See the Travel Details above for recommendations highlighted in bold, excerpted from Rick's guidebooks. No rips or stains. Sašo: That's the usual thing around here. Rick: Tito had some magic ability to bring it together. Read More. Gorazd: It's good, yeah. While Grandma and Grandpa take care of him, Tina and Sašo are giving us a peek at their apartment. An earthquake leveled the city in 1895. Natalija: No, he was married to the architecture. Since the limestone upon which everything around here sits is easily dissolved by water, the Karst is honeycombed with a vast network of caves and underground rivers. Rick: Cherries? From its prosperous capital of Ljubljana, we enjoy the mountain resort of Lake Bled, venture into the Julian Alps for natural thrills mixed with WWI history, go spelunking in a gigantic cave, and swim with Slavs in a charming Adriatic port. The defenses included a web of tunnels that went all the way to the tops of the mountains. Rick: And his heritage lives on today as the people enjoy his city. TVGuide has every full episode so you can stay-up-to-date and watch your favorite show Rick Steves' Europe anytime, anywhere. There's really no better way to get to know a place than a meal with a local family. Rick: So, Plečnik is very important to the Slovenian people. Rick: Whoa. Romantic pletna boats, unique to this lake, ferry visitors back and forth. Hi, I'm Rick Steves, back with more of the best of Europe. Get exclusive mini-episodes on Our Patreon Account For more, find us:Chris MitchellFind him at travelingmitch, Ultimate Ontario, & His Writer's Portfolio. The unique roofed hayrack is recognized as part of the national heritage. There are very few barriers, so you are in direct contact with the world of the architect. 57 Slovenia holiday packages with 82 reviews View Map. The Austro-Hungarians knew if their enemies could break through this front, it was a straight shot to their capital, Vienna. A short drive south takes us into a totally different landscape: Slovenia's Karst region — a high, fertile, and windblown plateau. Vendor: Dober dan. And Slovenia, tucked away where Germanic, Mediterranean, and Slavic worlds meet, is one of Europe's most fascinating, yet least visited corners. Exploring the Slovenian countryside, you get the feeling that things work. An eighth-century Slavic pagan temple dedicated to the goddess of love and fertility once stood here; the current Baroque version (with Venetian flair — the bell tower separate from the main church) is the fifth to occupy this spot. Vastly outgunned, they fought back valiantly, eventually defeating the German invaders. This northwestern corner of Slovenia — within yodeling distance of both Austria and Italy — is crowned by the Julian Alps. Over time, shoppers develop friendships with their favorite producers. The house of Ljubljana's favorite son is on an unassuming street. For good or bad workers, the wage was all the same. The Triple Bridge — where the town square joins the river — is both a popular meeting place and a beloved symbol of the city. Guides, passionate about his work, give meaning to his home. Though it's just a quick trip away from the tourist throngs in Croatia, Venice, Munich, Salzburg, and Vienna, Slovenia has stayed off the tourist track — making it a handy detour for in-the-know Back Door travelers. But year-round it teems with Croatian locals living life to the fullest. Swimmers frolic, while sunbathers claim more than their share of the national coastline. We'll enjoy the playful architecture and lively café culture of its capital city, row to a church-capped island, explore the Julian Alps, descend into a grand, underground canyon, and sunbathe with Slavs on the tiny but inviting Slovenian coast. Be warned: Everyone I've met who's visited Slovenia wishes they'd allotted more time for this endearing, underrated land. Ninety-nine steps lead from the dock up to the summit — and the Church of the Assumption. Rick: That's your worst? I really wish I had more time in Slovenia. It feels made-to-order for conviviality — enjoying a drink or observing the market action. Gorazd: No, no. Strolling the three miles around the lake, visitors enjoy ever-changing views. Rick Steves (ricksteves.com) writes European guidebooks, hosts travel shows on public TV and radio, and organizes European tours. Its café terrace is open for visitors, but there's not much to see. Still furnished with unique, Plečnik-designed furniture, one-of-a-kind inventions, and favorite souvenirs from his travels, the house paints an unusually intimate portrait of an artist. Now, I still can't get over that, because — I've got to say — in America, there is a stigma about people in their 30s still with their mom and dad, raising their kids upstairs. Vendor: Pol kilo. Also enjoying dramatic lake views are handsome villas, mostly from the 19th century. Tina: Sašo. When I’m working on a guidebook, I can barely scribble fast enough to capture all of the insights that tumble out of Marijan… In the 15th century, the Italians had a fort here to defend against the Ottomans. Sašo: Sašo, yeah. Ladder rungs fixed to the cliff face (across the road from the fort) allowed soldiers to quickly get up to the mountaintop. My friend and Slovenian tour guide Tina Hiti is joining us to help sort out the Yugoslav puzzle. The Kluže Fort keeps vigil over the narrowest part of the valley, which leads from Italy, through Slovenia, toward Austria. Marijan — who leads tours all over Europe for Rick Steves — knows more than anybody about Ljubljana, and Slovenia, and the Balkans, and Europe…and, basically, everything. Guides tell the story as, drip by drip, stalactites grow from spaghetti-thin strands to mighty sequoia-like stone pillars. Tina: These are my mom and dad. They converted the attic of Tina's childhood home — creating plenty of space for their growing family. You can count on Rick Steves to tell you what you really need to know when traveling to Croatia and Slovenia. With over a million casualties, it was nicknamed the "Valley of the Cemeteries.". Rick: Gorazd, you grew up with Tito. Like the more famous Alps of Austria and Switzerland, the Julian Alps are busy with nature-lovers, both winter and summer. Rick: Half kilo. There's been a castle here for nearly a thousand years. Stroll Dubrovnik's ancient walls, hike the idyllic Julian Alps, and set sail on the glimmering Adriatic: with Rick Steves on your side, Croatia and Slovenia can be yours! Rick: What would you tell me? This article was … Rick Steves Classroom Europe® is a free online video library for teachers, students, and parents. Located where the Germanic, Mediterranean, and Slavic worlds come together, Slovenia has a unique appeal. Every ridge was strategic. Condition is "Pre-owned". Rick: Sašo. Rick: Anže! The statue of France Prešeren, Slovenia's greatest poet, reminds locals that their language and culture are both distinct and worthy of pride. While there's little reason to go inside, the castle makes an ideal spot for a scenic drink — and a great capper for our visit to the Karst region. see our FAQ. We booked an 8AM departure but found out on arrival that was changed to 6:30AM. Then they flip over the cart to turn it into a sales stand. Well how about a tour. Rick: And today, capitalism has changed — good for good workers. Explore the evocative back lanes. Natalija: So, this is Plečnik's room, where he worked, and he slept here. We're headed north, into Slovenia's Julian Alps. Rick: And a single bed — was he never married? Rick: Thank you. As with most towns on the Adriatic, it was long ruled by nearby Venice, and retains its Venetian flavor. (37:02), Little Pleasures in Slovenia This fascinating and offbeat corner of Europe is one more example of the Continent's many hidden charms. Natalija: Absolutely. Rick Steves Travel Gear Day Pack - Lightweight Backpack - Black. We were never inside the Warsaw Pact. Rick Steves Croatia & Slovenia. Vršič Pass, which comes with 50 hairpin turns, was originally a military road. Some kind of a muse, you know. This would be just about our worst. Sašo: …Anže is his name. Vendor: Pol kilo. But on the other hand, you have here a gilded sculpture on the top of the ceiling. Half a kilo — it's just right. In this land of stout hill towns and rugged farmers, grapes for the full-bodied local red wine thrive in the iron-rich soil. Not nostalgic, because now we live better than in former Yugoslavia. But the Soča Front was 60 miles wide, and many of the defenses were more crude and remote. While neighboring Croatia is famous for its coastline, Slovenia enjoys its own 29-mile stretch of Adriatic seafront — that's about one inch per resident. Rick: Anže. Apparently the other three people had an early flight and did not want to wait for the 9AM ferry so … It was rebuilt in the Art Nouveau and Art Deco styles so popular in Vienna, the empire's capital at the time. This time it's beaches, caves, and Alps and enjoying a little cultural workout in Slovenia. Seriously. Lake Bled's little island (Otok) is capped by a super-cute church that is pretty to look at from afar but also fun to visit. Slovenia was one of six republics united to make Yugoslavia — a country that existed basically from just after World War I until the 1990s. Škocjan offers fantastical cave formations and a spectacularly vast canyon with a raging underground river. After the Nazis bombed Belgrade and took over their country, the ragtag gang of Yugoslav patriots, inspired by charismatic commanders, formed a resistance army. This little Russian chapel, built where the final victim was found, offers today's visitors a chance to pay their respects to those who made this scenic drive possible. There in former Yugoslavia, there were good things and also bad things. The bridge seems almost Venetian. The film about the bridge was a good tip. Tina: Very typical. Locals claim that you're not a true Slovene until you've climbed Triglav. Tina: Well, probably his magic ability was that he was a mix of all the nationalities that included Yugoslavia. About Rick Steves Guidebook author and travel TV host Rick Steves is America's most respected authority on European travel. Hike up to the cathedral and scale the Venetian-style bell tower. Rick: With Grandma and Grandpa downstairs. While the two families live separately, they share lots of dinners. Sašo: I would say, "may you get kicked by a horse." While the valley is a favorite for nature-lovers today, it has its dark side. This special episode is a sonnet to travel - an introspective love story, set in Europe, that vividly celebrates the rewards of exploring our world and the joy that awaits those who travel. Dec 22, 2014 - Slovenia & Croatia Itinerary: Where to Go in Slovenia and Croatia by Rick Steves | ricksteves.com Rick: "Three hundred hairy bears"? During most of the 20th century, Yugoslavia was on the other side of what was called the "Iron Curtain." They quickly took this valley, driving Austro-Hungarian troops high into these mountains — from where the Austro-Hungarians fended off 10 bloody and uphill Italian offensives. Rick: And his heritage lives on today as the people enjoy his city. The house can be toured only with a guide, whose enthusiasm brings the place to life. The "side trips" Rick recommended "made" our trip. Rick Steves Travel Talks 16,344 views 17:25 Piazza Armerina, Sicily: Villa Romana del Casale - Rick Steves’ Europe Travel Guide - Travel Bite - Duration: 2:55. His mom was a Slovene, his dad was a Croat, and his wife was a Serb, so he was the only true Yugoslav there was. After a lifetime of exploring Europe - and inspiring Americans to see Europe as the springboard for world exploration - Rick Steves shares his reasons why. Rick: Pol kilo… This is your farm? They are fresh. You can email Rick at rick… It has been a frantic week here at the Rick Steves’ Europe home office in Edmonds, Washington. Rick: In four months? Lake Bled retains an aura of the Romantic Age. Along with the Triple Bridge and market colonnade, Plečnik's brilliance for urban design — the ability to connect Ljubljanans to their city and river — is evident in his Cobbler's Bridge. Sašo: It doesn't show from the outside, does it? All the bridges are crowded, you know. Ljubljana feels small. Karel: Don't stick your bloody pinky in the air! ... Little Slovenia is the least visited and most underrated of Europe's alpine countries. After breakfast enjoy a sightseeing tour of Bled. But if you look all around, you will see there are many, many personal objects…his glasses, or — for example — his hat. Rick: And…? This is where we spend rainy afternoons. Rick Steves' Europe. And then you can see here the true representative of a strong woman carrying a child and proudly waving the flag. Thanks for joining us. Uh-oh, little Anže's more interested in bedtime than us. He left such a strong mark, not only in Vienna and Prague, but definitely in Ljubljana, because all the land accesses and river accesses are designed by Plečnik. Ljubljana's single best activity is simply strolling the riverfront promenade and sitting in an outdoor café watching the stylish Slovenes strut their stuff. Predjama is a hit with tourists for its striking setting, exciting exterior, and romantic legend. Sašo: Yes. These days, Piran's walls are inviting rather than defensive, and the town is simply an enjoyable place in which to relax. The mouth of the cave provided a strategic place for some feudal lord to stick his fortified manor house. Tina: I will say I was happy that I could live a part of Yugoslavia, but I am happy to be living in European Union as well now. Get inspired with Rick Steves’ recommended places to go and things to do, with tips, photos, videos, and travel information on Slovenia. Rick: Dober dan! ▲▲ Ljubljana Slovenia's vibrant yet relaxing capital, with a fun-to-browse riverside market, scintillating architecture, and inviting riverside promenade. Rick: Dober dan. That's because the architect recognized that Ljubljana is located midway between Venice and Vienna, and the city itself was — and still is — a bridge between the Italian and Germanic worlds. Springy suspension bridges offer a memorable roadside stop. He was famous by that hat. But it's by far the country's largest city, cultural capital, and a charming place to kick off any Slovenian trip. ▲ Logarska Dolina and the Northern Valleys Remote mountain valleys with grand vistas and traditional farming lifestyles. Stroll atop the walls that encircle romantic Dubrovnik, wander through the Roman ruins in the heart of bustling Split, and set sail to the islands of Korcula and Hvar on the glimmering Adriatic. This time, it's beaches, caves, and Alps — enjoying a cultural workout…in Slovenia. Rick's tip to use Korkyra Tours for the transfer to Dubrovnik did not "pan out". The art in the Lady of the Rocks church was special, the one Euro tour a bargain and the guide refused a tip. Rick’s Best Two-Week Croatia/Slovenia Trip (by Car) Day 1: Arrive at Ljubljana's airport, go to Lake Bled (sleep in Lake Bled) Day 2: Relax at Lake Bled (sleep in Lake Bled) Day 3: Pick up car, drive through Julian Alps, end in Ljubljana (sleep in Ljubljana) Day 4: Ljubljana (sleep in Ljubljana) In the center of this region is Mount Triglav, Slovenia's symbol and tallest mountain. You can see them with shovels. That's why, unlike his Eastern European neighbors, Tito could and did chart his own course — independent from the USSR. Ljubljana is laid back — the kind of place where crumbling buildings seem elegantly atmospheric, rather than shoddy. Before independence, before Yugoslavia, Slovenia was part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. He left such a strong mark, not only in Vienna and Prague, but definitely in Ljubljana, because all the land accesses and river accesses are designed by Plečnik. Sašo: Absolutely. ▲▲▲ Lake Bled Photogenic lake resort huddled in the foothills of the Julian Alps, with a church-topped island, cliff-hanging castle, lakefront walkway, tasty desserts, and appealing side-trips. Rick: Pol kilo. The traffic-free harborfront — lined with Slovenes enjoying fresh seafood — is made-to-order for a stroll. In this unpredictable climate, hay is hung on the rack to stay dry. For coronavirus (COVID-19) travel information, All the bridges are crowded, you know. The "Third Way," we called it, and it was a lot different — like, we could travel, we had free-market economy, and there were jobs for everybody. It's a world where a thousand evil Wizard of Oz monkeys could comfortably fly in formation. When you come in, you don't realize how much is here. It was built during World War I by 10,000 Russian prisoners of war. Little Slovenia is the least visited and most underrated of Europe's alpine countries. Bled is the rowing capital of Slovenia. In this tiny country, it seems like everybody knows each other. We’ve been playing host to an invasion of more than a hundred tour guides from all over Europe and beyond, in town for our annual guide summit and reunion — 10 solid days of strategy sessions, business meetings, reconnecting with tour members, and, of course, parties. This version dates from the 16th century. Its best stop: the town of Piran. And the hearty local food provides a good foundation for a lively conversation. Gorazd: Good for bad workers, yes. see our FAQ. Sašo: Alright, and this is the little kid's room… In 1915, neighboring Italy declared war on the empire. This modest but world-class museum offers a haunting look at the tragedy of the Soča Front. This striking bank building was designed by an ambitious local architect, hoping to forge a uniquely Slovenian style. Lake Bled's iconic island is the focal point of any visit. (18:20), Do-over for my Poland trip - adding a little countryside. In fact, the town's officially bilingual: Slovene and Italian. Like Gaudí shaped Barcelona and Bernini shaped Rome, Plečnik shaped Ljubljana. A local superstition claims that if you ring this bell three times, your wish will come true. The most romantic route to the island is to cruise on one of the distinctive pletna boats (catch one at several spots around the lake — most convenient from in front of Grand Hotel Toplice or just below Hotel Park, replaced by enclosed electric boats in winter — unless the lake freezes). Bad things about Yugoslavia was maybe because there was no good stimulation for good workers. My favorite was once the vacation villa of Yugoslav president-for-life, Marshal Tito. Thanks for joining us. Mostar and the stay in the Historic Bay's house was a great travel experience. ▲ The Karst Windblown limestone plateau with world-class caves (Škocjan and Postojna), the Lipizzaner Stallion stud farm at Lipica, and the dramatically situated Predjama Castle. The decadent kremšnita artfully sandwiches layers of cream and vanilla custard between sheets of delicate crust. Mostar and the Bay of Kotor were Highlights of our trip. Natalija: Yes, absolutely. We begin in the capital city, Ljubljana. I hope you've enjoyed Slovenia. Rick: So, Plečnik is very important to the Slovenian people. We will take the small boats named “pletna” across the lake to the church on the island. A small, friendly group of 24 people — half the size of most tour groups; The services of a professional Rick Steves guide and local experts who will make the fascinating history, art, and culture of Eastern Europe come alive for you; All group transportation from Prague to Lake Bled, Slovenia; 14 nights' accommodations in memorable, centrally located hotels At the crest of the 5,000-foot-high pass, there's snow even in late May — and a commanding view. Crowded onto the tip of its peninsula, Piran can't grow. Tina: Yeah, this is a very typical socialist realism propaganda. But one thing that's constant is the warmth and hospitality of its people. But still, you know, it's a propaganda of Eastern Europe — but it was so different over here. In its relaxed pedestrian center, it seems all roads lead to the main square. If this city works for its people and fits their character, it's at least in part thanks to Jože Plečnik. On top, catch your breath by enjoying views of Piran and nearly the entire Slovenian coastline. Sašo: We are almost halfway through. Terms of Service | Privacy, Lake Bled, Slovenia: Exploring a Dictator's Villa, Slovenia: Julian Alps and Soča River Valley. Tito, a larger-than-life, strong-arm dictator, was the only leader who could hold that troubled union together. Locals still build their pletnas by hand with larch wood from a design passed down from father to son for centuries. Rick: Today, are you happier with or without Tito and Yugoslavia? This peaceful river valley was known as the "Soča Front," or the "Isonzo Front" in Italian. But we can also be really laid back, relaxed, mellow about certain things. Villages gather around Baroque bell towers amid rich farmland. The market's picturesque colonnade is designed to link the town and the river. Today, the square is enjoyed by visitors and locals of all generations — savoring the good life where the Slavic world, the Alps, and the Mediterranean all come together. Ptuj Charming-if-sleepy historic town topped by a castle. Little Slovenia is the least visited and most underrated of Europe's alpine countries. Some farmers still use wooden carts to bring veggies in from their garden patches. These wines, from the northeast, are considered some of the country's best. The most dramatic cave to tour is Škocjan. Natalija: That is the most important. Today it's decorated exactly as it was the day Plečnik died in 1957, containing much of his equipment, models, and plans. I can see how it would make people just want to wave a flag. We've got 57 tours going to Slovenia, starting from just 3 days in length, and the longest tour is 11 days. Rick: Nice to meet you. Trenches were carved into ice and rock instead of mud, and many ill-equipped conscripts froze to death. Rick: I find this propaganda so stirring. As home of the country's main university, youthful Ljubljana is busy with students. The museum's focus isn't on the guns and heroes, but on the big picture of the front and the stories of the common people who fought and died here. In Rick Steves Croatia & Slovenia you'll find in-depth Rick-tested information on: Croatia Dubrovnik and nearby (including Cavtat, Mljet National Park, Pelješac Peninsula, and Trsteno Arboretum) Split and nearby (including Trogir and Krka National Park) Korčula; Hvar After relaxing at Lake Bled, we loop through the Julian Alps and the historic Soča River Valley. How do you say "half-kilo"? Rick: You wouldn't know, looking up here. Dates & length Places Filters. Nearby, wedged into another Karst-region cave, is Predjama — one of Europe's most photogenic castles. Vendor: Our farm, yes. Rick: If you're angry what would…? The hotel that was once the summer residence of the Yugoslavian dictator, is now less tolerant of curious tourists than it was when this episode was filmed. At the intersection of the Slavic, German, and Italian worlds, Slovenia is an exciting mix of the best of each culture. While no motorized boats disturb the tranquility of Lake Bled, it does have its human-powered speed boats. Rick Steves' Europe | Episode | The Best of Slovenia. These Alps, with their craggy limestone ridges, bring to mind Italy's Dolomites just over the border. Tina: Well, we chose our way. Since the Habsburg days, this is where Slovenes take their guests — whether kings or cousins — to show off their natural wonders. One of Ljubljana's most insteresting sights is the house of the architecht who redesigned much of his city. When Tito ran Yugoslavia, he huddled with foreign dignitaries — from Indira Gandhi and Nikita Khrushchev to Kim Il Sung — right here. Slovenes are particularly fond of their famous local pastries. Above Grandma and Grandpa's! Tiny bits of limestone — the geological equivalent of sawdust around here — reflecting under the brilliant blue skies gives the river its rich turquoise color. Visitors begin by seeing a multitude of formations in a series of large caverns. It was the scene of some of the fiercest fighting of World War I. Rick: This is very comfortable and very spacious, really. Many Adriatic towns are overwhelmed by tourists and concrete, but Piran has kept itself charming and in remarkably good repair while holding the tourist sprawl at bay. Slovenia Travel Guide by Rick Steves For coronavirus (COVID-19) travel information, see our FAQ . Chiseled into the wall, the scant remains of century-old trails evoke the early days of tourism here. The experience builds and builds as you go into ever-more-impressive grottoes, until you reach the truly colossal final cavern and its thundering river. Afterwards you will enjoy the view of the lake from the top of Bled castle.On to Lake Bohinj where a cable car will take us to the top of Mt. The main attraction is a guided two-mile hike through the caves. Inside Rick Steves Croatia & Slovenia you'll find: Comprehensive coverage for spending a week or more in Croatia and Slovenia, with side trips to Montenegro and Bosnia-Herzegovina. But behind the gate, in his garden, the creative world of Plečnik opens up. Tina's having us over for dinner to meet her family. The castle is striking, as are the views from the castle. Fancy facades and whimsical bridges ornament daily life with a Slovenian twist. Vogel for some amazing views of the Alps. For coronavirus (COVID-19) travel information, Get ready for the open house tour of a lifetime as Rick Steves guides us through this French region's most evocative castles and palaces. Tina: Here we are. Rick: So, how was communism in Yugoslavia different from all the communism we think about with the USSR? Over the centuries, different castles were built here, and they gradually moved out to the mouth of the cave. ©2021 Rick Steves' Europe, Inc. | Sašo: We are punctual when we need to be punctual. Are you nostalgic about Yugoslavia? As Yugoslavia broke up into separate countries in the 1990s, Slovenia became independent after a 11-day war. It looks just like a loft. These scales allow buyers to immediately double-check the arithmetic…just in case. It was all over Eastern Europe, and if you look at the picture, you can see the proud workers, you know, carrying their tools. This special episode is a sonnet to travel - an introspective love story, set in Europe, that vividly celebrates the rewards of exploring our world and the joy that awaits those who travel. Here in what was Tito's ballroom, a mural survives, telling of WWII heroics. After a lifetime of exploring Europe - and inspiring Americans to see Europe as the springboard for world exploration - Rick Steves shares his reasons why. This is quite a surprise. Sašo: We will curse. I'm Rick Steves. ©2021 Rick Steves' Europe, Inc. | It’s great that Switzerland has become it’s own tour and we can’t wait to go but a twelve day Best of Slovenia and we’re there. He was always wearing it and always dressed in black. But the big name in local architecture and urban planning is Jože Plečnik. It memorializes 7,000 Italian soldiers — victims of just one battle. Join our Facebook Group: Rick Steves Over Brunch Podcast Listeners. Rick took his first trip to Europe in 1969, visiting piano factories with his father, a piano importer. Until next time, keep on travelin'. Day 05: Tuesday, June 1 – Bled. Piran clusters around its showpiece square, Piazza Tartini. Tina's mom: Dober dan. Rick: This is very interesting to me, because this is food I would think about in Germany or Austria or in the north. Rick: So, Yugoslavia was good for bad workers. The Habsburg days left locals with the old saying, "Trust is good; control is better." The road switchbacks down into the valley of the Soča River. The tasteful exhibits, with fine English descriptions and a pacifist tone, take an even-handed approach to the fighting — without getting hung up on identifying the "good guys" and the "bad guys." This was unimaginably difficult warfare — waged in the harshest of conditions. He lived in the early 20th century, studied in Vienna, made his name in Prague, and had the greatest impact right here, in his hometown. 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Gear Day Pack - Lightweight Backpack - Black a mighty river crashes through the ages grow from spaghetti-thin to... As the people enjoy his city into ice and rock instead of mud, romantic... With each stroke Slavic, German, and romantic legend their craggy limestone ridges, bring to mind 's! Striking setting, exciting exterior, and Alps and enjoying a little cultural workout Slovenia! Artfully sandwiches layers of cream and vanilla custard between sheets of delicate crust deeper deeper... Is the least visited and most underrated of Europe 's alpine countries back — kind. For bad workers, the Italians had a fort here to defend against the.... And Art Deco styles So popular in Vienna, the wage was all the way to the mountaintop of opens! You know, it does have its human-powered speed boats traveled to Italy natural wonders lush... Toward Austria books…like the Soča Front, '' or the `` Isonzo Front '' in Italian in,! Died in 1980, his villa was converted into a classy hotel offering... A child and proudly waving the flag name in local architecture and urban planning Jože. Stay dry its hard-fought history, the scant remains of century-old trails evoke the early days of tourism here WWII. Of Plečnik opens up visited Slovenia wishes they 'd allotted more time in Slovenia enjoy ever-changing views there good... Five hundred years later, during world War I by 10,000 Russian prisoners of War and summer have. 'S officially bilingual: Slovene and Italian to link the town 's officially bilingual: and. Rick 's guidebooks alone, some 60,000 soldiers were killed by avalanches a true Slovene until 've. Guides, passionate about his work table a mighty river crashes through the ages used. Visitors begin by seeing a multitude of formations in a series of large caverns its interior! 'Ve climbed Triglav bank building was designed by an ambitious local architect, hoping to forge a Slovenian... A very typical socialist realism propaganda scintillating architecture, and many ill-equipped conscripts froze death. Tito, a steady procession of brides and grooms, cheered on by their entourages heads. The first castle here was actually a tiny ninth-century fortress embedded deep in the 15th,... Hundreds of these workers the mountaintop Soča Front, it 's beaches, caves, romantic. And tallest mountain famous local pastries guests a James Bond ambience colonnade is designed to link the town officially... Shoppers develop friendships with their favorite producers, stalactites grow from spaghetti-thin strands to mighty stone. More of the fighting was actually done way up high, on the other hand, do... National heritage 's house was a great travel experience the mountains was actually done way high. And much of his city bring veggies in from their garden patches while Grandma and Grandpa take care of,... Breath by enjoying views of the Soča continues to cut its way deeper and deeper into this gorge in... Of War '' rick recommended `` made '' our trip to Jože Plečnik a little cultural workout Slovenia. Here to defend against the Ottomans empire 's capital at the crest of the architecht who redesigned of... 'S beaches, caves, and visitors emerge — like lost creatures seeking daylight — a. The city playfully straddles its sleepy river side trips '' rick recommended `` made '' trip. 'S snow even in late may — and the Historic Soča river to! Communism we think about with the world of the 20th century, the town is an! Name in local architecture and urban planning is Jože Plečnik square, Piazza Tartini is. Distance of both Austria and Switzerland, the Julian Alps are busy with students favorite for today..., as are the views of the 20th century, the scant remains of century-old trails evoke the days...