Slovenia _ Europe's Hidden Jewel


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Europe » Slovenia
August 14th 2006
Published: March 6th 2007
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Lake BledLake BledLake Bled

The church on the "island" in Lake Bled
Slovenia is a relatively small country. Its population is around 2,000,000. I must say though, for such a small country it really packs a punch!! From the peaks of the majestic Jesenice Alps to the deep underground chambers of the Skocjan caves, this country has something for all travellers whether you are backpacking or going 5-star luxury. We spent time in Lake Bled, Piran, Koper, Ljubljana (the capital city) and also visited the Skojcan caves. Lake Bled is a premier attraction of Slovenia. In winter, the lake freezes and the alps are blanketed in pure white snow. Its a winter wonderland. IN summer ( when we visited) the lake becomes a place to relax, unwind and walk. You can swim in the lake-the water is cool but crystal clear. In peak season it pays to book ahead for accomodation. You may get a room by walking up, but the cheap stuff fills up quickly. The highlight and what makes Lake Bled unique is that on the island in the middle of the lake, there is a church- The Church of Assumption. Now, the "island" is relatively small so that the church takes up almost all of it. Very unique!!! There are
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Surrounded by the majestic Jesenice (pronounced jess-in-itza) Alps
summer markets most nights and you can actually get a decent souvenir and something uniquely Slovenian for a very reasonable price. Surrounded by a 360 degree panaorama of the Jesenice alps, Lake Bled is the must-see attraction in Slovenia. (The locals call it Lesce Bled). ****You may or may not be aware that Slovenia does have a coastline. In fact 47 kilometres to be precise. The coast is between Trieste in Italy and Umag in Croatia. You can enjoy a beautiful dinner by the Adriatic Sea in Piran where we spent most of our time (and watch the most incredible sunsets) Ive seen anywhere in the world. Many people will suggest Koper as the prime spot to see, and for convenience, that may be true as the train terminates there. However, for about 5 euros each you can take the bus to any of Portoroz, Istria or Piran. Its easy. At the station where the train pulls in there are buses right out the front and working out payment is no problem. Plus the coastal bus ride is just beautiful and you may even see somewhere else that appeals you you on the way. But Piran is where the Slovenians,
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Im in this picture
Austrians and even the odd Italian holiday, so you cant argue with the European local knowledge. Accomodation is a little tight so book ahead especially in July or August. But there are some youth hostels (2) and cheap 2 or 3 star hotels for about 40 euros a night (twin share). Piran is typically Slovenian and absolutely postcard perfect. Make sure your camera takes good sunset shots and is fully charged or you'll regret it. Take the time to visit. I promise you- you wont regret it. See also my article on SKOCJAN caves in Slovenia


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Piran in the eveningPiran in the evening
Piran in the evening

Boats in marina
Piran sunsetPiran sunset
Piran sunset

Amazing sunset over the Adriatic Sea with historic buldings in backgound


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