Family Fun in Slovenia - From Llubljana to Lake Bled with Roundabout Experiences

AdventureFamily TravelGroup TravelLuxury
Written By Becky Harris

Breathtakingly beautiful, conveniently compact and packed with adventure, Slovenia is a rare gem for families looking for a new and unspoilt European destination. We asked our friends at ​Roundabout Experiences​, whose innovative, immersive and sustainable itineraries dive deep into the authentic heart of each locale, for their take on an unforgettable trip with the kids - one designed to delight all the family with a balance between tranquil relaxation and adventurous spirit. And of course, they’ve delivered in inimitable style with this 10-day tour inspiration, offering up the perfect blend of natural beauty, rich culture and family-friendly activities that will keep even the most cynical of teens engaged from beginning to end.

What to expect from this Slovenian adventure?

We could wax lyrical all day about the immense natural beauty of Slovenia. The greenest country on the continent, it’s got it all - fairytale castles, magical forests, crystal-clear skies, turquoise rivers, deep Karst caves and soaring, snow-capped Alps - and of course, your family guests will see those in abundance. They’ll also take time to explore the incredible architecture, culture and charm of Ljubljana, the majestic stud farms of Lipica and the coastal beauty of Piran.

They’ll stay in luxurious, boutique accommodations, feast on some of the best food in Europe (Slovenia was named the European Region of Gastronomy in 2021) and, happily for the adults, sample the world-class wines of Goriška Brda.

Slovenia is the only European country that connects the Alps, the Mediterranean, the Karst and the Pannonian Plain. Its exceptionally diverse landscape and nature are tied to colourful culture and gastronomy. Slovenian dishes are made with local ingredients, from produce grown in fields and gardens, to ingredients foraged in meadows and forests, salt harvested from Adriatic salt pans, honey made by native bees, wines from boutique-sized vineyards to healthy mineral waters that became the focal point of world-renowned spas centuries ago. Slovenia is a green, healthy and active country. Diverse gastronomy is, therefore, part of its culture. ​Learn more​

But perhaps the biggest pull for the younger members of the party is the sheer variety of adventure and excitement to be found here. From hiking and ziplines to canoeing, wild swimming, skiing and even tobogganing, this Slovenian exploration has plenty of thrills built in.

But if it’s not quite thrilling enough for your adrenalin junkies? ​Roundabout Experiences ​have endless experiences that can be added into the mix - think mountain biking, hydrospeeding, river rafting, climbing canyoning and more. Get in touch for an introduction

Days 1 & 2: The Culture and Charm of Ljubljana

This adventure begins in the enchanting city of Ljubljana - whether your guests have flown in directly or chosen to combine their tour with time in Italy or Croatia first (speak to ​Roundabout Experiences​ for more information).

A tranquil, 45-minute river cruise along the Ljubljanica River offers a unique and magical introduction to the city, sailing on a handcrafted wooden boat to Špica, where the river splits and you can spot tantalising glimpses of the nature beyond and returning past historic Old Town icons like the Ljubljana Castle, the market, the baroque houses and the Triple and Dragon Bridges.

Afterwards, guests dive deep into the local culture with a foodie walking tour through Ljubljana’s old town. This 3-4 hour guided experience introduces the city’s rich history and diverse gastronomy in the most delicious of ways, with nine traditional dishes and four varieties of wine to taste - all while learning about the stories and architecture that define this beautiful capital city.

Late afternoon is the perfect time to visit Ljubljana Castle. Perched on a green hill behind ancient walls, the castle offers breathtaking panoramic views over the City, as well as a fascinating journey through Slovenia’s colourful and surprising past. And for those concerned about keeping the kids engaged, don’t worry! The castle's interactive time machine tour makes history come alive in a way that’s both educational and entertaining, taking your guests back to the distant past and sure to captivate kids and adults alike.

Where to stay

Depending on your family’s needs (size, age of children, budget, configuration etc), ​Roundabout Experiences ​can find the perfect hotel. But, to give you an idea, in Ljubljana they recommend:

Day 3: Adventures in Metlika and Bela Krajina

The next leg of your journey takes you off the beaten path to Metlika in Eastern Slovenia.

First stop in this stunning region? A hands-on bakery workshop, where your family can learn the ancient art of making Bela krajina flatbread, a fabulously aromatic bread dusted with cumin and salt that pairs perfectly with a glass of locally-produced wine for those lucky enough to be of age! This traditional dish, dating back to Ottoman times, is a symbol of hospitality in the region - the breaking of the bread by hand being a way to connect everyone present at a gathering.

How to follow such a satisfying lunch? The afternoon kicks off with a guided canoeing adventure along the tranquil Kolpa River. Known as one of the warmest and cleanest rivers in Europe, it’s a perfectly peaceful and scenic setting for a little off-grid family time - and suitable even for small children.

On to White Carniola, where a visit to a local eco farm sees guests continue with a “Young Shepherd” experience. Here, your family will get to know more about traditional life in Bela Krajina, learning about sheep and feeding, taking part in crafts workshops, traditional shepherd’s games and enjoying a shepherd’s snack by an open fire.

Day 4: Discovering Slovenia’s Karst Region

Next, it’s time to venture into Slovenia’s mystical Karst region, home to the world-famous Postojna Cave. This beautiful 24 km network of underground halls and chambers is filled with truly awe-inspiring rock formations, sure to captivate the whole family as they explore by electric train and on foot - also learning about the “human fish” or olm, a unique cave-dwelling creature.

Nearby in the idyllic village of Predjama, the fairy-tale Predjama Castle awaits. Perched in the mouth of a cavern halfway up a 123-metre-high cliff, this mediaeval fortress offers a dramatic glimpse into Slovenia’s past and is home to the legend of the knight Erasmus, the country’s own Robin Hood. Listed as the world’s largest cave castle, inside visitors can discover endless secret passages, including a dizzying natural vertical pass to the top of the cliff, the escape route of Erasmus from the castle!

Lovers of spy thrillers won’t want to miss the secret rooms of the historic Hotel Jama. In the heart of Postojna, these rooms were once used as a covert surveillance hub during the Cold War and remained undiscovered for decades. Full of mysterious corridors and concealed chambers, taking the time to visit is to uncover fascinating stories of espionage and intrigue.

And of course, this is also the region of the world-famous Lipica Stud Farm, the birthplace of the elegant white Lipizzaner horses. A guided tour of the farm provides insights into the rich history of these magnificent Spanish animals, whose line became inextricably tied to the Habsburg monarchy and used as a strategic advantage in warfare.

Where to stay

​Roundabout Experiences​' favourite accommodations for an overnight stay in the coastal towns of Portorož or Piran? They include:

Day 5: The Coastal Beauty of Piran

Reaching everyone’s favourite spot on the Slovenian coast, your guests now head to explore the mediaeval streets of Piran, a picturesque coastal town with a rich cultural heritage. One of the oldest towns in Slovenia, Piran’s unique blend of Venetian architecture and Slovenian charm makes it a highlight of any Slovenian itinerary. Here the family can wander through its narrow lanes, visiting galleries, exploring hidden corners and houses and ending in one of the many outstanding local restaurants, tucking into an irresistible seafood lunch with views of the Adriatic Sea.

In the afternoon, the choice is your guests’ - will it be an olive oil tasting experience and adventurous vintage gourmet tour, or the opportunity to participate in a truffle hunt? The first includes a ride in classic old-time cars, taking in the most beautiful locations on the coast, stopping occasionally to take in the scenery with a glass of something good and finishing with a tasting of local olive oils and Istrian delicacies.

Alternatively, guests can opt to take part in a unique truffle hunting experience in the nearby Istrian countryside. Masked by the scents of the woods, the magical aroma of the truffle is undetectable to human senses, so guests are joined by specially trained dogs to help uncover these prized culinary treasures.

Day 6: Sampling Slovenia’s Wine Country

Bordering Italy, Goriška Brda is known as Slovenia’s Tuscany. This romantic region is famous for its rolling vineyards and charming villages and is just perfect for a day of relaxation and wine tasting.

In the morning, guests can leisurely discover the picturesque village of Šmartno, visit Dobrovo Castle and climb the Gonjače Tower for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. In the afternoon, a unique wine-tasting experience at a boutique winery allows families with older children to sample the region’s renowned rebula white wine and Bordeaux-like blends paired with local delicacies.

Goriška Brda is one of the world’s best wine-growing terroirs, so this is an unmissable chance to appreciate Slovenia’s rich culinary and viticultural heritage. Here too, local producers grow delicious, juicy cherries, persimmons and figs - and don’t miss the olive oil, probably some of the spiciest your guests will have tasted!

Where to stay

All the suggested stays here boast a wonderful wine connection - of their extensive portfolio, ​Roundabout Experiences​ highlights:


Day 7: Thrills in the Soča Valley

The Soča Valley, with its emerald-green river and dramatic alpine scenery, is a playground for adventure lovers, with endless thrills to pick between. Your family can start the day with an exploration of the valley - with a heart-pumping twist! Hiking through the beautiful Trenta valley, where the crystal-clear water can be drunk straight from the spring, the adventure continues into Bovec, famous for its beauty and history and home to a highly renowned extreme sports centre.

After visiting the stunning Kozjak Waterfall, and/or hiking through the spectacular Tolmin Gorges, guests enter the Triglav National Park - where the day’s adventure really begins. A true adrenalin rush, the Bovec ziplines soar over the valley, taking in breathtaking views of the valley and the peaks of the Julian Alps in the most exhilarating way possible.

Suitable for both kids and adults, adventurers travel from platform to platform over five ropes, each 200 metres above the ground and reaching speeds of up to 60km. The experience takes between 2.5-3.5 hours and descends almost a full kilometre to the finish - leaving participants with a real sense of accomplishment and a host of unforgettable memories!

Where to stay

Day 8: Wild Swimming, Peaceful Walks and Alpine Adventures

Heading into the mountains, guests begin a day of scenic exploration (with plenty of opportunities for wild swimming and more!) with a breathtaking drive over the Vršič Pass, Slovenia’s highest road mountain pass, stopping periodically to take in panoramic views of the Julian Alps.

One of the early stops, Lake Jasna, is a stunning place for a peaceful walk around the lake, a dip or even a spot of fly fishing, while Zelenci Nature Reserve, on the edge of Triglav National Park, is known for its vibrant green lake and stunning mountain backdrop - perfect for a family picnic lunch followed by a short nature walk.

In the afternoon, head to Kranjska Gora for a ride on the Furious Pehta summer toboggan. This utterly brilliant ride flies down a 1,500-metre long track, taking 5 minutes to drop 293 metres at an incline of up to 67% - a fabulous way to banish any tiredness from the road! And the day’s end sees guests arrive in the Lake Bled area, ready to end their fabulous family adventure in this most famous of Slovenian beauty spots.

Where to stay

Luxurious lakeside villas or historic hotels, the choice is down to your guests! Some favourites of ​Roundabout Experiences ​include:


Days 9 & 10: The Beauty of Lake Bled

No trip to Slovenia is complete without a visit to Lake Bled - and here, there’s so much to do!

Visitors looking for a speedy introduction to this most stunning of areas should start with a hike of the Vintgar Gorge, an incredible natural canyon where walkers follow the rushing Radovna river across wooden platforms and bridges, discovering rapids, small waterfalls and natural pools at every step.

This is a pleasant and relatively easy hike, and ends in spectacular fashion overlooking the Šum waterfall, the largest river waterfall in Slovenia.

After, it’s time for further immersion in Lake Bled’s many sights and activities. Take a traditional Pletna boat ride to Bled Island, the only true island in the land, and climb the 99 stone steps to its iconic, fairytale church, ringing the church bell for good luck.


Explore Bled Castle, perched high above the lake, and taste the famous Bled cream cake, Kremšnita, a sweet treat that’s loved by locals and visitors alike. And make the most of a final day in Slovenia with a trip to beautiful Lake Bohinj, located in the heart of Triglav National Park.

Riding the cable car up to Vogel opens up breathtaking views of the Julian Alps, before a leisurely hike and/or a local lunch lets guests take in the mountain vistas in style. After, discover the enchanting Savica Waterfall, a double waterfall en amidst the steep walls of the Komarča, and learn about the legends surrounding this natural wonder, before returning to Bohinj to swim, canoe or just rest in the pristine natural setting.

And your guests end the day with a last chance to learn about the culture and traditions of this fascinating land, with a family beekeeping experience near Bled - complete of course with a tasty tasting of the honey and other products!

Slovenia offers an extraordinary blend of nature, culture and adventure that’s ideal for a family holiday - in summer or winter. We hope this itinerary, designed with luxury and family fun in mind, gives a helpful initial feel for what is possible in Slovenia for family groups of all ages.

As always, ​Roundabout Experiences​ are ready to tailor-make an itinerary perfect for your family and multi-gen group clients.

Get in touch today for an introduction to the team.

Becky Harris
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