Slovenia, known as the Republic of Slovenia, is a small country located in southern Central Europe, next to the Alps. Slovenia has extensive forested areas, a long coastline and a well-developed tourist industry. The capital, Ljubljana, is the largest city in Slovenia and has the ruins of a Roman city dating from the third and fourth centuries BC and the 18th century St Nicholas Cathedral.
Old Town of Piran
Piran is a well-preserved medieval town located on the south-west coast of Slovenia. Historically, Piran was under the jurisdiction of the Republic of Venice for almost 500 years, so many of the buildings in the city still have a Venetian feel to them. Despite its small size, Piran retains a rich cultural heritage and medieval buildings can be found all over the city. The narrow streets, lined with small buildings, are some of the most characteristic features of Piran.
Lake Bled
Lake Bled, at the foot of the Alps, is geologically a lake formed by the melting of glaciers, with snow melt from the mountain tops and clear water from the mountain springs constantly pouring into the lake, hence its name “Ice Lake”. Lake Bled is a beautiful landscape, with crystal clear water, swans, ducks and other waterfowl swimming in the lake, shady trees and green grass all around, and the snowy Alpine peaks visible in the sun.
Postojna Caves
Located 54 kilometres south-west of the capital, Postojna is the second largest cave in Europe and the most distinctive of all Slovenia’s caves. The spectacular stalagmites, stalagmites and stalactites were formed over millions of years. The cave is also home to a rare animal that resembles a dollfish, slender, scaleless, with four limbs and a long life span of 100 years, known to Slovenians as the “mermaid” (Človeška ribica). The scientific name is salamander.
Lake Čerknica
Known as the disappearing lake, the mysterious phenomenon of Lake Čerknica has long puzzled scientists, locals and visitors alike. As the snow melts in spring and is replenished by the abundant underground water, Lake Czerknica is in its prime and visitors can enjoy fishing, boating and various water sports. When the dry season arrives, the bottom of the lake is revealed as fertile pastures.
Villa Bled
Villa Bled is located on the shores of the scenic Lake Bled, about 60 km northwest of the capital. The villa’s well-preserved 1950s architecture is ornate and rustic, and the café, designed by the late architect Plecchini, has an open and elegant view towards the island in the centre of the lake. The villa is a secluded retreat with a backdrop of hills and water.
