I find that Slovenia, a small jewel bordering Friuli Venezia Giulia and opposite of Veneto, but also bordering Austria, Hungary and Croatia, houses a naturalistic, thermal, historical and culinary heritage surprisingly rich and varied.
Nova Gorica: European capital of culture 2025
I entered Slovenia from Nova GoricaNuova Gorizia, the best known access door from Italy because on the border, of course, but also because it is a homeland of casino, a las vegas in scale, where many Italians are spilled especially during the weekend. This year Nova Gorica, together with Gorizia and Chemintz (Germany), is the European capital of culture.
And here I did my first, delicious discovery: the restaurant Damwhere the starred chef Uroš fakuč It welcomes you by guiding you in a refined gastronomic journey through the excellent raw materials of the area. The culinary experience, of a higher level, fully justifies the price, giving memories that will last far beyond the final account. The Dam is also hotel, a boutique hotel to be exact.
Another extraordinary gastronomic experience awaits in the suggestive VIPAVA Valleyjust thirty minutes from Nova Gorica, at the restaurant Gostilna Of Tomaž Kavčič. This talented star chef, famous for having “invented” cooking on the salt plate, offers a menu in constant evolution, where each dish is a small visual masterpiece that amazes even more on the palate. Here too, the economic investment is transformed into an unforgettable memory that reappears widely every euro spent.
Lake Bled: an oasis of peace and well -being
I head to the heart of the Alps Giulietowards the Bled lakewhich embodies the most photogenic essence of Slovenia. Its placid crystal clear waters embrace a picturesque islet, on which stands an ancient guardian church of romantic legends and poignant stories, while the majestic medieval castle waken from above, completing a panorama of European fame. However, Bled is not just a natural beauty angle; It is also a renowned spa that invites well -being and relaxation.
Bled’s spas exploit the beneficial properties of local thermal waters, rich in minerals and with temperatures that reach 30 ° C. Here I have not tried any treatment, but the idea I made is of seriousness and professionalism.
The architecture of the area reflects centuries of history: from medieval castle of bledwith its crenellated towers and the museum that tells the story of the region, to the church of Assumption on the island, which can be reached with traditional wooden boats called “Pletna”.
Here for more information on Lake Bled.
Green Slovenia: a mosaic of biodiversity
Leaving Bled behind me, I immerse myself in the green heart of Slovenia, a country that surprises for its extraordinary biodiversity concentrated in such a collected space. With over 60% of the territory covered with forests, Slovenia boasts the title of one of the most green countries in Europe. Its landscapes change with harmonious fluidity: from the majestic peaks of the Julian Alps, through sweet hills dotted with vineyards, forests, woods and to the short but precious Adriatic coast.
This attention to environmental preservation is not accidental: Slovenia was The first nation in the world to be declared green destination of the worldwith a network of hiking and cycle paths that allows you to explore these natural treasures respecting the environment. Breathing this clean air and admiring such uncontaminated panoramas reminded me how precious the European natural heritage is and how important it is to preserve it.
Follow the brand with confidence Slovenia Greenwhich reports destinations and services promised green.
Terme di Čatež: the largest spa in Slovenia
In the south-east of the country, the Terme di Čatež represent The largest and most popular spa complex in Slovenia. Located on the border with the Croatia (Zagrebthe capital of Croatia, is only 100 km), these spas boast a centuries -old story, but have been completely modernized to offer cutting -edge thermal experience.
The complex stands out for its impressive variety of swimming pools fed by thermal waters, both internal and external, both summer and winter, hypothermal (waters between 32 ° and 34 °) or hyperthermal (waters between 35 ° and 36 °). A large number of saunas and wellness treatments complete the offer for adults.
For children and young people, however, even talking about it. They could define Čatež paradise (with a tiny p, of course).
The accommodations range from 4 -star hotels to mobile homes, so prices can satisfy everyone. And the services, consistent with the offer, complete the complex: many possibilities, between daily revenue and packages.
The nearby historic center of Brežicewith its imposing 16th century castle, offers a look at the late Renaissance architecture of the region. The castle today welcomes a hotel, a good -level restaurant and a 18 -hole golf course.
Here you will find all the information on the Terme di Čatež
Rimske Terme: in the footsteps of the ancient Romans
I then head towards the Rimske Terme (Roman Terme), whose history dates back to the era of the Roman Empire. Located in the central region of Slovenia, these spas were discovered and used by the Romans already in the first century AD, which appreciated the healing properties of their waters.
The waters of the Rimske Terme, rich in magnesium, potassium, calcium and other minerals, flow at a temperature of 38.4 ° C and are particularly suitable for the treatment of circulatory, rheumatic problems and some orthopedic and respiratory problems. The modern thermal complex has preserved architectural elements of the Roman era, creating a fascinating dialogue between ancient and contemporary.
The main building of the spa, built in neoclassical style in the 19th century, is a magnificent example of thermal architecture of the Habsburg era. The surrounding gardens, designed according to the principles of romantic landscape, invite relaxing walks between centuries -old trees and fountains.
You can go on horseback, walk by bicycle, play tennis or go to the raft on the river. In hotels there are also yoga and relaxation programs that invite you to stay for a luuungo time and forget about the newspaper.
Here you will find all the information on the Rimske spa.
Getting back on the road to return to the house could in fact be traumatic, as always after a well -succeeded holiday. It did it well to me. The only thing I can do and that can help me in these cases is to think about when to return.
To forget all the wonders of Slovenia this is the official tourism website: https://www.slovenia.info/it
