TOURISM

Slovenian tourism is expanding at a rapid pace, perhaps as fast as any other part of the economy. Slovenia has been a fairly well-hidden tourist destination, known and loved until recent years by a select few. This has enabled it to avoid the problems of excessive visitor numbers, and you will find it in a remarkably natural state.

Ljubljana, the capital city, is the logical place to begin. It attracts visitors for weekend breaks and longer visits, and has a unique charm and atmosphere. The architecture is a special blend of Baroque and Art Nouveau, and Jože Plečnik, the city's favourite son, left an indelible impression on his home town in the years either side of the second world war. The best things about Ljubljana are the lively and colourful open market, where you may buy just about anything for the lunch table; taking a leisurely stroll along the banks of the river Ljubljanica, as you pass by numerous outdoor bars and cafes in summer months, or a visit to one of the countless artistic or cultural establishments, including opera and ballet, many theatres, the symphony hall, museums of every kind, or a performance of classical or modern music or dance.

Alternatively, Bled is an age-old tourist destination, which captivates the eye with its magical lake, adorned with a clifftop castle and an island with an old chapel. Bled is also a popular base for exploring the extraordinary scenery of the Triglav National Park and the three Alpine mountain ranges in Slovenia, or meeting the challenge of any of an unrivalled range of outdoor activities, from white water rafting in summer to skiing and snowboarding in winter.

Portorož is the main resort for those who choose the warmth of the sun and the Adriatic Sea. It has an array of good quality hotels, many with conference or convention facilities. The Slovenian coast is also blessed with several typically Adriatic harbour towns, the best of which is Piran, a short walk from Portorož. All of these little ports have medieval Venetian architecture, narrow streets and a special Mediterranean atmosphere. Portorož is also an excellent base for exploring inland, to such places as the stud farm at Lipica with its unique Lippizaner white horses, and the Karst region, famous for little villages with stone houses, its excellent cuisine and red wines produced in local vineyards. The two major attractions of this region are the cave systems at Postojna and Škocjan, where the visitor may explore the mysterious magic of the underworld.

Slovenia has 15 natural health resorts and many good quality spas, where visitors come for the wellness offer and to relax in the thermal waters. These are mainly in eastern Slovenia, in Dolenjska, Štajerska and Prekmurje, and an extensive programme of renovation has added state-of-the-art facilities and services.

Maribor, Slovenia's second city, not only offers a full range of culture and entertainment, but is also renowned as a base for discovering the region, which has a host of wine routes waiting to be explored and includes the beautiful Pohorje Plateau with numerous possibilities for the active ones in all seasons.

The Soča river valley, in northwest Slovenia, is a paradise for lovers of nature and adrenaline sports. The emerald-green water is crystal-clear and perfect for white-water adventures.

The rolling hills, fertile soil and sunny climate make Slovenia ideal for winegrowing. The many varied good-quality wines may be sampled on any of the more than 20 wine routes in every region where the flavour of the wine is enhanced with outstanding home-cooked food.

The countryside is adorned with numerous charming towns and villages where walls whisper of the past and the ancient streets and buildings are waiting to be explored.

Last but not least, Slovenia has many excellent casinos where you may flirt with Lady Luck.