3 Towns to Visit in Slovenia
Slovenia might not be the biggest country in terms of square mileage, but what it lacks in size it more than makes up for in magnificent beauty and rich diversity. Snowcapped mountains hover over warm Mediterranean beaches, while lush green forests open onto flowing fields of vibrant wildflowers. And that’s just the landscape! The only thing capable of complimenting the diverse terrain is the many historic and cultural finds that can be found throughout the country, from ancient castles to spectacular Gothic churches. While there are plenty of places to visit while in Slovenia, three towns in particular truly embody everything this incredible, albeit tiny, country has to offer.
Komen
If history is what fascinates you, then Komen is the place for you. The tiny town was mentioned for the first time in a document that dates back to the late 1200’s, and it flourished during the Middle Ages. Evidence of this rich past can be found throughout the area, with ancient structures and monuments strewn about, giving silent testimony to days past. One such building is Stanjel Castle, a veritable village in and of itself. Resting high atop a rolling hill, the castle features imposing stone walls and several separate buildings, including a Gothic church and the popular Karst house, which is now a museum. The front of the castle presently serves as a giant open-air hall during warmer months. Along with Stanjel, there are also plenty of lovely churches to visit, as well as natural walking trails that lead to a spectacular monument. Komen may be small, but its history is larger than life.
Kobarid
Another historic city that dates back to prehistoric times, Kobarid is perhaps best known for the epic WWI Battle of Caporetto, which took place there and is fascinatingly documented in the town’s centrally located Kobarid Museum. So well depicted and put together is this museum that, in years past, it’s been named Best European Museum. Visitors can peruse a menagerie of photographs and experience a touching audiovisual presentation that honors the sacrifices made in the bloody battle and even draws intriguing ties to such celebrities as Ernest Hemingway.
Almost as rich as Kobarid’s past is the mouthwatering cuisine that is served there. The welcoming people of the Soča valley certainly know a thing or two about food, and have been preparing traditional dishes the same way for generations. While you’re there, be sure to have a taste of kobariški štruklji, a delectable sweet treat that typically features walnuts and raisins. And, if you’ve got the time, set out on a tasty journey to the many fine eateries that make up what’s known as the Kobarid Gastronimic Circle. Just don’t forget your appetite!
Bohinj
Of course, no visit to Slovenia would be complete without some spectacular natural sightseeing, and the town of Bohinj certainly doesn’t disappoint. While the entire area is rich with natural landscapes, perhaps its most notable feature is the periglacial Lake Bohinj. This glorious lake has a number of different inflows, but the most famous one is known as the Savica Waterfall. The Savica Waterfall runs an incredible 38 m long and falls nearly 51 m deep. It is a simply amazing sight to behold. Just as inspiring as the natural beauty of Bohinj is what generations past did to capitalize on the area’s rich resources. One in particular is the Blatni Graben, a unique cable railway built into the slopes of the Jelovica Plateau. This 130 year old marvel was invented as a way to transport wood from the forest above.
Perhaps nothing describes Bohinj quite as poetically as the myth of how the town was created. It is said that as God was distributing land to the many peoples of the earth, he took notice of how patient and kind a small group of people were being. To reward them, he decided to give them the most beautiful land of all – an area which he had previously reserved for his own pleasure. The people named this land Bohinj, because Boh was their name for God. One visit to this breathtaking village and you just might find a kernel of truth in that old myth.
There’s a reason that people sometimes affectionately refer to Slovenia as “The Sunny Side of the Alps”, and these three towns provide ample evidence. From rich history and vibrant culture, to mouthwatering local cuisine, to some of the most fantastic natural landscapes on earth, each of these three old villages has something unique and unforgettable to offer. They are simply a must for anyone planning a trip to Slovenia.