Tips for incentives - Ljubljana and the region of Central Slovenia by Ljubljana Tourism

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LJUBLJANA & CENTRAL SLOVENIA: A CITY AND A REGION OF CREATIVE INCENTIVES SELECTION OF PROGRAMMES IN LJUBLJANA AND CENTRAL SLOVENIA REGION SEE LJUBLJANA FROM DIFFERENT ANGLES UNIQUE WAYS TO DISCOVER THE CITY AND ITS SURROUNDINGS A TINGE OF ETHNO HERITAGE A SAMPLE OF ENO-GASTRONOMY A SPLASH OF ADVENTURE UNUSUAL TEAMBUILDING PROGRAMMES A TASTE OF HISTORY A TOUCH OF NATURE RELAX & ENJOY EVENING ENTERTAINMENT

SELECTION OF PROGRAMMES IN THE REST OF SLOVENIA WONDERS OF THE UNDERGROUND WORLD WHITE WINTER DELIGHTS MORE OUTDOOR ADVENTURES ETHNO HERITAGE & COUNTRYSIDE LIFE A TASTE OF HISTORY A SAMPLE OF ENO-GASTRONOMY

YOUR LOCAL PARTNERS LJUBLJANA TOURISM / CONVENTION BUREAU SLOVENIAN CONVENTION BUREAU DESTINATION MANAGEMENT COMPANIES - DMC’S EVENT AGENCIES MAP OF LJUBLJANA MAP OF SLOVENIA MAP of the Central Slovenia Region

Edited and published by: Ljubljana Tourism/Convention Bureau, Krekov trg 10, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia E: convention@visitljubljana.si, W: www.visitljubljana.si/meetings Copy and text editing: Ljubljana Tourism/Convention Bureau (Tatjana Radovič, Jan Oršič), GO.MICE (Natalija Bah Čad) Photography: L. Esenko, A. Fevžer, P. Heing, U. Hočevar, Ž. Intihar, Jakše Jeršič, T. Jeseničnik, B. Kladnik, M. Kumšič, M. Martinšek, D. Mladenovič, M. Neves, A. Pavan, Ž. Prepadnik, S. Rančov, F. Šivic, B. Tacol, M. Tančič, J. Skok, B. Vidmar, M. Vranič, D. Wedam, A-Cosmos, ABC Rent-a car, Antiq Palace Hotel & Spa, Buy the Sea, Btc d.d., Carpe Diem, Cleanport, Creatoor, Slovenian Beekeepers Association, Diners Golf & Country Club Ljubljana, DMC NIKAIA, Foto BoBo, Golf Arboretum, Golf Trnovo Ljubljana, Hiša Eksperimentov, iDMC, Kordiš s.p. (Dvorni Bar), Koren Sports, Liberty Incentives & Congresses Slovenia, Lifetrek Events, Podzemlje Pece, Postojnska Jama d.d., Sense Wellness Club, Slovene Ethnographic Museum, Sunny Studio, S.O.L. Institute, Teambuilding.si, Time Out Events, Top Agencija, Vinoteka Movia, Gostilna Šestica, Grand Hotel Union, Jezeršek Catering, Krejan-Levec, Unique Slovenia, Pustolovski park Geoss, RTC Krvavec d.d., Mega Ciklon, Iška Adventure, Nomad 2000, Pac Sports, Buy the Sea, Koren Sports, Salon Restaurant, Zaklop, Tehnical Museum of Slovenia, Istockphoto, Maya Team, photo archives of Ljubljana Tourism and individual event organisers; cover photo: A. Fevžer Prepress: Studio DTS Printed by: Tiskarna Radovljica, October 2011 Committed to caring for the environment, we print on recycled paper. Share our commitment by sharing this publication with your friends.

LJUBLJANA & CENTRAL SLOVENIA: A CITY AND A REGION OF CREATIVE INCENTIVES Vibrant Ljubljana is large enough to provide all the services that even a major meeting may require and, as an elegant lounge, small enough to make delegates feel at home during their stay. Ljubljana and its wider area, which includes a good proportion of Slovenia, is an attractive destination not only for congresses and meetings, but also for incentive programmes. The rich diversity that characterises the capital city, the Central Slovenia region and the entire country can be easily incorporated into a host of incentive options offering many original experiences. The publication showcases an array of individual programmes focusing primarily on Ljubljana and the Central Slovenia region, without neglecting valuable ideas for activities in other parts of Slovenia. The Region of Central Slovenia, surrounding Ljubljana as a green embrace, comprises 25 other municipalities worth being explored. This wider area is noted for its traditional hospitality, diverse nature, clustered towns with a rich historic legacy including several castles, ancient village churches as well as restaurants and inns of a long-standing tradition. Geographically speaking, the Central Slovenia region is where the alpine and karst landscapes meet. Thus various unique natural and cultural particularities were created over the millennia. Among these are the Ljubljana Moors (Ljubljansko barje), an area of wetlands and peat bogs known for its prehistoric pile dwellers and its rare animal and plant species; the Velika Planina plateau situated in the Kamnik Alps, noted for its ski centre and for being the oldest dairy herdsmen’s settlement in Europe; several mysterious subterranean caves and karstic fields, as well as deep forests of the Polhov Gradec and Posavje hills, dotted with several tourist farms that open their doors with a homely, genuine welcome. With Ljubljana’s central position in the country, many attractive locations for outdoor pursuits or special events are also close at hand – within a maximum of 1.5 hours’ drive. In this time, one can reach the green Adriatic coastline, explore the Karst region and its fantastic underground caves, play golf or dine in picturesque Bled, possibly at its medieval castle or in an elegant lakeside hotel, go further into the alpine region, crossed by emerald rivers that are a paradise for white-water adventures, follow the traces of history in old towns, or indulge in invigorating spa and wellness treatments. This is just an initial sample from a much longer list of activities that can be combined into exciting incentive programmes. The main ingredients are culture, history, an active lifestyle, the genuine cuisine and wine culture along eno-gastronomy routes, green nature and an unspoilt environment, and the universal Slovenian fondness of the great outdoors. This publication features just a part of the many programmes that are available, since some outdoor specialists can offer up to several dozen different activities. It is primarily intended as a selection of suggestions or even a menu of ingredients that you can blend to create the most suitable experience for your client group. 4

MEETING INDUSTRY STANDARDISATION Each programme presented features the contact details of the organiser or author. However, we recommend that meeting- or incentive planners contact our established DMC partners, especially when wishing to include several activities to build a well-balanced programme. Relying on local expertise can maximise the positive experience of Ljubljana, the Central Slovenia region and the entire country in a given time frame. The list of our professional partners, DMC agencies and Incentive or Event Organisers, is provided separately following the description of programmes. A special designation marks those partners who have received the Slovenian Meetings Industry certification.

Standardised DMC and Incentive agency

Standardised Event agency

Incentive / Teambuilding

Event Agency

The standardisation of Meetings Industry suppliers in Slovenia was first introduced in 2008. This project, led by the Slovenian Convention Bureau, is among other intended to simplify and shorten the client’s search for venues and event organisers. In a transparent way, the client can get a clear insight into who is offering which service and a better overview of the quality of comparable services offered by individual service providers. The Ljubljana Tourism / Convention Bureau and many of its local suppliers, who are also members of the Slovenian Convention Bureau, have proven their quality by meeting the certification requirements. Several suppliers are certified in more than one category. However you mix and match venues and programmes, we are confident your clients will leave Ljubljana, its wider area and Slovenia with renewed team spirit, improved team cooperation skills, new experiences and warm memories!

SELECTED PROGRAMMES IN LJUBLJANA AND THE CENTRAL SLOVENIA REGION Ljubljana alone has a lot of original features, including sights, attractions, a multitude of events and trendy places that can help in creating interesting incentive proposals. Choosing Ljubljana as the “base camp” allows clients to combine the elements of a city lifestyle with outdoor activities and other programmes in its wider region, aimed at developing team spirit or providing new experiences, which is an added value of Ljubljana as an initial destination. Distances & duration in the programmes’ descriptions: the distances have been measured with the Triple Bridge in the centre of Ljubljana as the starting point and the approximate starting location of the programme as the other end. Distances within 1 km are predominantly found in the pedestrian area. In case a programme can start at different locations no distance is specified. The duration applies to the programme alone and does not include the required transfer time.

SEE LJUBLJANA FROM DIFFERENT ANGLES WALKING TOUR OF LJUBLJANA Ljubljana Tourism, www.visitljubljana.si This guided walking tour covers all the major sights located in the old centre of Ljubljana. Visitors get to know the unique character of “Stara Ljubljana” (Ljubljana Old Town), where distinct Baroque and Art Nouveau architecture combines with masterly creations by the 20th century architect Jože Plečnik. The classical tour, available in 16 languages, can be upgraded with a short boat tour or a visit of the Ljubljana Castle, which can be reached by funicular, tourist train, on foot or by road. From there, a beautiful view of the city unfolds. Best time of the year:

All year

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

1-50, several groups at a time

Duration:

2 hours

Distance:

Start at various possible locations

CYCLING TOUR OF LJUBLJANA Ljubljana Tourism, www.visitljubljana.si One of the best ways to get around Ljubljana, particularly its central area, is by bicycle. The cycling tour of Ljubljana is led by specially trained guides. The tour begins at the Slovenian Tourist Information Centre, where bicycles are provided to everyone joining the tour. Participants are then guided across Plečnik’s Market (Plečnikova tržnica) to Dragon Bridge (Zmajski most), an Art Nouveau construction decorated with dragon statues symbolising Ljubljana, and further on past innumerable city sights, including several ones located outside the centre. Best time of the year:

April to November

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

3-60

Duration:

2 hours

Distance

400 m

TOURIST BOAT RIDE Ljubljana Tourism, www.visitljubljana.si Tourist boat rides offer an opportunity to see Ljubljana and its numerous famous buildings and bridges from a different angle and get out of the city’s hustle and bustle while actually staying in the very city centre. The tourist boat departs from the Ribji trg pier in the immediate vicinity of the Triple Bridge (Tromostovje) or, alternatively, from under the Butcher’s Bridge (Mesarski most) by the Market. It sails towards Dragon Bridge (Zmajski most), where it turns and sails back under several famous bridges of Ljubljana: first under the Triple Bridge and the Cobblers’ Bridge (Čevljarski most), both masterpieces by the architect Jože Plečnik, and then under St. James’s Bridge (Šentjakobski most). It continues along the Trnovski pristan embankment and sails all the way to the Špica embankment, where it turns again to return to the starting point. Best time of the year:

All year round

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

5-50 (max. 3 boats)

Duration:

1 hour

Distance

100 m

HOT AIR BALLOON RIDE Ljubljana Tourism, www.visitljubljana.si The hot air balloon ride, including a panoramic sightseeing flight over Ljubljana and its surrounding areas, is a unique adventure to remember for a long time to come. The meeting point is in Ljubljana and the flight at a height of 50 to 1,000 metres takes from 60 to 90 minutes. A skilled team of experienced balloonists make sure that the exciting experience is completely safe. After the landing, each participant receives a diploma and a glass of sparkling wine to toast to a successful first time flight in a hot air balloon. Best time of the year:

All year round

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

2-60

Duration:

4 hours

Distance:

Start at various possible locations

UNIQUE WAYS TO DISCOVER THE CITY AND ITS SURROUNDINGS DRAGON CODE – DISCOVERING THE MYSTERY OF LJUBLJANA S.O.L. Institut, www.solinstitut.com Dragon Code is an adventure tour of the city that takes you to the mysterious world of imagination and symbolism by exploring the ancient wisdom passed down through centuries by a secret brotherhood. Experience-based learning about the city’s art, architecture, sights, and ancient legends brings you to the heart and soul of Ljubljana, making you switch from the role of mere observer to the role of active participant. Unveiling the secrets behind the city’s façades and actively reviving the stories from its past, you will get a completely new perspective on the city. Following the hints of the secret brotherhood, you will be led to the Old Town, where you will solve a range of strange mysteries and riddles in order to pass the brotherhood’s test and unveil the mystery of the Dragon Code, most often revealed to those who look with their hearts. Best time of the year

All year round

Minimum / maximum number of participants

5-50

Duration:

1.5 hours to 2.5 hours

Distance

Start at various possible locations

ONCE UPON A TIME . . . RESCUING A PRINCESS Nikaia DMC, www.nikaia.si Once upon a time . . . in a city called Emona, and later Ljubljana, there was a pretty but stubborn princess who did not like any of her suitors. But one moonless night, a spurned suitor returned and carried her off to his kingdom - only you can help us rescue our beauty from the beast! We assume he is hiding her in one of his numerous castles all over the country, or maybe in his underworld refuge . . . Come, let’s find her! At Ljubljana Castle, in the castles of the Gorenjska region, or perhaps in the Postojna Cave. Will you accept the challenge? It can take a day or two or more . . . Best time of the year:

All year round

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

10–100

Duration:

1–3 days

Distance

Start at various possible locations

LJUBLJANA CITY SAFARI S.O.L. Institut, www.solinstitut.com City Safari is an adventure that includes orientation in the city centre, the exploration of its sights, competition between groups and lots of fun. It encourages group strategy planning, communication, navigation, and teamwork. Participants, divided into smaller teams, receive a “City Safari Kit” that contains material with a list of tasks to be accomplished within a limited period of time, a Polaroid camera, and a city map. The tasks to be accomplished vary from comical and challenging to problem-solving and thought-provoking. Teams prove that challenges were met by taking photos. As most tasks are related to city attractions and culture, teams discover Ljubljana in a different way by mingling and communicating with locals. To be successful, they need to use their teamwork and social skills, creativity, and cooperation. Best time of the year:

All year round

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

10–500

Duration:

2-6 hours

Distance

Start at various possible locations

TEAM CHALLENGE IN LJUBLJANA Lifetrek Events, www.lifetrek.si, www.spiritowin.com With its green surroundings and the Ljubljanica River, the Slovenian capital also offers a wide range of adventure activities. With our programme you can discover Ljubljana in a different and unique way. The event takes place in the heart of the city and represents a challenge for any group. The purpose of our team challenge event is to encourage participants to act as a group, making a plan and reaching the goal together. Acting together as a team, the participants will have fun together and share common memories and experiences. Note: To participate in the event you do not have to be in good physical condition; all you need to face the challenges ahead is good team spirit and goodwill. Each moment is rich with discoveries. Best time of the year:

All year round

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

10–300

Duration:

3-4 hours

Distance

Start at various possible locations

THE DRAGON’S SECRET Lifetrek Events, www.lifetrek.si, www.spiritowin.com Do you know the legend of Ljubljana’s dragon? You will try to discover it on your own. This programme is the best opportunity to feel the rhythm of the city, interact with locals, and solve the puzzles of the dragon’s secret one by one. Participants are divided into groups, and each group receives instructions and a map, which help them to explore Ljubljana step by step and discover the clue. The programme starts downtown and finishes at Ljubljana Castle, where the dragon still lives and guards Ljubljana and its citizens. To solve the puzzles along the way, participants should plan where to go, gather information from the townsfolk, and search for symbols and other city attractions. Great team spirit and some good will is all they need on their way through Ljubljana. Best time of the year:

All year round

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

10–300

Duration:

3–5 hours

Distance

Start at various possible locations

LJUBLJANA DISCOVERY GAME Teambuilding (Skok Šport, Gaia plus, IKSA), www.teambuilding.si Our entertaining discovery game is a good alternative to a classical guided tour. Participants are divided in small groups, and each is given a city map, a digital photo camera, and other tools required to fulfil the tasks. These are designed so that participants become acquainted with the most important historical, cultural, and ethnological sights of Ljubljana. Groups have to take pictures in front of major sites, report some information about them, recognise some influential Ljubljana citizens of the past, talk to locals, and accomplish other tasks depending on the season and the group’s characteristics. At an appointed time all groups assemble at a restaurant for lunch, and an analysis of the completed tasks with awards for the winners follow. Best time of the year:

All year round

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

6–60

Duration:

2–6 hours

Distance

Start at various possible locations

PLEČNIK'S ARCHITECTURAL CHALLENGE TIME OUT Events, www.timeoutevents.si Ljubljana born Jože Plečnik (1872-1957) is considered to be one of the world's most important pioneers of contemporary architecture. His artistic endeavours are reflected in the appearance of three Central European cities: Vienna, Prague and Ljubljana. In the years following his return from abroad in 1921, Plečnik left such a strong and indelible mark on his native city that the so called Plečnik's Ljubljana as a unique example of town planning is considered to be one of the most important full-scale works of art of the 20th century. The tour features most of the Plečnik’s architectural masterpieces located in the centre of Ljubljana. The Triple Bridge, the Central Market, the embankments of the Ljubljanica River and the National University Library are at the heart of every Ljubljana experience. This unique themed and fun treasure hunt through downtown Ljubljana takes participants to the highlights of Plečnik's Ljubljana and to cosy nearby cafes, where a series of fun and educational architectural challenges (building a bridge, Spaghetti tower, Tower of balloons) are organised for the Grand Prize of Jože Plečnik. Best time of the year:

All year round

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

20–200

Duration:

2–3 hours

Distance

Start at various possible locations

CYCLING ADVENTURE ACROSS RURAL LJUBLJANA TIME OUT Events, www.timeoutevents.si Did you know that two thirds of the Ljubljana municipality consist of rural areas dotted with charming villages, isolated farms and idyllic valleys? The cycling adventure starts at Janče (784 m), the highest hill in Ljubljana’s territory, with astonishing views of the Slovenian Alps and the rest of the country. Several programme options are on offer, depending on the specific event purpose. A simple cycling safari, with stops for authentic snacks and drinks at tourist farms can be organised. Alternatively, a group is split into several teams that set off on a true cycling adventure with fun challenges along the route. The cycling adventure through this fruitgrowing area just outside Ljubljana is mostly downhill and is appropriate for people of all ages and fitness levels. Best time of the year:

Spring to autumn

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

20–200

Duration:

2–3 hours

Distance

Start at various possible locations

A TINGE OF ETHNO HERITAGE SLOVENIAN EVENING Židana marela, www.zidanamarela.si Slovenian evenings can take place in restaurants, hotels, or any special location in Ljubljana or its wider region. The show can be customised to fit a client’s requirements and allows guests to experience traditional Slovenian hospitality and spend an entertaining evening of music and dancing. In most of the venues guests can also enjoy a hearty meal. At the entrance guests are greeted in a traditional way by a folk dance group in national costumes and served “šklojce” (dried fruits). While dining on the specialties of traditional cuisine they are entertained by an enjoyable programme featuring folk dances and live music. As this makes it hard to sit still, guests are invited to join the dancers, learn the polka, and participate in amusing games. The programme, which can last an entire evening, ends by presenting carnation flowers – a symbol of Slovenia, to each guest. Best time of the year:

All year round

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

6–1000 (depending on venues)

Duration:

2–3 hours or more

Distance

Various possible locations

POTTERY MAKERS AND WEAVERS ATELIERS AT THE SLOVENE ETHNOGRAPHIC MUSEUM Slovene Ethnographic Museum, www.etno-muzej.si The Slovene Ethnographic Museum - a museum »about people, for people«, is a museum of cultural identities, the link between past and present, between our own and other cultures, between nature and civilisation. It is the central museum of ethnology with Slovene and non-European collections in the field of material, social and spiritual culture. The Museum pottery and weavers ateliers offer a wide range of pottery and hand woven textile artefacts. They organise regular pottery making and textile traditional hand weaving demonstrations, workshops and courses for children and adults. Best time of the year:

All year round

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

5-10

Duration:

1.5 hour

Distance:

850 m

A SAMPLE OF ENO-GASTRONOMY DVORNI BAR WINE TASTING Dvorni Bar, www.dvornibar.si Privatise one of the most popular wine bars in Ljubljana and entertain your guests with Slovenia’s top wines, presented in a wine tasting and accompanied by wide range of snacks. The three sections of the bar - Tapas bar (80 pax), Amfora (30 pax) and the Devil’s Barrel (15 pax), enable groups of different sizes to enjoy their private event and blend into the lively atmosphere of the rest of the bar if so they wish. Dvorni bar is proud of its wide selection of local and foreign wines and food designed to complement it. Best time of the year:

All year round

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

15-80

Duration:

1 hour or longer

Distance:

300 m

WINE TASTING IN THE OLD TOWN Vinoteka Movia, www.movia.si Movia is among Slovenia’s best-known wine brands on the international wine market, and some of its select labels are featured on the wine lists of renowned gourmet restaurants even outside Europe. The Movia vineyards in the west part of Slovenia have been producing quality wines since centuries, and their little showcase wine bar in the Old Town is a fine place to come and try some of their excellent products. Slightly hidden away inside a small covered courtyard by the Town Hall, Movia’s extremely friendly staff will guide you through your wine journey and even serve a selection of food especially prepared to complement the wines. E-mail: vinoteka.movia@siol.net Best time of the year:

All year round

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

2–30

Duration:

1 hour or longer

Distance:

100 m

WINE ADVENTURE TIME OUT Events, www.timeoutevents.si Wine adventure programmes are conceived in many different forms. Depending on the group size participants are split into teams that travel between designated points, solve fun tasks, taste wines and enjoy the beautiful countryside of Slovenia's wine growing regions. Depending on the guests’ fitness level, they can move from spot to spot on foot (shorter distances inside a village), with a bicycle or even with 4x4 vehicles. Naturally, every wine adventure ends at an authentic restaurant or tourist farm, where regional specialities based on fresh local ingredients are served. Wine adventures can be organised in any of Slovenia's wine growing regions. Simple wine tasting tours without team challenges are another programme option. Best time of the year:

All year round

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

20-120

Duration:

2-3 hours

Distance:

Various possible locations

SLOVENIAN EVENING AT ŠESTICA Gostilna Šestica, www.sestica.si One of the oldest restaurants in Ljubljana, initially opened in 1670, represents the magnificent memories of three centuries. From an old-fashioned inn, a public house, and a shelter for coach drivers and travellers, it developed into a temple of present-day cuisine. The Šestica is a restaurant in which homemade bread is baked the whole day long, in which the agile hands of cooks mould homemade pastries, and in which old recipes represent a respected foundation for new culinary trends. The special Slovenian Evening created primarily for foreign guests offers a live music and folk dance performance along with an excellent dinner. Upon arrival, guests are greeted by staff members in national costumes offering the traditional bread and salt. A menu featuring some traditional dishes is served later on. During the programme, dances from different regions of Slovenia are performed and guests are kindly invited to participate. Best time of the year:

All year round

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

10-200

Duration:

3-4 hours

Distance:

400 m

BAKING POTICA, A TRADITIONAL SLOVENIAN CAKE Grand Hotel Union, www.gh-union.si The elegant Grand Hotel Union (1905), one of Ljubljana’s Art Nouveau landmarks, is proud of its long-standing culinary tradition, and their potica recipe is as old as the hotel itself. Under the guidance of chef Janez Dolšak, who heads the Slovenian national cooks’ team, participants learn to bake the potica. This traditional cake, found in almost every home during all major holidays, is prepared with a variety of fillings, the walnut one being among the favourites. The first task is to prepare the dough and the filling, which takes 1.5 hours. About the same time is needed for the dough to rise, during which participants have time at leisure (short city tour, a visit to the open market, or just a coffee or cocktail break). In the last hour, the cake is placed in a traditional ceramic mould and then into a pre-heated oven. The potica moulds and the recipe are presented to participants in memory of a “mission accomplished,” allowing everyone to repeat the baking experience once back home. Best time of the year:

All year round

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

5–12

Duration:

4 hours

Distance:

100 m

LUNCH AT THE COLOURFUL OPEN MARKET Jezeršek Catering, www.jezersek.com If an event is based in one of the city hotels and you wish to break the routine, consider an informal standing buffet at Ljubljana’s colourful open market. The section along the Ljubljanica riverbank stretching from the Triple to the Dragon Bridge is lined by an elegant colonnade designed by Jože Plečnik, a renowned Ljubljana-born architect who instilled new life into his city between the two World Wars. With market stalls piled with fresh farm produce right in front, guests can enjoy some traditional city life while having a standing lunch al fresco. The fresh ingredients from the market are the basis of many culinary delights, such as dishes prepared in large frying pans, or seasonal menus. A genuine experience with an authentic flavour! Days to avoid: Saturdays (too crowded) and Sundays (the market is closed). Best time of the year:

Spring to autumn

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

30–60

Duration:

1.5 hours

Distance

200 m

SLOVENIAN CULINARY MARKET Jezeršek Catering, www.jezersek.com Jezeršek Catering, established in 1981, is renowned as one of the leading companies in its field and is able to handle the largest events in our destination. A product they have developed showcases the variety of Slovenia’s regional cuisine and is an attractive programme for warmer months and outdoor venues. In Ljubljana, the programme fits well into the Ljubljana Castle courtyard, the Križanke summer theatre atrium and several other settings, too. The buffet is displayed on market stalls that are divided by their respective contents (fish stall, salads, štruklji—a traditional dish made from leavened dough and various fillings, or fruit, desserts, etc.). Another option is to present all the regions of Slovenia through some of their most traditional recipes. This event can be complemented by a presentation of selected local crafts or folk music & dance performances. Best time of the year:

Spring to autumn

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

100 and more (to 1,000)

Duration:

2-3 hours

Distance:

Various possible locations

BREAD BAKING IN THE HOUSE OF BREAD Krejan – Levec, www.krejan-levec.si The Krejan-Levec House of Bread is located in the suburbs of Ljubljana. Its main feature is traditional Slovenian cusine made with organically grown ingredients that give a special taste to the dishes prepared in the traditional baker’s oven. If you don’t know how to make bread yet, a three-hour crash course will reveal you the main secrets of traditional bread recipes that will be tested in practice, using organic wholewheat flour. The opportunity to enjoy a presentation of traditional Slovenian meat dishes (pork roast, lamb, goose, etc.), ecological groats, Slovenian pies, fresh vegetables, superb desserts, fine Slovenian wines, and homemade juice is also on offer. Best time of the year:

All year round

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

10-40

Duration:

4-6 hours

Distance

15 km

ORIGANO – Culinary Arts & Training Centre The Origano Culinary Arts & Training Centre provides ultimate culinary courses for professionals and amateurs who are seeking to upgrade their culinary knowledge with Italian masters of pizza and gelato (ice cream) making. Additionally the Centre offers thematic cooking courses of local and international cuisine, based on modern trends and special macrobiotic demands. With its outdoor seating facilities and indoor multi-functional hall, the Centre facilitates a variety of space combinations and settings for business presentations, special events and exclusive tasting menus with wine pairings (wine cellar). Best time of the year:

All year round

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

6–50

Duration:

1 hour to one day

Distance:

4 km

PR’ KUREN – A TASTE OF GENUINE HOMELINESS kuren.kmetija@gmail.com The Pr’Kuren tourist farm sits atop a hill overlooking the Ljubljana Basin. At just half an hour’s ride by coach from the city you can experience an unspoilt natural environment, Slovene hospitality and genuine cuisine in the traditional way. The old restaurant can welcome over 100 guests in three separate rooms, the biggest of which can welcome 40 people. The origin of the food is predominantly from the farm itself or the forests in its vicinity. In the warm months events can be organised on the meadow in front of the restaurant. Easy walking tracks through the forest lead from the foothill to the farm in about an hour, but there are several shorter itineraries to nearby spots starting from that very location. When on Kuren Hill, do not miss to visit the small church of Saint Nicholas dating from 1560, which features well preserved decoration elements. Best time of the year:

All year round

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

3-100

Duration:

1 hour to half a day

Distance:

27 km

A SPLASH OF ADVENTURE GEOSS ADVENTURE PARK Pustolovski park GEOSS, www.pustolovski-park-geoss.si The newest adventure park in Slovenia, opened in July 2011, invites you to lift yourself off the ground and head for a true travel between treetops. Challenge yourself on four adventure trails for different levels of skill with 61 exercises to choose from and overcome your fear up to 11 metres above ground. A variety of programmes can take place on 560 metres of tracks between treetops, and 12 zip lines up to 75 metres long. The Adventure Park also has picnic spaces and catering options if you wish to treat your guests after an adrenalinefilled programme, which allows to discuss the experience in a relaxed way on site. Best time of the year:

All year round

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

10â&#x20AC;&#x201C;150 (more to be agreed)

Duration:

2 hours to a full day

Distance

35 km

KRVAVEC ADVENTURE PARK RTC Krvavec, www.rtc-krvavec.si In the summer time people with healthy thoughts and points of view (who lead a healthy lifestyle) get a chance to play, actively spend and enjoy their free time under the sun in the Krvavec Summer Park. The park is full of active and fun adventures and is intended for families with children, youth and adults, including individual sportsmen. A wide array of activities is set up within a specially adapted polygon. The trail is traced through the forest and is built like an adventurous path. It connects various trees with different climbing obstacles and obstructions of different levels of difficulty. Included in the adventure park is also a cycling park, mountain scooters, a climbing tower, a trampoline, an archery range, a range for mobility and skills, Frisbee golf and a tube descend range with 100m of descent on an air mattress. Best time of the year:

All year round

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

5â&#x20AC;&#x201C;150 (more to be agreed)

Duration:

1 hour to a full day

Distance:

35 km

INDOOR KARTING AT THE BTC CITY Mega Ciklon d.o.o, www.indoor-karting.com For over fifteen years, the BTC Carting Centre thrills all who love adrenaline and speed. You can test your high-speed driving skills on a 660-meter long track with electric gocarts that are quiet, clean, and environmentally friendly. You can debate your race results with your friends at the Rollbar over coffee, beer, or cocktails. It’s for sure the fastest fun in town! On Friday and Saturday nights, well-known DJ’s entertain with theme evenings. The exclusive parties at the Rollbar have been attended by world stars such as 50 CENT and G-UNIT. The BTC Karting Centre and Rollbar are open every day. Best time of the year:

All year round

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

5–150 (more to be agreed)

Duration:

1/2 hour to a full day

Distance:

5 km

TEAM - X - CHALLENGE Teambuilding (Skok Šport, Gaia plus, IKSA), www.teambuilding.si The Team - X - Challenge is a combination of outdoor orientation and team tasks designed so that the goal can be reached only through mutual communication, collaboration, and harmonisation. The group is usually divided into several teams that compete in various team skills. With instructions and maps they search for defined spots in the countryside and at each spot they get a team task. After every successfully accomplished task, they get instructions to reach the next spot with the next task until their return to the Skok Sport Centre. The challenge ends with a final joint game, which brings the ultimate decision about the winners. During a delicious picnic (or lunch in a local inn), the winning team is announced and symbolic awards are granted. The programme is prepared in agreement with the client, who determines the duration of activities and informs us about specifics of the group. The way between spots can be easy or demanding and can involve various sports equipment depending on the season. The Skok Sports Centre is located by the Sava River, at the outskirts of Ljubljana. Best time of the year:

All year round

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

6–60

Duration:

2–10 hours

Distance:

8 km to the Skok Sport Centre

TEAM - W - CHALLENGE Teambuilding (Skok Šport, Gaia plus, IKSA), www.teambuilding.si The Team – W – Challenge is a combination of bicycling, white water rafting, outdoor orientation, and various team tasks that require mutual communication and collaboration. The group is divided into smaller teams and each one gets bicycles and instructions to find some spot. At the spot they have to accomplish a task and the result brings them further instructions for continuing the course. After several successfully accomplished tasks and approximately seven kilometres, they come to the starting point for rafting and the wet part of the course. Participants try their team skills of steering the rafts and get some other tasks on the water. After several surprises, the adventure ends at the Skok Sport Centre with a picnic and a symbolic award for the best team. Best time of the year:

Spring, summer, autumn (March-November)

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

6–60

Duration:

4-10 hours

Distance:

8 km to the Skok Sport Centre

WINTER RAFTING Teambuilding (Skok Šport, Gaia plus, IKSA), www.teambuilding.si Break the barriers and obstacles in your mind and experience something really unusual. Rafting is usually known as a summer sport activity, but with adequate equipment it can become an exciting winter adventure, being especially interesting when it snows outside. Some really brave and daring guests can make it even more adventurous and crazy. They even jump into ice cold water, break the barriers and challenge new limits! Winter rafting is performed on the Sava River between Medvode and Brod. It is white-water rafting grade II to III. There are rapids, but nothing really dangerous or very wild. It can be combined with some warming up team activities, and warmed up in the end with mulled wine. The event can be upgraded with lunch at a local inn. Best time of the year:

Winter

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

10–100

Duration:

4–8 hours

Distance:

8 km to the Skok Sport Centre

ROUND TRIP – CYCLING & RAFTING Teambuilding (Skok Šport, Gaia plus, IKSA), www.teambuilding.si The trip begins with bicycling on side roads, trails, and forest paths along the Sava River. On the way we cross the river on a hanging bridge, make a stop at a spring of warm water, and enjoy the panorama of the surrounding mountains. The cycling part of the trip ends in Medvode where the bikes and bicycling equipment are exchanged for rafting equipment. Participants experience white-water rafting level II to III, so nothing is dangerous and the ride is therefore appropriate for anyone. There is always a lot of fun on the water with splashing, bumping, jumping, and maybe tipping each other into the water. The trip finishes at the Skok Sport Centre, where activities can be continued with a picnic on site or a lunch at a local inn. Best time of the year:

Spring, summer, autumn (March-November)

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

6–60

Duration:

4-10 hours

Distance:

8 km to the Skok Sport Centre

BMW DRIVER TRAINING A-Cosmos d.d., www.bmw-treningvoznikov.si BMW Driver Training offers participants the opportunity to expand their driving knowledge and learn to keep a vehicle under control. The training covers essential and advanced level driving skills—whether it’s avoiding an obstacle on a wet road, gaining valuable off-road experience away from the freeway, or perfecting the ideal line on a racing circuit. BMW Driver Training teaches participants to understand the limits of technology and driving skills. Under the guidance of expert instructors, they will acquire valuable experience that will equip them perfectly to master the challenges of everyday driving through education and entertainment in a controlled and safe environment. The training takes place in Logatec, half an hour’s drive from Ljubljana. Best time of the year:

All year round

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

10-12 in a group

Duration:

5–8 hours

Distance:

35 km

OUTDOOR EXPERIENCES: IŠKI VINTGAR GORGE & LJUBLJANA MOORS Iška Adventure, www.iskaadventure.si The Iška River gorge (Iški Vintgar) and the Ljubljana Moors, just 5 to 15 km from Ljubljana, reveal a stunningly beautiful landscape, well-known to all fans of unspoiled nature and hiking. A selection of experiences, adjusted to a limited number of participants, can be combined into attractive multi-activity programmes. • TREKKING UP THE IŠKA RIVER The itinerary leads along paths crossing meadows and forests above the river canyon, and partly in the water. On the way, participants visit a WWII partisan hospital, an abandoned mountain farm, the confluence of the Iška and Zala rivers, the »Votu kamen« (hollow rock) natural sight, and learn about the way of life as it once was in this area. Cooking lunch over an open fire in nature by agreement. Best time of the year:

April–November

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

2–20

Duration:

7–8 hours (one less without lunch)

• PADDLING ON TRANQUIL RIVERS Paddling is one of the beautiful links between man and water. On board a kayak you will be able to admire the beauty of the Ljubljana Moors’ natural environment from a different angle. While silently gliding, listen to bird songs, buzzing insects and chatty frogs, observe the wild flora and fauna, and sense the smell of nature by letting all your thoughts gently slip away. Three mystical and magic rivers – the Bistra, Iščica or Ljubljanica, are at choice. Snack served along the way by agreement. The programme is suitable also for beginners. Best time of the year:

15 April–15 October

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

2–7

Duration:

4–4.5 hours

• ENTER THE MYSTERIOUS CAVE WORLD Join us in the discovery of a natural treasure hidden in the depths below the earth's surface, where our modern world can't reach us...The cave known as »Mala in Velika Pasica«, or »Skednenca«, or »Kevdrc«, close to the village of Gornji Ig, is where you are able to admire the beauty of limestone formations – stalactites, and unusual forms of life. And experience something rare in today's lifestyle - silence. With the use of safety equipment it is also possible to descend into two small abysses. No prior experience is required. Best time of the year:

All year round

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

2–15

Duration:

2–3 hours

• FLY HIGH… ON BOARD A HELICOPTER Take a helicopter flight and enjoy a stunning bird view panorama. Following the ground team's brief instructions on boarding the helicopter, the unique experience of flying can begin. The route allows you to enjoy from above the beautiful scenery of the Iška and Zala River gorges, the forested slopes of Mt. Krim, Mokrc and the Rakitna Plateau, the Ljubljansko barje moors as well as the city of Ljubljana. Take off points in Podpeč, BTC-AKC or Zagorje. Best time of the year:

All year round (weather conditions permitting)

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

3–21 (in consecutive flights)

Duration:

10 min /15 min /30min /45min /60min /per person

THE MYSTEROUS LJUBLJANA MOORS AND THE IŠKI VINTGAR GORGE Nomad2000, www.nomad2000.com At the outskirts of Ljubljana lies a unique and special area, the Ljubljana Moors (Ljubljansko barje). The best way to explore its natural and cultural diversity is by bike. The macadam and field roads go through a mosaique of meadows, fields and irrigation ditches, which offer refuge to a variety of rare animal and plant species. As many of Europe’s most endangered wildlife species live here, a large share of Ljubljansko barje is protected by the Natura2000 project. The highlight of the tour features the canyon of the Iška River: absorbing its pristine nature that surrounds the fresh and clear waters adds a touch of relaxation to the experience. It is also an ideal place for a picnic, which can be organized on request. This half-day tour can be run in all seasons, except for winter, for groups from 6 to 50 people. Best time of the year:

Spring, summer, autumn

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

6–50

Duration:

Half a day minimum

Distance:

15 km

DISCOVER THE HERDSMEN’S SETTLEMENT AT VELIKA PLANINA Nomad2000, www.nomad2000.com Just a few steps out of Ljubljana, you will have the chance to discover a unique beauty of the Slovene mountains and visit an authentic herdsmen’s settlement on Velika Planina, a high mountain plateau that is particularly lively during the summer months. It attracts all those wishing to feel the mountain life as it once was and admire the picturesque wooden cottages, a unique feature of traditional alpine architecture. From Ljubljana, we head north in the direction of the Kamnik – Savinja Alps. Right below the Alps one finds the spring of the clear Kamniška Bistrica mountain river and, looking up at 1,500 m above sea level, Velika Planina. A cable car will take us to the top, to the starting point of our trekking tour. With walking shoes on, we will admire the beauty of the surrounding mountains, have a chance to experience the everyday herdsmen life and taste fresh, still warm milk or some other dairy product. Best time of the year:

Summer

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

6–50

Duration:

1 day

Distance:

35 km

GEOCACHING ADVENTURE IN KAMNIŠKA BISTRICA Nomad2000, www.nomad2000.com Geocaching is a fun “high-tech” adventure based on the use of hand-held GPS devices. Participants are split up into groups and are given coordinates, which they must locate with the help of the GPS. Target locations can be found high up in the trees, on a window shelf, in a crack in the ground or even under water! When a team finds the coordinates, they receive instructions on how to reach the spot where a next assignment is waiting for them. The treasure hunt continues according to this pattern. Geocaching can be carried out throughout the year and the level of difficulty and duration (2 to 5 hours) is adapted to the client’s requirement. This active and fun incentive programme can be organised for groups from 10 to 40 people both in Ljubljana and in other locations. Among the natural settings close to the capital, an ideal one for geocaching is the Kamniška Bistrica valley, mentioned in the Velika Planina trekking programme. However, this fun & hightech experience can also be organised at various locations across Slovenia. Best time of the year:

All year round

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

10–40

Duration:

2–5 hours

Distance:

35 km

SNOWSHOEING ADVENTURE ON THE VELIKA PLANINA PLATEAU Nomad2000, www.nomad2000.com Why not discover the winter beauties of the Slovene mountains in a different way? Have you ever tried walking with snowshoes on? Here you have the chance! Just a few steps out of Ljubljana lie the Kamnik – Savinja Alps and there, at the altitude of 1,500 m above sea level on a high mountain plateau, one finds the most famous village of Alpine herdsmen in Slovenia, Velika Planina, which is known as a pleasant ski resort in winter. A cable car will take us to Velika Planina where, with the snowshoes on, we will explore the attractive features of the snow-clad alpine landscape. Best time of the year:

Winter

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

6–15

Duration:

1 day

Distance:

35 km

ADVENTURE RACE IN KAMNIŠKA BISTRICA Nomad2000, www.nomad2000.com ww.nomad2000.com A new incentive programme, full of adrenaline, which will fill you with enthusiasm! Adventure race is an orienteering competition that takes place on a set course. We can organize these competitions at interesting locations all over Slovenia, the Kamniška Bistrica river being the closest to Ljubljana. Competitors must finish the course in different ways and have a limited time to do it. Skills in which they are tested include running, bicycling, paddling, rope climbing and many more! Let's see who will be the fastest, the most ingenious and the most skillful! Adventure race can be carried out throughout the year and the level of difficulty is adapted to the wishes of the participants. Best time of the year:

All year round

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

10–40

Duration:

2–5 hours

Distance:

35 km

SEA Kayaking on the Ljubljanica River Buy The Sea, www.buythesea.si Experience an ancient waterway—the Ljubljanica River, used since the Roman times, and admire the green natural surroundings from a different angle while paddling on the water in a sea kayak. The tour passes through the Ljubljana Moors, where you will learn why it has recently been included on the UNESCO World Heritage list and why Natura 2000 considers this protected area as one of the most important habitats for birds in Central Europe. Best time of the year:

May-October

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

2–10

Duration:

3 hours

Distance

15 km

A TASTE OF HISTORY MEDIEVAL GAMES IN MODERN TIMES – A STEP BACK IN HISTORY Koren Sports, www.koren-sports.si With the help of our medieval team and authentic surroundings, we go back in time, back all the way to the Middle Ages. All the events and games are enjoyed with fully qualified instructors and supervision throughout. A day of fun and various entertaining activities including archery, jousting, a tug-of-war, sword fighting, dancing with the “princess,”. . . In Ljubljana you can find some perfect venues for our medieval games, including Ljubljana Castle, the Ljubljana Moors, various spots along the Ljubljanica River, etc. Best time of the year:

All year round

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

6–250

Duration:

1–3 hours

Distance:

Various possible locations

TECHNICAL MUSEUM OF SLOVENIA IN BISTRA Tehniški muzej Slovenije, www.tms.si It takes only half an hour's drive from Ljubljana to reach the Technical Museum of Slovenia, which is located in a castle surrounded by a beautiful park and river. Guided tours are an excellent way of gaining a deeper insight into the diverse collections. The content of the tour is adapted to the visitors’ requirements. Various demonstrations and workshops can be arranged for visitors through which they can be introduced to old techniques and methods of working with the tools and machinery that our ancestors used in their everyday working lives (operation of the Venetian sawmill, agriculture machinery, textile machinery, a stationary petrol engine, old ways of spinning and weaving, horseshoe forging, letter casting, calligraphy, straw hat making, the manufacture of wooden wheels, bread baking, printing, papermaking, demonstration of inventor and scientist Nikola Tesla’s experiments, etc.). A collection of the late Marshal Tito's cars is a special attraction. Visitors can hire classic cars and take a ride around the park. Catering services can also be provided in the Museum’s park or halls, or in a neighbouring restaurant. Best time of the year:

Spring, summer, autumn

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

6–250

Duration:

3-8 hours

Distance:

27 km

TREASURE HUNT IN HISTORIC ŠKOFJA LOKA Top Agencija, www.topagencija.si Discover the hidden treasure of Škofja Loka, the best preserved medieval town in Slovenia. The programme is designed to unchain the participants’ imagination and creativity by solving different challenges along the winding streets and historic alleys of its old town quarter. The itinerary leads past all the main attractions and many hidden corners, revealing legends and local mysteries, as well as the traditional honey bread pastry. The programme can take place regardless of the weather. Best time of the year:

All year round

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

20-200

Duration:

2 to 3 hours

Distance:

30 km

UNUSUAL TEAMBUILDING PROGRAMMES LJUBLJANA TAXI ADVENTURE Maya Team, www.maya.si This is a new dynamic and unusual teambuilding programme in Ljubljana that will keep you busy and inspired! Split into groups of up to 10 people, guests will get a photo camera, a list of assigments and a time limit. While tackling the ten fun challenges, they are observed by a team of judges that will assess how they functioned as a team. In the end a presentation of how others solved the problems will be made. The Taxi Adventure is a programme ideal as an award for the good work and performance of your team, with a focus on socialising and enhancing their motivation. Best time of the year:

All year round

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

10-150

Duration

3 hours

Distance:

Various possible start locations

LJUBLJANA SPY INTRIGUE Maya Team, www.maya.si This unique team bonding programme encourages team work, creativity and raises the motivation among employees. You can expect lots of action, laugh and fun, and to spice this up, the presentation of your performance recorded by hidden cameras is done over a relaxing dinner. Divided into teams you circle between various checkpoints, found with the help of different tips, riddles, information via internet, fax, and voicemail. How to reach the purse with classified data, maps, clues, timetables and other key information needed to disclose and arrest a double agent? All available skills and knowledge should be used, including photo shooting of suspects, trade of goods, change of disguise and much more. You can be sure that a spy life is not an easy one. He or she often gets chased by many skilled field teams. Your success is based on good cooperation and focusing on every detail, which is the key to finishing the task. A part of programme are also our disguised instructors, who can be either a help or an obstacle on your way to finishing the task. Dangers and intrigues have never been so fun! Best time of the year:

All year round

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

10-50

Duration:

2-3 hours

Distance

Start at various possible locations

DRUM SESSION Lifetrek Events, www.lifetrek.si, www.spiritowin.com A drum session is a group activity in which each participant contributes to a great team spirit. It is an excellent way to get people to interact. Our ancestors used drums in various ceremonies to contact the spirits of the gods and send them good energy. With the drum session we encourage people to forget their worries and become one as a group. Drumming is a universal form of expression that transcends all boundaries: personal, organisational, or cultural. You do not need any special skills for our drum session, but you will be surprised by the end result. Regardless of the groupâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s size, we provide instruments for every participant and we always find the right setting to make our drum session even more magical. We carry the rhythm up to the sky! Best time of the year:

All year round

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

10-100

Duration:

2-3 hours

Distance

Various possible locations

HOCUS POCUS AT THE HOUSE OF EXPERIMENTS Hiša eksperimentov, www.he.si Hiša eksperimentov (The House of Experiments) is a high interactive “hands-on” Science Centre. Surely you must already have visited a museum. Imagine coming into a museum where you may study every piece of art. But there’s a big difference, as the exhibits in the House get their real value only when you touch them. By moving, changing, squeezing and playing you get to know something new every time. You guide yourself through the House. Along the way you decide what you wish to do first, what next, what you want to visit again, and what you prefer to skip. We follow our motto: “Having read, I have forgotten. Having seen, I have remembered. Having made it myself, I know!” For those who like science shows – the House is the right place to visit. Take a taste of Soundology, Gasology, Pressureology, Eggology and others by yourself! Best time of the year:

All year round, except from 15 July to 15 August

Minimum/maximum number of participants:

20-50; TUE, WED and THU for groups (reservation required)

Duration:

2 hours

Distance:

500 m

EUREKA! iDMC, www.idmc.eu Your group will transform into a real science team after a series of interesting experiments. Isolating DNA, building a pressure rocket, and driving nails with a banana are only a few of the interesting and inspiring experiments which will improve the communication skills among your team members who together will discover a few basic scientific principles that are quite simple to grasp. Scientific experiments packed with wonder and adventure will stimulate creativity and curiosity, which are the two most important qualities of the great thinkers of our times. This can bring your entire group to yell “Eureka!”—an experience that you will never forget! Best time of the year:

All year round

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

6-20

Duration:

2-8 hours

Distance:

Various possible locations

A TOUCH OF NATURE DANCE ON FIRE Creatoor, www.creatoor.com Does it seem unimaginable to stand with bare feet on 800 degrees Celsius? To walk over a carpet of fire or even dance on it? You do not believe that you can stand on the embers for up to twenty minutes? The challenge is constructed so that it cannot be accomplished in stress, hurry, or tension but only slowly and with ease. Herein lies the key of our team spirit strengthening that later on pays dividends numberless times in business and private life as well. We have chosen the best, as we are conscious of the power and beauty of fire. Best time of the year:

All year round

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

6–30

Duration:

Half a day or more

Distance:

75 km

BIRD-WATCHING IN THE LJUBLJANA MOORS AND VISIT TO THE IŠKI MOROST NATURE RESERVE DOPSS – BirdLife Slovenia, www.ptice.si The Ljubljana Moors (Ljubljansko barje) is a protected habitat where multitudes of rare bird species nest or fly over the wet meadows. Interesting stories and legends from the history of Ljubljana, going back to prehistoric times, interweave with local particularities. A part of the moors has been recently nominated as a UNESCO historic heritage site. The tour programme includes the visit of the Iški Morost Nature Reserve, where all kinds of interesting facts about the birds will be explained by an ornithologist. In the area of the Iški Morost Nature Reserve, DOPPS – BirdLife Slovenia acquired 52 hectares of farmland and an observatory was built of natural materials only. The observatory is located at one end of the »Corncrake Nature Trail«, and an unsurfaced footpath measuring a total of 1,300 metres was arranged in the wide area of the reserve. The Corncrake has become a symbol of the thousand-year harmony of man and nature. Thus, the Corncrake is promoted as the symbol of future harmony between rapid development and preservation of a highlevel biodiversity in Natura 2000 sites in Slovenia, which are important for the preservation of low-input wet meadows. iDMC is developing a programme including some CSR elements and birdwatching (www.idmc.eu). Best time of the year:

April-June

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

7–30

Duration:

4 hours

Distance:

Various possible start locations

GOLF IN THE CITY Trnovo Golf Course, www.golftrnovo.com The Trnovo Golf Course, opened in 2007, has been developed on an abandoned section of the city landfill. It is becoming a common practice in many urban centres to transform degraded land into an area with a new purpose. The course is only three kilometres from downtown Ljubljana, close to its southern bypass road. Spanning twenty hectares, it has nine holes and a driving range and is available to anyone regardless of previous knowledge of golf. No official membership card or golf licence is required. The Trnovo urban golf course is an ideal solution for players who don’t have enough time to drive to larger courses out of Ljubljana. In nice weather, players are rewarded with stunning views of the Alps to the north. For corporate or incentive groups, mini tournaments and other golfrelated events can be arranged on request. With the expert assistance of PGA instructors, players can improve their golf skills or join a beginners’ course. Best time of the year:

March-November (other months, weather allowing)

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

4-70 (tournament)

Duration:

1.5 hours to half a day

Distance

3 km

ARBORETUM VOLČJI POTOK GOLF COURSE Golf Arboretum, www.golfarboretum.si The golf course is situated in a picturesque landscape in the midst of a pine forest, among ponds and other natural beauties. The view of the Kamnik Alps combined with the nearby Arboretum guarantee a remarkable experience, and this diverse 18-hole course presents quite a challenge for even the best players. There are also four extra practice greens and a driving range for those wishing to improve their technique. With experienced golf pros you can get some serious lessons or organise a less serious match for your group. The club house overlooking an artificial lake by the ninth green is the centre of social activities and the heart of the course. The Arboretum Restaurant is not just a restaurant for enthusiastic golfers, but is open to all gourmets, golfers and non-golfers, who will really enjoy the chef’s masterpieces. Best time of the year:

Mid March to mid November

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

5–200

Duration:

4–8 hours

Distance

20 km

GOLF AT THE CITY DOORSTEP DINERS CLUB LJUBLJANA GOLF COURSE, www.golf-ljubljana.si The Diners Club Ljubljana Golf Course is a well arranged and maintained 18-hole golf course just 15 km from the capital. It is distinguished for fast greens, good fairways and wide teeing areas. The golf course, opened in May 2009, has a modern, diverse and dynamic design. Its strong advantage is the proximity to both Ljubljana and the Ljubljana Airport, which is only 15 minutes away. The golf course features a big driving range facility with a well equipped golf academy (individual lessons, group training, youth schools, video swing analysis, golf fitness analysis, calibration of golf clubs). The guests can also use the cloakroom, the caddie room, and the Evergreen restaurant (120 seats indoors, 100 on the terrace) in the clubhouse, which also offers a seminar room. The longest hole for Ladies & Gentlemen is the 2nd hole (519 metres for Gentlemen, and 465 metres for Ladies). Best time of the year:

March-November (other months, weather allowing)

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

4–120 (tournament)

Duration:

9 holes: 2 hrs 10 min; 18 holes: 4 hrs 20 min

Distance

15 km

THE BEEKEEPER’S STORY Slovenian Beekeepers Association, www.czs.si Beekeeping has a long tradition in Slovenia and plays an important role in the preservation of the natural environment and in health treatments based on bee products., derived from the Carniolan honey bee (Apis mellifera carnica)– a Slovenian autochthonous breed. A half hour’s drive from Ljubljana stands the Komenda Mansion, where Peter Pavel Glavar was brought up by his natural father Jakob Testaferrata, a Maltese knight. He became a highly educated priest, benefactor, and one of Slovenia’s first experts on beekeeping. The trail continues to the modern Slovenian National Beekeeping Centre in Brdo pri Lukovici for a multimedia presentation and a tour of the library, the apiary, the bumblebee hive, and the plantation of honey plants. While there, guests are able to buy bee products and souvenirs and have lunch at the beekeeping restaurant. Best time of the year:

All year round

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

10-55

Duration:

6-8 hours

Distance

25 km

RELAX & ENJOY SENSE CLUB - A TEMPLE OF BODY & SOUL HARMONY Sense Wellness Club, www.sense-club.si A place where time stops. A place where all the rest is forgotten. In a spacious and attractive environment with a touch of the Orient and a relaxing atmosphere, Sense offers you a holistic approach to body care and revitalisation. It combines the finest and most effective elements of both traditional and modern massage and care techniques used around the globe, from Thailand to Hawaii. Sense Wellness Club also offers a Hammam, a Finnish sauna, a Bio sauna, a spacious whirlpool, Thai and Philippine massages, the Chillout Plaza, and the VIP Residence where couples can enjoy wellness treatments in an intimate and luxurious atmosphere. Best time of the year:

All year round

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

2–20

Duration:

1 hour or whole day

Distance:

4km

ATLANTIS SAUNA WORLD & THERMAL TEMPLE BTC d.d., www.atlantis-vodnomesto.si/eng Spend at least a few hours away from stress and indulge in a world of complete relaxation at the Atlantis Water Park, situated in the recreational-entertainment area of BTC City. It offers 14 thematic saunas and 17 pools. The Thermal Temple features cascade baths filled with saltwater, massage nozzles of various shapes with air bubbles and air lounge chairs to pamper and relax your body. You can also indulge in a Thai massage under the skilful hands of Thai masseurs. Sauna Land offers an outdoor atrium with outdoor saunas in the shape of individual wooden houses (Panoramic, Alpine, Earth, and Miner’s saunas) and two floors with a variety of saunas inside the building. Atlantis can provide additional services including various entertainment and recreation programmes, water games, water aerobics, swimming courses, beach volleyball, relaxed medical consultations with renowned doctors, and much more. Best time of the year:

All year round

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

5–50

Duration:

3 hours to a full day

Distance

5 km

Medical Wellness at the Antiq Palace Hotel Antiq Palace Hotel & Spa, www.antiqpalace.com The medical wellness spa complex at the historic and boutique Antiq Palace Hotel in the heart of Ljubljana offers a selected range of programmes, including personalised consultations and a variety of treatments. In addition to classic and traditional spa therapies, Antiq Palace SPA features a preventative sport and nutrition programme as well as first-class medical support. All of the medical consultations and non-surgical treatments are closely administered by a group of doctors and physicians with different specialisations, whose competences and knowhow cover all aspects of nutrition, fitness, physiotherapy and medical diagnostics. These include preventive checkups – a comprehensive medical examination providing a detailed understanding of your current state of health and advice how to keep or improve your health; Physio SPA, combining classic medicine with physiotherapy and wellness treats to provide preventative treatments, diagnosis, therapy and rehabilitation; last, but not least, personal and integrated nutritional coaching. Based on this, the Antiq Palace offers a set of attractive Medical Wellness Packages, available both to the hotel guests and external clients. Best time of the year:

All year round

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

up to 7 at once

Duration:

Half an hour to 2 hours

Distance:

400 m

THE WORLD OF WELLBEING AT SUNNY STUDIO Sunny Studio, www.sunny.si The Sunny Studio world of wellbeing was envisioned and designed with the aim to offer guests the beneficial effects of the three primary elements and sources of life energy - wood, water and stone. On an area of 3,600 sqm spread on three floors, it provides recreation options in modern fitness facilities; there are also three big halls for guided team training and, on the roof of the building, a running trail, summer bar and terrace for relaxation. At the Sunny Studio a business or social event becomes a memorable experience. The Client’s aims are creatively complemented by tailor-made wellness programmes, pampering or sports activities. Sunny Studio is an “out of the box” venue allowing the organization of a wide array of business and social functions (product presentations, press events, receptions..) at the Club or Spa for up to 30 people, or working meetings in the halls for up to 60 people. Best time of the year:

All year round

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

1-60

Duration:

1 hour up to whole day

Distance:

5 km

EVENING ENTERTAINMENT SWING & ROCKABILLY SHOW Vintage, www.vintage.si Vintage is a Slovenian swing-rockabilly society that unites swing dancers, rockabilly, surf, and jazz music enthusiasts, specialised DJ’s, designers who work with rock & roll and swing elements, musicians, dance instructors, choreographers, and others. As the leading swing & rockabilly organisation in Slovenia, Vintage has established the first specialised swing dance school and organises everything from major concerts and dance events to weekly swing and rockabilly parties and private theme parties, where guests can learn the basic steps of these dances. Best time of the year:

All year round

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

2-100

Duration:

2 hours and more

Distance:

Various possible locations

PARTY TIME WITH DJ’s Klub Top, www. klubtop.si CLUB TOP - A THRILLING RESIDENCE ABOVE THE CITY In the centre of Ljubljana and six floors above everyday life, the most thrilling parties are taking place, fueled by the most modern in music, style and social trends. The nighttime view of Ljubljana and the VIP sections are the most desired features of this clubbers’ paradise. Club Top is also a member of the World’s f Finest Clubs. An exclusive club rental is available to those wishing to organize an event that will impress business partners or inspire employees of your own company. You can design the event’s programme yourself, or get the event team of Club TOP help you with the planning, organisation and execution. Contact: ziva@klubtop.si. MR. JONES – A NEW CLUB IN TOWN The club’s stage can also be yours! Modern video, audio and lighting equipment can be used for private parties and other events. With the selection of the best DJ’s, Mr. Jones’ staff is pleased to help creating an enjoyable atmosphere tailored for various generations and lifestyles. Very central location! Best time of the year:

All year round

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

100-400 (Mr. Jones) and up to 800 (Club Top)

Duration:

2 hours and more

Distance:

300 m

SANGRIA –THREE IN ONE Maya Team, www.maya.si No, this is not boozing, but a great fun team building experience! It is the best solution for all seeking an unforgettable party in the warm and safe shelter of a chosen restaurant or pub, the choice of which we can advise. Our own wine connoisseur gives a short briefing on wine history and gently leads us from white to red wines. Participants are smoothly converting into sommeliers by tasting flavours and fragrances and exploring essences of each and every wine. Later, teams will be formed for a fun based Sangria making competition and they initially get acquainted with the history of this well known drink. Each team 'owns’ its own ‘wine cellar’, in which a unique and tasteful Sangria blend is to be created. By using the available goods it needs to be discussed how to develop and produce your new Sangria. Who will get the prize for the best blend? Who for the best selling campaign and who for the most creative brand mark? Best time of the year:

All year round

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

10-200

Duration:

2–3 hours

Distance:

Various possible locations (Ljubljana and elsewhere)

A SELECTION OF INCENTIVE PROGRAMMES IN THE REST OF SLOVENIA WONDERS OF THE UNDERGROUND WORLD GAIA’S KINGDOM IN POSTOJNA CAVES Liberty Incentives & Congresses, www.liberty-incentives.net A spectacular multimedia performance that enlivens Postojna Cave in which imaginative living scenes with carefully polished dramaturgy provide a genuine feast for the senses, and give the feeling that the entire cave system is alive. The extraordinary ambience of the cave is enhanced by lighting installations, an artistic video projection on the cave ceiling, and superb music that will propel visitors into a memorable multimedia experience. They will be enraptured by the first act, in which the Muse of Lyrical Inspiration welcomes them to one of the biggest caverns, the “Great Mountain,” with an ambitious vocal canto. The journey into the depths of the cave world continues through the “Beautiful Cave,” where the ambience becomes much more intimate and the intertwinement of natural beauty and the fantastic costumes of the characters, masterfully elaborated to the last detail, combine to create an unforgettable impression. Zmajevka (“Dragon Lady”), Zlatoroginja (“Goldenhorn Lady”), Pernata Kača (“Feathered Snake”), and Adalin are just a few of the characters who guide the visitors through Gaia’s Kingdom, an underworld of creative imagination. Gaia, who symbolises the Earth, is the central figure of this performance, intended to upgrade the standard tour of Postojna Cave, one of Slovenia’s natural treasures, into a totally new and memorable experience. Best time of the year:

All year round

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

50-200

Duration:

1.5 hours

Distance:

54 km

AN UNDERGROUND ADVENTURES IN POSTOJNA CAVE Postojnska jama d.d., www.postojnska-jama.si On the way the participants will marvel at beauties of the Postojna Cave system that only a few are fortunate to see. The adventure takes place in an untouristed part of the cave where there is no electricity or any other sign of civilisation. Orientation along the route takes the group to individual locations where in stages they hunt for clues to a hidden treasure. The perpetrator has a unique sense of humour and has left no clues other than those he wanted to leave. Placed around the cave, they must be found in the correct sequence. Each clue has a logical solution leading to the final one—finding the treasure. The correct solution reveals the clue; the wrong one destroys it. Challenges to overcome include quite a few logistical tasks, such as a rope descent and crossing an underground lake in a boat, which is quite a unique experience. Best time of the year:

All year round

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

3-15 in a group, max. 10 groups

Duration:

2-5 hours

Distance:

54 km

TREKKING PROGRAMMES IN POSTOJNA CAVE SYSTEM Postojnska jama d.d., www.postojnska-jama.si 1. Postojna Cave through the Back Door: the route begins in the untouristed sections of the cave system, entering Postojna Cave through the back door—the Pivka Cave. An easy and attractive hike through the Black Cave leads to the most visited parts of Postojna Cave, where a standard tour follows. The cave train then takes visitors through the final section to the exit. 2. The most beautiful parts of Postojna Cave (Colourful Passage, Lower Tartar, Postojna, Pivka, and Black caves): the adventure begins in Pivka Cave, where you explore the cave treasures fully equipped. Black Cave and the splendours of Lower Tartar take you to Colourful Passage, where the flickering light of carbide lamps leaves a lasting impression on visitors. The hiking trail joins the Postojna Cave tourist trail, where the only cave train in the world takes you to the exit. 3. Eastern Passage below Jama through Predjama Castle: this trekking programme is best described by the Slovene polymath Janez Vajkard Valvasor in his book The Glory of the Duchy of Carniola (1689): “When the curious and wideeyed reader wishes to see a cave which deserves to be seen by the entire world, he should turn his gaze to the cave at Jama. This is in my opinion more worthy of a visit than the pyramids of Egypt…”. Best time of the year:

All year round

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

3–15 in a group, max. 10 groups

Duration:

2–8 hours

Distance

54 km 37

UNDERGROUND SPY GAMES TIME OUT Events, www.timeoutevents.si Spy games is a thrilling team building and incentive program that takes participants deep into the Slovenian underground, both literally and metaphorically. The group is split into several teams (Alfa, Bravo, etc.) and equipped with 4x4 wheels, GPS systems, weapons and other equipment that is necessary for dealing with the bad guys, who have stolen a Russian nuclear missile and threaten to detonate it. Once the teams manage to pass the initial challenges, they have to find their way around a gigantic underground fortress that holds many surprises....Spy games can be organised at two locations: in the outskirts of Ljubljana and in the green Karst region near Postojna. Best time of the year:

All year round

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

20-120

Duration:

2-3 hours

Distance:

10 to 50 km

UNDERGROUND BIKING â&#x20AC;&#x201C; UNIQUE IN THE WORLD Podzemlje Pece, www.podzemljepece.com People usually seek mountain biking enjoyment on mountain trails, but what we have found is a passage through the mountains along the mysterious tunnels of an abandoned mine under Mount Peca in northern Slovenia. What we offer is a guided bicycle tour, more than five kilometres long from one valley to another along a path illuminated only by headlamps worn on helmets, where you can enjoy a safe, extraordinary, and unforgettable adventure. The mine also hosts occasional concerts and other cultural performances. The Podzemlje Pece Tourist Mine and Museum was nominated for the European Museum of the Year award in 2007. Best time of the year:

All year round

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

2-40

Duration:

2 hours

Distance:

120 km

WHITE WINTER DELIGHTS COOL EVENTS AT THE IGLOO VILLAGE Koren Sports, www.koren-sports.si An original Igloo Village Hotel is waiting for you, just an hour away from Ljubljana, in Kranjska Gora - one of Slovenia’s most popular ski centres. There is a lot happening in and around the Igloo Village. Besides the unusual overnight accommodation options in romantic or standard igloos, the Igloo Village is perfectly suited for events, incentive schemes, or any special occasion. Snowshoeing, snowbiking and skiing are just some of the activities available among a multitude of fun games on the snow. You can visit the Igloo Village just for the afternoon and evening or stay the night and experience night snowshoeing, have an “eskimček” welcome drink, use the sauna, enjoy a tasty fondue and cool entertainment Best time of the year:

Winter (December-March)

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

6-35 (for overnight) and up to 100 (during the day)

Duration:

From 3 hours to a day or more

Distance

85 km

DOG SLEDDING IN THE LOGARSKA DOLINA VALLEY Nomad2000, www.nomad2000.si http://www.nomad2000.com/dog-sled-slovenia Dog sledding in Slovenia is a special winter delight. Unspoilt nature, the view of the snow-capped mountains and the feel of freedom while riding the dog sled on your own are the most often quoted descriptions of this amazing experience. Imagine dogs full of adrenaline, waiting for the driver's sign to go. A loud command and the race can begin. To the left, to the right, the dogs’ explosive energy makes it easy to pull the ropes under which you can see the snow, Besides the race itself, the driver explains participants all about the equipment and commands needed, and lets them drive the set for a while. Small groups can thus enjoy a special programme in the picturesque and hospitable environment of the Logarska dolina valley. Best time of the year:

Winter

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

2-15

Duration:

1.5–2 hours

Distance

100 km

CRAZY WINTER OLYMPICS Maya Team, www.maya.si This is a programme designed for participants to relax and have fun on the snow. An entertaining and active programme consisting of fun activities and competitions, it can be organised at various locations in Slovenia. Participants are divided into groups (the number of groups depends on the total number of participants), which then compete to solve tasks requiring perfect teamwork. The tasks are designed so that no previous experience or winter sports skills are required. All you need to bring are warm winter clothes, suitable footwear, gloves, and a smile on your face. Hot drinks will help to warm you up during the programme. At the end of the Crazy Winter Olympics we will publish the results, announce the winners and award prizes, and then you can recover your strength with a hearty meal. Best time of the year:

Winter

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

10–100

Duration:

2–4 hours

Distance

Various possible locations

MORE OUTDOOR ADVENTURES TQA™ (Total Quality Approach) TEAM BUILDING Creatoor, www.creatoor.com One day that will last you a lifetime! For a unique and unsurpassed experience of the Creatoor team building training, you will embark on an exciting trip full of surprises, tasks, and unexpected challenges. While you can decide on a classroom experience or opt for the wilderness of Slovenia’s forests, our programs offer you endless possibilities and we definitely recommend that you do not shape your team in a classroom and just copy information from the blackboard. Depart straight into the wilderness and into the core of your challenge with Creatoor team building training. Choose the unusual, crazy, different—but above, all effective training! Best time of the year:

All year round

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

5–60

Duration:

2 hours to 2 days

Distance:

Various possible locations

CREATOOR SURVIVAL CHALLENGE Creatoor, www.creatoor.com How to organise the chaos and survive? With the help of our experienced and professional guides, you will start to see the harmony in all that surrounds us and discover the connection between all living things. If you manage to understand and master the laws of nature, you will also be ready to face the unpredictable situations in everyday and business life. There are only two kinds of people: excuse makers and those who dare to live! Best time of the year:

All year round

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

6-20

Duration:

3 days-1 week

Distance:

60 km

PULE BIKE CHALLENGE Koren Sports, www.koren-sports.si The Pule Bike Challenge programme involves a combination of bicycling and undertaking various problem-solving team tasks that you will encounter along the well-maintained bike paths running through the unspoiled nature of the Dolenjska region. The Pule Estate, the starting point for the cycling tour, is located one hourâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s drive from Ljubljana. The estate offers among other an excellent display of Sloveniaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s preserved ethnographical heritage. Last but not least, after the happy end of the bike challenge, the Pule Estate can provide a superior gourmet experience! Depending on the structure of the group, three difficulty levels are available (7 km, 10 km, 12 km). The participants are divided into smaller groups that set off on bicycles seeking the marked points where they test their skills in tasks such as archery, the Flying Fox, canyon cross, maze polygon skills, etc. Best time of the year:

Spring - autumn

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

5-80

Duration:

Half a day or more

Distance:

60 km

SEA KAYAKING on the Cerknica or the Planina Lake Teambuilding (Skok Šport, Gaia plus, IKSA), www.teambuilding.si The intermittent Cerknica Lake is one of the world’s wonders. Instead of observing it from its banks, it’s much more rewarding to discover its natural beauties on board a sea kayak, gliding on its surface. Sea kayaking is a pleasant activity suitable for practically everyone. It can be practiced all year round, and it is especially interesting to do it on winter, when there is snow outside and the lake is half frozen. With the highly comfortable and stable Prijon sea kayaks and in the company of a kayaking instructor, paddling on the calm lake water is feasible also for complete beginners. The trip can be combined with some team challenge on the shore, even with cycling along the lake shores. A delicious lunch at a local tourist farm can be organised to wrap up the day. A similar programme can also be performed on the Planina field during the periods when the field is flooded by the Unica River, transforming it into a temporary lake. Paddling between trees, over the flooded local roads and between traffic signs or even through an abandoned old house can be an unforgettable experience. Best time of the year:

Spring, autumn, winter

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

2–20, up to 60 with multiactivity programmes

Duration:

2-3 hours

Distance:

50 km to Cerknica Lake

SEA KAYAKING AT THE SLOVENIAN COAST Buy The Sea, www.buythesea.si Although the Slovenian coastline is only 46.6 km long, it features among other historic towns, nature parks, yachting marinas, resorts and beaches and even a commercial harbour. Paddling is your most immediate connection to the water. Therefore, a sea kayak tour is the best way to discover several colourful bits of the coast that still resist to urban development and remain small oases of wilderness worth seeing. Catching the spirit of the romantic and ancient town of Piran and the lively summer beat of Portorož – our leading resort town, while swiftly paddling on the sea is a special experience. The itinerary also allows time for a refreshing swim and includes a stop in the Sečovlje saltpans where, following a centuries-long tradition, salt is hand-harvested still today. In the right season, you might be able to pick some for yourself. The tour, on board a very stable sea kayak (tandems are available), is suitable also for beginners. Lunch in a local inn / restaurant can be organised upon previous agreement. Best time of the year:

May-October

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

2–10

Duration:

5 hours (half a day with lunch)

Distance:

120 km

JUMP ON BOARD FOR A SAILING CHALLENGE Sailling Challenge, Cleanport, www.cleanport.si Based at the Izola Marina, Cleanport is a company specialising in sailing events and regatta charters. Our offer includes half-day or full-day sailing competitions, or even longer regattas. Smaller or larger groups are welcome to embark on a memorable sailing experience in Slovenia’s costal waters, either on J-24 sailboats or on board “The One Design,” a brand-new 10-metre carbon-fibre racing sailboat suitable for crews of up to eight. Our flexible business approach allows us to maximally adapt our offer to the client’s specific requirements, and therefore various event options at sea or on shore can be arranged. For less experienced crews, we can provide skippers as well. Come and hoist the sails with us! Best time of the year:

All year round

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

15–80

Duration:

Half a day or more

Distance

115 km

SOČA RIVER RAFTING WITH BBQ Maya Team, www.maya.si For years, rafting down the Soča River has been a popular adventure for groups large and small— for old and young alike! A trip down its most attractive section, which lasts around two hours, takes you approximately 12 kilometres downriver and is suitable for swimmers. During the trip, a variety of fun activities and games will enhance your experience. No prior knowledge is necessary to enjoy a Maya rafting trip—all you need is a cheerful attitude and a big smile on your face. The agency provides all the necessary equipment (neoprene suit and shoes, windcheater, helmet, life jacket), transport, liability insurance, qualified local guides, photos of the trip, and more. The rafting winds up with a BBQ party right beside the Soča River, at our sports and recreation centre. You can have fun playing beach volleyball, football, and badminton or try your hand at archery, or admire the bluegreen water of the river and the view of the mountains above Tolmin. Best time of the year:

Spring to autumn

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

6–100

Duration:

4–8 hours

Distance:

130 km

EMERALD RIVER ADVENTURE Lifetrek Events, www.lifetreck.si, www.spiritowin.com The best one-day incentive trip in Slovenia with a scenic drive around Triglav National Park and more. Experience the unspoiled nature of northwestern Slovenia in the refreshing pools and rapids of a mountain beauty, the Soča River (also called the “Emerald River”). Enjoy the taste of alpine freshness in the Julian Alps. Relive World War I’s Soča Front at the authentic locales of Hemingway’s Farewell to Arms. And wish a happy descent to the rafters on the white waters. The Emerald River Adventure programme lets you discover an attractive part of our country. It is a great way to explore our alpine world and its most secret places within Triglav National Park. The trip starts in Ljubljana and heads past the mountain resort of Kranjska Gora to Vršič (1,611 m), the highest mountain pass in Slovenia, where a stop for a short hike is planned. The drive then continues to the Trenta Valley, where the “Emerald” river has its source, and on to Bovec, arriving on time for a great rafting experience. Before returning to Ljubljana, two more stops are on the agenda: one at Lake Bohinj and the other at Lake Bled. Best time of the year:

April–November

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

7–200

Duration:

8–10 hours

Distance

130 km

KAYAKING ON THE KRKA RIVER Carpe Diem – Kayak Adventures, www.kayak.si Since 1991, Carpe Diem has organised kayak trips and kayaking lessons on the Krka, one of Slovenia’s most beautiful and tranquil rivers. Our kayaking centre offers shorter, half-day and all-day kayak trips of various distances and levels of difficulty for which prior experience is not necessary. We also offer kayaking courses for all those who wish to learn the skills of whitewater kayaking. We have looked after guests aged from seven to seventy-seven, and our extensive kayaking knowledge can be adapted to almost all age groups. For companies and groups we can organise special workshops and teambuilding programmes. Our centre provides all the necessary kayaking and safety equipment as well as experienced instructors. After an exciting trip downriver, we invite you to our little restaurant beside the Krka where we serve specialties from the river and the surrounding forests and fields. The village of Krka is just a thirty-minute drive from Ljubljana. Best time of the year:

Normally April - October

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

1-40

Duration:

3 hours to half a day (or more)

Distance:

37 km

ETHNO HERITAGE & COUNTRYSIDE LIFE THE PRIMORSKA BEEKEEPING TRAIL Slovenian Beekeepers Association, www.czs.si Departing from Ljubljana towards the Vipava Valley, we make a stop at Šempas to see the beekeeping activity of Franc Šivic, the honey plant plantation, the gallery of apicultural photography featuring global photography award-winning exhibits, the collection of miniature Slovenian apiaries, and the honey pouring facility. Various kinds of honey will be available for sampling. We will also tour the thousand-yearold village of Šempas, which features a remarkable stone courtyard called “borjač” and a Baroque church. After lunch at a tourist farm, we will make a trip to the medieval settlement of Štanjel where it will be possible to sample the local Merlot wines. We will return to Ljubljana through Tomaj and Sežana. Best time of the year:

April - October

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

20-55

Duration:

8-10 hours

Distance:

97 km

AN “OLD-FASHIONED” DAY IN A VILLAGE TOP Agencija, www.topagencija.si What was life like in a Slovenian village? How did our ancestors live? What did they do in their free time? If you are asking yourself these questions, we offer you a chance to experience the answers. You will spend a day in the village of Studor, away from hustle and bustle of the city. Breathing fresh air, listening to the sound of birds, and resting your eyes on the greenery of endless pastures, you will spend the day with the farm animals, participate in the traditional games that were played by our forefathers (archery, horseshoes, walking on stilts), do farm chores, groom and saddle the horses before a trail ride, build a scarecrow, and enjoy a taste of old-fashioned country life. Upon arrival, you will be greeted with the traditional dram of brandy. For hungry stomachs, a typically hearty Slovenian farm meal will be served, and you will be plenty strong for rest of the day and all the activities. To help you remember a great day in the country, you will receive a souvenir cowbell to take home. Best time of the year:

April to October

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

20-55

Duration:

8-10 hours

Distance:

80 km

A TASTE OF HISTORY A DAY ON BOARD THE STEAM TRAIN ABC Rent-a-car d.o.o., www.abc-tourism.si The steam train starts its journey from the Jesenice railway station after an hour’s bus ride from Ljubljana. The trip takes you past the alpine jewels of Bled and Bohinjska Bistrica on the way to the town of Kanal on the Soča River. There we will get off the train and continue our way on buses, driving along the Soča River past the villages of Anhovo and Plave to Goriška Brda, an outstanding winegrowing region near the Slovene-Italian border. On our way, we will make a stop in the village of Gonjače to climb a 23-meter belvedere tower and enjoy the view. We will continue past the medieval village of Šmartno to the centre of the region, Dobrovo, where we will enjoy lunch. Before heading back, we will also visit the largest wine cellar in the region. In Nova Gorica, the centre of western Slovenia, we begin our return railway journey and then take the bus to Ljubljana. Best time of the year:

Spring, summer, autumn

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

120-250

Duration:

1 day

Distance:

65 km

COMMANDER RUPNIK’S LINE iDMC, www.idmc.eu During the First and Second World Wars, much of today’s Primorska region was under the jurisdiction of neighbouring Italy while the rest of Slovene territory was a part of the Kingdom of Yugoslavia. Both countries built a complex of defensive tunnels, bunkers, military posts, and other military installations. Through a dynamic treasure hunt along the Rupnik Line, your team will become familiar with this part of the border region, visit the military structures, and discover less known secrets of Slovenia’s forests. Through the treasure hunt assignments you will strengthen and build the connections among your team. This theme treasure hunt takes place in an authentic environment that gives the hunt realistic scenery and helps the participants get into historic characters. Best time of the year:

Spring-autumn

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

12-100

Duration:

4-8 hours

Distance:

45 km

PREDJAMA CASTLE ADVENTURE Postojnska jama d.d. www.postojnska-jama.si At less than an hour's drive from Ljubljana and nine kilometres from Postojna Cave, Predjama Castle has perched proudly in its rocky cliff for more than 700 years—powerful, provocative, and impregnable. The mighty castle invites visitors to discover its treasures and be transported back to the time of the robber barons. Erazem Predjamski (Erasmus of Predjama) amassed great wealth from his plundering rampages. Since he suspected that one of his lieutenants might steal from him, he hid his treasure in an unusual place. Obstacles were set up throughout the castle so Erazem might immediately discover if someone was moving around the castle with the intention of stealing from him. With the unfortunate demise of Erazem, the solution to the obstacles was also forgotten, and only the legend of the hidden treasure lives on. Recent excavations at the castle have yielded boxes leading to the treasure, but so far no one has succeeded in solving all the clues. Perhaps you will be the first to do so. Best time of the year:

All year round

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

3–15 in a group, max 8 groups

Duration:

1–3 hours

Distance:

55 km

A SAMPLE OF ENO-GASTRONOMY CULINARY TEAM-BUILDING PROGRAMME iDMC, www.idmc.eu A common goal, division of assignments, democratic leadership, and good interpersonal relationships – all these are the foundations for successful teamwork. They are also the fundamental principles for preparing a superb dinner of lunch, which you can enjoy in the company of your closest colleagues. In cooperation with top chefs from hotel Astoria in Bled, you will learn how efficient teamwork can help you prepare an excellent meal. After the introductory team workshop and preparation of a cooking plan, you will start preparing traditional Slovene dishes under the guidance of a chef and an expert in team building. While enjoying dinner or lunch you have prepared, we will examine your level of cooperation, propose possible improvements, and discuss how your work in the kitchen reflects relationships at the workplace. The programme is aimed at all team-playing chefs as well as those whose favourite part of cooking is when the dish is served on the plate. There is a suitable role for anyone in our team cooking, and that is the magic and the key to successful teamwork. Best time of the year:

All year round

Minimum / maximum number of participants:

6-16

Duration:

4-5 hours

Distance

47 km (Bled as possible location)

YOUR LOCAL PARTNERS LJUBLJANA TOURISM / CONVENTION BUREAU The Ljubljana Tourism / Convention Bureau is the prime source of objective and professional knowledge on the meetings proposition - facilities and services providers in Ljubljana and its greater area. It focuses on destination marketing in the specific segment of congresses, meetings and incentives, including the support to bids for international congresses, and cooperates with local partners in the product development.

where all of europe meets

The Ljubljana Tourism / Convention Bureau aims at being a valuable local adviser with many insiders’ tips, offering assistance to prospective meeting planners in finding the best solution or suitable local partner for staging an event in Ljubljana or wider. It does not operate on a membership basis and its support is free of charge. It works in synergy with the Slovenian Convention Bureau and partners from the industry. www.visitljubljana.si/meetings convention@visitljubljana.si SLOVENIAN CONVENTION BUREAU The Slovenian Convention Bureau is a non-profit organisation, offering free advice on the meeting and incentive options available in Slovenia. It is your neutral partner when considering Slovenia as a meeting and incentive destination, as well as being the central information point regarding meeting and incentive offers for the entire country. Around 65 members include convention centres and hotels, PCO’s, DMC’s, city convention bureaus and other service providers The advantages of Slovenia are easy accessibility, the geographic and cultural diversity of the country, modern meeting facilities, tasty cuisine based on fresh local ingredients, accompanied by excellent wines, as well as the genuine hospitality of the people and good value for money. www.slovenia-convention.com KONGRES MAGAZINE Kongres has established itself in the media business as a relevant South East Europe Meetings Industry Magazine with a wider international readership. It is also the official magazine of the Slovenian Convention Bureau. Its contents address the most relevant topics on global trends in congresses and business events, best practices and an overview of news from Slovenia and the SE Europe region. www.kongres-magazine.eu

STANDARDISATION OF MEETINGS INDUSTRY SUPPLIERS IN SLOVENIA First introduced in 2008, this project led by the Slovenian Convention Bureau is intended to simplify and shorten the client’s search for venues and event organisers. In a transparent way, the client can get a clear insight into who is offering which service and a better overview of the quality of comparable services offered by individual suppliers. Category A: CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU Category B: PROFESSIONAL CONGRESS ORGANISER Category C: DMC AGENCY Category D: EVENT AGENCY Category E: CONGRESS AND EXHIBITION CENTRE Category F: CONVENTION HOTEL Category G: HOTEL WITH CONFERENCE FACILITIES Category H: OTHER CONGRESS SERVICES Category I: SPECIAL VENUE Category J: OTHER VENUE

More info at www.visitljubljana.si/meetings 48

DESTINATION MANAGEMENT COMPANIES (DMC’S) DMC’s focusing on Ljubljana-based programmes (in alphabetical order) iDMC iDMC is specialized in the concept design and implementation of fresh, professional, inspiring and innovative and custommade events, incentives, teambuildings as well as business meetings. Being aware of the fact that events have a strong influence on the environment – locally as well as globally, on the society as well as on nature, each of the programme ideas are assessed also from the environmental impact point of view. Where possible, the company uses sustainably-oriented business practices. www.idmc.eu E-mail: info@idmc.eu INTOURS DMC Intours offers a complete service to help clients make the choices that are right for their special event. All logistical and organisational aspects are handled with the utmost care, and the professional staff cover every facet of a client’s meeting, incentive, and travel requirements. Destination advice for unique functions is their speciality, based on a thorough understanding of the specifics of meetings and incentive travel programmes. Intours is a member of the MeetAdria DMC Group, which associates three among the leading DMC companies from three different countries in our wider region. Their partners in the MeetAdria group are Dubrovnik Travel (Croatia) and Talas-M (Montenegro). www.intours-mice.si E-mail: info@intours-dmc.si KOMPAS Kompas is a major international travel corporation, that is both traditional and modern – an ideal hand-in-hand travel partner for its many clients in Slovenia and abroad since 1951! Its Meetings and Incentives department organises programmes of every kind. In addition, it provides unforgettable events and incentive packages in diverse locations and historic venues in co-operation with a network of local experts and partners. Kompas prides itself on providing a fine service, and a single staff member that is the client’s contact point for your event from first to last. Smoothness and the absolute minimum of stress are ever their watchwords, based upon extensive years of high-quality experience in the field and the efficient scheduling and co-ordination of every element. www.kompas-online.net E-mail: congresses@kompas.si

EVENT AGENCIES Outdoor and Incentive Specialists (in alphabetical order) KOREN SPORTS Koren Sports is a leading specialist in the field of outdoor events, notably teambuilding and incentive programmes for groups of 10 to 500 participants. A highly-motivated team of dynamic instructors guides guests safely through challenges as diverse as adrenaline adventures, group motivational events, and sports activities. Social events and theme evenings complete the range of services available. Programmes are designed and tailormade in line with the client’s wishes. Koren Sports also owns and manages two adrenaline parks and built the first high ropes course in Slovenia. www.koren-sports.si E-mail: info@koren-sports.si LIFETREK EVENTS Lifetrek Events provides creative and unique events, team training, incentive programmes, and conference organisation support. They assure motivation and team spirit for those wishing to experience new things, believing that a unique and powerful business solution helps create a winning team. Established in 1998, Lifetrek Events aims to give clients a stimulating experience through dynamic participation events. Over the years they have elaborated new criteria for client satisfaction by performing to the highest standards and always adding something more. www.lifetrek.si; www.spritowin.com E-mail: info@lifetrek.si Maya Team (Standardisation process for category D currently in progress) Maya is the first tourist agency in the Soča River region to offer all-inclusive services in the field of outdoor activities. The agency is developing its operations under two brands − Maya Outdoor Centre and Maya Team Spirit. The Outdoor Centre looks after the organisation of individual and group one-day adventure experiences (rafting, mini-rafting, kayaking, canyoning, hydrospeeding, cycling, trekking, etc.) and also arranges picnics for groups using our services. The Team Spirit is there to organise and implement a variety of team-based or conference-based activities (incentive and teambuilding programmes, workshops and seminars, business events, etc.). www.maya.si E-mail: info@maya.si

LIBERTY INCENTIVES & CONGRESSES SLOVENIA Liberty Incentives & Congresses is a ground handling and travel management company that operates throughout the countries of former Yugoslavia. The team consists of dedicated professional consultants, always on hand to provide expert knowledge and personalised service to assist clients in every organisational stage of a function, from planning to implementation. They pride themselves on attention to detail to ensure that whatever the client’s requirements, an experience may be tailor-made to meet and exceed expectations. Their cooperation with the best destination suppliers ensures the highest standards of quality, service, and value for money. The company’s main activities are MICE, Wellness Tourism, Ground Handling, Business Travel, and Active & Leisure Tourism. www.liberty-incentive.net E-mail: info@liberty-slovenia.com

LJUBLJANA CITY MAP 1 Town Hall 2 Town, Old and Upper Square - Old Ljubljana 3 Church of St James 4 Cobbler’s Bridge 5 Slovenian Academy of Arts and Sciences 6 National and University Library 7 City Museum 8 Križanke Summer Theatre

9 Roman Wall 10 Drama - Slovenian National Theatre 11 Congress Square 12 Church of the Holy Trinity (Ursuline) 13 University of Ljubljana 14 The Slovenian Philharmonic 15 Prešeren Square 16 Franciscan Church

17 Triple Bridge 18 Central Market 19 Cathedral of St Nicholas 20 Dragon Bridge 21 Ljubljana Castle 22 Skyscraper 23 National Opera and Ballet Theatre 24 National Gallery 25 Museum of Modern Art 26 National Museum

Grand Hotel Union Business Hotel Slon Best Western Premier Allegro Hotel Lesar Angel Hotel

Tourist Information Centre Lev Hotel Central Hotel Grand Hotel Union Executive

Antiq Hotel City Hotel Ljubljana Mrak Hotel Park Hotel Emonec Hotel Cubo Hotel

27 Republic Square 28 Cankarjev dom, Cultural and Congress Centre 29 Slovenian Ethnographic Museum 30 Ljubljana Exhibition and Convention Centre

Antiq Palace Hotel

(Austria Trend Hotel Ljubljana Mons Hotel M-Hotel, BIT Center Hotel Ljubljana Resort Hotel Ahotel Stil Hotel and Grandvid Hotel are located outside the city centre map.)

are - Old Town Quarter

and Sciences

brary

Theatre

(Ursuline)

24 22 16

iation (Franciscan)

15 27

17 19

14 kega

Zrinjs

t Theatre

enia

8 9

and Congress Centre

useum 51

Museum, gallery

Railway station

Hotel

Petrol station,

MAP OF SLOVENIA

MAP OF CENTRAL SLOVENIA