WESTERN SLOVENIA (Primorska)

If Slovenia is Europe in miniature, then Primorska is Slovenia in miniature. Primorska has ecological significance and unrivalled beauty in abundance. The botanists’ paradise on the old saltworks at Sečovlje is of global importance, and the geographical phenomenon known as Karst terrain was named after the Karst area of Slovenia. Northern Primorska is dominated by the high Alps and the stunning Soča river which is said to be the most beautiful in Europe. The gorges and rapids of the Soča are perfect for white-water adventures of every kind including rafting, canoeing, kayaking and canyoning. As you travel further south, the region becomes an area of rolling subalpine forested hills ideal for skiing, cycling and hiking. The radius of central Primorska is Idrija, an old mining town where visitors can venture deep underground into the mercury mine, or learn about the magnificent lace which has been made by the women of the town for centuries. Central Primorska then gives way to the Karst region of vineyards, sleepy stone villages and the unforgettable underworld of the Škocjan Caves. There are also the world-famous Lipizzaner white horses which are bred at Lipica, and finally Primorska tumbles down to the mediterranean world of the Adriatic coast with its sunshine and Venetian fishing villages, of which the best is Piran, an unforgettable pearl of the Adriatic. The coast of Slovenia is a length of warm water, historic towns amidst the lush mediterranean vegetation of olive groves and pine forests. The most fashionable resort and commercial centre is Portorož, which boasts every facility of a modern seaside destination, including hotels, thermal and wellness centres, restaurants, bars and a casino.