I had done one trip previously – Amalfi coast hiking, fall 2023 – with EXPLORE. I was so impressed I asked my excellent guide, Pete, what else he would recommend knowing my abilities and interests. He immediately recommended the Slovenia trip, and it actually was on my list of places to visit. He had apparently set the trip up about seven years ago and was very familiar with it.
I have been in 50 countries to date - some several times- and Slovenia is now in my top five and I am already planning my return for next May.
We had a lovely small group, being the first of these hikes of the season, hailing from Canada, Spain, Australia, and the UK.
The accommodation, staff, management, and food at Art Hotel Kristal were A+ – and I especially loved and took advantage of the options of the sauna and cold plunge, Ayurvedic massages with the wonderful Bhatri, chocolate tasting with the owner, Alenka, and a fantastic wine tasting with her son, Jan. I went home with a lovely assortment of chocolates and also a wonderful bottle of wine that I will try to hold onto for a few years until it is optimal to drink.
The hikes were not difficult at all, but I found that I did feel like I got a good amount of exercise by the end of the day. I spent my free day doing a mountain bike ride. The whole area around Lake Bohinj is stunning and there are so many activities that one can partake in, as well as really yummy local restaurants close by the hotel. I loved that the hotel offered a pre-fixe three course menu for hotel guests for only €25 on the nights that were not included with the hike. An incredible bargain given the quality of the food, as with almost all of the food we had in Slovenia, it was locally sourced and delicious. I am not typically a meat eater, but I had the venison twice – locally sourced, and wild – and it was by far the best I have ever had.
I would definitely stay at this hotel when I return to the area. I would strongly encourage others to spend some time in Ljubljana – either before or after the trip. A beautiful city a two hour bus ride awaythat is just the right size and full of so much to offer. Next time I am going to see a lot more of this country – it is half the size of Switzerland, but the variety of the terrain and ecosystems is quite impressive. Also, to be noted is that English is widely spoken and children start in grade 3, learning this second language. The Slovenians couldn’t have been nicer and more helpful everywhere I went. What can I say?? Get yourself to Slovenia before it is overrun: safe, clean, and green – a beautiful country of farmers, foragers, wine makers, and beekeepers. Also note that they have some fantastic fly fishing there as well as mountain and road biking – very cycling friendly. After all, it is the country of Pogacar.
Trekking and HikingWaterfalls
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Hut
Age Range
16-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Ljubljana, Bled, Lake Bohinj, La
Ljubljana, Bled, Lake Bohinj, Lake Bled, Brod, Julian Alps, Mostnica Gorge
Really enjoyed the tour although it included very long driving hours on some days. Packing lighter would definitely have helped in getting around more easily as we changed hotels almost every day and some of them had a small walk from the drop off point. The group itself was amazing with the tour leader Darius being helpful and attentive. Our driver Pascal was excellent and we had bathroom stops every 3 hours or so in nice service stations having good food and snacks options.
Art and architecture
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
10-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Amsterdam, Ghent, Swiss Alps, Pa
Amsterdam, Ghent, Swiss Alps, Paris, Rhine, Prague, Vienna, Budapest, Ljubljana, Venice, Tuscany
The experience of meeting people and developing a special bond is priceless. The historical knowledge and driving through the most beautiful scenes and sites will always be with me
MountainsLocal culture
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
10-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Athens, Budapest, Belgrade, Sofi
Athens, Budapest, Belgrade, Sofia, Thessaloniki, Kalabaka, Ohrid, Tirana, Dubrovnik, Sarajevo, Split, Ljubljana
The tour was fun, interesting, informative, and an overall great experience. We travelled with a 12 year old and a 14 year old who also loved the whole experience and didn't want it to end.
Christmas markets
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
10-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Amsterdam, Ghent, the Swiss Alps
Amsterdam, Ghent, the Swiss Alps, Paris, Rhine, Prague, Vienna, Budapest, Ljubljana, Venice, Tuscany
Croatia, Slovenia, and Montenegro were beyond beautiful! Crystal-clear waters, charming old towns, and delicious seafood—this was one of our best trips yet.
Adriatic Cruise
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
8-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Dubrovnik, Ljubljana, Zagreb, Sp
Dubrovnik, Ljubljana, Zagreb, Split, Plitvice Lakes National Park, Opatija
Imagine a land where emerald lakes sparkle beneath Alpine peaks and adrenaline is always in the air—welcome to "Slovenia: Hike, Bike & Raft." This seven-day city sightseeing tour, bookended by Ljubljana and Bled, is a moderate-level, action-packed adventure perfect for energetic travelers.
Hike the lush trails of Mt Vogel in Triglav National Park, cycle along the Radovljica River, and conquer the white water rapids of the Soka River under expert guidance. Stroll the boardwalk of Vintgar Gorge, wander through storybook villages, and discover the vibrant secrets of Ljubljana’s urban heart. With plenty of free time for kayaking, ziplining, or simply soaking up the views around Bled, every traveler can find their own pace.
The unique highlight of this trip package is its seamless blend of scenic beauty and outdoor excitement, offering a chance to explore Slovenia’s best by foot, bike, and raft. Accommodation, transport, meals, and guided activities are all included for a stress-free, adventure-filled getaway.
City sightseeing
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Discover Slovenia’s natural wonders on two wheels with the Cycle Slovenia tour—a guided, eight-day bicycle adventure that loops from Ljubljana to the Adriatic coast. You’ll pedal through postcard-perfect destinations like Lake Bled and Triglav National Park, climb the scenic slopes of Kranjska Gora, and follow the emerald Soca River. Along the way, explore the depths of Postojna Cave and relax with picnics, barbecues, and wine tastings.
The unique selling point of this tour is its seamless blend of cycling and sightseeing, letting you experience Slovenia’s diverse landscapes and vibrant culture at a moderate, enjoyable pace. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a spirited traveler, this trip promises a ride—and memories—to treasure.
Bicycle tours
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Guest House, Hotel, Resort
Age Range
15-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Ljubljana, Lake Bled, Kranjska G
Ljubljana, Lake Bled, Kranjska Gora, Bovec, Šmartno, Postojna, Piran
Journey through Slovenia’s enchanting landscapes and into Italy with the "Slovenia & Trieste - 8 days" explorer tour. Crafted for seasoned travelers and seniors, this easy-paced adventure begins with a scenic boat trip from Portoroz to Izola, then heads to Trieste and the breathtaking Miramare Castle. Explore the mysterious Postojna Caves, marvel at the cliffside Predjama Castle, and enjoy a tranquil boat ride to Bled Island’s iconic church. The journey concludes with a guided walk in Ljubljana. The highlight of this trip is its artful combination of natural splendor and architectural marvels, offering a truly picturesque and culturally rich tour package.
Kate PolitiTravel Expert in France, Greece, England, Germany & Slovenia
