Slovenia, a tiny place about half the size of Switzerland and numbering less than two million inhabitants, is blessed with rich resources and natural good looks. Persistently peaceful, Slovenia has been doing just fine since breaking away from Yugoslavia and its many delights are just waiting to be discovered. Venture forth and you will find Venetian harbour towns on the Adriatic coast, the Sound of Music scenery of the Julian Alps, the concert halls of Ljubljana and the countless opportunities for a world of adventure at home in its national parks. And just to place it for you, Slovenia is bordered by Italy, Austria, Hungary, Croatia and the Adriatic Sea.

Best time to visit

May to September, for the warm weather and summer sun.

Essential experiences

White-water rafting on the turquoise rapids of the Soca River; daydreaming while boating on the fairytale Lake Bled; marvelling at the world-renowned Lipizzaner horses strutting their stuff at Lipica; attempting to conquer the dramatic Predjama Castle; partying Slovenia-style at the Kurentovanje festival in Ptuj.

In a few words, Slovenia is

Fairytale castles, virgin forests, cobalt-blue rivers and adventure-mad locals.

Did you know?

Slovenia is not Slovakia; this tiny country has produced several world ski champions and it has been making high-quality wine since the time of the Romans.