What a View!

While it’s hard to find Slovenia on the map, it sure isn’t hard to find anything once you’re there. The little country has just about any landscape you can imagine. And if you're wondering whether you’d rather go to the seaside or to the mountains, the answer is: both!

Lake Jasna at the altitude of 830 meters is the best possible refreshment after the strenuous ascent to any of the surrounding peaks. The water is so clear that the reflection in it leaves you in awe any time of the year.

Also enveloped in nature are these herdsmen’s huts at Planina Zajamniki. When this landscape isn’t softly blanketed with snow, the cows welcome every passing mountaineer.

The huts are occupied through the summer by actual shepherds, who make the best cheese to munch on while taking in the stunning views.

In the Julian Alps, you will find not only spectacular views of Slovenia’s highest mountain Triglav (2864 m), but also wild ibex – keep an eye out if you see the Goldhorn from one of Slovenia’s oldest folk legends. 

Slovenians like to say that there is no sin higher than 1000 meters above the sea level.

Another one of Slovenian legends is about the Heathen Maiden. She was a nymph, who once foretold that a newborn would kill the Goldenhorn. For this, the other nymphs punished her by turning her into a rock, which you can still see in the northern face of Mount Prisojnik.

Next time you go to a mountain peak above Vršič, you can kindly ask her to help you get to the top safely, or for a safe return to the valley. 

Slovenian mountains are really something unforgettable. Just imagine how freeing it must be to look at the stars in such peace. 

And then go for a nice cup of tea before sleeping in the cozy Pogačnik Hut.

Or how fresh the morning air is when the night peace is pleasantly interrupted by steps of the first morning mountaineers, who appear from the fog which covers the valley under the Zois Lodge at the Kokra saddle (1793 m). 

Zelenci Nature Reserve on the northern edge of the Triglav National Park is a home to many endangered plant and animal species. Here you’ll find the ground spring of Sava Dolinka River, where the water shows in a form of a gorgeous lake. 

Yes, there is an abundance of rivers and bridges to see up-close in Slovenia. Perhaps the most intriguing bridge to cross is the Solkan Bridge near Nova Gorica. It is the longest stone arch railroad bridge in the world!

One of the most breath-taking views in Slovenia is that of the Soča River. Its emerald-green water and striking scenery can also be enjoyed by watching the film Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian, which was filmed in the Soča Valley. 

Slovenian saltpans have fascinated people for 700 years. Looking at them really spices up your day. 

The Mangart Pass or The Mangart Saddle is the highest lying road in Slovenia. Driving here, 2072 meters above the sea level, is really a unique experience. Keeping your eyes on the road here is quite a challenge.

Another pearl of the Triglav National park is Lake Bohinj, the biggest natural lake in Slovenia. 

But the most recognizable one is Lake Bled. The little island with a church looks just like from a fairy tale. Not only is the view is beautiful, but ringing the church bell also brings you luck!

An older architectural and historical gem of Slovenia is the majestic Predjama Castle. It was built in 1274 in a cave to make accessing it more difficult.

The Celje Castle bears an intriguing mark of history. It was the court of the Counts of Cilli, the place where Barbara of Cilli was born, who later went on to become the Holy Roman Empress and Queen of Hungary, Bohemia, and Germany.

Not to be forgotten; the last (but not least) wonderfully unforgettable view is that of the Ljubljana Castle. Situated in the heart of the country, it represents one of the most recognizable sights in Slovenia. 

Do you hear something too? A nice ringing echoes in the distance! It must be bell ringers! I wonder For whom the bell sings . . .