Slovenia’s Great Outdoors

Proudly one of Europe’s greenest capitals; Ljubljana offers up colourful and delightfully varied architecture that seems to coexist seamlessly with the swathes of greenery that adorn its cityscape. Sliced through by the emerald Ljubljanica River, whose banks are lined with quaint cafes and bars; the city is almost too ‘picture perfect’ to be believed, making it an ideal spot to begin your adventure in wild Slovenia. Landing into the city’s airport, you’ll be met by your private driver and whisked off to your centrally located hotel. Upon arrival, you’ll check-in and enjoy a welcome drink with your group before heading out into the city. Tonight you’ll get to know each other over four local dishes (and some delicious wines) at three different restaurants, all of them recommended by locals in the know. Afterwards, it’ll be time to wind your way to the city’s vibrant riverfront bars. Just remember there’s a big day outdoors tomorrow…

This morning you’ll have a few hours to explore the city together at your own pace. The Old Town, with its cobbled streets and piazza cafes is particularly lovely, and the picturesque hilltop castle is definitely worth exploring. Before you know it, it’ll be time for your transfer to Lake Bohinj. Located in Triglav National Park in the heart of the Julian Alps, Bohinj is rich in forests and boasts Slovenia’s highest mountain peaks (as well as the country’s largest lake). Amongst all this natural beauty, you’ll canyon through the soaring Bohinj Valley, swimming, climbing and abseiling through a hidden network of caves and mountain streams, cheering each other on as you go. Afterwards, your private transfer will take you to the iconic Lake Bled. Here, the rest of the afternoon and evening is yours. Spend your time hiking around the lake to gorgeous viewpoints, or simply relax at your high-end waterfront hotel.

With a turreted church peeking out from its central island and the vast mountains unfolding around you, Lake Bled is a region of old-world beauty – and a fantastic location for some stand-up paddleboarding. As you paddle across its shimmering waters, you’ll be aiming for the breathtaking central island. Here, as an optional extra, you can climb 99 steps to see the ancient church and clock tower (or you can just relax with an ice cream). Then, after some free time for lunch and local exploring at your own pace, Slovenian wine tasting will be calling. Fast becoming a real contender on the world stage, Slovenia’s wine-growing regions produce wines with a beautiful range of delicate notes. After your wine-tasting experience on the shores of Lake Bled, your final night dinner on the terrace of Bled Castle awaits. Expect four courses of Slovenian perfection, views out across the lake and something sparkling on arrival. That’s one way to end an adventure.

Today marks the end of your whirlwind, outdoorsy European escape, and hasn’t it been a great one? From food touring to wine tasting, canyoning to SUP and plenty of moments to breathe it all in at your own pace; your first taste of Slovenia might not be your last…

Keen to see more of Europe? We’ve got a few more trips that might pique your interest. Discover them here.