Discover Slovenia, the host of 2023 European Rowing Championships!

Diversity within short distances

Slovenia might be among the smaller countries in the world, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in its diversity. In fact, this green country (over 60% is forested) is the only European country where the Alps, the Mediterranean, the Karst and the Pannonian Plain meet. This results in immense diversity within short distances, which comes in handy, as it will take you only two hours to drive from the capital to the most remote corners of the country. Here, you’ll find a number of things to do, including active holidays and exploring nature, pampering at spa resorts, cultural spots and superb gastronomy and wines. What all these exciting experiences have in common is sustainability, which is reflected in care for the environment, tradition and taking care of the well-being of the locals and visitors alike.

Slovenia has a sporting heart

Slovenia represents a natural playground with an astonishing diversity of terrains, which invite you to spend time outdoors; be it in the mountains, among the rolling hills, on the coastline and in the sea, in the green forests, by the rivers and lakes or even in the caves. Unique and unforgettable active adventures are guaranteed, no matter the season, which reflects also in the fact that Slovenia is home to many world-renowned athletes and a great host of major sporting events. Cyclists Tadej Pogačar and Primož Roglič, basketball player Luka Dončić, sports climber Janja Garnbret and many other Slovenian names in the world of sports fill the headlines of the world media and push the boundaries of the possible. Their incredible achievements make some people believe that Slovenian athletes come from another planet, but they’ve guessed it wrong: they come from heavenly beautiful Slovenia, a small green country in Central Europe, with a big sporting heart.

Top hints for exploring Slovenia

Start your journey in Bled, embraced by the mighty mountains

Count yourself lucky if you’re starting your discovery of Slovenia in Lake Bled, set among the mighty peaks of the Julian Alps. The destination will impress you with the emerald green lake and picture-postcard church perched on a small islet. Adventurers can enjoy many hiking, biking canyoning and watersports opportunities in the area (for more adventures souls Bohinj, Kranjska Gora and Soča Valley are also not to miss), while those who appreciate a slower pace can indulge in a slice of traditional Bled cream cake at one of the many cafes that populate the shoreline.

Continue southwards and explore the green capital of Slovenia, Ljubljana

Continue your adventure in Slovenia’s capital, Ljubljana. The city, which was named the Green Capital of Europe in 2016 and selected the European Best Destination of 2022, boasts a charming old town with beautiful architecture, including the creations of Slovenia’s great architect Jože Plečnik, which have been listed among UNESCO heritage sites.

Nea Culpa, Mankica Kranjec, Slovenian Tourist Board

Don’t miss the charming coastline and Karst caves

Continue your journey southwards to Karst and Mediterranean Slovenia or eastwards, to the Thermal Pannonian Slovenia. In the southwest, Slovenia’s coastline awaits you. It is modest yet beautiful, with a handful of sun-drenched coastal towns famous for their production of wine, olive oil and salt. Of Slovenia’s three main seaside towns – Koper, Izola and Piran – it is Piran that is most impressive. With its Venetian Gothic architecture, Piran’s Old Town is one of the best-preserved historical towns anywhere in the Mediterranean. If you move a bit further, in the hinterland, you will soon discover that the adventure even awaits underground. Did you know that Slovenia features as many as 13,000 caves, with new ones being discovered all the time? The most impressive are certainly the Postojna Cave and the UNESCO-listed Škocjan Caves. These subterranean wonders are among the world’s most captivating caves with magnificent formations and diverse fauna. Not to mention Postojna’s most iconic inhabitant; the famous ‘baby dragon’.

For pampering and great wines, head eastwards

In the eastern part of Slovenia, in the Thermal Pannonian Slovenia, no visit is complete without pampering at one of the spa resorts which are thanks to natural water springs dotted around the area – some can be found also elsewhere in Slovenia, but the eastern part of Slovenia is really packed with them and thus worth visiting if you are searching for the ultimate spa pampering getaway. You can choose just the right health resort for you according to the region or according to what your body needs, what your inner self wishes, and what kind of a getaway you and your family expect.

Allow yourself to be impressed by diverse landscape and rich culture, superb gastronomy and impressive outdoors. All is at your fingertips in Slovenia. For more inspiration, discover 10 reasons why Slovenia is worth visiting in 2023.

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2023 European Rowing Championships

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