Slovenia

Linking the world renowned city of Dubrovnik with the virtually unknown tiny historic centre of the inland town of Kranj in Slovenia is more than unusual, but there are elements that they share in addition to just bringing much pleasure and beauty into the equation.
 

At any time of year Ljubljana is a delight. We have just added another time to visit: early December for the St. Nicolas celebrations which lift the city into another dimension. The mix between a religious festival and commercial interests is so much better than in the UK, it is the equal of Antwerp which we had assumed was way ahead of anything we had experienced previously.

Slovenia, Slovakia, Slavonia – it is no wonder Slovenia is not on our holiday destinations’ radar despite its great appeal.  The country is small but its span of characteristics is wide; from the Alps with skiing and wild flowers to the flatter wine lands (plus big areas of hop gardens), as well as a typical Mediterranean coastline.  Underneath, they have magnificent caves at Postojna which is one of the world's largest karst monuments.  Despite all these attractions, they have happily escaped being devoured by over-development whilst they go quietly about their business.