Coast to Alps Exclusive Overlanding Tailor Made Adventure

Piran is the most beautiful coastal town in Slovenia. But also the birthplace of the great Giuseppe Tartini. The old port town with the remains of the medieval walls is fully protected as a cultural and historical monument. The narrow streets with closely packed houses, which descend from the church hill towards the central square along the coast, emphasize its Mediterranean character. The cosmopolitan seaside town, which developed under the influence of nearby Venice, is considered one of the most authentic and photogenic towns on the Adriatic coast. If not high season (due to traffic colapse) we start our journey by drinking coffee in this unique town. Or maybe pick you up in a hotel you stay, if so. It will be our last contact with 'civilisation' for a few next days.

Alternative to Piran. It's starting point. The Slovene name Portorož is borrowed from Italian Portorose, literally 'port of roses', which was recorded in the 12th century as Porto di rose. The name is derived from Santa Maria delle Rose 'St. Mary of the Roses', the patron saint of a former church in the settlement. Its modern development began in the late 19th century with the vogue for the first health resorts. In the early 20th century Portorož became one of the grandest seaside resorts in the Adriatic. It is now one of Slovenia's major tourist areas. Located in the centre is the Palace Hotel, once one of the most important resorts for the Austro-Hungarian monarchy, and currently one of the finest hotels between Venice and Dubrovnik.

We drive side roads through hinterland of slovenian coast.

Socerb Castle is perched on the edge of a 300 meters high Karst rock and offers a wonderful view of the Koper and Trieste Gulfs. Due to its location, Socerb Castle was already an important stronghold in Illyrian times, modified into a fortress in the Roman period. The beginnings of the castle go back to the 13th century. Due to its important strategic location, the castle changed owners several times. In 1780 the castle was badly damaged by fire.

Snežnik is the highest non-Alpine mountain in Slovenia. It is proudly perched at 1796 meters above sea level, offering a breathtaking panoramic view, which ranges from Kvarner bay (Croatia), Gulf of Trieste (Italy) and all the way to the Alps or Ljubljana basin. We can call it slovenian mount Fuji.

The Snežnik Castle is a unique museum depicting residential culture of the 19th century and is one of the few castles in Slovenia that can boast of original furnishings. The white castle, quietly reflected in the spring water of the pond filled with mallards, bleak and trout, is surrounded by a large park with tree-lined alleys and clearings. The countryside is astonishing at any time of the year, including in winter with mysterious mists floating over frozen meadows. The castle on the outskirts of the vast pine-and-beech forests is far from noisy thoroughfares. From here, forests extend to the south up to the picturesque homonymous mountain of Snežnik close to the Croatian border, and to the east to the Kočevje forests, where they form one the last remaining European massive woodland complexes. This unique natural environment is home to various flora and fauna, from bears, boars, wolves and lynxes, to birds, small game, roe and red deer.

It appears every year on the karst field. In the dry part of the year, the lake disappears. It is usually present about eight months a year and the water spills over a surface of more than 20 sq. km, in high waters even up to 26 sq. km. When full, Cerknica Lake is the largest lake in Slovenia. Therefore its importance goes far beyond Slovenian borders. Together with Rakov Škocjan and Križna Cave, has been declared an internationally important wetland – a Ramsar site, and because of its importance for the life of endangered birds, it is also a Natura 2000 area. 276 bird species were observed here – half of all European species; 45 species of mammals live here – half of all Slovenian species; 125 species of day butterflies here – just under a third of all European species; 15 species of amphibians also spawn here – almost a quarter of all European amphibian species, etc. The biodiversity of this area is truly remarkable!

Rakov Škocjan is a beautiful karst valley between the 'Cerkniško and Planinsko polje' fields which was created when the ceiling of a karst cave began sinking and collapsing. This is proven by the 42-meter Little Natural Bridge, the 37-meter Big Natural Bridge and two gorges behind them. It was formed by the 'Rak River', which flows on the surface for 2,5 km and then disappears again. The entire area is full of karst phenomena. There is a road through Rakov Škocjan and we could just drive through but the wonderful nature is best experienced on foot. There is a education trail along the valley that takes us through a unique natural environment. The highlight is a visit to the Big and Small Natural Bridges for sure. Together with Lake Cerknica and the Križna jama cave, the Rakov Škocjan valley has been designated as a wetland of international importance. The valley was also the first Slovenian regional park, established as early as 1949. Perfect for all nature lovers.

Postojna Cave was carved by the Pivka River over millions of years. There are stalagmites, stalactites, and formations called curtains or draperies that look like folded curtains. The cave system is 24,34 km long (only 5 km is open to the public; of this, 3.5 km is traversed by a train that takes visitors through the cave; the remaining 1.5 km can be navigated on foot) and is made up of four caves interconnected through the same underground river. However, according to speleology rules, the passages and siphons connecting the caves must be walked or swum through by man for them to be considered one whole. Connecting two of the main cave systems will make this the longest cave system in Slovenia and one of the longest in all of Europe. There remain 400 m between the two caves, which would make the cave system 31-35 km long. The caves are also home to the endemic olm, the largest troglodytic amphibian in the world. The temperature inside the cave is around 10 °C.

A mere few kilometres from Postojna Cave, the Karst world offers an unforgettable experience in the fairytale world of knights. The impregnable medieval marvel has been perched in the middle of a 123-metre-high cliff for more than 800 years. Behind the largest cave castle in the world, listed as one of the Guinness World Records, there is a network of secret tunnels, from where the knight Erazem of Predjama would set out on his plundering expeditions. The Cave under Predjama Castle is the home of a colony of bats. Natural elements seamlessly interwoven with manmade ones, the result of man's work and nature's creativity has created a pearl of medieval resourcefulness. It tells a picturesque story about the times when comfort had to give way to safety, and when the clatter of weapons would often drown out troubadours songs. It is so special and unique, it ranks among the ten most fascinating castles in the world, and so romantic that many couples choose it for their wedding vows.

Nanos is a high karst plateau in the mountain barrier that separates the mainland of Slovenia from the coast. It is a 12 km long and up to 6 km wide karst plateau with a steeply cut edge called Pleša. Besides Snežnik, it is the most characteristic mountain in Notranjska. The forested plateau is visited by mountaineers and paragliders. The Slovenian Mountain Transversal and the Slovenian Geological Trail cross the Nanos. There is a television transmitter at the Pleša viewpoint (1262 m), and a mountain hut nearby. In the past, ice was cut in the ice caves and sold to Trieste. A characteristic weather phenomenon is the bora wind, gusts sometimes exceed 100 km/h, and the bora wind deforms the treetops on the outskirts. The area of ​​2632 ha of ​​the southern and western slopes of Nanos has been designated the Southern and Western Slopes of Nanos Landscape Park since 1987 due to its numerous botanical attractions and natural conservation.

Idrija is one of the most beautiful pearls of Slovenia - the city is known for its sophisticated hand-made 'Idrija lace', delicious 'Idrija žlikrofi' and the mercury mine, second largest in the world, which is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List with its legacy. A true paradise for active nature lovers is the UNESCO 'Global Geopark Idrija'. While the work in the mine was predominantly male, women developed their manual skills and cuisine at home. Today, in addition to the mine, 'Idrija lace' and 'Idrija žlikrofi' are also world-famous, and are also protected by the European Union. 'Idrija Geopark', which is one of the most interesting parks in Europe due to its exceptional natural heritage, encompasses the entire area of ​​the Idrija municipality. Idrija boasts the titles of Alpine City of the Year 2011 and European Destination of Excellence for 2011 (EDEN).

Tolmin is the largest town on the banks of the river Soca. It lies at the confluence of the rivers Soca and Tolminka, under a steep hillside. The Tolmin area includes the Tolminka and Zadlaščica basins at the entrance to Triglav National Park, which are also its lowest point (180 m). A special feature of the Tolminka Basins is a thermal spring at the end of the path. The region also boasts several record-holding waterfalls and several other smaller waterfalls hidden in the ravines.

The emerald Soča river is the most beautiful river in Slovenia and one of the most beautiful in Europe. It spring up in the heart of Triglav National Park, under the peaks of the Julian Alps and it is an important natural treasure. It is famous for its deep emerald colour and brisk rapids in the upstream area. 137 km in length, the Soča is an Alpine river with a mysterious karst source in Trenta, at the foot of the majestic Julian Alps. It is a veritable paradise for water sports enthusiasts, particularly fans of kayaking and fishing, as well as photographers and people looking to relax in natural surroundings. Rafting is an extremely popular experience.

It was built at the place where the Soča River squeezes into a narrow gorge for the last time before entering the plain of the Kobarid Basin. The bridge got its name because French troops marched across it during Napoleon's conquest. The first known bridge at this location was the wooden Venetian Bridge, which was demolished in 1616. In 1750, a new, stone Napoleon Bridge was built. This was mined by retreating Austrian troops during World War I, and after the war, the Italians built the existing bridge. During World War II, the bridge played an important role in the battle for the defense of the Kobarid Republic.

Kobarid, a town where the Soča River leaves the high Alpine world and expands into the basin. It has a characteristic clustered appearance, the houses are multi-storey, Kobarid-type with a touch of Mediterranean architecture and very narrow streets. It is known for its turbulent past, and is primarily recognizable for the Soča Front in WW1 and its conclusion, called the Miracle of Kobarid. In memory of the tragic war events, an Italian ossuary was built around the church of St. Anthony. The events that took place during the Soča Front are also documented in Hemingway's novel A Farewell to Arms but the Kobarid Museum offers visitors the most comprehensive account of it. An abundance of sports activities - hiking, fishing, parachuting, cycling and adrenaline water sports combining with natural attractions are possible Culinarily recognizable for the Kobarid štruklji and Michelin stars awarded restaurant where gourmets can pamper their stomachs with culinary delights.

The river's torrential nature, creates numerous gravel beds, pools and troughs that are ideal for swimming, fishing and lazy summer lounging. In summer, the temperature of the river rises above 20 °C. The clear pools and well-maintained swimming areas of one of the cleanest and warmest Alpine rivers invite you to jump into the water, swim and lie down in the shade. It is home to numerous endemic species of freshwater fish of the Adriatic basin, trout, rainbow trout and grayling. The banks and gravel beds are sometimes surrounded by willows, which give the river a particularly magical appearance. Folk tradition even attributes healing powers to it. Whether you'd rather wander around the area before taking a refreshing dip in the water or you prefer to get your knees in shape, you won't be bored in the Nadiža River Valley and its surroundings. Head to nearby Stol, which is a paradise for paragliding, cycling or just crossing famous Napoleon Bridge.

Feel the holiday bustle of the small alpine town Bovec, taste the reason for Kobarid to be among the highest ranked places on the culinary map of the world, and do not miss out on the festival events that make Tolmin more interesting each and every year. The Soča Valley will thrill you with various possibilities of an active holiday in nature in a relatively small area. UNESCO declared the Julian Alps as the first biosphere reserve of international importance in Slovenia. Locals use innovative approaches to connect people with nature and thus preserve natural heritage, the biotic diversity, as well as take care of the continual development. The unique beauty of nature was also recognised by the filmmakers of The Chronicles of Narnia, who filmed some of the most exciting scenes of that famous movie by the River Soča.

Bovec is a very popular outdoor resort on the sunny side of Slovenian Alps. High mountains, emerald rivers, breathe taking waterfalls and valleys surrounded by green woods, fresh air and tranquility. Bovec has it all. Sunday hikers, outdoor adventure enthusiasts and adrenaline junkies, everybody will find something interesting in the valleys of inspiration.

The Mangart road, at 2,055 m, is the highest road in Slovenia. It was built in late 1930s. It’s a winding, white-knuckle drive through the mountainous region. If you have nerves of steel and want to add a cool mini road trip onto your tour of Slovenia, this is a great option. It is dead and road, so we return the same way.

ream, a tributary of the Soča river, which lies at an altitude of between 444 and 700 m above sea level. The Lepenjica valley is almost 7 km long and is divided into an upper and lower part. They are separated by a valley sill, which was left over from a retreating glacier. In the Pleistocene, a slope glacier flowed through the valley, which fed the large Soča glacier. Part of the Soča Trail also runs along the confluence of the Lepenjica and Soča rivers, and the Great Soča Gorges end right at the confluence. From here on, kayaking on the Soča River and sport fishing on the Lepenjica River are also permitted.

This pristine gorge is one of the most beautiful natural sights on the Soca River and an important natural treasure of the Triglav National Park. The emerald green pools are intertwined into a 750-metre-long meticulously smoothed out gorge that is only a few metres wide and 15 metres deep. It is not completely accessible and can only be seen in some spots on the marked forest footpath.

The highest Slovenian road pass, which connects Bovec with Kranjska Gora. An incredible panoramic road with heavenly close-up views of the Julian Alps, diverse forests and a bunch of natural sights, which invite you to stop and enjoy the authentic Alpine atmosphere, will take you below the slopes of Mojstrovka at 1,611 metres of altitude. It has a total of 50 hairpin bends (26 on the south and 24 on the north side). It was built during WW I by Russian prisoners of war, to whom the Russian Chapel on the North side of the pass is devoted. The road across the Vrsic Pass leads from the remote Trenta Valley, which is one of the most beautiful and authentic valleys in Slovenia. On the way, you will not run out of opportunities to admire the beauties of nature. Summer invites numerous visitors and the road is one of the busiest tourist spots in the summer, so some patience is appreciated. It is closed in wintertime due to snow and avalanches.

Kranjska Gora is the most popular mountain resort among Slovenians, in slang we call it the Slovenian Aspen. It is most widely known as a winter sports town, being situated in the Julian Alps. It annually hosts an event in the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup series, also known as the Vitranc Cup, for the slalom and giant slalom events. The well-known ski jumping hill Planica is located in the nearby Tamar Valley. Last years had also hosted Zlata Lisica (Golden Fox) cup, women's FIS series.

Forested karst plateau, 20 kilometres long and almost 20 km wide, at an elevation of around 1,100 to 1,400 m located on the eastern edge of the Triglav National Park is the largest rounded forest area in it. The plateau is known for its forests, mountain pastures and winter sports facilities. It is also a common starting point for mountain hikers. The yearly Biathlon World Cup meets are held at the Pokljuka Biathlon Center. Many beech and fir trees were chopped down in the 18th century for the iron foundries in Bohinj. They have been naturally replaced mostly by spruce trees. Some swamps can also be found, which is not usual on such high plateaus.

Bled is the epitome of paradise. A tourist gem of world proportions on the edge of the Triglav National Park, it was nominated for the New Seven Wonders of the World. It is distinguished by its mild, healing climate and thermal springs of lake water. It is one of Slovenia's most visited tourist destinations mostly known by Bled castle and Bled Island, the only natural Slovenian island at all. Rowing is a developed sport in Bled, and there is the Mala Zaka Olympic Rowing Center by the lake. In terms of tourism, Bled is also known for its famous cream slices ('kremsnita’).

Bohinj or the Bohinj Valley or Bohinj Basin, is a 20 km long and 5 km wide glacial valley in the Julian Alps. It is traversed by the Sava Bohinjka river which begins its course as the Savica waterfall, which flows into the periglacial Lake Bohinj (also the biggest lake in Slovenia) and is surrounded by mountains. True heaven on earth and sadly the end destination of our trip. Except if you decide to extend it...