Slovenia Travel blog.

HALF THE size of Switzerland and a population of just over two million, Slovenia is often dubbed Europe in miniature: it is possible to be exploring the Slovenian Alps in the morning and swimming in the Venetian city of Piran in the afternoon

With stunning natural scenery, and neo-classical architectural castles and historic villages, it is a destination that can be easily explored in a short period of time. Cox & Kings has introduced a collection of self-drive tours and short breaks to the country, with prices starting from £465 per person for a 3-night break to the capital of Ljubljana.

Taste of Slovenia is a new 6-night private self-drive tour priced from £1,595 per person. Starting in the spa region to the east of the capital, it then continues to the vineyards of the Gorsika Brda region – Slovenia’s Tuscany – and to Piran on the Adriatic coast. The week finishes with a stay in Ljubljana and a visit to Lake Bled. Prices are per person and include flights from London, car hire and accommodation with breakfast daily.

Classical Slovenia is a 6-night twin-centre tour priced from £1,675 per person including private transfers and guided excursions. Spending three nights in both Ljubljana and on Lake Bled, this itinerary takes in the country’s main highlights. Prices are per person and include flights from London, private transfers, excursions and accommodation with breakfast daily and three lunches.

With a flying time of just two hours, a short break in Slovenia is a viable option for a weekend away. Just half-an-hour’s drive from the airport, Bled is a charming lakeside town in the foothills of the Julian mountains. The town and 11th century castle look across to Bled Island, which can be reached by a gondola and is home to the magnificent Church of the Assumption. Prices start from £475 per person for a 3-night trip with flights and transfers.

In the most western part of Slovenia,Brda is known for its wines, olives and fruit. Characterised by scenic hilltop villages with vines cascading down the hillsides, it is possible to visit some of the many family-owned vineyards. A 3-night stay at Hotel Gredic is from £595 per person. Other short breaks on offer include Ljubjlana, the spa town of Dolenjske Toplice, Piran, Portoroz and Otocec. Prices are per person and include flights from London, private transfers and accommodation with breakfast daily.