Sue Povey: charmed by Slovenia and Northern Italy

Surprisingly, Slovenia does not receive the attention it deserves as a travel destination. Its neighbouring countries, Italy, Austria and Croatia are far more likely to have been visited. I was so pleased to get this opportunity to explore the area as a potential group destination, as it has so much to offer. This holiday, which I booked with Riviera Travel, had a bonus, too - it was a two-centre tour.

I stayed very close to the border with Slovenia in Udine, Northern Italy as the base for the first five days. This is a charming town with a vehicle-free centre and residents all using bicycles. It gained its importance during its Venetian rule, which has left its stamp on the beautiful Paladio architecture in its historic centre. This quieter region has been influenced by both Hapsburg and Venetian rule and does not feel entirely Italian; they even speak their own language, Friuli!

From here we had three days out by coach, the first being to the coast to visit Trieste. It was fun hearing about James Joyce’s time here where he was always leaving unpaid bills. Some of us lunched at the famous and very grand Cafe Antico Tommoseo from where he was banned. Close to Trieste stands Castle Miramare, with its fairytale appearance. It has a sad history but a stunning coastal location and beautiful landscaped gardens and it is well worth visiting.

The mosaic history of the region was the focus for two more days out, the first being to Spilimbergo. I was fascinated by the amazing Mosaic School we visited. It is world famous as the only place to teach this ancient art and its students come from all over.

Following this, it felt most appropriate to go back to Roman times and visit Aqualeia. This massive Roman city is still being discovered, especially since so much has been damaged over many years of violent earthquakes. At its heart lies the medieval Patriarchal Basilica, a World Heritage site. Descending the subterranean depths, below the Basilica, lie exciting excavated discoveries of ancient mosaic floors, the extent of which is an incredible sight.

Taken aback by beautiful Slovenia 

Departing Italy and entering into the beautiful Slovenian countryside made a really lovely day’s journey. We passed through countless vineyards, enjoying a wine tasting lunch, and made stops at Cividale, founded by Julius Caesar, and the Santa Maria Monastery to see the Byzantine frescoes and eighth century sculptures.

Ljubljana, Slovenia’s charming capital, was busier than expected but compact and easy to explore. The river, as in many cities, is its important central hub and towering on the hill above is its 15th century castle. There is plenty to see and discover and interesting legends to tickle the imagination.

Slovenia has a very tiny stretch of Adriatic coastline but its only port town of Piran is beautiful to discover. It faces across the sea to Venice and mirrors its Venetian architecture. The main marble-paved square is surrounded by attractive buildings on three sides, including a 15th century Venetian Palace, and opens up onto the small harbour with colourful boats and fishing vessels. Above the square, perched on the sea wall, sits the majestic cathedral with a replica of St Mark’s belltower.

Later that day, we travelled on to Lipica. I was especially excited to visit the world-renowned stud farm of the Lipizzaner horses, together with the classical riding school, founded in 1580. The guided tour taught us about the breeding programme. Each horse only performs twice weekly and so there is a rotation for the daily shows. Needless to say, their performance in the show was flawless and spectacular. I found it very emotional watching the special bond between horse and rider. The consideration for and care of these magnificent horses was very evident.

Ticking off a bucket list experience

Lake Bled has been on my wish list for many years and it did not disappoint! We were fortunate to see the lake in lovely weather conditions and its turquoise colour and clarity was just like all the brochure photographs I have seen. An obvious tourist attraction, but the lake environs did not come across as over-crowded or spoilt beside its shores. Clearly its surrounding paths and natural beauty have been carefully preserved.

Timing the traditional rowing boats taking tourists across to the island is well managed to avoid overcrowding. Once on the island, to reach the church, there are 96 steps. There is a tradition that before marriage, the groom should carry his future bride all the way up these steps. It looked very challenging but we did witness this taking place and, despite a few wobbles, the groom accomplished it safely to everyone’s cheers.

I even saw Lake Bled from the air on my flight home, a jewel standing out in the landscape, and a great final memory of a wonderful trip.