The Christmas song may have been originally been written about New York but it’s also a fitting title for an article about Slovenia. It may be a relatively unknown country, at least by the average holiday makers’ standards, but it could easily be the setting for fairy tales and stories that we loved during our childhood, especially when you get a glimpse of the inspiring countryside and enchanted castles found here. If you don’t believe us, take a look at some of these examples and be inspired to enjoy your own fairytale adventure in Slovenia…
Lake Bled and Bled Castle
Sleeping Beauty, Snow White, Rapunzel, Shrek; castles are a recurring theme in children’s stories so naturally the iconic and beautiful Bled Castle will feature here. Stranded in the midst of Lake Bled, complete with turrets and clinging dramatically to a central island surrounded by glinting azure waters, it’s a vision of beauty. Accessible only by a boat trip across the lake, it absolutely fits the bill of a fairy tale castle. Dating back to medieval times, it’s got a very rich history indeed so who knows how many real life fairy tales it’s been witness to! Clamber up to the circular turret and escape into the courtyards and various terraces for fantastic views across the lake and the town of Bled below.
Soca Valley
It might not be on quite the same scale as Peter Pan’s Neverland, but Soca Valley in the Julian Alps is wonderfully impressive nonetheless and one of Slovenia’s most visited natural attractions. The lush green precipice is filled with the gorgeous blue waters of the Soca River, gushing waterfalls and lakes, making an idyllic setting for walking and hiking. Swap a horse drawn carriage for one of the hire cars in Slovenia and uncover varied flora and fauna, deep ravines and plenty of picture perfect scenery.
Lake Bohinj
Although it is the largest lake in the country, Bohinj is distinctively lesser known than Bled yet none the less beautiful. Nestled within Triglav National Park, the lake is surrounded by magical mountains, meadows, tumbling waterfalls and dense forest, with small wooden houses fringing the shoreline. Visit here and indulge yourself in breath-taking beauty and a fantastic variety of outdoor activities. Indulge in everything from walking and hiking to skiing on the overlooking mountains and take a ride in the cable car to Mount Vogel. From Pochahontas to Hansel and Gretel and hundreds of children’s stories and fantasies in between, this is the kind of setting that fairy tales are made of.
Maribor
The city of Maribor is the second largest in the country but is more like a town with a population of less than 1 million. The Mariborsko Pohorje Mountains make for a breathtaking backdrop and with rolling vineyards, the Drava River flowing through the centre and many historical buildings it’s got plenty going for it. The town square and red roofs of the buildings give it a distinct Eastern European feel and it could easily be the town from Beauty and the Beast!
Come and uncover the fairy tale of Slovenia and make your own happily-ever-after holiday memories!
Kerri Ware writes for Economy Car Hire, a car hire broker offering great deals for car hire across Europe and beyond. Follow us on Twitter @economycarhire.
Image Credit: Lake Bled by Audrey H
