Gift an experience: Slovenia Green adventures await

We all know that most people, at least those from the ‘developed part of the planet’, have too many things. But when it comes time to gifting, as if under a spell, we (again) gift our loved ones with – things. This time, we offer you some ideas on how to delight your relatives, friends, or business partners in a different way.

We present to you a selection of experiences in Slovenia, carefully chosen and matching each of the four seasons. Each experience is designed with sustainability and green living in mind and are Slovenia Green certified. Escape the daily hustle and bustle and give your loved ones time spent in nature or discovering the cultural gems of Slovenia. All experiences and a link to reservations can be found on our website.

WINTER EXPERIENCES

Guided tour of the Božidar Jakac Art Museum and tasting in the Cviček Cellar

The Božidar Jakac Gallery, set in a former Cistercian monastery, is one of Slovenia’s largest galleries. After exploring its exhibitions, warm up this winter in the cozy Cviček Cellar. Discover the traditions of Dolenjska winemaking, guided by a local expert, and enjoy a tasting of three wines paired with the savory local cake cop na lop.

Velenje Underground

You’ve likely never dined so deep beneath the earth’s surface. In the Velenje mine, one of the richest lignite deposits in the world, you will be served a meal 160 meters underground. And not just a miner’s snack of sausage and bread, but a four-course ‘Štajgerjevo južno’ prepared by the chefs of Vila Herberstein. Bon appétit and good luck!

Visit the SOS Proteus Info Center

The SOS Proteus Info Center is not just another cave where you admire the olm among crowds of tourists. In the tunnels under Kranj, they have a different mission – to communicate the importance of preserving clean (drinking) groundwater; for animals and ourselves. The olms on display in the tunnels are animals swept out of the underground by floods, so rest assured that they were not taken from their natural habitat. All collected funds are used for further research and protection of the olm – proteus.

SPRING EXPERIENCES

Bear watching

Slovenia’s forests, home to one of Europe’s largest brown bear populations, offer a unique chance to see these majestic animals up close. Join expert guides for a 2-3 hour adventure, including an off-road drive and silent observation from a cozy, soundproof hide. Sunset is the best time to watch the forest’s king in action.

Active exploration along paths of Pohorje’s heritage and cuisine

As spring breathes life into the Pohorje hills, a perfect day awaits at the Smogavc Inn. Start your adventure with an electric bike and a map in hand, and explore lush forests and valleys bursting with new greenery. The route will guide you to a peaceful meadow with a charming Pohorje cottage. There, take a moment to dive into a local legend, and if you solve the mystery, you’ll uncover a hidden treasure – and earn a tasting of forest-inspired delicacies. End your day back at the log cabin, unwinding in the unique sauna and soaking in the soothing sounds of nature.

Green experience in the city of counts

Don’t fancy old walls and dark dungeons with torture chambers? Then next time you’re in Celje, instead of the castle, visit the Celje City Forest and let a yoga instructor introduce you to relaxation techniques under the canopy of trees. After the exercise, enjoy a healthy snack … and a promise to do something like this more often.

Explore the Debeli rtič Landscape Park

While the snow will still be melting in the northern mountains, a beautiful spring day on the Slovenian coast will be ideal for exploring Debeli rtič. There are two circular thematic paths available, the sea and panoramic paths, both easy and suitable for explorers of all ages. You will discover a well-preserved flysch cliff, natural bays, wetlands, and vineyards and olive groves. Brave ones can take a dip in the sea at one of the beaches – the sea will refresh your body and wash away all worries.

Hike the Žirovnica Cultural Heritage Trail

You might have admired, while driving on the Gorenjska highway, the beautiful land where France Prešeren, Fran Saleški Finžgar, Janez Jalen, Anton Janša, and Matija Čop lived. When you walk the ten-kilometer circular trail, taste local delicacies and quench your thirst with spring water, you will understand the inspiration for all these brilliant minds. The villages under Stol await you to discover them slowly, at your own pace.

SUMMER EXPERIENCES

Melody of the forest

Did you know trees can “talk” and even create melodies? Discover the magical world of forests where trees share secrets and sounds, guided by experts who know how to bring this symphony to life. Join this unique experience in Pokljuka.

Green experience in a young city

As Nova Gorica and Italian Gorizia prepare to shine as the first-ever borderless European Capitals of Culture in 2025, explore the young city’s unique story on a scenic circular path. From architect Edvard Ravnikar’s socialist vision to the border history of Europe Square, roses, and tales of King Charles X, discover this special city either by bike or on foot.

HoneyBrew Laško Tour

In this four-hour bittersweet experience, discover how the stories of beekeepers and brewers intertwine, along the way experiencing drinking thermal water, pizza with cheese and cracklings, Laško Brewery, snacks from top chef Marko Pavčnik, a honey fairy tale, and finally beer cocktails at the beerhouse.

In the Footsteps of Shepherds

Time spent on the idyllic Velika Planina is always a good investment. They offer a good two-hour walk past 11 information boards describing the life, customs, and architecture of the shepherds. Starting points are at the lower and early cable car station, on the way to Sveti Primož nad Kamnikom, and in Podvolovjek. Almost mandatory conclusion is to try žganci with sour milk.

Finding Zen at a Herbal Farm

If Pehta, probably the most famous herbalist in Slovenia, lived in Karst, she would probably work here. At this Herbal Farm, you can learn about the healing effects of lavender, sage, rosemary, bay leaf, thyme, and other herbs and how to make homemade oils, creams, or tinctures from natural ingredients. And also something tastier – liqueurs, spreads, and frittatas.

AUTUMN EXPERIENCES

Bike Slovenia Green Gourmet Route

Cycle through Slovenia’s flavors and discover Slovenia on the Slovenia Green Gourmet Route, where you’ll have not just wonderful cycling experience, but also unforgettable food, wine, and a visit to many green-certified destinations. Starting in Ljubljana, the route winds through iconic lakes, valleys, and vineyards, Michelin-starred restaurants, and local farms.

Become a Winemaker for a Day

It sounds simple – and when you are with a master of winemaking from the Vipava Valley, it is. But you must also understand that wine does not happen in a few hours. Therefore, the experience can be extended over a longer period; you can plant your own vine and return for stories about wine for years, eventually sealing your very own wine. Cheers!

Culinary cycling trip along the Sava River

Cycling through Sevnica’s history and flavors starts in Loka pri Zidanem Mostu, where electric bikes await. Ride past the historic church of St. Helen and follow the Sava River to the Dolinšek Kozolec hayrack for a fish snack and a glimpse of the kavsanje, the tradition of collecting firewood floating on the Sava River. Cycle through Boštanj to Sevnica Castle, where Count Moscon offers a lunch of local delicacies paired with Blaufränkisch wine.

Give the gift of unforgettable memories and a smaller footprint this holiday season. Choose from unique culinary journeys to scenic cycling adventures, and surprise your loved ones with an experience that’s as meaningful as it is memorable—all while supporting sustainable tourism. Find all Slovenia Green experiences here.