WHY IT'S DIFFERENT?
Explore the picture-perfect mountains, green pastures and colourful Venetian coastal towns, all accompanied by the delicious flavours of Slovenia.
Great Outdoors
A paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with breathtaking landscapes, from the majestic Julian Alps to the turquoise Soča River. Perfect for hiking, skiing, cycling, rafting and much more so you're bound to work up an appetite.
Culinary Flavours
Slovenian cuisine is a unique blend of Central European, Mediterranean, and Balkan influences. It features dishes such as jota, strudel, and štruklji, with a focus on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
Ljubljana
The capital of Slovenia is a charming and picturesque city with a vibrant cultural scene, rich history, stunning architecture, delicious cuisine, and easy access to nature. Always a highlight and we guarantee you won't want to leave!
Truffle Hunting
Learn about the art of hunting truffles in the forest. From attaining the permits, and training the dogs to learning how to cook with truffles. Then fill yourself with a delicious truffle-themed homestead meal with warm Slovenia hospitality.
“The scenery is just beautiful, the caves spectacular, all the culinary activities were delicious and such fun and the people were so polite and friendly."
Nadia
YOUR EXPERIENCE
This adventure is packed full of discovery from the incredible contrasting scenery to the flavours of these distinctly different regions. Your journey starts in the quaint colourful capital, Ljubljana where you'll have the opportunity to walk the cobbled streets and people-watch in one of the many cute cafes. You'll then travel deep into the lush green rolling hills of the Slovenian countryside, learning about the local herb culture and how to have the perfect cup of tea! You'll then get to travel up to the Big Pasture via chair lift which showcases some incredible traditional rural setting with breathtaking views. You'll then travel to the medieval town of Kamnik which is the centre of the country's craft beer production, there you'll visit the biggest brewery and of course, have a tasting. The following day you'll get to marvel at the famous Lake Bled and its idyllic setting before taking the scenic drive through Triglav National Park. You'll stop for lunch and have the opportunity to walk the Tolmin Gorges circuit before continuing on to Vipava Valley and finishing your day with wine tasting. Then you'll have a guided tour through the country's most famous UNESCO-protected caves, Skocjan, which even has its own river. Next, you'll be taken for olive oil tasting and a picnic lunch in the olive groves on the highest cliff on the Slovenian coastline offering spectacular views of the Adriatic. Spend the afternoon wandering around the colourful coastal town of Piran before your Truffle Hunting excursion where you'll learn about the process and then have a delicious truffle-themed homestead dinner. The next day you'll be transferred back to Ljubljana for another night in the capital or for your flight home!
YOUR EXPERTS
James
The Brains Behind the Operation - Meet James
Cristina
The Vibrant One - Meet Cristina
NEED TO KNOW
DESTINATION | Slovenia |
DURATION | 4 nights |
GROUP SIZE | 8 people |
ASSISTANCE | Hands on |
AIRPORT(S) | Ljubljana |
FLIGHTS | For details of flights from the UK please see the Trip Details section. |
VISA | UK, EU & US not required |
VACCINATIONS | None |
Once you've arrived, been transferred to your hotel and checked in, you'll then have the opportunity to explore the colourful and charming old town of Slovenia's capital.
For foodies, you'll have the opportunity to eat at Strelec Restaurant, Ljubljana's Michelin-star restaurant (subject to availability).
INCLUDED
OPTIONAL EXTRAS
After breakfast, you'll check out of your hotel and then travel into the foothills of the Slovenia mountains and enjoy some of Slovenia's most picturesque scenery. You'll stop at the Gornji Grad, a gorgeous little town reminiscent of something straight out of the Sound of Music! There you'll learn about all the benefits of herbs from their medicinal uses, to making incense and of course the perfect cup of tea.
Then you'll travel to the spectacular "Veliko Planino" which translates as the Big Pasture Plateau for lunch. Accessible by cable car, it offer's an insight into the more traditional rural countryside with shepherd's huts and breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Once you've come down from Veliko Planino then you'll head to the pretty medieval town of Kamnik and the epicentre of Slovenia's craft beer scene where you'll visit one of the local breweries and of course, have a tasting. Finally, you'll be taken to your accommodation where you'll have the rest of the evening at your leisure.
For foodies, you'll have the opportunity to eat at Hisa Linhart for dinner, a local Michelin-star restaurant (subject to availability).
INCLUDED
OPTIONAL EXTRAS
After a morning exploring and marvelling at the natural beauty of Lake Bled with its castle and church. Then you'll travel the famed scenic mountain drive through Triglav National Park with photo stops along the way.
Then you'll stop at Tolmin where you'll stop for lunch and a walk around the Tolmin Gorge circuit. Alternatively, those that wish to, you can opt out of this and have the opportunity to eat at Hisa Franko for lunch, the country's only two Michelin-star restaurant (subject to availability).
After lunch, you'll be taken to Vipava Wine Valley to finish the day wine tasting as the sun sets.
INCLUDED
OPTIONAL EXTRAS
After breakfast, you'll be transferred to the impressive UNESCO-protected Skocjan Caves for a guided tour. Then you'll travel the short distance to the coastline with its many olive groves for your picnic and olive oil tasting.
Once your lunch has settled you'll travel to Slovenia's prettiest coastal town of Piran for a coffee and a wander. Once the time comes, you'll finally be transferred to the location of your truffle-hunting excursion before enjoying a rustic truffle-themed homestead dinner with your passionate and welcoming host.
Alternatively, should you wish to you can skip dinner to have the opportunity to eat at Cob for dinner, a local Michelin-star restaurant (subject to availability).
INCLUDED
OPTIONAL EXTRAS
A selection of our accommodation, which is subject to availability, however alternatives are always of a similar price, grade and location.
Ljubljana
Slovenia
You'll be staying a stone's throw from the heart of the quaint old town which will allow you to easily explore the sights, restaurants and bars on foot.
Typical Accommodation: Hotel Mrak, Hotel Park or similar
Bled
Slovenia
Your lodging is short walk from Lake Bled as well as a number of viewpoints which offer panoramic views of the lake against the back drop of the mountains.
Typical Accommodation: Vila Alpina, Penzion Kaps or similar
Istra Region
Slovenia
Conveniently situated in the Istra region allowing you to explore all the local culinary activities, the UNESCO caves and the pretty coastline.
Typical Accommodation: Hotel Grahor, Domacija pri Damjanu or similar
WHERE YOU'RE GOING
Slovenia, a small and picturesque country nestled in the heart of Europe, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. With its stunning natural beauty, from the snow-capped peaks of the Julian Alps to the emerald waters of the Adriatic Sea, Slovenia is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. But it's not just the landscape that makes Slovenia special - its rich cultural heritage, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality make it a destination like no other. Visit the charming capital city of Ljubljana, explore the medieval towns of Piran and Bled, or go hiking in the Triglav National Park - there's something for everyone in this enchanting country.
FAST FACTS
CAPITAL | |
POPULATION | |
CURRENCY | |
TIME DIFFERENCE |
“If you have the time then we'd highly recommend an additional night in Ljubljana, especially if your flights arrive late or leave early”
Cristina
Extend Your Trip
If you have the time to spare then we highly recommend an extra night in Ljubljana, Slovenia's impossibly quaint capital city. We can organise some downtime in one of the many tranquil areas of the country.
Getting to Slovenia
Flight connections to Ljubljana from the UK are plentiful, especially outside of London. However, you can fly to Trieste in Italy or Zagreb in Croatia both of which are near Slovenia and offer good transport connections.
Pack for all Seasons
We recommend checking the weather before packing but it's best to pack for all seasons as the weather can be unpredictable in the mountains in particular and it can also get cold in the Skocjan caves.
Book in Advance
Slovenia has a blossoming restaurant scene with eight Michelin-star restaurants and one two Michelin-star restaurant. We highly recommend you book your restaurants in advance to avoid disappointment.
As a tour operator we are not able to offer inclusive flights as part of our experiences however we are more than happy to help you find the most appropriate incoming and outgoing flights for you. All the listed airports fly directly in and out of Bucharest with multiple different airlines to choose from. We highly recommend using Skyscanner to find the cheapest flights.
Unfortunately, there are no other direct flights from the UK to Slovenia, however, we can also cater for Trieste and Zagreb. We are happy to assist with private transfers (extra fee) or offer direction on how to get to Ljubljana independently.
INSURANCE
In order to be fully covered on your trip should anything happen, we suggest getting an insurance before you travel. We recommend True Traveller, designed especially for adventure travel, who will be able to tailor an insurance package based on your needs. You can find out more here.
SOLO TRAVELLERS
Our prices are based on people sharing, for solo travellers who would prefer a private room the price per person will include a solo occupancy fee.
EXTRA NIGHTS
If you wish we can also organise extra nights at either end of your trip for you.
Book your trip in a few easy steps.
The easiest option is to head to a cash machine once you’ve landed in Slovenia to withdraw funds.
If you want to get hold of euros beforehand, head to an exchange bureau in the UK when the euro is readily available. You can also purchase currency online and collect it from your local post office or even have it delivered straight to your door. Ordering currency online with the Post Office is commission-free and available for next-day delivery. Obviously, the more you buy the better rate you’ll receive.
Most major credit and debit cards (Visa and Mastercard) are accepted throughout Slovenia’s main towns. Cash machines are widely available throughout the country, so withdrawing money should pose no problem. It is always advisable to inform your bank that you’re travelling abroad in order to avoid the frustration of having your card blocked.
As a general rule, you’ll be able to have a good lunch for around £10 a head and will pay around £15 a head for a nice evening meal. Naturally, the type of establishment you choose to eat in and what you order will dictate the cost of your meals. Be aware that ordering imported drinks can cause your bill to skyrocket so drinking local wines, beers or spirits is advisable. We reckon around £100 for lunch, drinks and snacks for two people is plenty. Please note that these are rough estimates and you can always choose to spend more or less depending on your budget and preferences.
Spring: Spring is typically a lovely time to visit Slovenia as it’s beautifully lush green with the flowers starting to bloom making it a great time to hike and enjoy the outdoors. Rafting is at its best in May due to the fast-flowing water from the snow melting in the mountains. Less crowded and largely sunny and dry with the occasional rain.
Summer: Naturally summer is the most reliable period for weather but it does bring the crowds. You can expect mostly sunny, blue skies which ensure you see this picturesque country at its very best. If you like socialising the crowds do bring a holiday atmosphere to the whole country.
Autumn: September is generally one of the driest months of the year and travelling outside of the school holidays means it is less crowded. Sunny, dry with occasional rain. Towards the end of October and November you can expect lower temperatures. It is also a very tranquil time to come and visit the country with only small crowds reserved for the likes of Lake Bled. Occasional rain but you can also expect some crisp days with blue skies.
You can always contact the UTP team on +44 207 101 4061 or [email protected]. Before you travel, you will also receive a personalised itinerary with the contact details of the local manager in Romania should there be any problems. Your guide will be on hand throughout the trip as well, so you're in safe hands.
Our digital booklet, which you will receive before travel, contains all the information you need about optional activities. Simply drop us an email letting us know what you'd like to do during your trip, and we'll take care of the rest. Please note that the payment for the optional activities will be taken locally in cash.
Alongside standard luggage, we recommend clients bring a smaller bag and transfer essential items into it for the overnight stay at Velika Planina, as it can be difficult carrying the bulky suitcases on the chair lift. The big suitcases will remain locked in the car overnight, so ensure you take any valuables with you up the mountain.