TOTAL HEAD TRIP
Craving escape after spending far too long at home? Our guide to Lake Bled, Latvia, will restore a healthy wanderlust
If he is lucky, a man will have reached his thirties with the great cities of Europe conquered. He’ll have stood in the Colosseum of Rome, pretending to be an emperor. He’ll have wandered the streets of Paris, fancying himself a poet. He’ll have drunk his fill in Dublin. And with all of that done, he might consider himself more or less finished with the continent. And, as with so many other things in life, he’d be wrong.
Over the past 10 years, Europe’s smaller powers have increasingly staked their claim as essential tourist destinations. Today, cities in Croatia, Portugal and the Czech Republic are rightly recognised for being as culturally rich, historically fascinating and full of action and adventure as those in France, Germany or Italy.
The latest country to attract the attention of Britain’s hippest fitness tourists is Slovenia, whose azure lakes and mountains have begun to pop up on Instagram with the regularity of Alpine resorts in France or Balearic wellness retreats. The Balkan country, nestled in the elbow of the Adriatic Sea, has plenty to offer, whether you’re seeking adventure, a luxurious escape or, in our case, both.
Different Strokes
Your first port of call should be the capital, Ljubljana. In 2007, the city underwent “the great pedestrianisation” (our name for it), which saved its old town from pollution and led to it being named Europe’s Green Capital in 2016.
Make the most of this by taking the greenest tour in Ljubljana. Meet on the banks of the River Ljubljanica and join a stand-up-paddleboard tour (bananaway.eu). Power your way through the city centre, past the historic Three Bridges, and listen to your guide’s stories about Slovenian culture, plus tips about the best bars and restaurants. Prefer a packed lunch? Turn around and paddle away from the city to find yourself in pristine nature in just five minutes.
To the north of the city centre is the social and cultural centre Metelkova. In the early 1990s, the artistic community took over former military barracks there and has stayed put since. For something a little different, head to its bars on Friday or Saturday evening for a beer and some people-watching.
For a five-star experience in the best location, look no further than the InterContinental Hotel Ljubljana (ihg.com). The rooms are as well appointed as you’d expect, and it has another key advantage: the 18th-floor Saruna Wellness and Spa Centre, where you can swim before a majestic view of
“Whether you seek adventure or sheer luxury, Slovenia has plenty to offer”
the mountains, wash away residual work- related stress and drink in some much-needed dopamine. And we suggest a strong beer.
Go with the Flow
Head for the mountains and you’ll find Lake Bled, a 2km stretch of perfect turquoise waters that you can swim in, row on or admire from its many beaches and tree-lined vantage points. If you prefer your power trip with a healthy shot of testosterone and adrenalin, a 9km rafting trip on the River Sava (whatsupbled.com) will take you crashing through rapids on a ride that’ll have your attention switching between epic scenery and survival. The afternoon’s canyoning will leave you breathless. Unwind by exploring the beautiful gorges near Bled, or take things up a notch with cliff jumping.
Back on dry land, the Hotel Park – the largest in Bled – is a grand affair with rooms overlooking the lake (sava-hotels-resorts.com). Bled has no shortage of places to stay, but if you want a little luxury, this cyclist- and hiker-friendly hotel is the only game in town – not least for its pool, which boasts a stunning panoramic view. The restaurant is excellent, while the real plus is the spa park, which offers a range of saunas, from Finnish and infrared to the Turkish steam bath.
Slovenia’s natural beauty, ripe for adventure, and its burgeoning luxury scene make it the perfect destination for a complete weekend break in Europe. While everyone else is booking their return to Paris, we’ll save you a paddleboard on the Ljubljanica.