Instead of staying in and wrapping up warm this winter, why not embrace the chill and head to Slovenia for a holiday in the snow? It’s not the first location you may think of for a holiday and because of this it remains quiet and unspoilt. Providing a wide variety of winter sports and activities, there’s sure to be something for all the family to enjoy.
Kranjska Gora
Located in the Julian Alps, Slovenia’s leading ski resort has plenty to offer; with ski instructors for skiers of all abilities (even for skiers with no experience at all), equipment for hire and all the snow you could possibly need, there’s no excuse not to brush up on your skills! If you fancy something a little different then why not try snowboarding? It’s said to be easier than skiing and it’s always fun to try something new.
If you’re a more experienced skier then take a tour of the 40 kilometres of cross country track that this resort has to offer; taking you through Kranjska Gora, past the Sava River and back again, not only will you have fun on the way you’ll take in some incredible, magical landscapes.
Perfect for families; with high class childcare, and activities for older kids, they can either learn to ski with Mum and Dad, or enjoy the company of other children. There are ice skating lessons for the little ones; so if you’d rather lounge back in a log cabin and keep cosy, there’s plenty to ensure the kids aren’t bored. Take the big-kid route and go sledding? A timeless activity, it’s one of the simplest and best ways to enjoy the snow! If the idea of board sports and skiing is a bit too daunting for you, there’s nothing better just having a snowball fight, or making a snowman.
Bohinj
Located at the edge of Triglav National Park, Bohinj is one of the most stunning skiing areas in the country, with its unspoilt scenery its home to the largest natural lake in Slovenia, Lake Bohinj.
Bohinj’s facilities are mainly for beginners and intermediates, so it’s the ideal location if you’re just starting out and for families too. With several villages scattered around the resort, you’ll be close to any home comforts that you may need; head to Bohinijska Bistrica if you need an extra jumper (or two), or souvenirs for relatives.
Head off into the mountains on one of the gondolas, which provide easy access to the pistes. Kobel is the largest and is located above the main village so it’s no distance at all. You could take a different route and head up to Vogel; even at an altitude of 1,800m there are nursery slopes for the beginners. If you don’t fancy heading all the way back down, you can simply soak up the breath-taking scenery, but with 25% of the slopes specifically for beginners, you could always give it a go! Also brilliantly suited to cater for young families, there are a wide range of alternative activities to partake in, such as ice-skating and sledding.
Unwind after a hard day’s skiing and head off to the low-key après-ski venues that are scattered throughout the surrounding villages. Bars can be found in most of the hotels, such as the Ski Hotel Vogel, which is just a short trip away at the top of the ski area – enjoy a cold beer or hot chocolate and relax whilst you take in these beautiful views. Indulge in a warming evening meal and sample some of the local rustic cuisine.
Krvavec
Located just an hour away, arrange car hire Ljubljana Airport and take the scenic route here. Recline in comfort at this quiet resort, perfect if you want to avoid the busier locations. Krvavec is situated only 25 minutes from Kranj so why not spend a day in this picturesque city and take a stroll around the 13th century Kieselstein Castle.
Back at the resort you’ll find 35 kilometres of pisted ski runs, reachable in just 7 minutes with the gondola, or slow the pace and explore this winter wonderland further while you amble around the scenic hiking trails. Of course, if you’d prefer to admire the view from afar, why not stay indoors and hire out a room at the Apartma Kokl, located within beautiful, quiet gardens, overlooking the River Sava.
If you love the winter and snow, go all out and hire an igloo for the night! Whether you’re on your honeymoon, fancy a romantic escape, or if you’re just looking to be a bit different, there are igloos for hire that come with beds covered in cosy furs you’ll be able to wrap up warm and enjoy the winter at the same time.
Whatever you decide to do on your winter holiday, ensure you make the most of it by visiting Slovenia; embrace the cold and enjoy the snow while it lasts!
Kranjska Gora
http://www.flickr.com/photos/brightblightcafe/3234118163/
pirano Bob
Lake Bohinj
http://www.flickr.com/photos/samandjo/5486252427/
sam and jo
Krvavec
http://www.flickr.com/photos/meteo/2098079782/
meteo Matej Pangerc
