Slovenia may not be a tourist hotspot, nor at the top of your travel bucket list, but its perhaps for these reasons that it really is a hidden gem. Surrounded by the Alps and the Adriatic Sea, its settled in the heart of Europe – a perfect location for part of a road trip or easily accessible for a longer stay. Whether you’re looking for a beach relaxation, spa retreat, or a city break, a trip to Slovenia provides opportunities for them all, perhaps why it’s becoming such an up and coming destination for any travel-lover. Slovenia itself is only tiny, but the endless list of scenes throughout the country make it even more dreamy and charming. The majestic castles, fields of greenery, enchanting forests, and characteristic villages, really do make it feel like you’re stepping into a fairy-tale.

Lake Bled

One of Slovenia’s most popular sights, and only a bus ride away from the city centre of Ljubljana, Lake Bled truly is a dream wedding destination. With perfect picture opportunities, a chance to row on the lake to the central island, ski-lift up and taboggan down the hills, and even dine at the castle on the hilltop overlooking the emerald water, Lake Bled is definitely the place to visit during your trip.

Ljubljana

The capital city itself is another day trip to add to your stay. The European Commission has labelled it the ‘Green Capital of Europe 2016’, and with pedestrian-only access through the Old Town, the flora and fauna bordering the Ljubljanica River, and the lack of mass-tourism, it’s not hard to see why. Take a beguiling walk through the cobbled streets of the Old Town, taking in the antique architecture and beautiful buildings.

Vintgar Gorge

Not far from Lake Bled, this natural monument hosts 5,000 feet of walkways winding around the gorge, overlooking pools and rivers before reaching the momentous Sum Waterfall. A walk over water like no other, the Gorge mixes magic with Instagram-worthy shots to create an iconic experience.

The Skocjan Caves

The UNESCO World Heritage site, stretching all the way to Italy, really isn’t one to miss. The 3.8 miles of undergrounds caves, waterfalls and one of the world’s largest underground chambers, the Martel Chamber, create this incredibly unique, iconic site.

Predjama Castle

The epitome of the beautiful, gothic architecture throughout Slovenia, this castle is not just sitting on a cliff, but has been built into it, around cave passages which you can tour through (just not during the months when the caves real residents, the bats, hibernate).

Wineries in Old Towns

For a foodie and wine-lover, Piran is the place to be. Another city in Slovenia which boasts a pedestrian-only Old Town, resembles a mini Venice, with its architecture, cobbled streets and alleys, and fine wineries and bars at every corner. Maribor, another city in Slovenia, is home to even more wineries, and in fact is the site of the oldest vine in the world, Stara Trta, more than 400 years old, a symbol of the culture of fine wine throughout Slovenia. The Old Town of Maribor also has medieval charm to it, with a skyline of a multitude of orange roofs and distant hills, a perfect scene to gaze at the sunset.

Kranjska Gora

If you prefer a traditional skiing holiday rather than adventuring through the tourist hotspots throughout Slovenia, Kranjska Gora has some of the best resorts, restaurants, night life and ski slopes, surrounded by stunning views of Slovenian lakes and the beauty of the Julian Alps. For more winter sporting opportunities, Vogel is another destination that should be on your list. Above the beautiful Bohinj Lake, Vogel offers skiing trails and other winter sports on perfect, crisp, powdery snow.

Lasko

For some relaxation and rejuvenation, the thermal waters of Lasko are perfect for a dip. Traditionally, the waters have been said to have healing powers, so its no surprise that it’s been so popular amongst locals as well as tourists.