Overview

Slovenia is a country in Central Europe bordered by Italy on the west, the Adriatic Sea on the southwest, Croatia on the south and east, and Austria on the north. It was once a part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire until the end of World War I. In 1918, the Slovenes joined the Serbs and Croats in forming a new multinational state, which was named Yugoslavia in 1929. Dissatisfied with the exercise of power by the majority Serbs, the Slovenes succeeded in establishing their independence in 1991 after a short 10-day war. Historical ties to Western Europe, a strong economy, and a stable democracy have assisted in Slovenia's transformation to a modern state. Slovenia acceded to both NATO and the EU in the spring of 2004.

Slovenia has the picturesque features of the Alpine, Mediterranean, Karst, and Pannonian worlds combined. There are many caves and caverns to be explored in the area as well as other natural beauty and phenomena associated with the country. There are natural springs, lakes, and waterfalls, and although there is many of each, they are all different. Slovenia is heavily wooded, having many forests and forest reserves.

Activities & Attractions

Slovenia houses some of the interesting sightseeing, historic buildings and museums. The Ljubljana Zoo, the Observation Tower (also at Ljubljana Castle.), the Predjama Castle and the Lipica Stud farm are some of the fascinating places of visit in Slovenia. The Aquarium in Piran and the Tolmin Gorges are a must see. One can't miss the "Old Vine," which is supposedly the oldest naturalized fine types of vine in Slovenia.

There are some interesting architecture associated with Slovenia which includes Thatched houses and the Slovene Castles. Like most European nations, there is a mix of the ancient archeological finds and a varied mix of new world attractions in Slovenia. National celebrations and festivals held in Slovenia are very rich in culture. The National Museum and the Rogatec Open-air Museum has the most precious and historic pieces but of course every museum has its own attractions and unique exhibits. Galleries and art museums are plentiful in the area, again as would be expected of a European Country.

Lodging

Slovenia has a multitude of accommodations including hotels, hostels, inns, and motels. There are also several health resorts and spas in the area. Many of the hotels give information to the themed tours available such as the Trail of Archduke Johan from Graz to Maribor, and the Upper Slovenske gorice wine-tourist road, among others.

Transportation

Inside the country you can chose to travel by bus and train which is pretty inexpensive. Slovenia also has a good domestic network of airport where you have numerous flights between Ljubljana, Bled, Piran, and other major cities.