The Balkan Peninsula is the cradle of not only many cultures, but also civilizations. It attracts tourists from all over the world with its unique identity, natural beauty, warm Adriatic Sea, thermal springs and resorts, rich history and amazing gastronomy.
Against the background of other countries of the peninsula, holidays in Slovenia can hardly be called popular, but this makes it acquire its own special charm. There are not a huge number of tourists and advertised places, but silence and solitude are everywhere. The resorts are affordable and great for families with children, young or old couples.
About country
The ancestors of Slovenes lived in the modern territory of the country already in the 6th century. After another hundred years, they formed one of the first Slavic states - Carantia. Later it fell apart and in different years was under the protectorate of the Franks, was part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The independence of the country was proclaimed relatively recently - in 1991. Now it is a developing state withwith a population of just over 2 million people.
Geographic location is one of the main advantages that Slovenia can be proud of. Recreation here can be very diverse: from active sports to exclusively recreational. The country is located in the Alpine-Danube region, bounded in the northwest by the majestic Alps, in the northeast by the Pannonian Plain, in the south by the Dinaric Highlands and the Adriatic Sea in the west. The mild climate, the abundance of beech, coniferous, oak forests (more than half of the entire territory), combined with a rich historical and cultural heritage - all this creates ideal conditions for a comfortable stay.
It is hardly possible to tell in one article about all the resorts in Slovenia, where holidays are possible all year round. Therefore, we draw your attention to the most popular and interesting places.
Portorož – port of roses
This is exactly what the name of this resort city, the most famous in Slovenia, sounds like in Italian. Portorož is located near the capital (145 km). You can get to it from Ljubljana by plane and bus. Around it is surrounded by the small village of Lucia, the medieval city of Piran and, of course, the sea. An interesting fact is that the only Thai medicine salon in the country and a thalassotherapy center receive guests here. If you choose sightseeing, beach holidays and treatment in Slovenia, then Portorož is perfect for this, harmoniously combining all these aspects.
The climate of the resort town is similar to the Crimean one: with mild and snowless winters,dry and not too hot in summer. One of the main advantages is the presence of a bulk municipal sandy beach. Most of the city's hotels are located opposite it.
Portorož has been known as a medical resort since the 13th century, when healing s alt was found by Benedictine monks. Modern medical centers of the city use it to this day, as well as mother and s alt water, therapeutic sea mud and thermal mineral water. If your holiday in Slovenia includes Portorož, then you should be aware of the indications for visiting this resort. Experts recommend choosing it for people with problems of the musculoskeletal system, skin, respiratory, gynecological and neurological diseases, as well as in case of overexertion, chronic fatigue.
Piran
A delightful provincial town on the Adriatic coast can be safely called an open-air museum surrounded by magnificent natural landscapes. For tourists, it is especially attractive with examples of medieval architecture (mostly Venetian) and proximity to the border with neighboring Italy and Croatia. Numerous sightseeing and shopping tours will diversify your vacation and give you a lot of impressions.
Slovenia, where holidays are gradually gaining popularity, is small in area, but this gives a very pleasant opportunity - an independent trip through it. So, you can get from the capital to Piran in just 2-2.5 hours by bus, and then lay a route to the nearest settlements (Koper and Isola) or to beautiful Venice, because inthe city has a port. If you choose a beach holiday in Slovenia, then let it be a beautiful and ancient Piran.
Koper
The small resort town is next to Piran on the country's Adriatic coast. With a length of 30 km along it, it is the largest in terms of population. Once upon a time there was an ancient settlement of Aegis in its place, and it received its modern name from the Roman Caprice. The city reached its heyday during the Venetian Republic, becoming the largest port in this region. Since then, the most significant and recognizable monument of architecture has been preserved - the Pretoria Palace, erected in 1464 - a monument of Venetian Gothic. The oldest building is the Rotunda of the Ascension (12th century). It is here that one can especially see how closely connected Italy and Slovenia are. Holidays in Koper pleasantly combines a historical and cultural program, clean beaches and excellent gastronomy. The city hosts a large number of folklore and music festivals.
Isola
Seaside provincial town with developed infrastructure is ready to receive tourists all year round. It is interesting that earlier it was a small island, and only in the 19th century it was connected by an artificial isthmus to the mainland. Izola's economy is based on tourism, fishing and related industrial processing of seafood.
If you choose Slovenia for your vacation, Izola is a recommended place to organize a vacation with young children, a quiet and peaceful town with a rich history and an excellent beach. ExceptIn addition, this place is perfect for yachtsmen and windsurfers. The basis of transport communication is the sea station. From it you can easily get to other European cities, including the nearest Venice.
He alth holidays in Slovenia reviews among vacationers are extremely positive. In terms of the quality of infrastructure, treatment options and effect, the country's resorts are in no way inferior to recognized world standards. So, Rogaška Slatina, which will be discussed below, is a thermal water with a worldwide reputation.
Rogaška Slatina
Located in the eastern part of the country, 82 km from Ljubljana, the balneological resort city is known worldwide for its medicinal water, intended mainly for drinking courses - Donat Mg.
The Slatina Valley has been known since Roman times, as evidenced by the excavations of an ancient road that once ran from Rogatec to Lemberg. At the same time, presumably, the healing waters of the resort were discovered, information about which quickly spread throughout Styria and beyond. The first written mention of the place and mineral water is found in the writings of the alchemist L. Thurneisser in 1572.
There is a very beautiful legend about the origin of the thermal spring. According to her, he appeared at the request of the beautiful Apollo, who ordered his horse Pegasus to hit with a hoof between the Holy Cross and Rogatz for the appearance of water with which people could be healed. The memory of this froze for centuries. The stately Pegasus is depicted on the coat of arms of the city and in the formstatues in one of its squares.
When choosing a vacation in Slovenia at thermal springs, it is important to remember the specifications of the resort. Rogaška Slatina specializes in diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, overweight problems, metabolic disorders and large intestine function, including type 2 diabetes, etc. The basis of treatment is drinking courses of local mineral water, dietary nutrition and balneology. Systemic therapy allows not only to reduce negative tendencies, but also to avoid many complications or to do without drugs in the future.
You can get to the resort from Ljubljana: by private transfer directly from the airport or by shuttle bus or train.
Terme Čatež
Terme Čatež is one of the largest balneological resorts not only in Slovenia, but throughout Europe. It is located surrounded by forest, on the right bank of the Sava River, the distance to Ljubljana is 100 km. Terme Čatež remains attractive for treatment and recreation almost throughout the year due to its pleasant subalpine climate with mild winters and moderately hot summers. On its territory there are numerous campsites, hotels, a medical center and the medieval castle of Mokrice. The latter majestically rises above the age-old forests of Goryantsev. Now the castle houses a luxurious hotel with restaurants, halls and salons. One of those that Slovenia boasts to tourists.
Rest and treatment in Terme Čatež is indicated for people with problems of the musculoskeletal system (rheumatism, inflammatory diseases), excessweight, neurological diseases, as well as for post-operative and post-traumatic rehabilitation.
Acrato-hyperthermal water is used with a temperature of +41 °С to +61 °С, which is saturated with sodium, iron, potassium, sulfur oxide, chlorine, bicarbonate, magnesium, as well as therapeutic mud.
Terme Dobrna
One of the oldest resorts (more than 600 years) of the country, which she is rightfully proud of. It will be of particular interest to women, since in addition to specializing in diseases of the musculoskeletal system, microcirculatory disorders, its main profile is gynecological, associated with the treatment of infertility. In addition, it is here that the largest beauty center in Slovenia is located. The resort is located just 85 km from Ljubljana and can be reached by private transfer or bus. Of particular note is the location of the complex surrounded by coniferous forests and a huge park area around.
For treatment at the resort, mineral water from acratic isothermal springs with a temperature of +36 ° C is used in the form of mud baths or applications and "live", the so-called swamp mud. The maximum effect is achieved through a harmonious combination of balneological procedures with physiotherapy and laser therapy.
The infrastructure of the resort is developed at the highest level, and every traveler and vacationer will find here accommodation for every taste: from a luxury hotel to a small cozy house.
Vacation on the picturesque and unique alpine lakes is another option that you cansuggest Slovenia. Holidays with children, alone or in a cheerful company will be truly unforgettable. After all, in addition to beautiful nature, you will be offered first-class infrastructure and entertainment.
Lake Bohinj
The country's largest lake of glacial origin. It is 1 km wide and 4.2 km long. It is located on the territory of the Triglav National Park at an altitude of 525 m above sea level. Clear waters are rich in fish, shellfish and are a popular holiday destination for both purely beach-bathing and sports (fishing, climbing, mountain hiking, cycling, etc.). All necessary equipment and gear can be rented on site. In the summer months, the average temperature is +22 °C. You can get to the lake from Ljubljana by regular bus, the distance to the neighboring Lake Bled is only 28 km. Holidays on the lakes in Slovenia are unforgettable and full of pleasant memories. Beautiful landscapes and clean air will fill you with strength and give you a good mood for many months.
Lake Bled
The most popular tourist destination is the beautiful Lake Bled. It is located near the border with Austria and Italy, in the Julian Alps, 45 km from Ljubljana. The town of the same name sprawled along the banks. A picturesque mountain lake at an altitude of 501 m above sea level is fed by the purest mountain springs. The water temperature in the summer months reaches + 18-24 ° C, in winter it freezes partially, and then only in severe frosts.
This is the perfect place for a familyrecreation, combining the beauty of nature, architectural monuments and healing thermal springs. The swimming season on the lake is open from June to September. There are two city beaches: paid (equipped with everything you need) and free. In winter, the surroundings of the lake turn into a place for a comfortable ski holiday.
Winter holidays in Slovenia
Slovenia is beautiful at any time of the year, and that's a fact. Moderately hot summers give way to warm autumns and mild winters. The proximity of the Alps contributes to the prosperity of winter sports and specialized resorts. There are quite a lot of them, but we will focus your attention on the most popular.
- Kranjska Gora is one of the main ski centers in the country. It is located in the Sava river valley, surrounded by the Julian Alps and the Karawanke mountain range, about 2 km from the Austrian border. Here you will find a typical alpine flavor with cozy little houses, green meadows, as if lost in the mountains and frozen in time. Service at the highest level. The resort offers not only climbing, skiing, snowboarding and hiking, but also pay attention to the nearby Triglav Nature Park and the Zelenka Nature Reserve.
- Bovec is the only resort in Slovenia, the slopes of which lie at an altitude of more than 2000 m above sea level (photo below). The place is located in the western part of the natural park mentioned above, 136 km from the capital. The ski season runs from December to the end of April.
- Maribor Pohorje. Located 17 km from the border with Austria, this ski resort is the most popular in the country. The city is famous for its developed tourist-oriented infrastructure. Quality ski slopes of various difficulty levels, a modern lift system and a variety of winter activities.
Vacation in Slovenia: reviews of tourists
First thing to note: Slovenia as a tourist destination in our country is still gaining popularity. And, meanwhile, it is a great alternative to more expensive resorts. Recreation in the country is very multifaceted and is represented by a wide variety of areas: from ecotourism to luxurious and expensive ski resorts, beaches with golden sand or large pebbles. The architecture of the country is extremely beautiful and includes many castles, fortresses, cathedrals and small charming churches. However, the most popular holiday in Slovenia is by the sea. Reviews of tourists about it are mostly positive. The clean Adriatic coast, according to them, is best suited for a measured and secluded holiday for two or with children. Popular seaside towns lack nightlife, clubs, and are relatively remote.
Keep this in mind when looking for a mobile and noisy holiday with night parties, but choosing a vacation by the sea in Slovenia. 2016, judging by the reviews, also pleases tourists with its prices. A Schengen visa is required to travel to Slovenia, however, by obtaining it, you can easily travel on your own to neighboring Austria, Italy or Croatia, because they are literally within easy reach.
In their reviewssupporters of outdoor activities also note more affordable prices in the country's ski resorts compared to those in neighboring countries.
Each country is unique and inimitable, rich in beautiful places and architectural monuments, hot deserts or harsh mountains, it's just important to understand what exactly you expect from it before the trip.
