HIDDEM GEM
Ride of a Lifetime A writer travels to Slovenia, the undiscovered jewel of Central Europe, to explore its plentiful charms.
© MITJA BOZIC - VIR KOBILARNA LIPICA
By Robin Esrock
LIPICA FARM, HOME OF THE LIPIZZANER HORSES
W
andering the streets and canals of old Ljubljana (say it with me: Yoo-bli-yana), I’m reminded of Copenhagen, Stockholm and Budapest. Yet Slovenia’s capital feels cleaner, compact and more civilized, immaculately maintained with artsy cafés, Old-World architecture, copper church steeples, ample bike lanes and manicured parks. Locals roam about, stylishly dressed in that casual, modern European manner of looking fantastic without much effort. Students bike across the Game of Thrones-ish Dragon Bridge and distinctive Triple Bridge, the public art is impressive, and even the urban graffiti is tasteful. Overlooked by the 900-year-old Ljubljana Castle, the city is a template for any great European capital, but with half the tourists. Canadians know that any country sitting in the shadow of a more popular neighbour is often overlooked. Spare a thought for Slovenia, a small nation in Central Europe within sight – quite literally – of Italy, Austria, Hungary and Croatia. Although located just a few hours’ drive from Venice, Milan, Salzburg, Budapest and Zagreb, many of us would be hard pressed to locate Ljubljana on the map, much less be able to pronounce it. I didn’t expect to discover a fetching historical capital, frosted mountain peaks, sparkling lakes, Adriatic coastline and dense forest. Instead, I came initially for Slovenia’s famous white horses.
KAYAKING ON THE RIVER SOČA, SLOVENIA
48 • Vacations ® • Spring 2022
Let me explain. I blame it on The NeverEnding Story. If you’ve seen this iconic 80s fantasy film – or read the
