Nestled in the heart of Europe, where the Alps, the Mediterranean, the Pannonian Plain and the Karst meet, Slovenia is a small country in Central Europe known for its mountains, ski resorts and lakes. Weaving together a tapestry of natural, cultural and culinary diversity the country is deeply committed to sustainability and is a place where rich cultural tradition harmonizes with contemporary artistic expression. Whether in its pristine nature or in charming towns or experiencing an unforgettable outdoor adventure, the country is filled with rich culture, art and tradition, and last but not least, gastronomy crafted from local, fresh ingredients.

A country where you can swim in the sea in the morning and climb mountains in the afternoon, fall is one of Slovenia’s shoulder seasons and offers a mix of good weather and fewer crowds. The landscapes of Slovenia transform into a vibrant palette of colors during fall, with golden and red leaves adorning the forests and valleys, creating stunning scenery to enjoy various activities such as hiking trails along wine-growing areas, cycling amidst vineyards, and savoring the harvest season, meaning you can indulge in a delightful variety of fresh local products like mushrooms, chestnuts, apples, pears and new wines at local restaurants and markets.

During fall, tourists (and locals) are drawn to Slovenia’s wine-growing areas. Countless events and experiences, all around wine, await discovery amidst the vast vineyards and wine cellars and shouldn’t be overlooked. Offering three wine-growing regions, with nine wine-growing districts, Slovenian vineyards are located in the very heart of the European wine-growing zone. Home to more than 2,500 wine producers and no fewer than 52 vine varieties, the three wine regions are The Primorska, The Podravje and The Posavje.

Numerous events and experiences not to be missed are linked with wine here in Fall including The Old Vine Festival; where visitors will find the world’s oldest vine, which is over 450 years old, planted at the end of the Middle Ages during the Turkish invasions. The festivities culminate with the traditional St. Martin’s Day celebrations in November, as well as the 27th Slovenian Wine Festival. This prestigious event will take place in the capital city, Ljubljana, on the 13th and 14th of November at Cankarjev dom. Perfect for wine lovers, more than 550 different wine samples from all wine-growing regions of Slovenia will be presented to the public.

Follow the trails between castles and vineyards in the Posavje Region, surrounded by the natural beauty of the region, from lush green hills to the serene flow of the rivers. Stroll (or bike) among quaint vintner cottages (zidanice), mysterious underground cellars (repnice caves) and trails connecting historic castles with lush vineyards and serene rivers like Kolpa, Krka, Sava, and Sotla. Wind through the vineyards of Svečinske gorice and come across the heart-shaped road. Here in fall, the vineyards turn yellow, orange and red and is popular for cyclists and is home to numerous local tourist farms. 

Along with wine, there are a number of other activities to enjoy during this fall. 

Discover the hidden charms of the Brda Region nestled midway between the Alps and the Adriatic Sea. A place of beauty and rich cultural heritage, Brda’s gastronomic tradition emphasizes the use of local and seasonal ingredients from garden to table; including the rising tradition of beekeeping and natural honey production.

The active traveler can climb the 321-meter-high Mejnik hill above the village of Gonjače for a panoramic lookout. Here you can have a birds-eye-view of the Goriška Brda landscape from one of the most beautiful vantage points in the region. It is here where you can experience the countryside from a unique perspective with Safari Brda and partake in an off-road adventure through vineyards, orchards and olive groves. 

Home to over 300 world-famous white Lipizzaner horses, a visit to Lipica Stud Farm boasts 444 years of tradition. The Lipica estate is the central attraction of the Karst region and offers a unique blend of equestrian tradition and scenic beauty, making it a must-see destination.

Don’t miss Otočec Castle, the only water-surrounded castle in Slovenia near the town of Novo Mesto, just less than one hour away from Ljubljana, in the green and peaceful Dolenjska region. The fairytale-like castle can be reached via a wooden bridge over the wide blue channel of the Krka River which is full of swans and ducks. The castle has been transformed into a luxury hotel and is enveloped by a 200-year-old park and nearby, there is also a golf course, a spa and a restaurant newly awarded with a Michelin Plate.

On top of the wine and other seasonal adventures, Slovenia has risen in popularity among gourmands and foodies in recent years. With an impressive number of nine Michelin-starred restaurants, including one with three stars and another with two, along with seven one-star restaurants, the cuisine is fall is highlighted by fresh ingredients such as truffles and pumpkins presenting seasonal dishes like pumpkin soup, mushroom soup and bograč, a traditional meat stew.