Slovenia: The Hidden Gem of Europe

Is it just me, or am I the only one completely oblivious to the undiscovered gem of Slovenia? When I think of the Alps, crystal-clear lakes, delicious food, incredible scenery, and many other things, Switzerland or Italy come to mind. However, the small country in Central Europe known as Slovenia has all of this and more. If there's anything I can do with these next words, I hope it inspires you to visit the incredible and undiscovered country of Slovenia.

I arrived in the capital of Ljubljana and purchased a train ticket to my first destination, Bohinjska Bistrica. The train took me into the valleys of the Julian Alps, and as the tracks continued, the scenery became more and more breathtaking. After a quick transfer, I hopped onto a small, local train that still had open windows. Leaning out, I let the wind rush through my hair as I lost myself in the surroundings.

Train to Bohinjska Bistrica

The town of Bohinjska Bistrica is off the beaten path. Most who travel to Slovenia won't make it here, but I hope to change that. As a budget traveler, I also do work exchange, and for the next two weeks, I had booked a work exchange through WorldPackers at Jagar Apartments, a small apartment house that felt more like home than anything else.

My hosts were a Russian couple and young women who quickly became my friends. Their generosity and kindness were unmatched. It was one of those travel moments that you feel incredibly lucky to experience.

Only a short bike ride from Jagar Apartments is Lake Bohinjsko Jezero, an alpine lake with crystal-clear water. I spent my days lying in the sun, swimming, SUP boarding, and kayaking. There are also incredible hikes to be taken, with waterfalls and mountaintop views. If you're an adrenaline junkie, I would also recommend paragliding, which takes you over the lake and around the valley.

The town of Bohinjska Bistrica is off the beaten path. Most who travel to Slovenia won't make it here, but I hope to change that. As a budget traveler, I also do work exchange, and for the next two weeks, I had booked a work exchange through WorldPackers at Jagar Apartments, a small apartment house that felt more like home than anything else.

My hosts were a Russian couple and young women who quickly became my friends. Their generosity and kindness were unmatched. It was one of those travel moments that you feel incredibly lucky to experience.

Only a short bike ride from Jagar Apartments is Lake Bohinjsko Jezero, an alpine lake with crystal-clear water. I spent my days lying in the sun, swimming, SUP boarding, and kayaking. There are also incredible hikes to be taken, with waterfalls and mountaintop views. If you're an adrenaline junkie, I would also recommend paragliding, which takes you over the lake and around the valley.

Of course, a trip to Slovenia would not be complete without a visit to Lake Bled. This is an iconic spot for all who travel to Slovenia. Although be warned, in the summer months, this spot is tourist central, but for a good reason. With turquoise waters and the striking backdrop of snow-capped mountains, it was the perfect spot for a getaway.

One of the most popular attractions on Lake Bled is the island in the middle of the lake, known as pletnas. The island is home to a beautiful 17th-century church with a famous bell tower that you can climb to enjoy panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Lake Bled, Slovenia

Back to the instagrammable spots, you could say that every aspect is insta-worthy, but if you want that perfect "I am gallivanting through Europe" photo for your Instagram, then I have a recommendation for you. Just a twenty-minute hike from the lake is an iconic spot for photos. The hike is called Mala Osojnica and offers the perfect spot for pictures and the best views of the lake as a whole. Trust me, you don’t want to miss this.

With all this being said, there is still so much to explore and do in Slovenia. One of them being the waterfalls. While there, I visited the Peričnik waterfall. Located in the heart of Triglav National Park, it's one you don’t want to miss. It is one of the tallest in Slovenia. While there, I took the path leading behind the waterfall, which offered once again a perfect Insta shot.

The final place to be explored before I left this beautiful country was the capital of Lujbiana. I found myself wandering through the stone streets of the old town. Each turn brought me into a new street lined with cafes, book shops, and little shops that sold all kinds of unique items. Eventually I stumbled onto the market, which was lined with stalls selling fresh fruits and vegetables. However, my favorite is where the flower stands. Exploding with color and dried bags of lavender. 

Another spot you can’t miss is the dragon bridge, which brings a magical touch to the old city. There is also the castle that sits just up on the hill close the the center. Another attraction that you shouldn't miss. Overall I spent two days in Slovenia’s capital. It was just enough time to see the sights and enjoy the many views. 

My time in Slovenia of course came to an end much sooner than I wished for. I left the country much richer than before. With my soul filled with the memories of captivating nature and long days by the lake. It’s now a place that sits in my repritar of travel destinations that whispers to my soul, come back once more. This little whisper will also come to you, if only you dare to grab hold and take the chance for Slovenia.

~A Fellow Wanderer