PRIMORSKA REGION (COAST, KARST AND GORIŠKA REGION)
Yellow is the colour of the sun that strokes the picturesque towns on the Adriatic coast. Its rays paint the beauty of the Karst region planted with olive groves and vineyards, with peach orchards and cherry trees. The wonders of the Goriška region include the beautiful Alpine peaks and valleys of the Triglav National Park, the enchanting winegrowing areas of Goriška Brda and the Vipava Valley.
COAST AND KARST
Every kilometre of the Slovene coast is a new surprise. Take the eighty-metre Strunjan cliff, the highest flysch wall on the Adriatic coast. Or the Sečovlje salt works, first mentioned in the 13th century, and nearby is a sanctuary for more than 150 bird species. Then the towns of Piran, Izola and Koper, drawing visitors with their medieval cores, while Portorož, though mentioned as early as 1251, offers numerous modern hotels with congress halls, a fully equipped marina, a sport airport, thermal baths, a casino, and a varied offer of cultural events.
Behind the Slovene coast is the Karst region. In the cellars of the stone houses excellent wines are poured and sold, and in the attics excellent prosciutto is cured in the bora wind. The Škocjan Caves, which are on UNESCO's list of natural and cultural world heritage sites, boast the 1400-metre long and 150-metre deep underground canyon of the Reka River.
Did you know that the noble Lipizzaner horse originated in Slovenia? Lipica, where the stud farm was established in 1580, is today a popular tourist centre with a riding school, hotels, a swimming pool, a golf course and a casino.
GORIŠKA
Here, numerous water sports are available, from kayaking and canoeing to rafting and canyoning. Visitors can also experience the valley with parachutes, hang-gliders, and mountain bikes.
The Posočje Region, which unveils breathtaking natural wonders at every step of the way, also stores shocking memories of the most atrocious battles of World War I. The most important heritage and memorials of the Battles of the Isonzo are now connected through the Walk of Peace and can also be seen at the Kobarid Museum, winner of several national and international awards.
Idrija is home to a world-famous lace making tradition, a mercury mine that was once one of the most important in the world, and Gewerkenegg Castle with its museum collections.
Picturesque Goriška Brda, to the north of the city of Nova Gorica, is a winegrowing area that produces some of Slovenia's finest wines. Nova Gorica is surrounded by many other sights of interest (Kostanjevica Monastery, Sveta Gora, Kromberk Castle). Towards the east is the green Vipava Valley, a well-known wine district above which paragliders and skydivers from all over the world spread their wings.
TOP 10 EXPERIENCES OF PRIMORSKA REGION
- Walk along the cobbled streets of Piran: the most popular coastal town in Slovenia is filled with restaurants, boutiques and the genuine seaside atmosphere.
- Visit Lipica Stud Farm: experience the magic of the snow white horses and get to know the history of Lipizzaner.
- Experience the majestic Soča River: seeing Soča River for the first time is an unforgettable experience. The magic of the emerald river is simply enchanting.
- Shop for Idrija Lace: world-famous Idrija lace is a unique fashion accessory and typical Slovenian product. Time-permitting, stop at Kenda Mansion for a unique lace exhibition.
- Visit Trenta Valley: as if taken out of a fairytale, the sight of Trenta leaves visitors speechless. High peaks looming above the winding road, woods and the Soča River. Its beyond description, one simply has to experience it...
- Descend into The Škocjan Caves: probably the most spectacular cave system in Europe. A network of caves, hollows and natural bridges is a delight for all nature lovers.
- Have a drink on the terrace of Grand Hotel Bernardin, Portorož: the view of the complete Slovenian coast opens below you, while you enjoy a nice cocktail or coffee.
- Take a ride along Istria Wine Road: while being a well-kept secret, one of the best wine regions in Europe is a home to hospitable locals and great food. Visit with a local driver/guide.
- Visit Štanjel: the stone city on a small karstic outcrop is scenic, heritage and simply amazing. Do not miss the Ferrari gardens.
- Stop at the eco-farm in Čadrg: a small dairy farm on the hills above Tolmin is known for its great cheeses, made with a knowledge of over 700 years of experience.