The 'sweet life' in Western Slovenia

Route

This journey takes you through western Slovenia, from Lakes Bled and Bohinj to Triglav National Park and the Soča Valley, before continuing to wine regions, the coast and Ljubljana.

Pace

Days blend nature and culture with time for gastronomy and relaxation, featuring easy distances and a smooth, enjoyable rhythm.

Highlights

Crystal-clear Lake Bled, Triglav National Park, the Soča Valley, the Brda wine region, the Lipica stud farm, Piran and a stylish finale in Ljubljana.

Accommodation

You stay in carefully selected Caractère hotels, well located to explore nature, towns and wine regions in comfort.

Profile

Perfect for travellers who enjoy natural beauty, fine wines and gastronomy, and want to experience Slovenia’s gentle, Mediterranean side alongside culture and tranquillity.

Day 1: Departure to Bled or Ljubljana

Your trip starts in Bled; how you get there is up to you. You can take the car and drive to Bled, or take the plane to Ljubljana. Do you choose the latter option? Then pick up your rental car before the adventure can begin. Your first two nights in the Slovenian Alps will be spent in a Caractère hotel. We will be happy to map out the best route for you together!

Day 2: Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj

Day 2 introduces you to the famous Lake Bled, with its imposing castle and its islet with the baroque Assumption of Virgin Mary Church. Thanks to the mild climate and hot springs, the water here is already around 23°C in June and it is possible to swim in the lake until early October. The 4-kilometre-long crystal-clear Lake Bohinj is the place to be for nature lovers and hikers, unspoilt and surrounded by steep mountains of over 2,000 metres.

Day 3: The Triglav National Park and the Soča Valley

Next, hike through the impressive Triglav National Park, via the Vršič Pass and the pleasant village of Bovec to one of the Alps' most beautiful valleys, the Soča Valley. A visit to the Museum of Kobarid gives a great insight into the 'greatest mountain battle of all time' on the Isonzo Front, described by Ernest Hemingway in 'A Farewell to Arms'. To fully explore this beautiful region, stay four nights at one of our hotels.

Day 4: The Tuscany Of Slovenia

The Brda region is one of Slovenia's most untouched wine regions and is renowned for 'sweet living', not only for its cherries and gastronomy, but especially for its excellent wines. As a result, the region is also known as the Tuscany of Slovenia. For those interested in history, you can visit the strategic sites from WWI. Other fun attractions include the pretty towns on the other side of the border with Italy such as Cividale del Friuli, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Day 5: Lipica and Trieste

Continue your journey with a visit to the stud farm of the famous Lipizzaners, a beautiful and strong breed of horses. Then explore the captivating port city of Trieste, birthplace of Illy coffee and shopping paradise for former Yugoslavs, with its 'Piazza dell' Unità' - one of Italy's largest squares by the sea - and the upper 'Piazza del Cattedrale'. Make sure to take a break in one of the many historic coffee houses where you can enjoy a delicious cup of coffee.

Day 6: Beautiful Piran and its salt pans

Portorož is a popular seaside resort, but it is mainly the charming Piran that will enchant you. Next, visit the Secovlje salt pans, where the 'fleur de sel' is world-famous.

Day 7: The caves of Postonje

The adventure continues through the 20-kilometre-long caves of Postojnska. You can partially traverse these by train. For those who can't get enough of this beautiful natural phenomenon, there are also the less crowded and more rugged caves of Škocjanske Jama. Continue your journey to Ljubljana, where you will stay for two nights.

Day 8: Beautiful Ljubljana

End your trip with a relaxing day in beautiful Ljubljana and explore this university town with its numerous bars and top restaurants. Don't forget to visit the lovely shopping centre.

Day 9: Going home

Your trip is unfortunately over. After returning your rental car, if applicable, you fly or drive back home with a suitcase full of wonderful memories. Don't feel like returning home yet? Caractère is happy to arrange a few more nights for you to stay.