Nestled between Italy, Croatia, and Austria lies Europe's 'hidden gem', Slovenia. This stunning country has seen a surge in tourism in recent years, and it's only set to grow, but if you visit now, you'll beat the rush of Brits who are sure to make it their next must-visit destination.
With the turquoise waters of the River Soča, one of Europe's most beautiful rivers, and the snow-capped peaks of the Julian Alps, the Karavanke mountains, and the Kamnik-Savinja Alps, Slovenia is a breathtaking country that still boasts a population of brown bears.
The capital city, Ljubljana, is a picturesque city nestled amongst the Julian Alps, offering plenty of attractions for tourists. One such attraction is the medieval fortress of Ljubljana Castle, perched atop Castle Hill, accessible via a funicular railway or a brisk 10-minute hike.
Other highlights include the serene Tivoli Park and the historic Ljubljana Old Town. Don't miss out on Zmajski Most or the Dragon Bridge, an impressive Art Nouveau bridge adorned with dragon sculptures. Just 34 miles from Ljubljana is Lake Bled, a popular tourist spot that takes about one and a half hours to walk around.
In the middle of the lake sits Bled Island, home to The Church of Mary the Queen, also known as the Pilgrimage Church of the Assumption of Mary, or Our Lady of the Lake. The church can be accessed by boat, and visitors are urged to ascend the tower and ring the church bells. Bled Castle, perched on a cliff overlooking the lake, is another must-see at Lake Bled.
