From Alpine Adventure to Lakeside Luxury with Our Unforgettable Host, Ursula
If you know, you know: people are falling in love with sLOVEnia—and for good reason. This small but spectacular country delivers pristine landscapes, remarkable hospitality, and authentic experiences without the crowds of its more famous neighbors. On a recent visit, I fell under its quiet spell—and I suspect you will too.
Welcome to Bohinj: Slovenia’s Untouched Lakeside Escape
Just 45 minutes from Ljubljana’s airport lies Lake Bohinj, the largest permanent lake in Slovenia—and perhaps one of Europe’s most untouched. Unlike more touristed destinations, development here is tightly controlled. No hotels line the shore. No restaurants jut out over the water. Just wild, unspoiled beauty.
As a Floridian, I’ll admit the water was cold. The locals call it rejuvenating—and they’re not wrong. There’s something about an alpine plunge that resets the nervous system and wipes away jet lag faster than espresso ever could.
This is a place where nature dictates the rhythm. And the rhythm is movement.
The Slovenian Way: Adventure with Ease
Everyone here is doing something—and they’re doing it with joy. A typical day includes bike rides through trails, hiking across mountain ridges with panoramic views, and lunches that feel earned, not just eaten.
And then… I went paragliding.
I wasn’t sure I’d do it. But I met Alan, my guide, whose intoxicating energy and childlike wonder were infectious. We soared above Lake Bohinj and the Triglav Mountains, the world falling silent except for the wind rushing past. The view? Indescribable. I can’t recall the last time I felt so free.
Home Away From Home: Chalet Bohinj Bliss
Our base in Bohinj was the beautifully curated Chalet Bohinj Bliss, a brand-new Alpine-style private home just five minutes from the lake, shops, restaurants, and even a climbing school. Every detail—from the hand-thrown pottery to the locally sourced welcome basket—reflected both design excellence and a strong sense of place.
Hosted by our extraordinary local partner Ursula, founder of Wanderlux and Chalet Bohinj Bliss, our stay felt like visiting family (if your family happened to have impeccable taste and a deep Rolodex of Slovenia’s best kept secrets).
We enjoyed a private chef’s dinner in the chalet, created with regional ingredients and paired with Slovenian wine. Downstairs, a full wellness suite (complete with a soaking tub and authentic sauna) became our nightly ritual after active days.
Daily cleaning, grocery pre-stocking (a dream with kids in tow), and personalized attention made this a seamless home base for exploring the area. It’s the kind of place that makes you think, Could we live here?
Fox on the Rocks: For Lakeside Solitude
For those craving even more seclusion, I visited Fox on the Rocks, a stunning cabin-style retreat just a short boat ride across the lake. The design is a sophisticated blend of rustic and refined, with all the modern comforts and beautiful design—and an electric vehicle for quick trips into town. Ideal for couples or families seeking privacy without sacrificing style.
Day Trips: From Farm Visits to Storybook Villages
One of our most memorable excursions took us into a nearby village, where we visited a family-run farm for a tasting of local cheeses and cured meats. Nothing staged. Nothing filtered. Just good food, warm people, and the kind of cultural connection that defines meaningful travel.
We also spent time in Lake Bled, famous for its island church and shimmering turquoise waters. While it’s more visited than Bohinj, it’s still worth the trip—especially if you take a traditional pletna boat across to the island and bring a picnic to enjoy lakeside like the locals.
Ljubljana: Charm in Capital Letters
Slovenia’s capital, Ljubljana, feels like a storybook town with its cobbled lanes, pastel façades, and lively café culture. It’s also deliciously kid-friendly. We wandered aimlessly, indulged in some truly amazing gelato (essential), and discovered just how easy it is to fall for this compact, creative city.
Why Slovenia, Why Now?
Slovenia feels like a secret—one that won’t stay secret much longer. It offers the nature of Switzerland, the cuisine of Northern Italy, and the hospitality of somewhere still grounded in tradition and warmth. It’s a place where you hike, swim, eat, and connect. Where luxury doesn’t feel out of place, but completely in harmony with the landscape.
Dare I say it? I like it more than Italy. Yes… yes, I do.
Let Us Curate Your Slovenian Story
At Meridian Miles, we partner with exceptional on-the-ground hosts like Ursula to deliver experiences that are both immersive and indulgent. Whether you’re a couple seeking solitude, a family craving connection, or a solo traveler searching for space, Slovenia has something rare: authenticity, elegance, and adventure, all in one.
Ready to explore Slovenia while it’s still under the radar?
Let’s plan your journey—before the world catches on.
