Slovenia is one of the world’s most in-depth countries in terms of its diversity, but at the same time, it is one of the smallest, with it taking as little as 3 hours to drive across. For such a small size, it is a country that doesn’t disappoint.
Although it has its popular attractions like Lake Bled or tourist city escapes like Ljublijana, it does have its little hidden gems that don’t attract as high numbers but are equally beautiful in their whole clear and obvious way; you just have to explore them.
That being said, what are Slovenia’s hidden gems? This guide will help you discover Slovenia’s hidden beauty and hopefully put you in the right direction. Let’s dive right in.
Hidden Gems in Slovenia
1. Piran
This beautiful little coastal town nestled along western Slovenia effortlessly blends medieval charm with coastal beauty with its cobblestone streets and well-preserved Venetian architecture.
Although it has timeless beauty, this Slovenian hidden gem is often forgotten about compared to other of the country’s most talked about cities like Ljubljana, and this is analysed by its relatively low numbers when visiting.
When you’re in Piran, one of the best things to do is climb St. George’s Paris Church. Once you make your way to the top of the bell tower, you’ll be treated to some breathtaking views of the town. Then, if you want an even better view, make sure to climb the city walls for a more postcard-worthy view.
Or if you’re not interested in the views, its promenade and port speak volumes. Walk along the docks, past the pastel-coloured homes, and take in the lovely seaside atmosphere.
Just next to the port is also Tartini Square, where the town’s bustling atmosphere lies. Here, you will find many local eateries and bars to chill and relax after exploring the town.
2. Škocjan Caves
Skocjan Caves is one of Slovenia’s top hidden gems..literally! Deep inside the underground is this collection of chambers and canyons that were formed millions of years ago by the Reka River.
You must go on a guided tour to enter the caves. While you walk through the caves, you’ll see past many stalagmites and stalactites, underground waterfalls, and unique wildlife that call this place their home.
My main personal highlight is Cerkvenik Bridge, which is Tolkien Esque. It almost feels like you’re about to see a white wizard shout ‘You shall not pass’ at its end. The whole thing is massively fascinating to see.
3. Lake Bohinj
Cornered in between the Julian Alps is this pristine emerald green lake, which is a perfect serenity stop off from the hustle and bustle areas of Slovenia. Lake Bohinj really doesn’t get the love it fully deserves, with lakes like Lake Bled keeping it under its shadows.
However, Lake Bohinj offers its own undeniable charms and provides a large number of activities for a full-day adventure, including opportunities for swimming, kayaking, hiking, and cycling.
By the lake, you have the famous Church of St. John the Baptist, a 700-year-old church with some impressive medieval architecture. Climb up the top to see the most picturesque view of the lake.
If you are not interested in the lake’s fascinating monuments and strenuous hikes, there are spots where you can just pop a towel down and have a nice little snooze.
4. Kobarid
During your trails along the beautiful Soča Valley, you might find this small historic town called Kobarid, a true hidden gem in the Northwestern part of Slovenia.
Kobarid is home to some magnificent treasures, including large cascading waterfalls and museums that dive into its history and significance in World War 1.
Its significance in World War 1 is learnt in the Kobarid Museum, where there are fascinating facts about its role in the Battle of Caporetto. If history is not your thing, its food may sway you. Kobarid has many of its local specialities, like Bovec cheese, Tolminc cheese, and Jota soup, which are sold at restaurants around the town.
I can’t say much about the cheese, but the Jota Soup is lovely. Its texture is a nice crossover between soup and stew, including plenty of hearty flavours.
5. Kozjak Waterfall
Just a short distance from the town of Kobarid lies Kozjak Waterfall, a 15m cascading waterfall with a crystal clear emerald green base – truly one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia!
During the summer, the waterfalls serve as a nice little retreat from the sunny climate of Slovenia, as the walls protect the heat from getting in.
Therefore, I wouldn’t recommend actually swimming in the base as it is freezing, and if anything, it is best left untouched to preserve its pristine beauty.
6. Logar Valley
Logar Valley really is a landscaper’s dream. This little hidden gem stretches across a section of the Solčava Region in a U-shape bend and includes plenty of hidden gems throughout its lush greenery.
The valley is also very much known for its waterfalls, with over 20 to choose from! Rinka Valley is perhaps its most popular choice, with waters falling over 90m and taking the spot for Slovenia’s second-highest waterfall.
One of the best things I recommend doing in Logar Valley is to go for a sweet drive through the Solčava panoramic road. It’s over 37km long, very scenic and also a convenient way to move quickly around the nearby villages and farms and, of course, see more of those panoramic views of the valley.
7. Predjama Castle
Built under the mouth of a cave, Predjama Castle is the largest cave castle in the world and a true hidden gem in Slovenia. Although it is usually explored on a day trip to Postojna Cave, it still remains a much more unpopular option of the two.
The castle should definitely be on everyone’s top list to visit in Slovenia for its obvious unique charms. While its selling point is the location, its interior is so aesthetically beautiful, built with the finest medieval architecture, that stepping inside almost feels like you’ve entered the realms of Game of Thrones.
As you walk around the castle, you’ll learn about the royalty that once lived through its walls. Plus, find out some fascinating trivia about Erazem Lueger, Slovenia’s own Robin Hood, who has become a legendary folklore for Slovenia.
Visitors can also go up to the top of the cave, where Ezarem and many others used a secret passageway to exit the castle during sieges as a matter of defence.
Final thoughts
Slovenia really does have its hidden gems, doesn’t it? For such a small country, it offers some of the best diversity an explorer can find.
One minute, you’re exploring citygoers dream in Piran; the next, you’re paddleboarding through Lake Bojinj while taking in those gorgeous desktop screensaver-like views of the Julian Alps.
Slovenia really is a delight, and even though a selfish part of me is enjoying fewer tourist numbers, I’m getting a buzz from seeing its popularity increase and finally starting to get the recognition it deserves.
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