Vacation Spots Blog: CB! Exclusive: An Incredible 8-Day Slovenia Itinerary for Families

By: Lisa Frederick

Slovenia is not on everyone’s bucket list, and Slovenians like it that way; some gems are all the more beautiful for their rarity. But for those who decide to visit, there are so many facets of this small country to explore. Mountain views and alpine rivers of turquoise? Check. Hillsides that look as though they should be in Tuscany, with ancient vineyards making sumptuous wines? Check. World-class cuisine made with local ingredients? Check! The cleanliness and order of Switzerland, the architecture of Austria, the coastal warmth of Croatia and Italy, the cuisine, wine and cycling of France … Slovenia has all these and more.

Our valued Slovenia travel partners in the region have crafted a family-friendly itinerary through the country, exclusively for us. See the details below, then contact us to book!

Best Itinerary for Slovenia Travel with Kids

Day 1: Arrival in Ljubljana

Upon arriving in Ljubljana, you’ll be greeted at the airport and transferred to your hotel in the city’s quaint old district. Depending on what time you arrive, the day is yours to enjoy however you please. In the evening, meet with your guide and the rest of the group for your first taste of Slovenian cuisine.

Day 2: Trekking in Triglav National Park

After a hearty breakfast, head to Triglav National Park to embark on a 5-hour morning hike from the beautiful green plateau of Pokljuka up to Blejska Cottage. Rugged mountain paths lead to one of the best viewpoints in the area; at 1,965 meters, the trail opens out directly opposite the Julian Alps and Mount Triglav. On reaching the hut, the view encompasses the surrounding Karavanke Mountains, Ljubljana and Austria in the distance. In the afternoon, visit Vila Bled for traditional Bled cream cake — it’s a must.

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Best Itinerary for Slovenia Travel with Kids

Day 3: Kayaking in Triglav National Park

This morning, you’ll meet with your kayaking guide at the lake. After you get your equipment and are dressed, guides will explain the basic techniques: how to paddle, how to get on and off the boat, how to sit right. You’ll launch your kayaks into the Sava Bohinjka, a headwater of the Sava River. The first 30 minutes are spent learning the basics of kayaking on the peaceful part of the river, then you will descend 3 to 5 km and learn how difficult kayaking along an Alpine river can be.

Take a break for lunch in Bohinj before we visit the Museum of Apiculture in Radovljica. This beekeeping-themed museum is housed in a baroque manor home and displays an essential part of Slovenian history and culture: the rich tradition of beekeeping.

Day 4: Hiking Martuljek Waterfalls

Start the day with a beautiful all-weather walk hidden in a secret area of the Martuljek Mountain Range. From the trailhead at the small village of Gozd Martuljek, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking panorama of the Špik Mountain Range. One of the most beautiful mountains in the Julian Alps, Mount Špik is known as the Slovenian Matterhorn, and its pyramid-shaped summit dominates the Martuljek Range.

Leaving the valley, the forest trail leads into Martuljek Gorge and ascends along the stream, ultimately arriving at the Lower Fall that cascades down to the valley. The trail snakes its way through the forest where you’ll take a break at a rest stop to enjoy the view. Lipovceva Hut has a lovely setting and is known for its open natural kitchen and delicious homemade mountain soups.

From here, head up to the stunning Higher Falls, passing a monument dedicated to Slovene climbers. This is a lovely walk into the gorge, suitable for all weather and offering fine views of two beautiful waterfalls, Mount Spik and the Martuljek Range.

Best Itinerary for Slovenia Travel with Kids

Day 5: Bovec/Zipline Above Soča Valley

After breakfast, gear back up for a zipline adventure, which begins with a drive up the mountainside in the instructor’s 4×4 car. The car drive is in itself worth the money for its 10 km scenic mountain road. One the starting point of the zipline is reached; you will be harnessed onto the zip wire and prepared for your flight. Suspended above the trees, you will whizz down the line to the base of the mountain. The zip lines are 2.4 km long in total, comprised of 4 lines approximately 500 meters each.

Spend the afternoon back at your hotel, relaxing or strolling the area’s charming fields and forest. Tonight, be prepared for a feast of locally grown ingredients at Hiša Franko, one of the top 50 resturants in the world and helmed by Ana Roš (named best female chef on the planet in 2017).

Day 6: Farewell to Arms in Kobarid

Visit the secluded Kozjak waterfall and small charming village of Drežnice, just under the magnificant Julian Alps, this morning. After lunch, it’s time to get wet again! This is the world of the emerald-green Soča River. You’ll embark on an adrenaline-filled rafting trip down the wild rapids.

Best Itinerary for Slovenia Travel with Kids

Day 7: Goriška Brda Wine Region/Ljubljana

Today you’ll continue to Goriška Brda, known as the Slovenian Tuscany. Go from village to village experiencing the natural and cultural heritage of this region, which had a turbulent past but enjoys an interesting present. Brda is a land of castles, vineyards and small white churches, many situated on hilltops overlooking the villages. Stop for a wine tasting at one of the hospitable local vineyards and pay a visit to one of Slovenian’s best-known winemakers.

Afterward, head back to Ljubljana to prepare for a Slovene cooking lesson and evening feast. It’s a hands-on culinary experience where you can get as involved in the cooking as you like — no previous cooking experience is necessary to enjoy the delicacies. Sample a selection of typical Slovenian cold starters as you begin preparations for the meal: a lovely warm starter, a hearty main dish and an excellent Slovenian dessert. Each dish will be served fresh, immediately after preparation.

You will also get a chance to taste different sorts of Slovenian wine, homemade traditional juices and, as a digestif, some typical Slovenian schnapps and liqueurs. Menus are adjusted seasonally and always incorporate fresh ingredients from the local farms or market, which is just next door.