By Donna Richardson
Slovenia is one of the ultimate wellness destinations, blending urban vitality with serene natural beauty. From the vibrant streets of Ljubljana, the birthplace of star basketball player Luka Dončić, to the stunning landscapes surrounding iconic Lake Bled, this country is a haven for health and fitness enthusiasts.
With access to the Julian Alps, the Mediterranean coastline, the rugged Karst region, and the expansive Pannonian Plain, Slovenia offers an ideal backdrop for outdoor activities. Hikers can enjoy the Juliana Trail and nearby skiing resorts, where Slovenia has produced renowned athletes like Tina Maze and Boran Krizaj, and Elan skis were manufactured, making it an ideal destination for both summer and winter activities.
Llubjana
My adventure began in Ljubljana, where I arrived late at night at the Occidental Hotel. The cosy ambience and modern decor drew me in. I prepared for an early start to explore the city’s historical sites. My room had view of the castle, featuring spacious and modern furnishings. I sat on a lovely terrace enjoying a morning coffee before indulging in a diverse breakfast selection.
I took a stroll along the riverside, absorbing the local culture while sipping coffee before the shops opened. The boutiques and international stores provided a rich shopping experience, and I was entertained until lunchtime.
With a grumbling stomach, I was pleased that it was Friday when the riverside square hosts an open-air food market, offering a diverse selection of dishes. There was so much to choose from Argentine steak to Spanish paella, Korean poke bowls, and enormous Italian pizzas.
Steeped in folklore, Ljubljana is famously home to a dragon, symbolising courage and power, showcased prominently on the Dragon Bridge. The city’s architectural charm is complemented by the Triple Bridge, which connects different parts of the Ljubljanica River and features leisurely walkways and lively bars.
There is also a wealth of modern-day history to explore in this country, which was once part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and is now an independent nation, and its people have overcome significant challenges. We explored the city, including the urban playground of Lucas, before it was time to move on to our next destination.
Lake Bled
Bled is an iconic destination featuring an ancient castle and a holy island, which attracts many pilgrims. With records stretching back to 1004, Bled’s history is rich and varied, from its Habsburg ties to its role in former Yugoslav history, making it a celebrated summer destination for many illustrious guests.
You have to take a plenta boat out to the island and then climb 99 steps to reach the Church of The Assumption of Mary, and once inside the church, I learned about the fascinating story of the wishing bell, which has become a significant part of local lore.
Bled’s transformation into a health tourism hotspot in the 19th century is credited to Arnold Rikli, a Swiss naturopath. He introduced therapeutic baths and walking paths, laying the groundwork for its reputation as a wellness destination.
We stayed at the Rikli Balance Hotel, which prioritises wellness. It is an oasis, featuring calming pools, a hot tub, and a spa, all designed to promote relaxation and well-being. Wellness and technology were at the forefront. There were even cat robot waitresses to collect our dishes.
The spacious alpine-themed rooms offered breathtaking views, and the dining options ranged from hearty local dishes to health-conscious meals. All this food negated the need to exercise.
I knew I would work it all off in our upcoming cycle around the 2km path. We climbed up into the hills, completing a 10 km trek. The e-bikes were incredible and helped us tackle the tricky hilly terrain. Of course, we worked up an appetite for traditional Slovenian food along the way.
Exploring traditions
Keen to experience authentic Slovenian hospitality in a traditional Bled homestead, the Sound of the Holiday is an incredible experience. Arriving at a Slovenian cottage, we were greeted by landowners in traditional attire.
They invited us in, and soon we were dancing to folk songs in celebration of the Upper Carniola festivities. Our evening was filled with laughter, food, and free-flowing wine. The night progressed into folk music, singing and traditional jigs- including a hat dance, between multiple courses of hearty regional dishes.
We tucked into our hearty barley soup called ričet, served with bread and sausages, in earthen pots. We filled our bellies and drank delicious wine served in jugs.
For pudding we enjoyed a Potica nut roll that was baked in the clay oven at the centre of the cottage, which also served to warm the room. We washed this down with local schnapps.
The next day, a basketball tournament took place on a floating platform in the centre of the lake. Luka was scheduled to play but couldn’t participate due to personal reasons. Nevertheless, the tournament continued, ensuring a fantastic day filled with food, drinks, and enjoyment. We had seats in the hospitality section that overlooked the court, a truly a surreal experience.
Radlovljica
We set off for the charming town of Radovljica. Its medieval architecture and vibrant atmosphere captivated me. The capital of honey and chocolate welcomed us with mead cups at Radolska Cokolada and treats crafted with local ingredients. We learned how to make sweet shortbread hearts, a traditional custom in which local boys give them to girls they fancy. It was a fascinating day out.
Radovljica also boasts a rich culinary scene. Michelin-starred dining experiences, such as Hisa Linhart, offer exquisite dishes. The region is renowned for its creativity and local ingredients. and boasts some of the best Michelin-starred restaurants in the world. It is a medieval city with Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque buildings interspersed with perfectly preserved traditional houses from the 16th, 17th, and 18th centuries.
Each of the conventional houses features frescoes that pay homage to the protective gods to ward off fire. As well as traditional houses and restaurants, there is a magnificent manor and even a Michelin-starred restaurant. There are plenty of museums dedicated to beekeeping, alchemy and showcasing the town’s art collection. Linhart Square is the perfect venue for musical, cultural, and culinary events, offering stunning views of the Sava River and the Julian Alps.
We ended the holiday with a meal overlooking the Julian Alps. Slovenia is so green and charming to visit in the autumn before the leaves turn rusty and the snows dust the mountains.
Slovenia is a well-kept secret, offering an extraordinary blend of culture, wellness, adventure, and culinary delights. It is easy to visit as most budget airlines like Ryanair or EasyJet, fly here.
