The Switzerland of the Balkans
Slovenia is the green heart of Europe, often called “the Switzerland of the Balkans”. If you are looking for a perfect green and safe destination, look no further: Slovenia is an oasis of peace and natural beauty landlocked between Italy, Austria, Hungary, and Croatia.
It is difficult to find such a small country offering so much anywhere else. Snow-capped mountains, tree-lined valleys, scenic gorges, canyons and waterfalls, dark karst caves, a short and spectacular coastline, and charming towns and villages are some of the things you will find there.
The Slovenians are very proud of their land that they truly love and cherish. They aim to preserve its beauty and pristine nature at any cost. Thus, responsible and sustainable eco-tourism is also what you can expect in Slovenia.
Green, greener, the greenest
In Slovenia, you encounter nature everywhere. You find the future in the past and discover the diversity of one of the greenest countries in the world. This country remains one of the best-kept secrets in Europe. Here, you can uncover the hidden corners in the heart of the old continent.
Slovenia is the essence of everything that Europe can offer. The Alps flirting with the Adriatic Sea. Virgin forests. Brown bears. Hot springs. An incredible underground world. Snow-covered mountains in winter. Everything is close, accessible, and intertwined.
The preservation of nature is one of the highest priorities. For instance, in terms of recycling, Ljubljana is at the top of the European capitals scoreboard, and the zero waste goal is within reach.
With endless trails, cycling routes, rivers, and waterfalls, you can find something that surprises you in a new way, at any moment.
The Slovenian countryside is a safe haven where time seems to stay still. If you want to escape from the hustle and bustle of big city life, you are in the right place. You will learn from locals to live in harmony with nature, listen, and feel it. A very pleasant bonus will be a homemade traditional dinner, for which all the ingredients are locally produced.
Chasing breathtaking views from mountain tops
Mountains are a key element of Slovenian geography. The Slovenian Alps are divided into three ranges — the Julian Alps, the Kamnik Alps, and the Karawanks — each with its own unique character. A priceless jewel in the Slovenian crown is Triglav National Park with Mount Triglav – the highest peak in the country -culminating at 2,864 m.
There are more than 10,000 kilometres of marked trails available in Slovenia. No matter your hiking or walking ability, these trails and paths are for all tastes, from hard for seasoned hikers to easy for beginners and children. And once you reach the highest point, the world looks different. The view from the top is the most valuable reward.
Slovenian mountains are equally suitable and well-adjusted for cyclers, hikers, trekkers, and trail runners of any level and experience.
Underground World of Wonders
You will not have truly explored Slovenia as long as you have not visited its underground splendour. There is a whole world beneath your feet, full of beauty, mysteries, and wonders. Slovenia is home to many caves that are easily accessible to the public. Just pick any or discover them all! In the world-renowned Postojna cave, you will meet the unique human fish. In UNESCO-listed Škocjan Caves, dare to explore the deepest and largest underground canyon in the world. And in Križna Cave, you will have a chance to take an underground boat. It is up to you only!
Make yourself at home
You will find the Slovenians are very hospitable and friendly people. The locals will be happy to share with you a lot of interesting facts and funny stories about their country, its rich culture, natural wonders, history, and traditions.
Delicious cuisine is another reason to fall in love with this amazing country. Foodies will be thrilled to taste various flavours of Slovenian cuisine. To get the whole picture, try it on different occasions: homemade mouth-watering dishes while staying in the countryside, street food to get the city vibe, and in an exquisite restaurant to realise that local food can be gastronomic as well.
Slovenian wine will be a pleasant surprise even for connoisseurs. It is rare to find Slovenian wine outside of the country. And yet, Slovenia is known for its exceptional wine-making. Slovenian wines have won multiple prestigious international awards.
Rich history and traditions
Slovenia has been inhabited since prehistoric times. Different people lived there and left their traces: from the Romans to the Slavs, to the Holy Roman Empire and the Austro-Hungarian Empire. In the second half of the 20th century, it was part of Yugoslavia until it finally declared its independence in 1991.
As a result, you will discover a rich heritage all over the country. And if you have ever thought that historic landmarks are dull, think twice! What about visiting an impressive castle cut down in a rock? Or searching for mystical dragons in Ljubljana? Slovenia will not leave anyone indifferent!