The Smith Family
Sample Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival in Ljubljana
Welcome to Slovenia! Upon your arrival at the airport, you will be warmly greeted by your guide, who will provide an overview of your journey. From there, get your legs moving with a historical walking tour of Ljubljana, the charming capital city.
As one of Europe's smallest capitals, Ljubljana is reminiscent of Salzburg or Prague but without the crowds. Its name means “beloved,” which becomes clear as you walk through picturesque streets lined with art-nouveau facades, cafés, and shops. The city's vibrant restaurants, art galleries, and the willow-lined Ljubljanica River are all easily navigated on foot or by bike.
Two thousand years ago, the Roman city of Emona existed here. From the hilltop of Ljubljana Castle, you can enjoy stunning views of the medieval city and admire Jože Plečnik's human-centered designs at the Triple Bridge and open-air market.
This afternoon, experience the capital through traditional arts and crafts, learning from some of the best craftspeople. Options include hand-printing your own poster in a vintage print shop, learning hand-weaving, a traditional craft in Slovenia, visiting a master goldsmith and silversmith to discover his work and create a ring, or joining a pottery workshop in a natural setting.
Dating back to the 18th century, the boutique hotel Zlata Ladjica has been elegantly restored with a modern yet organic style. The hotel features 15 uniquely designed rooms, each thoughtfully curated to reflect Ljubljana and Slovenia's rich historical narratives and vibrant cultural heritage. At Zlata Ladjica, you are invited to indulge in a truly authentic Slovenian gastropub experience. The menu offers a delightful selection of locally brewed beers and exquisite wines, perfectly paired with traditionally inspired dishes crafted from ingredients sourced from nearby farms.
Overnight Zlata Ladjica Boutique Hotel
Day 2
Velika Planina & Jezersko
Spend the morning with a local forager in the enchanting highlands of Velika Planina. A scenic 45-minute drive from Ljubljana leads you to a glacial valley, where you can enjoy a gondola ride to the mountain plateau. Accompanied by your forager guide, hike 3 to 5 miles and gain about 600 feet in elevation as you search for wild, edible plants and herbs. Along the way, you’ll walk among traditional wooden huts, shepherds, and cows. The sounds of ringing cowbells and the stunning backdrop of limestone mountains and flower-covered meadows create a picturesque scene reminiscent of “The Sound of Music.”
Jezersko, a hidden gem in the Slovenian Alps, is just an hour's drive away. This serene region has ancient forests, limestone peaks, and clear streams, perfect for hiking and biking. Take a moment to relax in the calming mountain atmosphere before enjoying a unique gourmet meal made with locally sourced, organic ingredients.
This afternoon, immerse yourself in the calming beauty of the deep forests of Jezersko. Go forest bathing to connect with nature, breathe in the crisp air, and embrace the calming atmosphere. No swimwear is needed, just wear comfortable outdoor attire. Alternatively, you can participate in forest yoga to stretch and center yourself amidst the beauty of nature. Take this opportunity to pause, breathe deeply, and nourish your body and spirit.
Vila Planinka is located in the scenic village of Jezersko, Slovenia, a destination renowned for its captivating natural landscapes and healing climate. Here, time slows down, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the peaceful rhythms of nature. The hotel redefines luxury by prioritizing its natural surroundings over expensive materials and technological innovations. Each room at Vila Planinka has a unique character that reflects the beauty of the landscapes outside. You can enjoy traditional Finnish saunas alongside innovative infrared saunas and indulge in exquisite cuisine made from locally sourced organic ingredients.
Overnight Vila Planinka Jezersko
Day 3
Jezersko
In the morning, take a scenic e-bike ride along a flat trail to Planšarsko Lake, where you can enjoy a perfect reflection of the rugged alpine peaks.
At midday, visit the beautifully renovated Senk Homestead, which is over 500 years old. Here, Polona and her family serve a traditional alpine farmer’s lunch. The entire family is dedicated to preserving the region’s heritage by preparing dishes just like their grandmothers did and celebrating the seasons and farm life. Their commitment to using local ingredients and their farm-to-table approach has earned them Slovenia’s Green Cuisine label. While you’re there, be sure to ask Drejc, Polona’s husband, about his experiences climbing and skiing in the Himalayas. He and his brother made history by achieving the first descent from the 26,200-foot-high Annapurna.
On your way back to the hotel, stop at Tanja's alpine retreat, run by a passionate herbalist. This expert likely knows each plant that grows in the Jezersko area and has remedies for just about anything. You can fill your packs with elderflower cordial, herbal liquors, and rhubarb cake and top off your flasks with mineral water straight from the spring.
Overnight Vila Planinka Jezersko
Day 4
Bled Lake & Bohinj Lake
Lake Bled is often considered the most beautiful lake in the Alps. Its island features a 15th-century chapel, and a dramatic medieval castle overlooks the water. You can fully appreciate this stunning location through a private boat ride and by visiting the island’s monastery, which you reach by ascending the 99 stone steps of a baroque stairway dating back to 1655. The best views of the lake and its surroundings can be enjoyed from the Ojstrica viewing point, which is about an hour's walk.
Former Yugoslavian President Tito led a hedonistic lifestyle and had a deep appreciation for beauty. Therefore, it’s fitting to indulge in lunch and traditional kremšnita cream cake at one of his summer residences overlooking Lake Bled. While you dine, you can learn about Yugoslavian and Balkan history while admiring the frescoes of world dignitaries that Tito proudly hosted there.
Lake Bohinj, often considered the wilder counterpart to Bled Lake, is a short drive away in the heart of Triglav National Park. Recently, Bohinj Lake was awarded the title of Best in Responsible Tourism at the World Travel Market. This destination emphasizes sustainability and is dedicated to preserving the environment, biodiversity, and traditional ways of life. Its tourist infrastructure adheres to best practices for sustainable mobility, and there are plenty of activities for you to enjoy.
Hotel Bohinj has been redesigned to capture the essence of Bohinj and the natural beauty surrounding Mount Triglav. The renovation primarily featured wood, stone, and recyclable felt, and it involved collaboration with local and national producers. The hotel showcases stunning scenery and demonstrates a deep respect for the natural resources of Triglav National Park and the area's traditions. With a focus on natural materials, thoughtful design, and cuisine that highlights local ingredients, Hotel Bohinj offers a unique experience that connects guests to the region.
Overnight Hotel Bohinj
Day 5
Bohinj Valley & Triglav National Park
The Bohinj Valley offers activities for all fitness levels and ambitions. If you love the mountains, consider a full day of hiking in Triglav National Park, specifically to the Valley of Seven Triglav Lakes. If you're more interested in culture, visit the picturesque alpine villages in the valley and hike through the enchanting Mostnica Gorge, following a trail that takes you across a series of wooden and stone bridges. As you admire the serene natural beauty, you'll also learn about the centuries-old iron-making heritage of the valley and savor some of the best Slovenian cheeses made right here.
After your morning adventures, you will have plenty of time to enjoy various optional activities, such as swimming in the lake, paddle boarding, or renting a canoe. You can also see the area by e-biking along the lake. You may prefer to join a yoga class, meet local artisans and craftsmen, learn about beekeeping while tasting honey, or participate in a cooking class focused on traditional Bohinj dishes. For breathtaking views, take a gondola ride to the top of Mt. Vogel or hike to the spectacular Savica Waterfall.
Just before dinner, relax in the wellness area of Hotel Bohinj and enjoy the unbeatable views from the outdoor pool.
Overnight Hotel Bohinj
Day 6
Vršič Pass & Soča Valley
Today, your guide will take you into the heart of the Julian Alps and the Soča River Valley. As you follow the turquoise waters past glacier-fed lakes and towering, snow-capped peaks, you will find yourself in wide-open spaces and breathe in the pristine air.
Your guide will bring you to Kranjska Gora, where you can marvel at the mirror-like reflections on Lake Jasna. From there, brace for the hairpin turns of the Vršič Pass, a stunning mountain pass that rises to 5,283 feet, making it one of the most scenic routes in Europe. Take some time to stretch your legs as you climb Vršič Peak, which will take approximately one hour.
Just in time for lunch, you'll stop at a rustic mountain lodge that serves hearty stews, fresh porcini soup, sauerkraut with Kranjska klobasa sausages, buckwheat mash, and struklji filled with walnuts and fresh ricotta cheese.
Continue your journey toward the Soča River Valley, the site of the World War I Isonzo Front, which is vividly described in Ernest Hemingway's novel “Farewell to Arms.” Today, this “emerald river of adventures” offers a stunning backdrop for world-class activities such as rafting, kayaking, hiking, cycling, mountain biking, paragliding, and fly fishing. If that’s not enticing enough, the Soča Valley was recently named one of the best sustainable tourist destinations for 2021 by the European Commission.
Discover the history of World War I in the Soča River Valley, known as Isonzo in Italian. The river lent its name to the Isonzo Front, which stretched from the border between Switzerland, Austria, and Italy all the way to Trieste on the Adriatic coast. Learn all about this history at the indoor and outdoor museums that are part of the transnational project Walk of Peace.
Option 1: Overnight at Hiša Franko
Spend the night in Kobarid at Hisa Franko, a charming countryside villa and the home of Ana Ros, Slovenia’s most acclaimed chef. In 2017, Ana was named The World's Best Female Chef by The World’s 50 Best Restaurants, which helped to put Slovenia on the international culinary map. Tonight, Ana and her team will take you on an 18-course epicurean journey, pairing each dish with exquisite Slovenian wines.
Option 2: Overnight at Nebesa Chalets
Perched high above the Soča River Valley, four chalets are perched on the slope of Kuk Mountain, each surrounded by expansive panoramic decks. Large glass walls open the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces, including the sauna, gym, and fireplace areas. Nebesa Chalets hosts only eight guests at a time who travel from all over in search of peace, quiet, stories, and adventures.
Day 7
Goriška Brda Wine Country
After breakfast, you'll transition from the rugged alpine landscape to the lush, rolling hills of the Goriška Brda wine region, often referred to as “the Tuscany of Slovenia.” Stroll through the charming medieval town of Šmartno and climb up Gonjace Tower to enjoy panoramic 360-degree views. Visit an olive oil producer and a family-run natural cosmetics company known for its lavender products. Goriška Brda is also renowned for its delicious fruits, including cherries, peaches, apricots, and figs.
Lunch will be at an authentic agriturismo that produces its own organic wine from local grapes. Inside cellars that are over 200 years old, enjoy a delicious menu featuring meats, cheeses, vegetables, and delightful desserts, while sampling carefully crafted vintages of chardonnay, rebula, and cabernet sauvignon.
Whether you consider yourself a wine enthusiast or not, you will surely enjoy seeing Goriška Brda wine country on this unique wine safari experience. Local connoisseurs, united by their passion for this beautiful wine region, will guide you on an unforgettable adventure, sharing insights into the history and traditions of Slovenia's "Tuscany."
Just next door is Alma House, an intriguing modern art gallery. Martina will guide you through the space and share her infectious passion for art and life. She is also a vital part of Edi Simcic, a vineyard known for producing world-class wines while actively preserving the land. Finish off your visit with a workshop led by a professional Slovenian sculptor.
Stay overnight at Castelletto Gredič, located in the heart of the Goriška Brda wine region. This hotel offers breathtaking panoramic views and numerous opportunities for relaxation. The castle was built around 400 years ago and underwent a complete renovation in 2012, preserving its historical charm. Gredič truly embodies the characteristics of the region, which is known for its rich wine and culinary traditions, as well as its unique climate that blends Alpine and Mediterranean influences.
Overnight Castelletto Gredič
Day 8
Vipava Valley Wine Country
Culinary tradition is incredibly significant in Slovenia, particularly in the Vipava Valley. This region boasts a deep-rooted history and culture of winemaking, where farm-to-table practices are a genuine way of life rather than just a trendy phrase. You will have the chance to learn about the centuries-old winemaking tradition directly from the producers and enjoy tastings of local wine varieties while taking in the stunning views of the valley.
Riding your e-bikes, you'll see the quiet roads of the Vipava Valley past ancient settlements and hilltop villages, offering exhilarating descents and breathtaking views.
To conclude your day, indulge in a "Taste the Stars" experience at Gostilna pri Lojzetu, a restaurant that has recently earned a Michelin star. This establishment is led by Chef Tomaž Kavčič, who represents the fourth generation of his family in the culinary field. The restaurant's beautiful dining area is located within Zemono Castle. Every dish served here is deeply rooted in rich local traditions.
The roots of Forest Village Theodosius lie in a deep respect for nature. The carefully positioned wooden cabins are designed to blend harmoniously with the rocky terrain below them. The furniture was crafted by local artisans, and some cabins are equipped with a sauna and an outdoor hot tub. Relax on the terrace by your vineyard, indulging in the wonderful scents of pine trees and all that nature has to offer. Allow your mind to wander, take a break, and truly enjoy yourself.
Overnight at Theodosius Forest Village
Day 9
Karst Caves & the Adriatic Coast
Today, you'll travel to Karst, where water has sculpted limestone into a unique subterranean world. The term "karst" has been adopted worldwide to describe similar geological phenomena. In Slovenia, speleologists discover approximately 100 new caves each year. Of the roughly 10,000 known caves, only about 20 are open to the public. On a private walking tour, you can experience the Škocjan Caves, featuring towering limestone walls, rushing waterfalls, and vast chambers and canyons.
The road takes you to Piran, a small picturesque town situated right on the Adriatic Coast. Piran is one of the best-preserved historical towns in the Mediterranean and a true gem of Venetian Gothic architecture.
Discover the significance of salt-making skills in the Piran Salt Flats, also referred to as Sečovlje Salt Flats, which are founded on a 700-year-old tradition of natural coexistence between humans and nature, highlighting the importance of preserving the Salina landscape.
The Kempinski Palace Portorož opened its doors in 1910, establishing itself as a stunning tourist destination near the Adriatic Sea. Portorož quickly became famous as Europe's leading seaside resort and health retreat, celebrated for its breathtaking sunsets over the Adriatic. The hotel features a modern design that seamlessly blends with timeless classical decor. Enjoy local specialties at one of the hotel's exceptional restaurants and bars, relax by the pool, indulge in luxurious treatments at the Rose Spa, and take a walk along the beach as the sun sets behind the hills.
Overnight Kempinski Palace Portoroz
Day 10
Departure Day
Say goodbye as you conclude your travels along the Adriatic Coast. You can extend your stay in Slovenia or continue to Croatia or Italy.
