Štanjel

Amid a romantic vineyard, the organic boutique hotel welcomes its guests. Enjoy a delicious restaurant, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, a bar, and a shared lounge. The garden and the terrace invite you to unwind. Guests can look forward to a private bathroom, flat-screen satellite TV, wardrobe, desk, hairdryer, and kettle in the rooms. Since they emphasize sustainability, you can look forward to local organic dishes here!

Closest airport: Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport

Duration of the trip: 9 days / 8 nights

Included

  • 8 nights in the mentioned accommodations or similar:

    • 2 nights at Hotel Park**** with breakfast in the Lake View Room in Bled

    • 3 nights at Hotel Trnulja**** with breakfast in the Groundfloor Apartment in Ljubljana

    • 3 nights at Hotel St. Daniel**** with breakfast in a Superior Room in Stanjel

  • Transfer in a VW Touran or similar, including air conditioning, petrol, insurance, toll, and parking fees

  • English-speaking guide/driver for the entire trip

  • Meet & greet at the airport

Excluded

  • International flights

  • Transfers

  • Optional excursions (sightseeing, entrance fees, etc.)

  • Meals and drinks not specified in the scope of services

  • Personal expenses, such as minibar and tips

  • Travel insurance

  • Possible PCR test, if still required

  • Visa, entry, and/or exit fees, if required

Included experiences

  • Visit a local house in Bled incl. food tasting

  • Visit Bled Castle

  • Pletna boat tour (traditional wooden boat) and visit to a church on Lake Bled

  • Cheese and honey tasting in Bohinj

  • Cable car ride

  • Visit the Lectar Gingerbread Live Museum, including the decoration of gingerbread hearts

  • Visit the Straw Hat Museum, including demonstration

  • Experience “Ljublijana through the eyes of a homeless person”

  • Entrance to Ptuj Castle

  • Admission to the ship mill and museum in Veržej

  • Visit the 300-year-old beehive, including honey liqueur tasting

  • Visit the Pumpkin Seed Museum, including tasting

  • Excursion to the Bela Krajina, including wine tastings in some of the best wineries in the region

  • Visit the Mining and Town Museum in Idrija

  • Visit Postojna Caves and Predjama Castle

  • Visit a ham factory, including tasting

  • Visit a local stonemason

  • Wine tasting at the Lisjak farm

  • Authentic dinner in a local house in Karst

  • Visit a sea bass farm and salt pans, including tasting

  • Cooking class at a local restaurant

  • Visit a local olive oil farmer

  • Guided hikes in Radovljica, Ptuj, Novo mesto, Skofja Loka, Idrija, Stanjel, and Piran

Optional experiences

  • Bioenergetic therapy or meridian therapy: 70 EUR per person

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