Ready for some time out and wondering where to go? Slovenia really is the perfect year-round destination. Think emerald lakes, dramatic alpine scenery, atmospheric medieval towns with a food and wine scene that stands up to its beautiful neighbours, Italy and Croatia.

WTTC Head of Research, Nejc Jus takes us on a trip to his home country. Nejc hails from the Slovenian city of Maribor, a city with a rich and ancient wine heritage, gothic architecture, and home to the largest skiing centre in Slovenia.

“With many different landscapes condensed in a small space, people often say that Slovenia is like a miniature encompassment of Europe! It only takes a few hours to drive across the whole country, so in one day you can enjoy the sea, drink wine in the vineyard and top it all off with a hike in the Alps! Slovenia is the first country in the world to have been, in its entirety, declared a Green Destination of the World. Watch out for the SLOVENIA GREEN LABEL, which is a promise of a green future, awarded under our national programme.

Pristine Alpine Lakes
Don’t leave Slovenia without experiencing the pristine Alpine lakes of Bled and Bohinj. The turquoise water is mesmerising, and the perfect place for a summer swim. If you’re looking for something a little more urban, I recommend a stroll along the Ljubljanica river in Ljubljana, and be sure to explore the old town.

Postojna Cave

Visit the Postojna cave (a huge karst cave with the underground train); the old coastal town of Piran. Alternatively, visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Škocjan Caves to see underground waterfalls, grand halls, giant stalactites and stalagmites.

If you have time, you should also visit Lipica – home to Lipica Stud Farm, the famed origin of the Lipizzan Horse.

Foodie Heaven

Slovenia produces some top-quality wines – so be sure to sample the local offerings and visit our vineyards. Also, try the famous Bled cream cake, Carniolan sausage and Prekmurska gibanica – it’s a type of layered pastry with poppy seeds, walnuts, apple, raisins and quark fillings (a type of fresh dairy product made by warming soured milk).

If wine tasting is your scene, try the hills surrounding the second largest Slovenian town Maribor (my hometown!), where you’ll find the oldest vine in the world or the region of Brda. For some well-deserved TLC, Slovenia also has a wealth of incredible spa resorts including Rogaska Slatina, Terme Catez, Terme Olimia and many more! If you’re feeling adventurous, rafting in the Soca River Valley is an unforgettable experience - with it’s distinct emerald green and is the perfect spot for outdoor activities

Tips provided by Nejc Jus, Head of Research @ World Travel & Tourism Council. Written by Andrea Gallagher, Consumer Lead @ World Travel & Tourism Council.