Our 2 week Slovenia road trip was one of our favorite trips we’ve taken. The country is full of delicious food, beautiful scenery, and varied cultures. Read below for a complete list of Slovenia’s most beautiful destinations.
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Ljubljana
Slovenia’s capital city is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Stroll the beautiful pedestrian streets or take the funicular to the Ljubljana Castle for stunning city views. Plan your visit on a Friday for Open Kitchen- a food market showcasing Slovenia’s best restaurants.
Skocjan Caves
The UNESCO listed Skocjan Caves are absolutely breathtaking. While photos aren’t permitted inside, it’s a site you won’t soon forget. After a short walk to the cave entrance, you explore the Silent Cave, or the dry part of the cave. Although beautiful, this section was similar to other caves we have explored. Then, you begin to hear a river as you enter the Murmuring Cave. A wooden drawbridge crosses 150 feet above the river.
Overall, the cave is beautifully lit and truly an incredible site. At the end, you have an option to hike out of the cave’s crater or take an elevator. While this cave does involve a bit of walking, it is manageable for most people with good mobility, including children.
Skocjan Caves is an easy drive from Ljubljana. If you won’t have a car, it can be visited on a tour.
Predjama Castle
A castle built into a cave. This unique site is a great stop for lunch or a snack. We chose not to visit the inside of the castle, but there are incredible views from the cafes in the area. Expect to walk about 10 minutes from the parking lot.
This site can be paired with the Skocjan Caves as a day trip from Ljubljana or Piran. If you will not have a car, tours are available.
Velika Planina
Take an adventure to a herders’ settlement high above the tree line in the Alps. First, ride a cable car to a chair lift, and then take a short (30 minute) hike to the herders’ settlement. Hike down into the settlement and among the homes before looping back to the chairlift to head home.
Tips:
- Google maps can be tricky in Slovenia. Be sure to navigate to the Velika Planina Cable Car.
- Bring a jacket and sunscreen. The mountain is cold and exposed.
- Grab lunch at the restaurant near the chairlift. Service is poor and the food is average, but the views are incredible.
Zelenci Nature Reserve
Our favorite stop along the Vrsic Pass between Lake Bled and the Soca River Valley! This charming nature reserve features incredible mountain views and crystal blue waters. The walk is short- only about 15 minutes- and there is only one trail. Parking is available at the trailhead.
Vintgar Gorge
Walk through a gorge and enjoy blue water and beautiful limestone cliffs. Arrive early to see the gorge before the crowds arrive. This is an out and back trail, with some of the most beautiful sites at the beginning. If your little ones have less stamina, it’s still worth a visit- just turn around when your family is ready. Strollers are not advised.
Lake Bled
Take the pedestrian path around this beautiful lake to get up close views of the island in the middle. If you choose to rent a boat, walk to the other side of the lake, near the camping beach. Ultimately, this makes your paddle to the island much, much shorter.
For the best views, hike to the Ojstrica viewpoint. This is a steep hike and can be slippery- it is not recommended for small children.
After your hike, grab some gelato at the camping beach. These innovative flavors were delicious, and there is nothing like savoring your gelato and taking in the views of the island.
Soca River Valley
The Soca River Valley has the bluest water you’ve ever seen.
There is a terrific hike leaving from the Kobarid Museum. This 4.7 mile loop trail involves quite a bit of climbing. While we hiked the full Kobarid historic trail, the highlight was the end portion near the Kozjak waterfall. For a shorter excursion, park at the Kozjak trailhead and hike to the waterfall- you will see historic World War I sites, a bridge over the Soca River, and a waterfall in a limestone amphitheater.
For a bit more adventure, try a rafting trip on the Soca River.
Logar Valley
Visit the Logar Valley to really escape Slovenia’s tourist route. This stunning valley looks like Yosemite Valley, but without the crowds. Stay at a tourist farm, visit Rinka Waterfall, and drive the Solcava Panoramic Road. For more details on a visit to this hidden gem, check out our post on the Logar Valley.
Protect Your Trip
If the COVID-19 pandemic has taught us anything, it is that insurance is necessary to protect our travel investments and keep our family safe on the road. Depending on the policy that you choose, travel insurance can protect your family in the event of medical emergencies and canceled trips. It also takes the sting out of minor trip mishaps, such as lost baggage and delayed flights. Check out Squaremouth to compare plans and choose one that fits your family.
Visiting Slovenia? Check out these other posts:
- Traveling to Slovenia- The Complete One Week Itinerary
- Complete Guide to the Stunning Logar Valley
- How to Have a Great Flight with a Baby
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