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  If you’re a lover of all things outdoors, Slovenia should definitely be on your list for a spring getaway. From al fresco wining and dining to exploring the lush green landscapes on foot or by bike, visitors can experience all Slovenia has to offer… and fall in love with the place!   Go wild for Bohinj   Visitors can discover the wonder of nature in all its glory at The International Wild Flower Festival -  a celebration of Slovenia’s floral richness and definitely a date for the diary if you plan to visit in May. This charming festival is a reminder of the unique natural environment in Bohinj which is a haven for flower lovers. Local guides and experts will be on hand for botanical tours, events and culinary experiences built around the area’s floral wealth. The exceptional flora of Bohinj has been attracting the attention and admiration of nature lovers for years. The Bohinj region is a true treasure trove of Alpine flowers and the festival is one of the highlights in Slovenia’s calendar. The festival’s events take place around various locations in Bohinj’s pretty villages and is a must-do for lovers of wild plants and flowers.   Find out more at: https://www.bohinj.si/en/wild-flower-festival/   On your bike…   From flower power to pedal power, Slovenia is a cyclist’s paradise.  The diverse landscape is ideal for all levels of bike rides. When you see the choice of cycling adventures on offer in Slovenia, it’s easy to understand why Slovenian professional cyclists are among the best in the world. Get that adrenaline pumping with some mountain cycling or at a bike park. You can also try out many on-road biking trails where you can test your skills and discover how well you ‘master’ your bike.  Not all routes are designed for experienced cyclists though - there’s many cycling routes in the countryside suitable for beginners.  If it’s a nice easy bike ride among beautiful scenery you're after, you’ve come to the right place - we have those too! There are plenty of gentler options for a family friendly trip.   Another top choice for cycling fans visiting Slovenia is the Green Wellness Cycling Route, a 16-day cycling plan that circles the country’s diverse landscapes and connects with the best Slovenian spas and natural health resorts along the way.   The circular route begins in Ljubljana, before heading north, towards the Kamnik-Savinja Alps. As the landscape flattens, the route runs through Štajerska to the mountains above the Pannonian Plain. The final part of the route leads to unique locations such as Kozjansko Regional Park, also known as the ‘Slovenian Venice’ and Otočec Castle.  The daily stages are designed to allow ample time for pampering and relaxation - perfect for sorting out those tired muscles after a day on the bike.   Take a hike   Slovenia is an ideal destination for hiking holidays too. With more than 10,000 km of marked trails, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Take your pick from hiking in the mountains, highlands, plains, long distance trails and there’s also family friendly routes if you’re travelling with the kids. Accommodation options are plentiful too - there’s designated hotels and camps specifically for hikers or rest your weary legs in one of 175 mountain huts.   Pohorje is an ideal starting point for visitors wanting to explore Eastern Slovenia. Hiking and mountain trails are plentiful in this beautiful pocket of the country. Close to Maribor, visitors can explore the Pohorje mountains, yet still be conveniently close to the city. It’s hard to believe a treasure trove of  natural beauty exists within such easy reach; come and see for yourself. There’s peat bogs, stunning lakes, waterfalls and ancient woodlands which can be accessed via several hiking trails.   Raise a glass with a Slovenian wine experience   Time for a tipple? Why not enjoy a delicious wine tasting experience on your trip too?   An opportunity to visit the vineyards and cellars of Slovenia is not to be missed. Maribor and its surroundings is an ideal place to go for that. Maribor itself is a top place to visit too. The city was awarded third place in the Best European Destination 2023 competition and was also named Europe's Best Culinary Destination. In Maribor, visitors can drop into the oldest grapevine in the world - it’s over 450 years old! Visitors can take a guided tour of the Old Vine House or join a group on the Maribor Wine Trail to sample the produce of the Stajerska region. Red or white? Dry, sweet or full-bodied? You’re sure to find a delicious wine to suit your palate.   You can enjoy a glass or two knowing that Slovenia’s sustainable wines are produced with great mindfulness and responsibility towards nature and the planet.   And to ease any guilt about extra calories, you can always take a bike ride and cycle through the most popular wine routes. Take in beautiful scenery and enjoy the tasty pit stops along the way. Cheers!   Try out Slovenia’s street food   Street Food - it seems to be the phrase on everyone’s lips.   Street food used to be the preserve of busy people in a rush grabbing a snack in their lunch break, right? Not any more. Sampling local delicacies al fresco from food trucks and artisan stalls is all the rage these days. Ljubljana is a hot pot of sizzling street food and the popular ‘Open Kitchen’ is now underway in the capital. This cool event is sure to tickle the taste buds. The Odprta Kuhna (Open Kitchen food festival) runs from March until November, attracting foodies and culinary adventurers to the capital.   It’s not just at ‘Open Kitchen’ you can grab tasty nosh on the go. There’s an abundance of street food vendors serving up the works. A must try is the ‘Kranjska Klobasa’ - a Carnolian sausage which is bursting with flavour. For more refined palates, there’s even the chance to tuck into street seafood at Central Ljubljana Market.   Slovenia latest news…  

• An impressive choice of flights will be operating in the Ljubljana Airport summer timetable including up to six flights per week to London Gatwick, six flights per week to London Heathrow and three per week to London Luton with Wizzair. Transavia France will operate twice weekly to Paris and 11 flights with Air France. In total, 21 scheduled flights with 18 carriers will be available at Ljubljana Airport.

 

• The new podcast by I Feel Slovenia is now available online. Listen to latest episode in celebration of the spring season here

 

• Analysis of a survey of overseas tourists revealed the top three motives for visiting Slovenia, regardless of country of origin, are natural beauty (87% rated natural beauty as a very important or important motive), personal safety during their stay (77%) and the possibility for active and sports activities (75%). These are the key motives for the vast majority, regardless of the market they come from. Just under half (45%) of foreign tourists have visited Slovenia before this visit.

  Spring is in the air and it’s such a perfect time to think about getting away for a few days, spending quality down time in beautiful surroundings. Have you been to Slovenia at this time of year? Easter is a wonderful time to visit.   Food, glorious food!   If a spring getaway is on the cards, celebrating Easter in Slovenia is sure to roll away any late winter blues. Food is a big part of the festivities here and visitors can tickle their taste buds with delicious local delicacies and traditional home cooked dishes. As Easter marks the end of the Lenten period and Good Friday fasting, what better way to rejoice in the most important date in the Christian liturgical calendar than by stuffing your face with tasty treats?   The Slovenian table will be filled with a traditional feast of Ham-en croute, horseradish, bird-shaped sweet bread, coloured eggs and of course, Potica, a traditional cake brought out for most celebrations.   Easter Sunday is traditionally a day spent at home with family or in solemn contemplation but come Easter Monday it’s time to get out and about - perhaps work off all those extra calories!   Something else to make your mouth water is the Odprta Kuhna (Open Kitchen food festival) which runs from March until November. Attracting foodies and culinary adventurers to the beautiful city of Ljubljana, the popular event is sure to bring a little flavour to your trip. As well as the chance to sample delicious local food, this year will see some top chefs dropping by and visitors can enjoy entertainment  from street artists and DJs.   Another date for the diary is the spring edition of Restaurant Week.   Slovenian Restaurant Week features some of the country’s best rated eateries and the chance to try some exceptional food at great prices. Over 100 restaurants are taking part this year.   Definitely worth a taste!   Spring hiking and biking   If an Easter adventure is on the cards, you’ve come to the right place. Slovenia is a hikers paradise. There’s over 10,000KM of marked hiking trails to be explored.   One route not to be missed is the Alpe Adria Trail. The Alpe-Adria Trail, spanning 450 miles, is signposted from start to finish taking in three cultures and three countries – Austria, Slovenia and Italy.   From the foot of Grossglockner mountain in Austria via the Slovenian Alps all the way to the Italian Adriatic coast, hikers can experience breath-taking natural scenery, alpine water adventures, and fascinating flora and fauna.   The Alpe Adria Trail is a summit-to-sea hiking experience and this epic discovery trail sends explorers deep into national parks, biosphere reserves and high onto peaks such as the 5,285-foot Vrsic Pass in the Julian Alps. The trail starts in Austria and finishes in Italy via Slovenia. This epic cross-border experience winds its way through Carinthia, Slovenia and Friuli-Venezia-Guilia in 43 stages. The geographic destination at the end of the Alpe-Adria Trail is Muggia, which lies to the south of Trieste.   Alternatively, head for the Julian Alps - home to some of Slovenia’s most beautiful spots with its crystal clear lakes, an emerald green river and incredible mountain landscapes. In spring there are few better ways to explore this natural paradise than a hiking or cycling adventure. For keen cyclists, Juliana Bike trail offers extensive routes throughout the Julian Alps so you can discover the region’s charming alpine towns, vast meadows and breathtaking view points.   Be at one with nature   As spring slowly awakens, now is the time to reconnect with nature. Of all the seasons, spring is arguably the most appropriate for embracing the great outdoors. Slovenia’s charms are plentiful - crystal clear lakes and rivers, glorious scenery, breath-taking mountain peaks and there’s even the chance to wander among plants in flowers in the towns and cities! Visitors can bring some flower power to their trip by visiting impressive botanical gardens this spring. You’ll find them in Ljubljana, Maribor, Stanjel and Zgornja Gorica. Easter time traditionally opens the main spring/summer tourist season in Slovenia so it's an ideal time to experience the beauty of the country and its fascinating cultural heritage - and beat the summer crowds.   Last but certainly not least, Slovenia is one of the safest, greenest and most sustainable destinations in the world. For responsible travellers Slovenia will tick all the boxes. Sustainability is at the very core of the country’s tourism ethos and ‘green’ visitors will be welcomed with open arms - all year round!  

 

Discover Slovenia’s attractions that excite visitors all year round.

  Are you looking for reasons to put Slovenia on your travel list? We’ve found (at least) ten!   Slovenia is a unique destination committed to sustainability, which offers experiences that are intended for individuals, couples, groups of friends or families all year round. It’s a country where everyone can find something for themselves: active experiences in the embrace of pristine nature, city breaks topped with culture, relaxing holidays in spa centres or gastronomic pampering with local flavours in first-class restaurants. Check out why Slovenia excites travellers and media outlets from around the world and find ideas for your next dream holiday.  

1. Cover stars

 

Slovenian proverb states “a good name is better than riches”. The name of Slovenia reached several global medias that recognised it as a trendy tourist destination, mainly due to its sustainable and boutique direction. National Geographic placed Slovenia among the 25 most exceptional places and communities to visit in 2023 in the Nature category. See which media placed Slovenia on the pedestal of the most attractive and sustainable tourism destinations in the world.

 

Slovenia in the eyes of the global media

 

2. Active experiences all year round

  Diverse landscape at the crossroads of the Alps, the Pannonian Plain, the Mediterranean and the Karst provides a polygon for countless active outdoor experiences. With more than 10,000 kilometres of maintained trails, Slovenia is a paradise for hikers, while its numerous cycling trails at various difficulty levels pose a challenge for cyclists. Picturesque rivers, lakes and the sea attract lovers of water sports and fishing, while adrenaline junkies also get a dose of what they need. How do you feel about descending along the longest zipline in Europe, exploring caves, paragliding or kayaking in abandoned mine tunnels?   Explore  

3. Land of top athletes

  Top Slovenian athletes spoil us with their fantastic achievements throughout the year. They spread the word around the world about Slovenia as an important sports destination. Sports ambassadors of Slovenian tourism, such as basketball player Luka Dončić, cyclists Primož Roglič and Tadej Pogačar, sports climber Janja Garnbret and Alpine skier Ilka Štuhec promote Slovenia as a destination for active experiences and a venue for elite sports competitions and preparations for professional athletes.  

4. Natural health resorts and premium spa centres

  Slovenia is a land of healthy water. Natural therapeutic effects of thermal water, beneficial seawater and treatments incorporating local ingredients invite guests to be pampered in natural health resorts and other spa centres with a long tradition, professional approach and modern architecture. Find the perfect health resort for yourself based on your preferred region and what your body and mind need in any given moment, and also the kind of holiday that you and your family desire. Wellness, aquafun, selfness, you!   Explore  

5. Explore towns and culture

  Let scenic Slovenian towns, in which the historical spirit of old town centres meets contemporary design, charm you. Discover interesting facts and legends, visit museums and galleries, admire architectural gems and take in the lively street atmosphere. Slovenia is a land of castles and mansions that will make you feel as if you’ve stepped into a fairy tale. Only a stone’s throw away from urban centres, you’ll find green oases such as parks, botanic gardens and arboretums.   Explore  

6. Green story of Slovenia

  In Slovenia, we are committed to sustainability. For generations we’ve lived and worked in harmony with nature and strive to preserve it for our descendants. Here, you can still find age-old forests, crystal clear waters, pristine corners and exceptional biodiversity. The most sustainable destinations are awarded the Slovenia Green label.   Explore  

7. Top destination for foodies

  Slovenia is a country where the link between sustainably and locally grown produce and the extraordinary creativity of renowned chefs plays an important role. Slovenian restaurants have impressed culinary connoisseurs and have been awarded Michelin stars and Gault&Millau chef’s hats. Slovenian wines also rank among the best in the world. What is sustainable Slovenian cuisine like? Choose your own way of discovering the flavours of Slovenia and embark on an exciting culinary journey.   Visit website Taste Slovenia  

8. Top attractions

  It’s difficult to select the most iconic sites, since treasures can be found in the Alpine Slovenia, Thermal Pannonian Slovenia, Central Slovenia with Ljubljana, Mediterranean and Karst Slovenia … but you must certainly add the following sites to your travel list. From the amazing Alpine lake to the mysterious underground world, the UNESCO heritage sites to the oldest vine in the world – explore the grandest jewels of Slovenia.   Explore  

9. Slovenia Unique Experiences

  Boutique, authentic, unique. Learn about the most unique stories and experiences that you won’t find anywhere else in the world. Be inspired by 5-star boutique experiences embellished with the Slovenia Unique Experiences label, where Slovenia’s originality can be experienced in an unforgettable way with all your senses. In your own way.   Explore  

10. Comfortable accommodation: from 5-star hotels to glamping

  From luxury hotels to tourist farms, boutique castle chambers to campsites in the middle of pristine nature. Anyone can find their perfect place to spend the night in Slovenia. Hospitality of farms offering accommodation will attract families with children and 5-star hotels will cater for the most demanding guests. Those in love with nature can spend the night at unique glamping sites, while active hikers can rest their aching feet at specialised hiking and cycling accommodation facilities. If travelling by motorhome, you will find an extensive network of well-maintained stops around Slovenia. What will you choose?   Explore  

  There are many reasons why Slovenia should be on your travel wish list this year but a packed programme of festivals, traditions and live music is reason enough to visit this beautiful country.   These colourful events will allow visitors to experience the vibrant cultural scene as well as getting a flavour of charming Slovenian customs - these are especially important when it comes to Shrovetide celebrations.   Shrovetide in Slovenia represents the bridge between winter and spring and the timings of the annual celebrations depend on the date of Easter. These fun events are usually seen as a last chance for indulgence and merriment before the solemn Lenten period.   Kicking off the season is Kurentovanje which takes place in Ptuj. Often described as the Slovenian version of the Mardi Gras, Kurentovanje has been hailed as one of the best carnivals in the world alongside those in Venice, Rio and New Orleans! This spring festival is celebrated in the lead up to Ash Wednesday. The fun is already underway but runs through until Shrove Tuesday on February 21. Among the colourful masks you will find the outstanding Ptuj originals – the Kurenti. They are accompanied by other traditional characters such as orači (ploughmen), pokači (whip-crackers), kopjaši (spearsmen), ploharji (log-haulers), and other carnival masks.The programme includes exciting events such as The Opening of Kurent’s House, The Intercontinental Meeting of Traditional Carnival Characters and Masks, City Carnival Parade, Shrove Tuesday and The Carnival Farewell.   Another town where visitors can join in the celebrations is Cerknica which has one of the most fun parades and features giant-sized masks of Ursula the Witch, Jezerko the Lake Man, a giant pike fish, a dragon and more.   And don’t miss the Shrovetide celebrations in and around Ljubljana, especially the Ljubljana Dragon Carnival. This family friendly event is suitable for all ages and brings magic to the streets of the capital city. A true spectacle.   A delightful new festival has also been introduced for 2023. LUV Fest will run from February 8 until March 12 (St Gregory’s Day and the Slovenian version of Valentine’s Day), transforming Ljubljana into one of the most romantic destinations at this time of year - as if it wasn’t dreamy enough! The festival is a celebration of the simple pleasures of love, art and wandering - featuring guided tours, workshops, concerts, exhibitions and performances. Visitors can admire light installations around the city, take pictures of all the pretty spots and enjoy good food.   Special events and hospitality packages have been devised for locals and visitors alike to embrace and enjoy LUV Fest.   As the year progresses, visitors can expect an impressive array of cultural events.  The busy schedule has something for everyone and will really hit the spot with music lovers, history buffs, foodies and theatre fans. The top line-up of music events covers a wide range of genres from jazz to classical and heavy metal! For the full calendar of summer festivals click here    Among the 2023 cultural highlights are: February Ljubljana Festival (Winter) runs into March March International Festival of Chilli and Chocolate, Maribor April Radovljica Chocolate Festival May Young Virtuosi International Music Cycle June Maribor Theatre Festival July Bled Days Summer Festival August International Puppet Festival   Issued on behalf of The Slovenian Tourist Board. For more information visit: https://www.slovenia.info/en

  With the 2023 IBU World Cup Biathlon just finished in Pokljuka, Slovenia once again takes centre stage in the world sporting calendar.   Slovenia will play host to top flight competitions, showcasing the country as a world-class outdoor sporting destination. The season has already started and will continue with World Cup alpine skiing, biathlon, cross-country skiing, snowboarding and ski jumping, culminating in the FIS Nordic World Ski Championships in Planica, the biggest sports event in Slovenia’s history!   If you’re a big fan of active pursuits and Slovenia has made it on to your 2023 travel wishlist, don’t worry if you can’t attend any of the events, you can always book an adventure holiday at a time that suits you.  All year round, the list of outdoor sports and activities on offer is a huge draw for visitors looking for an action-packed holiday set against a backdrop of some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world.   An active break in Slovenia ticks all the boxes for discerning travellers. Choose from family-friendly ski holidays, hiking, biking  and adrenaline fuelled adventures.   If you’re planning an imminent getaway, winter sports fans can get in on the action. The country has one of the longest traditions of skiing in Europe and the country’s ski resorts are well known for their impeccably maintained slopes, alongside some of the best-value skiing in the Alps. It is also very accessible, with the majority of ski resorts less than one hour from the airport making Slovenia one of the most convenient destinations for a winter break.   Or, if spring or summer is your preferred season, the choice of things to do is just as exciting as the weather heats up. Slovenia and active holidays go hand in hand and you’ll never be bored, that’s for sure.  If you’re craving that ultimate adrenaline rush, go for some rafting river action or spread your wings and descend from one of the Slovenian peaks with a day’s paragliding. Or if you want to combine your passion for hiking, climbing and swimming, get involved with some canyoning as this sport ticks all three boxes!   Or, for anyone who fancies a shot at abseiling, there’s the chance to experience the beauty of the Krn mountains. This new activity has been added to the Slovenia Unique Experiences offering. Visitors can get the chance to abseil down a vertical wall to a suspended platform where they can take in magnificent views while enjoying gourmet food.   Slovenia is fast-becoming the go-to destination for hikers too and it’s easy to see why.   Pohorje is an ideal starting point for visitors wanting to explore Eastern Slovenia. Ski slopes, hiking and mountain trails are plentiful in this beautiful pocket of the country. Close to Maribor, visitors can explore the natural wonder of the Pohorje mountains, yet still be conveniently close to the city. And, for  capturing some of the most jaw-dropping scenery, a trip to the Lovrenska lakes is a must. Be at one with nature with a hike along the gentle meadows and peat bog pools and be rewarded with outstanding views.   And if you want to get on your bike and pedal through the beauty of Slovenia, go for the Green Wellness Cycling Route, a 16-day cycling route that connects with the best Slovenian spas and natural health resorts along the way.   With so much to do in Slovenia, it is the top choice for anyone seeking an active holiday. You’ll make memories to last a lifetime. Last but certainly not least, Slovenia is one of the safest, greenest and most sustainable destinations in the world.

  The Slovenian Tourist Board has launched a brand new Green Wellness Cycling Route, a 16-day cycling plan that circles the country’s diverse landscapes and connects with the best Slovenian spas and natural health resorts along the way. The daily stages are designed to leave plenty of time for relaxation and pampering, perfect for unwinding tired muscles after a day cycling through beautiful landscapes and to rejuvenate your mind and body.   The circular route begins in the capital of Slovenia, Ljubljana, before heading north, towards the Kamnik-Savinja Alps. As the landscape flattens, the route runs through Štajerska to the mountains above the Pannonian Plain. The final part of the route leads to unique locations such as Kozjansko Regional Park, also known as the "Slovenian Venice” and Otočec Castle, which sits picturesque in the middle of the Krka River. Throughout the route cyclists will experience the good-hearted and hospitable locals, offering hearty and wonderful gastronomic delights.   The total length of the Green Wellness Cycling Route is a vast 680km but don’t worry, cyclists do not need to complete it all at once. The route has been split up into 16 individual stages with an average length of 40km each. Combine the journey with trains or plan a weekend trip to include parts of the route then discover the rest at your convenience. With over 500 attractions marked on the new Slovenia Green Wellness Route, participants can get to know the true character of Slovenia. Use the handy route map for a complete navigational package and daily detailed descriptions of places to sleep, eat and sights to see.   The Slovenia Green Wellness Route is new, but it is not the first Slovenia Green cycling tour. It boasts a whole bunch of “sister” routes. They have in common exploring green destinations and visiting green service providers in the most sustainable way – by bike.