Dober Dan!

Dober dan (Good day) from Slovenia. We have been having just the best time in this magical little country. 

As posted previously, we first explored the dragon dense (dragons are a big thing here) capital of Ljubljana with its multi-centuries old architecture layered with modern charm after an earthquake destroyed its downtown in the late 18th century.  The fall colours and autumn temperatures are in full effect which made it feel for the first time like we were back in Canada.  

The city’s downtown felt sleepy yet vibrant all at the same time. Tourists mingled with locals effortlessly, especially during the huge Saturday market where everyone was out to enjoy the hundreds of vendors and sun-filled streets. We successfully found Slovenian stew, dumplings,  and smoked kielbasa (Nick was in heaven) and carried on towards the medieval Ljubljana castle in the centre of town. One funicular ride later and we had full views of the city, tours of dungeons and the kids came away with ancient handwritten scripts of their names to be treasured for life. 

After renting a car, we headed towards the Postojna cave region. We found an incredible family run goat farm to stay close to Europe’s largest disappearing lake (dry in the summer, full in the winter). The kids loved it and were able to help milk the goats and even ride the family horses. We ventured daily on trips to incredible caves, nature hikes and castles throughout the region. 

Next we travelled north to the mountains bordering the Austrian alps and the tourist town of Bled. Alas, the weather was rainy for the first time in months and so we were not able to see the alps to their fullest, however we did rent a rowboat to explore Lake Bled. 

Our final stop was to be the city of Maribor to visit a former neighbour of Nick’s from St. John’s Newfoundland & Labrador. Before we did however, we travelled south of the city towards the rolling hills, forest and vineyards of the Podcetrtek region…including as we discovered the land of fairy tales and fantasy. The landscape, the food  and people, just like everywhere, was incredible.

We are now in Maribor. Although Halloween is not really a thing here, we are planning a spooky Halloween party with Nick’s friend for October 31st! The kids are very excited.