You might be wondering, where is Slovenia? It is in Central Europe and bordered by Austria, Croatia, Hungary and Italy. We actually started our trip in Venice. After a little over 2 hours by car, we arrived at our first destination in Slovenia which was along the Adriatic Sea. There are so many things to share with you about my trip but I am saving most of that for next week. Today, I want to highlight things about this country and hopefully inspire you to add Slovenia to your bucket list!
Slovania is Magical
The one word that I kept thinking for our entire trip was MAGIC … beautiful or delightful in such a way as to seem removed from everyday life
Slovenia is small in size but mighty in what it has to offer. The distance from north to south is approximately 101 miles and west to east is 154 miles. You can travel anywhere from the sea to the mountains in a short time. You will see amazing natural beauty and wildlife as 60% of the country is wooded. One third of the country is protected land which makes it one of the highest in the world. There are almost 19 miles of water sources including rivers and streams.
Fun fact, we drank water directly from one of the streams and it was the best water I have ever tasted (it was actually on the Croatia side ~ so shhhhh!)
Within its borders, you will find mountains, plateaus, ridges, lowlands, plains, hills, valleys, coast, complete with ports, castles and even caves. There is truly something for everyone to do and see while visiting.
Guessing your eyes went straight to the picture on the left. So I must talk about the gorgeous blue water which is worthy of hundreds of pictures ~ Lake Bled. Depending on the time of year and weather, the water really is that blue. We were blessed, no editing needed!
Lake Bled is in the Julian Alps and adjoins the town of Bled, Slovenia. It surrounds Bled Island which is best reached by a traditional wooden boat called a pletna. Upon arriving at the island, you will see many steps to reach the top, 99 steps to be exact. At the top, you will find the Church of the Mother of God on the Lake.
There is a small entry fee to see inside the church and make a wish by ringing the wishing bell.
Fun fact, it is a tradition and good luck for the groom to carry the bride up all the steps on their wedding day before ringing the bell and making a wish inside the church.
Bled Castle is the oldest medieval castle in Slovenia and overlooks Lake Bled. There are incredible views, an excellent restaurant, a museum, a cellar and the famous Bled Cream Cake.
To be completely honest, there is another magical spot near Lake Bled that stole my heart, Lake Bohinj. This is the largest permanent lake in Slovenia. It was created by glaciers. The water temperature reaches 75 degrees in the summer and freezes during the winter months. There are many activities to do in and around Lake Bohinj:
- Swimming in designated areas
- Ride a boat for a fee (one-way or round-trip)
- Personal boat navigation is allowed at certain entry / exit points
- Kayak or Canoe
- Fishing by boat or shore with one line and a permit
- Snorkel
- Walk the path that goes along the shore (many fish to see)
- Occasionally, you can ice-skate in the winter
- Cannot forget the Vogel
- Cable Car Ride to the TOP
I could keep going but this is late getting out! However, I did not miss bringing the Weekly Explorer to each of you! I will share a few of my favorite mom, daughter pictures! Our new friends in Slovenia now know “Go Pack”! I love that as travel advisors we can make special surprises happen because of our relationships ~ like a gorgeous cake!
are you ready to explore more?
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