His Excellency Ambassador of Slovenia to the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Mr Roman Kirn reveals his favourite places in Slovenia.
In Slovenia, it is all about diversity. A short drive of just over two hours can bring you from the splendid ski and hiking resorts in the Alpine peaks to the sunny Mediterranean seaside. Along the way there are gently rounded hills of Goriška Brda, mysterious caves of Karst, vast Panonian plain, and, of course, our Capital Ljubljana.
Ljubljana has just been named Green Capital of Europe. It will surprise you with its lively yet relaxed atmosphere. Take a walk along the Ljubljanica river’s embankments, designed by the famous architect Jože Plečnik and if you happen to be there on Friday, visiting Open Kitchen food market is a must.
Not far away from Ljubljana, you can find the Slovenian biggest tourist attraction and at the same time a place where many Slovenians go just to spend their Sunday afternoon. The two splendid lakes, Bled and Bohinj, are fascinating places where you can rent a boat or, if you are brave enough, even take a swim. You should definitely take a break in one of the many cafes around the lake, have a coffee and a famous cream cake and enjoy the view on the only Slovenian island in the middle of the lake.
Postojna Cave’s magnificent caverns and glistening stalactite formations as well as an extremely rare animal human fish, can be admired from the small train which makes it a unique experience. Another noteworthy event that actually takes place inside the cave is a living nativity scene with a concert during Christmas time.
Another jewel of the Karst region is Štanjel, a historical village from the Roman times. While walking through the narrow streets, the houses built in stone are telling you the story of stonemasons, who portrayed their experience of the Karst through stone. Most dominant features are Castle and the Church of Saint Daniel. The whole Karst region is of unique nature even in terms of Slovenian diversity.
If you are looking for an active holiday, you can either go rafting, canoeing or hiking in the emerald Soča Valley or skiing to one of the ski resorts such as Kranjska Gora and Pohorje.
Otherwise you can enjoy a glass of wine alongside the Goriška Brda wine road. Meanwhile you should stop at Vrhovlje and check the wonderful view over the Brda region, a vista of hills, churches, countless vineyards, and orchards of cherries, peaches, apricots, and figs.
While living abroad for so many years, I’m always thrilled visiting these beautiful placeas again and again.
Interesting links
http://www.investslovenia.org/
http://www.spiritslovenia.si/en
Photos: Embassy of Slovenia
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Read also:
Visit to the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Slovenia
17th Ljubljana Summer School “Take the Best from East and West”
https://www.communications-unlimited.nl/estonia-poland-and-slovenia-in-the-english-profiency-index/