A Gourmet Tour of Slovenia: 8-Day Luxury Small-Group Tour of Europe’s Best-Kept Secret

Journey through Slovenia, an up-and-coming destination quietly referred to as ‘Europe’s best-kept secret’. A verdant oasis nestled between Croatia and Italy, Slovenia combines incredible natural landscapes with vibrant culture and gourmet cuisine. Let the story-book atmosphere of this country enchant you as you taste your way through Slovenian delicacies, tasting fine wines and embarking on exclusive insider access experiences on this intimate small-group tour - with a maximum six travellers.

What You’ll Love…

The Culinary Side of Slovenia – Experience world-class food and once-in-a-lifetime gourmet experiences

Grant yourself a taste of Slovenia’s unique cuisine, taking something from each of its neighbouring countries and blending the best flavours from Italy, Hungary, Austria and the Balkans.

Explore the leafy city of Ljubljana on a walking food tour: follow your local expert guide as you discover why the country is so passionate about food and wine, tasting local treats and learning the fascinating stories behind the production processes.

Be treated to memorable fine dining experience, including a degustation at one of of the World’s Best 50 Restaurants, Hisa Franko, where the World’s Best Female Chef, Ana Ros, will delight your senses with sensational creations. Ros is highly credited for putting Slovenia on the gastronomic map with her talents, especially due to her dedication to using local ingredients to enrich the flavour of her dishes.

Indulge in an exclusive dinner designed by the culinary mastermind of Tomaž Sovdat, one of Slovenia’s most acclaimed Chef.

Full of wine, fruit, olives and art – Goriska Brda is known as the “Tuscany of Slovenia” for good reason. Travel from village to village in this sun-drenched region, taking in the olive groves and castles as the scenery passes by. Spend some time in one of Slovenia’s most renowned private vineyards for a drink with one of the country’s finest winemakers.

Prepare and cook an authentic Slovenian lunch in an unforgettable hands-on cooking class in Šmartno – a gorgeous medieval town. Cross the border to Italy and enjoy a dinner with a local family, as the sun sets on the vineyards of the Brda region.

End this gastronomical adventure in the best possible way, with a picturesque dinner on the shores of the Adriatic, indulging in fresh seafood and local delights with your fellow travellers.

The Hotels – Stunning luxury accommodations throughout the tour

Feel like you are on the set of a fairy-tale story when you enter Dobra Vila Bovec, a romantic villa hidden amid the lush forest of the Soca region. Time stands still in this gorgeous hotel, housed in a historic telephone office. Relax in the stunning library, take a walk in the gardens, visit the wine cellar, or just unwind in your traditionally decorated room.

Set in the heart of the Brda wine region and boasting panoramic views over the lush hills of the “Tuscany of Slovenia”, Castle Gredic is an impressive historical villa built some 400 years ago. With only seven, beautifully designed rooms, Castle Gredic is a private haven set amid one of the most picturesque landscapes in Europe.

Spend an evening next to the most beautiful lake in all Slovenia, Lake Bled, during a stay at Vila Bled, a boutique 1950s-style hotel that once served as home to President Josip Tito. Steeped in history, Vila Bled contains exceptional facilities such as a lakeside terrace and featuring stunning views of Slovenia’s emblematic Bled region.

The Sights - Explore Slovenia’s stunning natural beauty and hidden cultural treasures

Take in Slovenia’s quintessential landscape of gorgeous castles, lush forest and snow-capped mountains with a boat ride on a traditional Pletna. Sail the emerald waters of the picturesque Lake Bled and embrace the postcard-perfect scenery surrounding you.

The valley of the Soca River saw more than 12 epic battles between the Italians and the Austro-Hungarian armies during World War I. Uncover the details of those tumultuous years with an expert local historian on a private tour of the Kobariski World War I Museum.

Your Package Includes:

• Seven nights of luxury accommodation at some of the best hotels in the country including Cubo Hotel, Vila Bled, Dobra Vila, Castle Gredic and Hotel Kempinski
• Daily breakfasts, daily lunches plus incredible dining experiences
• A one-of-a-kind degustation dinner at the award-winning Hisa Franko restaurant, prepared by Ana Ros – voted the world’s best female chef 2017 and 2018
• A sumptuous dinner at Dobra Vila, exclusively designed by Slovenia’s most acclaimed Chef, Tomaž Sovdat
• Six memorable lunches, including an authentic home-cooked meal from the Brda Region and a picturesque lunch in the heart of the Triglav National Park
• A hands-on cooking class in Šmartno, a gorgeous medieval town – where you will get to learn all the secrets of the Brda region gastronomy
• Private wine-tasting experiences with local winemakers
• A visit to a rural olive oil producer followed by a tasting and masterclass
• Private return airport transfers
• Private transportation throughout
• The services of expert local guides
• Small group sizes of just six people max. for the perfect balance of intimacy and freedom throughout your tour
• Sightseeing and entrance fees throughout the tour itinerary

Tour Extension: Discover another gastronomic region of this enchanting country

Learn even more about the culinary delights of Slovenia as you extend your journey for an extra five days – that will be filled with delectable cheeses, fragrant olive oils and extraordinary gourmet products. Travelling through the country’s most famous wine region and historical sights, you will gain exclusive access to the finest wineries, meet local artisan and uncover the secrets of wine making. Continue the culinary adventure fit for kings and queens, where local produce meets century-old techniques, resulting in distinct experiences for the senses.

The Food – From organic farms to the oldest winery in Slovenia and beyond

The highest quality organic cured meat products await at an organic farm located on the outskirts of Ribnica, in the Dolenjska region of Slovenia. Learn more about the strict process that needs to be followed to achieve a Bio International Certificate, then sit back and enjoy a selection of fine meats pared with organic local wines.

Discover the fascinating history of wine at Keltis Wines, a vineyard that been in the Kelhar family for over 240 years, making it the oldest winery in the country and one of the most prestigious producers of fine organic wines. Enjoy an afternoon of wine tasting and discussion, surrounded by the vivid nature of the Bizeljsko wine region.

Be transported into a past era as you travel through Prekmurje, where quaint medieval villages and old oil mills dot the landscape. Visit ancient oil mills and famous distilleries, be treated to an exclusive masterclass and tasting of pumpkin seed oil, traditional liqueur and more – all produced with local ingredients and following traditional techniques.

Venture to the village of Mali Raj, in the north-west of Slovenia, for a goat’s cheese masterclass followed by a tasting.

The Accommodation – Step back to basics in style with a traditional homestay in a straw roof cottage

Delicious home cooked food and warm, friendly service await at Domačija Novak homestay, a charming family run guesthouse where you will truly feel at home. With just eight, cosy rooms, you will have time to relax, indulge in authentic home cooked food and mingle with your fellow travellers and get to know your local hosts.

Enjoy one night in a traditional straw roof cottage packed with all the comforts at the Pannonian village of Tesanovci. The cozy cottages are beautifully appointed with high comfort, unique stylish touches and ecological materials, such as clay plaster walls, handmade furniture and environmentally friendly heating.

Your Extension Package Includes:

• Four nights luxury rural accommodation including the charming Domačija Novak homestay, a traditional straw roof cottage in the quaint village of Tesanovci and Cubo Hotel in Ljubljana
• Daily breakfast and additional dining experiences
• A sumptuous dinner at the famed Zeleni Gaj Restaurant
• An exclusive cured meats degustation at an organic farm in Ribnica, where you will be able to taste the finest cured meats pared with local wines
• A visit to the oldest and most prestigious winery in Slovenia, followed by a wine tasting
• An exclusive masterclass and tasting in an ancient oil mill and distillery in Prekmurje
• A demonstration of the art of goat cheese making and cheese tasting in the quaint village of Mali Raj

The tour begins and ends in Ljubljana (LJU). Flights to Ljubljana from Australia will typically take a minimum of two stops and approximately 28-32 hours, departing from most major cities with Etihad, Turkish Airlines, Adria, Air Serbia and various other airlines.

You MUST complete your booking form within 48 hours of booking. Following its completion, our Tours Concierge will be in touch to assist with any additional arrangements – including flights.

Private return airport transfers are included in your tour on the first and last day only. Please ensure you arrive into Ljubljana by 2pm on Day 1 of the tour and book your flight out of Ljubljana anytime after midday on Day 8 (or day 11 for extended tour).

You may also wish to arrange your flights into and out of Zagreb (ZAG) or Venice (VCE). Private transfers to and from these cities can be arranged at an additional cost.

A visa may be required to the destination you are visiting. It is each traveller’s responsibility to ensure they are holding a current visa. Please take the time to visit our preferred vendor website Visa’s Direct to assist you with any visa application requirements and processes. If you require any supporting documentation when applying for your visa please let us know and we would be more than happy to assist. Click  here to visit the website.

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DAY 1: LJUBLJANA

On arrival in Ljubljana, you will be met by our representative at the airport before transferring 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.

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ACCOMMODATION: Cubo Hotel

MEALS: Dinner

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DAY 2: LJUBLJANA - BLED

This morning you explore Ljubljana with your guide on a walking food discovery. Known as one of Europe’s most livable and greenest capitals as well as a city of diverse cuisines, this will be a great introduction to the country. Learn all about why Slovenians are bread lovers, enjoy a taste of the local brandy, and taste local delicacies selected not only for their quality but also the story that comes with them. Remember to spend some time enjoying views of the Ljubljanica River’s leafy banks as you stroll along, a hallmark of this stunning city.

In the afternoon, travel to Lake Bled and check in to your charming hotel – the former summer residence of the Yugoslav President Josip Broz Tito. President Tito hosted numerous official state visits here including Nikita Khrushchev, King Hussein, Indira Gandhi, Gamal Abdel Nasser, Kim Il Sung, and many others. After checking in, the evening is at your leisure.

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ACCOMMODATION: Vila Bled

MEALS: Breakfast, & Lunch (as part of walking tour)

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DAY 3: BLED & BOVEC

Depart from Vila Bled on an early morning transfer to the town of Bled. Start your journey with a visit to Bled Island sitting quietly in the middle of Lake Bled – undoubtedly one of the most visited sites in the country. Board a Pletna, a traditional wooden oared boat, for a sail along the enchanting waters as you take in forests, mountains and small buildings along the way. A monumental 1655 stone staircase takes you to the Church of Mary’s Assumption situated at the island’s highest point. Make a wish to the sound of the island’s wishing bell and drink from the well built in honour of a princess.

Continue on a leisurely walk to the Bled Castle, perched on a magnificent cliff overlooking the lake. According to written records dating back to 1011, this is the oldest castle in Slovenia. These former residential quarters now hosts a restaurant and a museum with objects depicting the region’s historical development from the Bronze Age to present day.

We continue towards the beautiful alpine world of the Slovene Northwest where we enjoy lunch in the heart of the Triglav National Park. After crossing Vršič, Slovenia’s highest mountain pass, a magnificent view of the Julian Alps opens up before you.

Arrive at the hotel in the late afternoon before indulging in a beautiful dinner designed by acclaimed chef, Tomaž Sovdat.

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ACCOMMODATION: Dobra Vila

MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

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DAY 4: KOBARID & SOCA VALLEY

Start off the day with a visit to the Soca River, an emerald green stretch of water considered to be the most beautiful river in Slovenia, if not Europe. Here we visit Gljun source - a cold karst creek. Its waters come from the high Kanin mountain range and come to the surface in an interesting spring. After larger rainfalls the water literally bursts from beneath the moss-covered rocks, while in the summertime the bigger attraction is a wonderful Virje waterfall a little further downstream. Its emerald green pool just calls for a refreshing dip in the hot summer days.

After lunch we visit Velika Soška Korita. This wild gorge is one of the most beautiful natural sights on the Soča and an important natural treasure in the Triglav National Park. The beautifully carved gorge is 750 long, just a few metres wide and 15 m deep. It boasts mysterious emerald pools.

This evening we enjoy a feast of locally grown ingredients at the award-winning Hisa Franko restaurant, prepared by the capable hands of Ana Ros. Ros was previously voted as most talented chef in the world in 2016 and has recently claimed an award for best female chef in the world in 2017 as well as being listed in the Top 50 Restaurants in the World 2018.

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ACCOMMODATION: Dobra Vila

MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

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DAY 5: BRDA

After breakfast, we visit the Kobariski World War I Museum – where we take part in a private tour to hear and see all about the devastating events that occurred in this region during time of war. Afterwards we head to the Kolovrat range where structures of the third Italian line of defense are densely tossed on both sides of the state border. A special approach to the restoration of these positions was the use of original building materials (wire nets for fortifying slopes, corrugated sheets, slates, etc.) from the time of the First World War.

Afterwards we continue to Goriska Brda, known as the “Tuscany of Slovenia”, where you’ll travel through villages and experience the nature and culture of a region with a turbulent past and interesting present. Brda is a land of castles, vineyards, and small white churches, often situated on the top of hills overlooking the villages. Stop for a wine tasting in one of Slovenia’s most renowned private vineyards, where one of Slovenia’s most known winemaker treats you to some of their local produce.

This evening we enjoy a glass of bubbles in Hotel Gredič stylish champagne room before a memorable meal in their restaurant.

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ACCOMMODATION: Castle Gredic

MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

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DAY 6: BRDA

This morning we visit Vipolže, a scattered village in lower Brda, where you’ll be enchanted by an old castle from the 11th century and its enormous cypresses of honorable age growing beside it. The castle used to be a representative villa and a hunting manor of the counts of Gorizia where horses were bred, before it changed hands between members of the noble Herberstein, della Torre, Attems Petzenstein and Teuffenbach families.

Afterwards we enjoy more of Slovenian gastronomy with olive oil tasting followed by a hands-on cooking class in Šmartno – a gorgeous medieval town. We prepare and cook traditional farmers food from the Brda region before we sit down to enjoy the fruits of our labour.

This evening we enjoy dinner with a local family, overlooking the vineyards of the Brda region.

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ACCOMMODATION: Castle Gredic

MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

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DAY 7: PIRAN & ADRIATIC COASTLINE

This morning we drive to Slovenia’s coast for a walk through the old town of Piran. Featuring a beautiful old Mediterranean harbor, Piran sits in the Istria region of Slovenia. The entire town is its own museum, featuring well-preserved medieval structures, fascinating architecture and a rich cultural heritage. The narrow streets and closely built old houses add to the town’s special charm. Situated at its very centre, the famous Tartini Square is a tribute to the prominent Piran born violin player and composer Giuseppe Tartini (1692–1777). The Square also boasts a monument in the musician’s honour. Another treat for the eyes is the “Venetian” – a mid-15th century building considered to be one of the most beautiful examples of Venetian gothic architecture in Slovenia. After strolling along the narrow streets typical of Istrian coastal towns, climb the hill overlooking Piran to reach the Church of St George where beautiful views of the harbour await.

This evening we enjoy a final group dinner together and relive the memories of a wonderful week through Slovenia.

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ACCOMMODATION: Hotel Kempinski

MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

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DAY 8: TOUR ENDS

Your tour ends today with a transfer to the airport for your onward journey.

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MEALS: Breakfast

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OR – EXTEND YOUR TIME IN SLOVENIA

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Day 8: DOLENJSKA REGION

This morning we leave the coast behind and head east to Dolenjska (Lower Carniola). Our first stop is an organic farm in Ribnica where we enjoy a degustation of the highest quality organic cured meat products matched with some fine wines. The meats created at this farm go through a very stringent and technical process in order to receive a Bio International Certificate, practiced in very few farms around the world – and will be different to most cured meats you would have tasted before. The highlight of the degustation will be the tasting of the sausages made from the heirloom variety of Krško Polje pig. This carefully selected meat is only processed during the right lunar phase and requires a 200 kg pig to obtain 25 kg of the highest quality meat.

We continue our drive through Kočevski Rog – the oldest forest in central Europe before arriving at Domačija Novak our homestay for the next 2 nights. This gorgeous family run guesthouse takes you back to basics – where farm to plate is a way of life, not a trend and where you will experience seasonal and local dishes created from the heart. This evening you get your first taste of home cooking and you’re in for a real treat!

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ACCOMMODATION: Domačija Novak

MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

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Day 9: CASTLE OTOČEC & BIZELJSKO WINE REGION

After breakfast we travel towards Novo Mesto where in the heart of un-spoilt scenery, on an islet in the middle of the emerald Krka River, sits one of the most alluring Castles in Slovenia, the Otočec Castle!

After a short break at the castle we continue to the Bizeljsko region, located near the Croatian border and famous for its excellent wines, friendly locals and vivid nature. Driving through the picturesque villages along the wine-growing hills you’ll be forgiven for wanting to stop at every opportunity to take photos. We arrive at one of the regions oldest and most prestigious wineries where will spend the afternoon getting to know Marl and his family. The Kelhar family have been making wine for more than 240 years using age old traditions based on the principles of biodynamics. This artisanal approach in the vineyard and the cellar contains minimum quantities of sulfites and provides the wine with minerality, especially felt in the macerated wines. After an enjoyable afternoon of wine tasting we head back to our homestay for yet another amazing dinner.

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ACCOMMODATION: Domačija Novak

MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

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Day 10: PREKMURJE

This morning we have an early start as we drive to Prekmurje, a part of Slovenia where time has stood still. Our first stop is the village of Križevci, one of the most beautiful parts of eastern Goričko. The village prides itself with a Romanesque rotunda from the first half of the 13th century. Next we visit one of the many oil mills and distilleries in Prekmurje, where we enjoy a masterclass and tastings of pumpkin seed oil, homemade liqueur and marmalade – all produced on the premises using age old techniques and local ingredients.

We continue to the Pannonian village of Tesanovci - a magical place that lies at the crossroads of the beautiful Prekmurje plains in the north-east corner of Slovenia, close to the Austrian and Hungarian borders. Our lodging for the evening consists of traditional straw roof cottages – but come with high comfort, unique stylish touches and ecological materials, such as clay plaster walls, handmade furniture and environmentally friendly heating.

Dinner this evening will be at the famed Zeleni Gaj restaurant.

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ACCOMMODATION: Pannonian Village

MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

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Day 11: PRUJ - LJUBLJANA

This morning we visit the village of Mali Raj located in the extreme north-western part of Slovenia, bordering with Hungary. This hilly region is built from the lake and marine sediments; the landscape is crisscrossed by large and small brooks and is where we find the only fragrant daphne site in Slovenia. In the village we enjoy a demonstration of the art of goat cheese making, followed by a tasting.

We continue our way back to Ljubljana with a stop in Ptuj en route. Ptuj is the oldest recorded city in Slovenia - inhabited since the late Stone Age and developed from a Roman military fort. The castle that sits above the town houses the oldest wine cellar in Slovenia which has stored the best wine from the Haloze Hills and the Slovenske Gorice Hills for 700 years.

We arrive in Ljubljana in the late afternoon where you will have some time at leisure before a final group dinner in the heart of the old part of Ljubljana.

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ACCOMMODATION: Cubo Hotel

MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

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Day 11: Tour Ends

After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward jourmey.

MEALS: Breakfast