Alpinia_ESCAPE_no2_winter_spring_2024/25 by Alpinia Escape

Our newest gem

Naš najnovejši dragulj

Dear readers,

I am pleased to introduce the latest edition of Alpinia Escape, taking us on a journey through Bohinj’s enchanting winter wonderland and the blossoming beauty of spring—a place that never ceases to inspire. After the exceptional reception of our first issue, for which we are deeply grateful, I am confident that you will find this edition equally captivating.

This time, we shine a special spotlight on the opening of Vila Muhr, our newest gem. With its elegance and rich historical heritage, Vila Muhr proudly enriches our offerings. It is a place of prestige and home to stories where royal moments, cultural legacy, and modern comforts intertwine. Vila Muhr elevates Bohinj to an even higher level as a destination where nature and luxury exist in perfect harmony.

In recent months, we have also enhanced our range of experiences. From extraordinary culinary delights to unforgettable moments of relaxation in the heart of Triglav National Park, our activities and services now better reflect our guests’ needs and desires.

Let the pages of this magazine inspire you to visit Bohinj, explore its wonders, and create new memories. Thank you for being part of our story—I look forward to welcoming you again soon.

Warmest regards,

Jure Repanšek General Manager | Generalni direktor, Alpinia Group

Spoštovane bralke in bralci, z veseljem vam predstavljam novo izdajo revije Alpinia Escape, ki nas popelje v zimsko pravljico in pomladno prebujanje Bohinja – kraja, ki vsakič znova navdihuje. Po izjemnem sprejemu prve številke, za kar se vam iskreno zahvaljujemo, verjamem, da vas bodo tudi tokratne vsebine navdušile.

Poseben poudarek namenjamo odprtju Vile Muhr, naše najnovejše pridobitve, ki z eleganco in bogato zgodovinsko dediščino ponosno dopolnjuje našo ponudbo. Vila Muhr ni le prostor prestiža, temveč tudi kraj zgodb, kjer se prepletajo kraljevski trenutki, kulturna dediščina in sodobno udobje. Z njo Bohinj stopa na še višjo raven kot destinacija, kjer narava in luksuz ustvarjata popolno harmonijo.

Poleg tega smo v zadnjih mesecih dodatno obogatili ponudbo doživetij. Naše aktivnosti in storitve smo nadgradili tako, da še bolje odražajo potrebe in želje naših gostov – od edinstvenih kulinaričnih doživetij do nepozabnih trenutkov sprostitve v osrčju Triglavskega narodnega parka.

Naj vas strani te revije navdihnejo za obisk Bohinja, raziskovanje njegovih lepot in ustvarjanje novih spominov. Hvala, ker ste del naše zgodbe, in veselim se, da vas bomo kmalu ponovno gostili.

Z lepimi pozdravi,

IMPRESSUM

December – May 2024/2025 No. 2 | št. 2 2024, Bohinjsko jezero

The title of the publication

Naslov publikacije Alpinia Escape

Publisher | Založnik

Alpinia d.o.o, Ukanc 132, 4265 Bohinjsko jezero, Slovenija

Editors-in-chief | Urednici

Jasna Dolžan Lesjak, Natalija Šahraj

Journalists | Novinarji Katja Jemec, Monika Tratnik, Matej Kandare, Sara Dakić, Anja Poštrak, Alenka Repič

Editorial bord | Uredništvo Zaposlena d.o.o, Zagreb

Marketing | Trženje Alpinia, d.o.o.

Design & layout

Oblikovanje in postavitev Brandmama d.o.o., Zagreb

Proofreading and translation

Lektoriranje in prevod Boutique Lingua d.o.o., Zagreb

Photographs | Fotografije

Žiga Intihar, Peter Giodani, Gonzalo Botet, Mitja Sodja, Ana Bacingar, Žan Gašperič, Gorenjski muzej, Christian Reiter, Jakob Pintar, Kamson Chan, Kevin Voigt, Luka Vovk, Sloskibiathlon, Tomaž Lauko, Lipar Design Photography, Katja Jemec Photography

Cover | Naslovnica Grega Škufca

Print | Tisk Tiskara Zelina

Circulation | Naklada 500

The magazine is published twice a year and is free of charge Revija izhaja dvakrat letno in je brezplačna ISSN 3023-9435

Content

Vsebina

Our people make our heritage Dediščino živimo, dediščina smo ljudje!

12 INTER VJU | INTERVIEW

Rok Oman & Špela Videčnik

We can learn from historical experiences and use them to shape modern architecture

Iz zgodovinskih izkušenj se lahko učimo in z njimi oblikujemo sodobno arhitekturo

22 A voyage through Slovenian arts and culture

Popotovanje skozi slovensko umetnost in kulturo

32 INTER VJU | INTERVIEW

Lena Repinc

No one becomes the best overnight Nihče ne postane najboljši kar čez noč

42 Relection of the Bohinj mountain Odsev Bohinjskih gora

50 The world within an hour: The benefeits of living in a small country

Svet na dosegu ene ure: Prednosti življenja v majhni državi

60 INTERVJU | INTERVIEW

Nejc Jakopič

The sommelier who is changing the rules of the game Sommelier, ki spreminja pravila igre

66 UGC kind of life

UGC način življenja

72 FASHION | MODA

76 Wellness - Discover the secrets of relaxation in saunas

Odkrijte skrivnosti sproščanja v savnah

86 EVENTS | DOGODKI

94 Kaitaa aqua slippers - Flying in slippers

Na copatih letimo

heritage

Author | avtorica: Anja Poštrak

Photos | fotografije: Gorenjski muzej / Gorenjska region Museum

The people of Bohinj have always been seen as somewhat unique and different. They are direct, honest, clever, but also stubborn.

Bohinjci so od nekdaj veljali za malo posebne in drugačne. So neposredni, pošteni, »brihtni« in tudi trmasti.

Cultural heritage is always a reflection of a place and its people. The key driving force behind its preservation is the passing down of knowledge across generations. It encompasses both immovable and movable cultural heritage, as well as traditions and ancient knowledge. Kulturna dediščina je vedno odraz kraja in njegovih prebivalcev. Ključno gibalo njenega ohranjanja je generacijsko predajanje. Obsega tako nepremično kot premično kulturno dediščino ter tradicije in stara znanja.

Bohinj’s heritage reflects the knowledge and character shaped over past generations

Bohinjska dediščina je izraz znanja in značaja, ki se je oblikovalo skozi pretekla obdobja

The Open House, the Alpine Dairy Museum, and the Bohinj History Museum are three museums that safeguard Bohinj’s heritage. They offer a condensed overview of Bohinj’s history, creativity, and insight into its people’s thoughts and lifestyle, providing an experience of cultural heritage raging from food, customs, and clothing culture to daily life. The remnants of bygone times hold valuable information and testimony of the lives, emotions, and experiences of our ancestors.

The people of Bohinj have always been seen as somewhat unique and different. They are direct, honest, clever, but also stubborn. They had to be special and stubborn in order to survive in the closed-off Bohinj valley, which only received a decent horse-drawn road through Soteska at the end of the 18th century. Bohinj’s heritage reflects the knowledge and character shaped over past generations.

The history of Bohinj is written in the calloused hands of countless generations of Bohinj miners and charcoal makers, soaked in the sweat of thousands of ironworkers, furnace workers, blacksmiths, and nailmakers. Bohinj emerged as a major mining and ironworking region as early as the Iron Age. This was due to the high-quality iron ore, "bobovec", found in the area, as well as the knowledge of settlers who were drawn to Bohinj by the iron ore and mighty forests, and who have remained here to this day, shaping a distinctive cultural landscape with its architecture, fields, pastures, hayracks, high mountains, and alpine dairy settlements.

Open your senses and take in the surroundings, which reveal a thousand-year history at every step. Discover and, most importantly, experience our heritage, which the people of Bohinj protect as their greatest treasure. Seek out those who live, preserve, and represent it in its original environment. Visit the Bohinj alpine herders and taste ‘mohant’ cheese, shuck flint corn, cook traditional dishes, make wooden shingles, light a fire in the black kitchen hearth, sew in the old way, try smoking a Gorjuše pipe, and let the haystack builders wish you luck. Cultural heritage can also drive local growth.

Allow the legend about the creation of Bohinj, which states that Bohinj is a piece of the world that God saved for Himself, echo in you. The wealth of folk myths and legends, revealing people’s inner relationship with the world, is passed down from generation to generation and is an integral part of the locals’ lives.

Spodbudo in izhodišče za doživljanje kulturne dediščine od hrane, običajev, oblačilne kulture in življenja, zgoščen pregled zgodovine in ustvarjalnosti Bohinjcev, vpogled v njihovo razmišljanje in način življenja, najdete v muzejih, ki so varuhi bohinjske dediščine: v Oplenovi hiši, Planšarskem muzeju in Muzeju zgodovine Bohinja. Ostanki nekdanjih časov so nosilci dragocenih vsebin in pričevanj življenja, čustev in izkušenj naših prednikov.

Bohinjci so od nekdaj veljali za malo posebne in drugačne. So neposredni, pošteni, »brihtni« in tudi trmasti. Posebni in trmasti, ker so taki morali biti, da so lahko preživeli v zaprti

bohinjski dolini, ki je dobila dokaj spodobno pot za konjsko vprego skozi Sotesko šele proti koncu 18. stoletja. Bohinjska dediščina je izraz znanja in značaja, ki se je oblikovalo skozi pretekla obdobja.

Zgodovina Bohinja je pisana z žulji neštetih rodov bohinjskih rudarjev in oglarjev, prepojena z znojem tisočih fužinarjev, plavžarjev, kovačev in žebljarjev. Že v starejši železni dobi je Bohinj postal močno rudarsko in železarsko območje. Razlog je v kakovostni železovi rudi, bobovcu, ki se je nahajala na tem območju in pa tudi v znanju priseljencev, ki so jih prav železova ruda in mogočni gozdovi privabili, da so se v Bohinju naselili za stalno in ostali do danes ter oblikovali specifično kulturno krajino z lastnim stavbarstvom, njivami, pašniki, kozolci visokimi planinami in planšarskimi naselji.

Odprite vse čute, postanite pozorni na okolico, ki vam tisočletno zgodovino ponuja na vsakem koraku. Spoznavajte in predvsem doživite našo dediščino, ki jo Bohinjci čuvajo kot največjo vrednoto. Poiščite tiste, ki jo živijo, ohranjajo in predstavljajo v izvornem okolju. Obiščite bohinjske planšarje in poskusite mohant, ličkajte koruzo trdinko, skuhajte tradicionalne jedi, izdelujte skodle, zakurite na ognjišču črne kuhinje, šivajte po starem, poskusite kaditi gorjuško fajfo, naj vam otepovci zaželijo srečo … Tudi kulturna dediščina je lahko gonilo lokalnega razvoja.

V vas naj odmeva sporočilo legende o nastanku Bohinja, ki pravi, da je Bohinj košček sveta, ki ga je Bog prihranil zase. Bogastvo ljudskih mitov in legend, ki odkrivajo človekov notranji odnos do sveta, prehaja iz roda v rod in je prav tako edinstven del življenja domačinov.

Beautiful Gorenjska Prelepa Gorenjska

The Gorenjska Museum in Kranj collects, documents, preservs, researches and presents Gorenjska’s movable heritage with the goal of fostering a positive attitude towards the entire cultural heritage, so that, through an awareness of the past, we can understand the present, thereby contributing to continuous dialogue and simultaneously strengthening Slovenian national identity.

Some interesting facts regarding guest rooms.

The instructions in 1905 were as follows:

„In terms of the job, it‘s important to act in accordence with the type of guests who will be coming. The most important component is the bed, because the guest wants to get some rest after a long day. It should be long and wide enough, with a good insert and mattress, two large woolen blankets, good pillows, and white and durable linen. You also need a large sink and a suitable jug for water, a bottle of fresh water, one or two glasses, and clean towels; another table, one or two chairs, a hanger for clothes, a mirror hung appropriately high, a bedside table, dishes and a “rabbit” (shoe remover), a bedside rug, a candle holder with a candle and matches, and writing utensils.“

Gorenjski muzej v Kranju je prostor, kjer je zbiranje, dokumentiranje, ohranjanje, raziskovanje in predstavljanje premične dediščine Gorenjske usmerjeno v spodbujanje pozitivnega odnosa do celotne kulturne dediščine, da bi na podlagi zavedanja o preteklosti razumeli sedanjost, tako prispevali k stalnemu dialogu in hkrati krepili slovensko narodno zavest.

Nekaj zanimivosti o sobah za goste.

Taka so bila navodila leta 1905:

»Glede oprave se je ravnati po tem, kakšni gosti prihajajo. Najvažnejša je pač postelja, ker hoče gost po dnevnem naporu dobro počivati. Ta naj bode zadosti dolga in široka, naj ima dober vložek in dobro žimnico, dve veliki volneni odeji, dobre blazine ter naj bo opremljena z belim in snažnim perilom. Treba je tudi velikega umivalnika in primernega vrča za vodo, steklenice s svežo vodo, enega ali dveh kozarcev, kakor tudi čiste brisače; dalje mize, enega ali dveh stolov, obešalnika za obleko, ogledala, primerno visoko obešenega, ponočne omarice in posode ter zajca (sezuvalnika), predposteljne preproge, svečnika s svečo in vžigalicami in pisalne priprave.« 2

The furnishings of the “foreigners’ room,” which the Budkovič family rented out to tourists in Bohinjska Bistrica at the beginning of the 20th century are on display in the permanent exhibition “Beautiful Gorenjska« in Castle Khislstein, where visitors can learn more about Bohinj. (Collection of the Gorenjska Museum, photo by Tomaž Lauko)

Oprema »tujske sobe«, ki jo je turistom oddajala družina Budkovič v Bohinjski Bistrici na začetku 20. stoletja. Oprema sobe je na ogled na stalni razstavi Prelepa Gorenjska na gradu Khislstein, kjer je na ogled še veliko zgodb, ki se navezujejo na Bohinj. (Zbirka Gorenjskega muzeja, fotografija Tomaž Lauko)

OPENING HOURS | DELOVNI ČAS

Tuesday-Sunday | Torek–nedelja: 10.00-18.00

Closed | Zaprto : 1.1., 1.11., 25.12., for Easter. For scheduled groups, also outside working hours, by prior arrangement.

Contact for groups | Telefon: +386 (0)51 615 388

BARVI: RJAVA PANTONE 167 (PREHOD 100% - 10%)

OFIS Arhitekti

Rok Oman & Špela

Videčnik

We can learn from historical experiences and use them to shape modern architecture

Iz zgodovinskih izkušenj se lahko učimo in z njimi oblikujemo sodobno arhitekturo

The architects behind the innovative projects of Hotel Bohinj and Vila Muhr revealed why architecture should be in harmony with the natural and social environment, what inspired them during the design process, and which of their projects they are most proud of.

Ofis arhitekti, ki stojijo za inovativnimi projekti Hotela Bohinj in Vile Muhr, so nam razkrili, zakaj bi morala arhitektura biti v skladu z naravnim in družbenim okoljem, kaj jih navdihuje med načrtovanjem ter na kateri svoj projekt so najbolj ponosni.

Photo | fotografija: Peter Giodani

Hotel Bohinj was built haphazardly in line with post-war architectural guidelines but lacked a clear architectural identity

Hotel Bohinj je bil stihijsko grajen v skladu s smernicami povojne arhitekture, a brez jasne arhitekturne identitete

Photo | Fotografija : Tomaž Gregorič

Rok Oman and Špela Videčnik are the co-founders of the OFIS Architects office, which has locations in Ljubljana and Paris, and they are very active in Bohinj. They are known for her innovative projects, which often combine contemporary architectural solutions with traditional local elements. She is regarded as one of the most revolutionary contemporary architects.

The work of OFIS Architects encompasses various projects, from urban buildings to alpine cottages, including the design of hotels, sports stadiums, and student housing. Her most notable projects are Hotel Bohinj, Vila Muhr, the bivouac on Skuta, and the FC Bate Stadium in Belarus. These projects, along with many others, highlight her ability to combine functionality, aesthetics, sustainability, and respect for local culture, making her a recognizable figure in the global architectural scene.

Both Oman and Videčnik have lectured at prestigious institutions such as Harvard University, UCLA, and other faculties in Hong Kong and London, where she educated students on the importance of a local approach to architecture and sustainable design.

You designed Hotel Bohinj and then Vila Muhr. What guided you in creating both projects?

When designing both accommodation facilities, we started from two different premises.

Hotel Bohinj was built haphazardly in line with post-war architectural guidelines but lacked a clear architectural identity. Additionally, its structure was problematic and required proper earthquake protection, which posed an additional risk. The challenge was rehabilitating the existing structure, giving it a recognizable identity, and creating a harmonious whole. We found the solution in a wooden frame construction that embraces the external volume and stabilizes the building against earthquakes. This approach allowed us to design facades and install panoramic windows, which open up to beautiful lake views. The frame is designed to provide structural stability, enabling the construction of balconies in front of the rooms. The winter garden/restaurant that we added connects previously separate volumes into an architectural whole. The combination of wood and wooden frames reflects the local architecture of Bohinj, especially hayracks and granaries found in the surrounding villages.

Vila Muhr has a different story. There was once a hunting lodge in this area, owned by Adolf Muhr and later the Karađorđević royal family. Unfortunately, the villa had deteriorated before our client purchased it due to a lack of maintenance. Only the stones of the embedded cellar remained. We drew inspiration from historical photographs and designed the image of a wooden hunting lodge standing on a stone base. The stone we used remained on site. Our facade was made of charred wood, representing an ecological approach to decarbonizing wood, providing long-term protection without chemicals. Some elements, like balconies and columns, were also drawn from old photographs.

Rok Oman in Špela Videčnik, sta soustanovitelja biroja OFIS arhitekti, ki ima prostore v Ljubljani in v Parizu, zelo dejavni pa so prav v Bohinju. Znani so po svojih inovativnih projektih, ki pogosto vključujejo kombinacijo sodobnih arhitekturnih rešitev s tradicionalnimi lokalnimi elementi. Štejeta med najbolj revolucionarne sodobne arhitekte.

Delo Ofis arhitektov obsega različne vrste projektov, od urbanih zgradb do alpskih počitniških hišic, vključno z oblikovanjem hotelov, športnih stadionov in študentskih domov. Med njenimi najbolj izstopajočimi projekti so Hotel Bohinj, Vila Muhr, bivak pod Skuto ter stadion FC Bate v Belorusiji. Ti projekti, skupaj z mnogimi drugimi, poudarjajo njeno sposobnost kombiniranja funkcionalnosti, estetike, trajnosti in spoštovanja do lokalne kulture, kar jo dela prepoznavno na globalni arhitekturni sceni.

Tako Oman kot Videčnik sta predavala na prestižnih institucijah, kot so Univerza Harvard, UCLA in na drugih fakultetah v Hong Kongu in Londonu, kjer je študentom predavala o pomenu lokalnega pristopa k arhitekturi in trajnostnemu oblikovanju.

Projektirali ste Hotel Bohinj in nato Vilo Muhr. Kaj vas je vodilo pri projektiranju obeh projektov?

Pri projektiranju obeh namestitvenih objektov smo izhajali iz dveh različnih izhodišč.

Hotel Bohinj je bil stihijsko grajen v skladu s smernicami povojne arhitekture, a brez jasne arhitekturne identitete. Poleg tega je bila njegova struktura problematična in je zahtevala ustrezno protipotresno zaščito, kar je predstavljalo dodatno nevarnost. Izziv je bil sanirati obstoječo strukturo, ji zagotoviti prepoznavno identiteto ter ustvariti harmonično celoto. Rešitev smo našli v leseni okvirni konstrukciji, ki objame zunanji volumen in stabilizira objekt proti potresu. Ta pristop nam je omogočil oblikovanje fasad in vgradnjo panoramskih oken, ki odpirajo čudovite poglede na jezero. Okvir je zasnovan tako, da nudi statično stabilnost, kar je omogočilo tudi izgradnjo balkonov pred sobami. Zimski vrt/restavracija, ki smo jo dodali, povezuje prej ločene volumne v arhitekturno celoto. Kombinacija lesa in lesenih okvirjev odraža lokalno arhitekturo Bohinja, še posebej kozolce in stoge, ki jih najdemo v okoliških vaseh.

Vila Muhr ima drugačno zgodbo. Na tem območju je bila nekoč lovska koča v lasti Adolfa Muhra in kasneje tudi kraljeve družine Karađorđević. Žal je vila, še preden jo je naš naročnik kupil, zaradi pomanjkanja vzdrževanja propadla. Ostali so le kamni vkopane kleti. Navdih smo črpali iz zgodovinskih fotografij in zasnovali podobo lesene lovske koče, ki stoji na kamnitem podstavku. Kamen, ki smo ga uporabili, je ostal na lokaciji. Naša fasada je bila izvedena iz žganega lesa, kar predstavlja ekološki pristop k dekarbonizaciji lesa, s čimer dosežemo trajno zaščito brez kemičnih sredstev. Nekateri elementi, kot so balkoni in stebri, so prav tako črpani iz starih fotografij.

Even though the design approaches for both buildings are different, they share a common thread: both follow tradition and local influence, contributing to the authenticity and recognizability of architecture in Bohinj.

What usually inspires you when designing?

When designing in the Gorenjska region, we try to draw as much inspiration as possible from traditional local architecture. We carefully combine these constructions and artistic carvings into a new whole with a modern touch. It’s important to us to preserve the local identity because, in doing so, we create something that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also genuinely Slovenian. We believe that each project carries the story of the place, gifting it with its cultural heritage and character, which contributes to a richer and more authentic experience for visitors and the local community.

Which of your projects are you most proud of?

We focus on projects in urban centres, but we are especially delighted by architecture in alpine areas, where traditional influences and local culture give this architecture a unique character and depth. By combining modern forms and traditional elements, we create spaces that reflect both history and the natural beauty of the surroundings. Among the projects we are most proud of, I would highlight Hotel Bohinj, which combines innovative design with respect for nature, the bivouac on Skuta, a product of collaboration with selected students, and student housing in Paris, which offers both functionality and aesthetic appeal in a dynamic urban environment. I would also mention the FC Bate Stadium in Belarus, where we managed to create a facility that is not only a sports centre but also a place for socializing and community.

You taught for seven years at Harvard, UCLA, and select faculties in Hong Kong and London. Among other things, you worked with Harvard students on the bivouac at

Ne glede na to, da sta pristopa k projektiranju obeh objektov različna, imata skupno vez: oba sledita tradiciji in lokalnemu vplivu, kar prispeva k avtentičnosti in prepoznavnosti arhitekture v Bohinju.

Kaj vas običajno navdihuje pri projektiranju?

Pri projektiranju v gorenjski regiji se trudimo čim več navdiha črpati iz tradicionalne lokalne arhitekture. Te konstrukcije in umetniške rezbarije skrbno združujemo v novo celoto, ki nosi sodoben pridih. Pomembno nam je, da ohranimo lokalno identiteto, saj na ta način ustvarjamo nekaj, kar ni le estetsko privlačno, ampak tudi resnično slovensko. Verjamemo, da vsak projekt nosi zgodbo kraja, ki ga obdarja s svojo kulturno dediščino in značajem, kar prispeva k bogatejši in bolj avtentični izkušnji za obiskovalce ter lokalno skupnost.

Na katere svoje projekte ste najbolj ponosni?

Osredotočamo se na projekte v urbanih središčih, vendar pa nas posebno veseli arhitektura v alpskih predelih, kjer tradicionalna izhodišča in lokalna kultura dajejo tej arhitekturi edinstven značaj in globino. S kombinacijo sodobnih oblik in tradicionalnih elementov ustvarjamo prostore, ki odražajo zgodovino ter naravne lepote okolice. Med projekti, na katere smo najbolj ponosni, bi izpostavili Hotel Bohinj, ki združuje inovativno za-

Hotel Bohinj – Photo | Fotografija: Miran Kambič

Skuta. What do you think was the most valuable thing you could offer your students?

The special challenge of working with students from different continents is teaching them to draw inspiration and knowledge from the local environment, not from global digital media. Today, when architecture takes on an international character, it is essential to create a local identity that emphasizes the environment in which it is built. Therefore, we teach students to first look at where they come from and to draw knowledge from tradition, interpreting it in a modern way. Working on smaller modular structures in extreme environments, like the bivouac on Skuta, allows students to learn a lot about smart design, sustainability, and adaptability to weather conditions in just one semester.

Does architecture exist today that doesn’t consider responsibility to the environment and nature? Is it still acceptable anywhere?

We believe it’s unacceptable for contemporary architecture to ignore the essential principles that have shaped our environment throughout history. Unfortunately, there are still examples of architecture that disregard these principles. The inspiration we can draw from traditional architecture offers valuable insights into how our ancestors approached construction. Their economy and thoughtfulness in design were crucial for the sustainability of their architecture, which evolved in harmony with natural and social environments. We find that their works are not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional and sustainable. We can learn a lot from these historical experiences and use them to shape modern architectural solutions that take into account both the ecological and social aspects of our time.

snovo s spoštovanjem do narave, bivak na Skuti, ki je plod sodelovanja z izbranimi študenti, ter študentska stanovanja v Parizu, ki ponujajo funkcionalnost in estetsko privlačnost v dinamičnem urbanem okolju. Prav tako bi omenila stadion FC Bate v Belorusiji, kjer smo uspeli ustvariti objekt, ki je ne le športno središče, temveč tudi prostor za druženje in skupnost.

Kar sedem let ste poučevali na Harvardu, UCLA ter na izbranih fakultetah v Hong Kongu in Londonu. Med drugim ste skupaj s študenti iz Harvarda delali na bivaku na Skuti. Kaj menite, da je bilo največ, kar ste lahko ponudili svojim študentom?

Poseben izziv pri delu s študenti z različnih celin je, kako jih naučiti, da navdih in znanje črpajo iz lokalnega okolja, ne pa iz globalnih digitalnih medijev. Danes, ko arhitektura prevzema globalni značaj, je nujno, da se ustvari lokalna identiteta, ki poudarja okolje, v katerem je grajena. Zato študente učimo, naj najprej pogledajo, od kje prihajajo, in črpajo znanje iz tradicije ter ga interpretirajo na sodoben način. Delo na manjših modularnih objektih v ekstremnih okoljih, kot je bivak na Skuti, študentom omogoča, da se veliko naučijo o pametnem načrtovanju, trajnosti in prilagodljivosti na vremenske vplive v enem semestru.

Ali danes sploh še obstaja arhitektura, ki ne vključuje odgovornosti do okolja in narave? Ali je to še kje sprejemljivo?

Meniva, da je nesprejemljivo, da se v današnji arhitekturi ne upošteva pomembnih načel, ki so oblikovala naše okolje skozi zgodovino. Kljub temu žal še vedno obstajajo primeri arhitekture, ki ta načela ignorirajo. Navdih, ki ga lahko črpamo iz tradicionalne arhitekture, nam ponuja dragocene vpoglede v način, kako so naši predniki pristopali k gradnji. Njihova ekonomičnost in premišljenost v načrtovanju sta bila ključna za trajnost njihove arhitekture, ki se je razvijala v harmoniji z naravnimi in družbenimi okolji. Ugotavljamo, da so njihova dela ne le estetsko privlačna, ampak tudi funkcionalna in trajnostna. Iz teh zgodovinskih izkušenj se lahko veliko naučimo in jih uporabimo pri oblikovanju sodobnih arhitekturnih rešitev, ki bodo upoštevale tako ekološke kot družbene vidike našega časa.

You have a studio in Ljubljana and Paris. Where do you spend most of your time?

Špela: I spend most of my time in Ljubljana, which allows me to enjoy the dynamic rhythm of the city. I’m pleased that in recent years, Slovenia has seen intense building and development, contributing to the modern look and functionality of our cities. Despite everything, the most beautiful place is always home, where I feel warmth and a connection with nature, which fills me with a special energy and satisfaction.

How challenging is it to maintain a studio in both cities, one of which is Paris?

This question has come up since we first started. We decided on a boutique studio approach because this allows us to focus on design, which is our passion. Otherwise, we would be exposed to economic pressures that could affect our creativity and the quality of our work.

Studio imata v Ljubljani in Parizu, veliko tudi predavata po tujih univerzah, kje preživita največ časa?

Špela: Večino svojega časa preživim v Ljubljani, kar mi omogoča, da uživam v dinamičnem utripu mesta. Veseli me, da se v zadnjih letih v Sloveniji intenzivno gradi in razvija, kar prispeva k sodobnemu videzu in funkcionalnosti naših mest. Kljub vsemu pa ostaja najlepše vedno doma, kjer čutim toplino in povezanost z naravo, kar me napolnjuje s posebno energijo in zadovoljstvom.

Kako zahtevno je vzdrževati studio v obeh mestih, od katerih je eno Pariz?

To vprašanje se pojavlja že od samega začetka našega delovanja. Odločili smo se za butični studio, saj nam ta pristop omogoča, da se osredotočimo na oblikovanje, kar je naša strast. V nasprotnem primeru bi bili izpostavljeni ekonomskim pritiskom, ki bi lahko vplivali na našo kreativnost in kakovost dela.

Basket Apartment – Photo | fotografija: Tomaž Gregorič Frame House – Photo | fotografija: Tomaž Gregorič

Ring Extension –

Photo | fotografija: Tomaž Gregorič

I’m pleased that in recent years, Slovenia has seen intense building and development, contributing to the modern look and functionality of our cities

Veseli me, da se v zadnjih letih v Sloveniji intenzivno gradi in razvija, kar prispeva k sodobnemu videzu in funkcionalnosti naših mest.

Alpine Shelter – Photo | fotografija: Anže Čokl

We believe it’s unacceptable for contemporary architecture to ignore the essential principles that have shaped our environment throughout history

Meniva, da je nesprejemljivo, da se v današnji arhitekturi ne upošteva pomembnih načel, ki so oblikovala naše okolje skozi zgodovino

Alpine Shelter – Photo | fotografija: Janez Martinčič

How does your collaboration work? Do you design together, or do each work on their own projects and then consult? How does that look?

We have started collaborating in the second year at the Faculty of Architecture at the University of Ljubljana and continued our studies in London, where we worked on various architectural competitions upon graduation. Even though we are very different, this diversity contributes to our long-term collaboration. Our different perspectives enrich our work and influence the final products. It’s hard to imagine architecture as a team effort without active collaboration in the process, as only joint efforts lead to innovative and high-quality solutions.

How do you like to spend your free time?

Špela: Since I have three children who are currently going through adolescence, my free time is limited. These precious moments suit me best, as I prefer to spend them with my children, especially in nature and in the beautiful mountains around Bohinj.

Kako pa poteka vajino sodelovanje? Ali projektirata skupaj ali vsak dela na svojih projektih in se potem posvetujeta? Kako to izgleda?

Sodelovati sva začela že v drugem letniku Fakultete za arhitekturo Univerze v Ljubljani, nato pa sva študij nadaljevala v Londonu, kjer sva ob zaključku sodelovala na različnih arhitekturnih natečajih. Čeprav sva si zelo različna, prav ta raznolikost prispeva k najinemu dolgotrajnemu sodelovanju. Najine različne perspektive bogatijo naše delo in vplivajo na končne produkte. Težko si je predstavljati arhitekturo kot timsko delo brez aktivnega sodelovanja v procesu, saj le skupno prizadevanje vodi do inovativnih in kakovostnih rešitev.

Kako radi preživljate svoj prosti čas?

Špela: Glede na to, da imam tri otroke, ki trenutno prehajajo skozi puberteto, imam omejen prosti čas. Ta dragoceni trenutki mi najbolj ustrezajo, saj jih najraje preživljam z njimi, predvsem v naravi in v čudovitih gorah okoli Bohinja.

Stadium

Arena Borisov – Photo | fotografija: Tomaž Gregorič

La casa del Desierto –

Photo | fotografija: Gonzalo Botet

Trg Na Kvanco –

Photo | fotografija: Tomaž Gregorič

Photo | Fotografija: Marko Sinkovec

A voyage through Slovenian arts and culture

Popotovanje skozi slovensko umetnost in kulturo

Slovenia is strategically located in Central Europe and boasts exceptional diversity, both in terms of nature and culture. With over 60% of its area covered in forests, this green land uniquely brings together the Alps, the Mediterranean, the Karst, and the Pannonian Plain, making it the only European nation with such a remarkable geographic variety.

Slovenija leži na strateški lokaciji v osrčju Evrope in se ponaša z izjemno raznolikostjo, tako v naravi kot kulturi. Naša zelena dežela, katere več kot 60 % površine pokrivajo gozdovi, združuje Alpe, Mediteran, Kras in Panonsko nižino, kar jo dela edino evropsko državo s tako izjemno geografsko pestrostjo.

Avtor | author: Slovenska turistična organizacija | Slovenian Tourist Board

What ties all these thrilling experiences together is a commitment to sustainability. This dedication is evident in the country’s care for the environment, preservation of tradition and the care for the well-being of both locals and visitors. Let us embark on an inspiring journey through the highlights of Slovenian arts and culture.

Invaluable UNESCO’s world heritage treasures in Slovenia

Slovenia also boasts numerous treasures under UNESCO’s auspices. With two natural and three cultural sites on the World’s Natural and Cultural Heritage list and seven unique features on the Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage, Slovenia is a gem for those seeking both natural wonders and cultural treasures.

Let us begin our UNESCO journey through Slovenia with the mysterious Škocjan Caves, nestled in Slovenia’s karst region. Here, Europe’s largest underground canyon awaits exploration, while the surrounding regional park offers educational and biking trails.

If you want to venture further into Slovenia’s natural splendour, discover the Krokar and Snežnik-Ždrolce primal beech forests, part of UNESCO’s heritage of primal beech forests, which showcase the development of beech ecosystems since the last glacial period 12,000 years ago.

Vse te navdihujoče izkušnje povezuje predanost trajnostnemu razvoju. Ta zavezanost je razvidna v skrbi za okolje, ohranjanju tradicije in skrbnosti do dobrega počutja tako domačinov kot obiskovalcev. Podajmo se na navdihujoče popotovanje po vrhuncih slovenske umetnosti in kulture.

Neprecenljivi zakladi svetovne dediščine UNESCO v Sloveniji

Slovenija se ponaša s številnimi zakladi pod okriljem UNESCO. Z dvema naravnima in tremi kulturnimi spomeniki na seznamu svetovne naravne in kulturne dediščine ter sedmimi unikatnimi znamenitostmi na reprezentativnem seznamu nesnovne kulturne dediščine je Slovenija pravi dragulj za ljubitelje naravnih in kulturnih zakladov.

Naše UNESCO popotovanje po Sloveniji začnimo s skrivnostnimi Škocjanskimi jamami, ki se nahajajo na slovenskem Krasu. Tu nas pričaka največji podzemni kanjon v Evropi, medtem ko regionalni park v okolici ponuja izobraževalne in kolesarske poti.

Slovensko naravno bogastvo skriva tudi pragozd Krokar in Snežnik-Ždrocle, ki sta del Unescove dediščine pragozdov bukve. Ta območja ponazarjajo razvoj bukovih ekosistemov vse od zadnje ledene dobe pred 12.000 leti.

Photo | Fotografija: Jošt Gantar

Photo | Fotografija: Rakov Škocjan

Photo | Fotografija: Jošt Gantar

Photo | Fotografija: Andrej Tarfila

As you shift from natural wonders to cultural heritage, the historic town of Idrija invites you with its rich mercury mining legacy. Alongside Spain’s Almaden, Idrija’s significance is immortalized as a UNESCO site. Explore Anthony’s Underground Mining Tunnel, one of Europe’s oldest mine entrances, and delve into the traditional mining methods that shaped the town’s history.

In the heart of Slovenia, the Ljubljana Marshes unveil a treasure trove of prehistoric secrets. Renowned for its ancient pile dwellings, this intriguing area offers a captivating glimpse into early human life. Among its most notable archaeological finds is the world’s oldest wooden wheel with an axle, a remarkable artefact we highlighted earlier.

The architectural genius of Jože Plečnik further enhances the charm of Ljubljana. His transformative works, including the Central Market, Triple Bridge, and National and University Library, are celebrated on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list.

Ob prehodu iz naravnih čudes v kulturno dediščino nas zgodovinsko mesto Idrija vabi s svojo bogato dediščino pridobivanja živega srebra. Skupaj s španskim Almadenom je pomen Idrije ovekovečen kot Unescova dediščina. Raziskujte Antonijev rov, enega najstarejših vhodov v rudnik v Evropi, in se poglobite v tradicionalne rudarske metode, ki so oblikovale zgodovino mesta.

V osrčju Slovenije Ljubljansko barje razkriva pravo zakladnico prazgodovinskih skrivnosti. To zanimivo območje, poznano po starodavnih koliščih, ponuja očarljiv vpogled v zgodnje človeško življenje. Med najbolj izjemnimi arheološkimi najdbami je najstarejše leseno kolo z osjo na svetu, kar smo izpostavili že prej.

Čar Ljubljane dodatno dopolnjuje arhitekturni genij Jože Plečnik. Njegova preoblikovanja, vključno s centralno tržnico, Tromostovjem in Narodno in univerzitetno knjižnico, so slavnostno vključena na seznam svetovne dediščine UNESCO.

Photo | Fotografija: Jošt Gantar

Photo | Fotografija: arhiv Slovenske turističke organizacije | Slovenian Tourist Board Archive

Photo | Fotografija: Miha Skrt

Photo | Fotografija: arhiv Slovenske turističke organizacije | Slovenian Tourist Board Archive

Slovenia’s intangible heritage is equally captivating. Beekeeping, a tradition deeply ingrained in Slovenian culture, is celebrated with nationwide enthusiasm. Notably, Slovenia was the visionary country that proposed the establishment of World Bee Day.

Slovenska nesnovna dediščina je prav tako osupljiva. Čebelarstvo, tradicija, globoko zakoreninjena v slovenski kulturi, je praznovano z nacionalnim navdušenjem. Slovenija je bila tudi prva, ki je predlagala ustanovitev svetovnega dneva čebel.

Photo | Fotografija: Jošt Gantar

arts and culture | umetnost in

At the historic Lipica Stud Farm, the centuries-old tradition of breeding Lipizzan horses continues. Recognized on the UNESCO list and shared with seven other countries, this heritage underscores the profound bond between humans and these majestic creatures.

Also featured on the list is the Škofja Loka Passion Play, Slovenia’s oldest theatrical tradition. This remarkable performance unfolds every six years, with the next one scheduled for 2026. The play enchants audiences with its vibrant costumes and immersive historical reenactments, offering a truly unforgettable experience steeped in tradition.

V zgodovinski Kobilarni Lipica se že stoletja nadaljuje tradicija reje lipicancev. Ta dediščina, vključena na Unescov seznam in deljena s sedmimi drugimi državami, poudarja globoko vez med ljudmi in temi veličastnimi bitji.

Na seznamu je tudi Škofjeloški pasijon, najstarejša gledališka tradicija v Sloveniji. Ta izjemna predstava se odvija vsakih šest let, naslednjič bo na vrsti leta 2026. Občinstvo očara s pisanimi kostumi in poglobljenimi zgodovinskimi uprizoritvami, ki ponujajo resnično nepozabno doživetje, prežeto s tradicijo.

Photo | Fotografija: Jošt Gantar

Photo | Fotografija: Dean Dubokovič

Photo | Fotografija: arhiv Slovenske turističke organizacije | Slovenian Tourist Board Archive

In February, the traditional rounds of door-to-door Kurenti announce the arrival of spring. Rooted in Slavic mythology, these vibrant celebrations bring the ancient town of Ptuj to life with colourful costumes and the ringing of cowbells.

Bobbin lacemaking, an intricate and artistic craft, symbolizes Slovenian identity. This age-old tradition of braiding and twisting threads into delicate lace is nurtured through dedicated lacemaking schools, ensuring its continued vibrancy.

In the Karst region and Istria, the art of dry-stone walling showcases traditional construction techniques that rely on carefully stacking stones without any binder. This skill connects eight European countries.

Lastly, Slovenia’s commitment to midwifery highlights the enduring value of traditional knowledge and skills. With the first midwifery school dating back to 1753, Slovenia champions this practice, advocating for its inclusion in the UNESCO list.

V februarju tradicionalni obhodi kurentov naznanjajo prihod pomladi. Te pisane proslave, zasidrane v slovanski mitologiji, oživijo starodavno mesto Ptuj z živahnimi kostumi in zvonjenjem kravjih zvoncev.

Klekljanje, zapletena in umetniška obrt, simbolizira slovensko identiteto. Ta starodavna tradicija prepletanja in sukanja niti v nežno čipko se ohranja prek posvečenih šol klekljanja, kar zagotavlja njen nadaljnji razvoj.

Na Krasu in v Istri umetnost gradnje suhozidov predstavlja tradicionalne gradbene tehnike, ki temeljijo na natančnem zlaganju kamnov brez veziva. Ta veščina povezuje osem evropskih držav.

Nazadnje slovenska zaveza babištvu poudarja trajno vrednost tradicionalnega znanja in spretnosti. S prvo babiško šolo, ki sega v leto 1753, Slovenija podpira to prakso in zagovarja njen vpis na Unescov seznam.

Photo | Fotografija: Marko Pigac

Photo | Fotografija: arhiv Slovenske turističke organizacije | Slovenian Tourist Board Archive

Lena Repinc

No one becomes the best overnight

Nihče ne postane najboljši kar čez noč

Lena revealed to us what attracted her to biathlon, what her typical day looks like in addition to training and studying, who her sports role models are, and what goals she still wants to achieve in the future. This young rising star certainly has the potential to do great things.

Lena nam je v pogovoru razkrila, zakaj jo je pritegnil biatlon, kako izgleda njen tipičen dan ob treningih in študiju, kdo so njeni športni vzorniki in katere cilje še želi doseči v prihodnosti. Ta mlada vzhajajoča zvezda ima zagotovo potencial za velike stvari.

In the world of biathlon, where physical endurance meets shooting precision, few athletes have left such a strong mark on this sport as Lena Repinc. This talented Slovenian biathlete stood out on the world stage and became an inspiration to young athletes all over Slovenia. With her outstanding results and tireless work, Lena is a perfect example of how passion and dedication can lead to exceptional success.

In the interview, Lena revealed to us what attracted her to biathlon, what her typical day looks like in addition to training and studying, who her sports role models are, and what hopes she wants to achieve in the future. This young rising star certainly has the potential to do great things.

Vsvetu biatlona, kjer sta pomembni tako fizična vzdržljivost kot natančnost streljanja, je malo športnikov, ki bi pustili tako močan pečat, kot ga je Lena Repinc. Ta talentirana slovenska biatlonka se je že dokazala na svetovni sceni in postala navdih mladim športnikom širom Slovenije. S svojimi izjemnimi rezultati in neutrudnim delom Lena predstavlja popoln primer, kako strast in predanost lahko privedeta do izjemnih uspehov.

Photos | fotografije: Christian Reiter, Jakob Pintar, Kamson Chan, Kevin Voigt, Luka Vovk, Sloskibiathlon, private archive

Biathlon is popular in countries with a strong winter sports tradition, such as Slovenia. Can you explain what it is for people who are unfamiliar?

Biathlon is a winter sport that combines cross-country skiing and rifle shooting. It requires enormous endurance and focus, making it one of the more challenging sports. It’s also one of the more exciting sports for spectators, as the race’s outcome can change completely with every shot.

There are two shooting positions: prone shooting and standing. At each shooting station, the competitor fires five shots, with each missed shot resulting in a penalty loop of 150 meters or a one-minute time addition. Between each shooting, the competitor runs a lap of a certain length, which varies depending on the discipline. The shortest lap is 1.5 km, while the longest is 4 km. Shooting can occur twice or four times, according to the discipline, always starting with lying down and then standing. In races with four shootings, it can alternate or be two lying and then two standing, again depending on the discipline.There are several competition disciplines: individual race, mass start, men/women relay, mixed relay, single mixed relay.

I think that’s sufficient information for a basic grasp. There are indeed many rules, but we’ll save that for another time. In short, the goal of biathlon is to be the fastest skier and the most precise and quick shooter. That’s the essence. The winner is the one with the best time, or in the pursuit race, the first to cross the finish line.

Winter sports enthusiasts have probably heard of you. You have become a two-time junior world champion in biathlon in both pursuit and sprint, earning the Piotr Nurowski Award for the best young winter athlete in Europe in 2021, as well as the award for the best young Slovenian biathlete. Have you realized your dreams?

That was just a part of my dreams; I definitely dream of something bigger. My goal, like that for every other athlete, is to one day win an

Biatlon je priljubljen šport v državah z močno tradicijo zimskih športov, kot je Slovenija. Lahko za tiste, ki ga ne poznajo, pojasnite, kakšen šport je to.

Biatlon je zimski šport, ki združuje tek na smučeh in streljanje z malokalibrsko puško. Zahteva ogromno vzdržljivosti in zbranosti, zato je to eden izmed bolj zahtevnih športov. Za gledalce pa tudi eden bolj zanimivih, saj se lahko izid tekme vsako sekundo popolnoma spremeni na račun streljanja.

Poznamo ležeči in stoječi strelski položaj. Na vsakem strelskem postanku tekmovalec ustreli 5 nabojev, vsak zgrešen strel pa se kaznuje s kazenskim krogom v dolžini 150 m ali pribitkom 1 minute. Med vsakim streljanjem tekmovalec odteče krog določene dolžine. Ta se spreminja glede na disciplino. Najkrajši krog je dolg 1,5 km, najdaljši pa 4 km. Strelja se lahko dvakrat ali štirikrat, odvisno od discipline. Vedno najprej leže in nato stoje. Pri tekmi s štirimi streljanji je to lahko izmenično ali pa najprej dvakrat leže in potem dvakrat stoje. Spet odvisno od discipline. Poznamo različne discipline: individualna tekma, tekma s skupinskim startom, ženska/moška štafeta, mešana štafeta ter štafeta mešanih dvojic.

Mislim, da bo za osnovno razumevanje to dovolj podatkov. Pravil je sicer še ogromno, ampak o tem kdaj drugič. Skratka, cilj biatlona je, da si najhitrejši tekač in najbolj natančen in hiter strelec. To je bistvo. Zmaga tisti, ki ima najboljši čas oz. pri zasledovalni tekmi tisti, ki prvi pride v cilj.

Ljubitelji zimskih športov so verjetno že slišali za vas. Dvakrat ste postali mladinska svetovna prvakinja v biatlonu v zasledovanju in šprintu, s čimer ste si prislužili nagrado Piotr Nurowski za najboljšo mlado zimsko športnico v Evropi leta 2021, pa tudi nagrado za najboljšo mlado slovensko biatlonko. Ste uresničili svoje sanje?

To je bil le delček sanj, vsekakor pa sanjam še o čem večjem. Tako kot za vsakega športnika, je tudi zame cilj, da nekoč osvojim olimpijsko medaljo. Vse medalje, ki sem jih osvojila v mladinskih kategorijah, mi seveda ogromno pomenijo, saj so pokazatelj, da sem na pravi poti. Prav tako nagrade. Za nagrado Piotr Nurowski pravzaprav sploh nisem vedela, da

Olympic medal. All of the medals I have achieved in junior categories mean a lot to me, as they are indicators that I am on the right path. The awards also matter. I actually didn’t even know I was a candidate for the Piotr Nurowski Award until I was chosen as a finalist. My dad, who registered me with the Olympic Committee of Slovenia, decided not to tell me until the finalists were known. When I finally found out, it genuinely felt like a dream. And even later, when I was announced as the winner, the feeling was the same. The fact that the ceremony took place in the ancient Olympic Stadium made it even more magical. But that’s not the pinnacle I strive for every day. My dream—or rather, my goal—is to win in the senior category. When I hear the Slovenian national anthem played for me, then I can say my goal has been achieved.

This sport requires a combination of physical endurance and precision. How hard do you train?

Yes, this combination is certainly not the easiest, which is why much training is required. Not only endurance training but also shooting training. We train practically every day, often twice a day. In the summer, during the preparatory season, this amounts to 20 hours of training per week. This does not include dry shooting. At the start of each season, we need to build a base, which is when we put in the most hours, but train at a lower intensity. When the intensity begins to rise, the volume of training decreases. When competitions come up, there is actually very little training (although many might consider even that a lot). It’s essential to realize that more volume doesn’t necessarily mean better results. You need to train smartly while also allowing time for proper recovery in between. Sometimes it’s challenging to find the right balance. The shooting training is certainly not to be neglected. Dry

sem kandidatka, dokler nisem bila izbrana za finalistko. Ati, ki me je skupaj z OKS prijavil, se je takrat odločil, da mi tega ne bo povedal, dokler finalisti ne bodo znani. Ko sem končno izvedela, se mi je dejansko zdelo, kot da sanjam. In tudi kasneje, ko so me razglasili za zmagovalko, je bil občutek enak. Zaradi dejstva, da se je ta podelitev odvijala na antičnem olimpijskem stadionu, pa je vse skupaj bilo še bolj magično. Ampak to ni tisti vrhunec, za katerega garam vsak dan. Moje sanje oz. raje rečem moj cilj, je zmagovati v članski konkurenci. Ko bom slišala, da zame igra slovenska himna, takrat bom lahko rekla, da je cilj uresničen.

Ta šport zahteva kombinacijo fizične vzdržljivosti in natančnosti. Kako trdo trenirate?

Ja, ta kombinacija vsekakor ni najlažja, zato je potrebno veliko treninga. Ne le kondicijskega, ampak tudi strelskega. Treniramo praktično vsak dan, tudi po dvakrat. Poleti, v pripravljalni sezoni, to pomeni okrog 20 ur treninga na teden. Sem ni vključen suhi strelski trening. Na začetku vsake sezone moramo zgraditi bazo in takrat opravimo največ ur, vendar je intenziteta treninga nižja. Ko pa se intenziteta začne zviševati, se volumen treningov zniža. Ko pridejo na vrsto tekme, je dejanskega treninga zelo malo (no, mnogim bi se verjetno tudi to zdelo veliko). Treba se je zavedati, da večja količina ne pomeni nujno boljših rezultatov. Treba je trenirati pametno

Biathlon is a winter sport that combines cross-country skiing and rifle shooting. It requires enormous endurance and focus

Biatlon je zimski šport, ki združuje tek na smučeh in streljanje z malokalibrsko puško.

Zahteva ogromno vzdržljivosti in zbranosti

shooting is very important for building endurance. However, this type of training can be mentally quite taxing and often boring. Dry shooting means aiming at a dot on the wall without using bullets while holding your position and being mindful of your breathing and trigger pulling. You have to be very careful to do everything correctly; otherwise you can quickly pick-up some mistakes. It’s not exactly my favorite training; I much prefer everything else. But it’s essential.

You are studying at the Biotechnical Faculty in Ljubljana, specializing in nutrition and food science. How did you choose this field of study?

That’s right. My first wish was to study dietetics . However, that program is in Izola, and I soon abandoned that idea. Then a dietitian I work with suggested that I choose the Food and Nutrition program. She had also attended it. So I decided to study that. I’m very happy that it was such an easy decision for me.

I’m interested in this field because I believe nutrition plays a significant role in high-level sports. It is developing rapidly, and today you need to pay attention to every detail if you want to be the best in the world. Such details often determine who wins and who doesn’t. Cyclists, for example, closely monitor what they put into their bodies. Every gram is calculated precisely. We are still far from that in biathlon, but today, there is much more discussion about what to eat and what not to eat. I believe the knowledge I gain will help me on my sporting journey. My wish is to work as a sports dietitian after my career and help other ath-

in si vmes vzeti tudi dovolj časa za pravilno regeneracijo. Včasih je težko najti pravo razmerje. Vsekakor ne gre zanemariti strelskega treninga. Suhi strelski trening je zelo pomemben pri nabiranju strelske kondicije. Je pa tak trening zelo naporen za glavo in večkrat tudi dolgočasen. Suho streljanje pomeni, da brez nabojev meriš v piko na steni in držiš položaj ter si pozoren na dihanje in proženje. Pri tem moraš biti res pozoren, da vse delaš pravilno, drugače se lahko hitro naučiš napak. Ni ravno moj najljubši trening, veliko rajši imam vse ostalo. Ampak brez tega ne gre.

Študirate na Biotehniški fakulteti v Ljubljani, smer živilstvo in prehrana. Kako ste se odločili za ta študij?

Tako je. Moja prva želja je bila študirati dietetiko. Vendar je ta študij v Izoli in to misel sem kmalu opustila. Nato pa mi je dietetičarka, s katero sodelujem, predlagala, naj izberem smer živilstvo in prehrana. Obiskovala jo je namreč tudi sama. In tako sem se odločila za ta študij. Zelo sem vesela, da je bila to zame popolnoma preprosta odločitev.

Omenjen program me zanima predvsem zaradi mojega prepričanja, da prehrana igra veliko vlogo pri vrhunskem športu. Ta se zelo hitro razvija in danes je potrebno paziti na vse podrobnosti, če želimo biti enkrat najboljši na svetu, saj o zmagovalcu dejansko odločajo malenkosti. Kolesarji recimo izjemno nadzorujejo, kaj vnašajo v telo. Vsak gram je natančno izračunan. V biatlonu smo še daleč od tega, vendar se danes vseeno veliko več govori o tem, kaj jesti in kaj ne. Menim, da mi bo pridobljeno znanje pomagalo na moji športni poti. Moja želja pa je, da se po končani karieri zaposlim kot športna dietetičarka in pomagam drugim športnikom pri

Alpinia

letes achieve their goals. I would love to work for a cycling team. I see it as a significant challenge and believe I would genuinely enjoy it.

How important is nutrition in sports alongside training?

As I previously mentioned, food is extremely important. It is our source of energy, allowing us to train or even survive. Unlike cyclists, biathletes do not closely monitor nutrition. For us, the most important thing is to eat enough to meet our energy needs. With the high volume of training we do, this can be quite challenging at times. Therefore, it’s essential that we choose wisely what we eat. The majority of our diet consists of simple carbohydrates. Everyone should know what they can and cannot eat before and during training or competition. A large bowl of salad is not a good choice, no matter how healthy it is. That doesn’t mean we don’t eat vegetables; we certainly do, but we ensure it’s at the right time and in appropriate quantities. The golden rule is to never try anything new before a competition.

What does your typical day look like?

That depends on where I am and what season we are in. A competition day is quite different from a regular training day or a day spent training at home. What is consistent to all my days is that I like to wake up early and go to bed early. When I wake up, I always measure my heart rate for five minutes to evaluate how my body responded to the previous day’s training or competition. Then I like to go outside for a short walk, do some stretching exercises, and, in the summer, I love to swim in the lake. This is followed by breakfast and my first training session.

If we are in preparation, we do our main training in the morning. For example, in the summer, this will include interval training on roller skis and shooting. This training lasts 2 to 3 hours. After training, we have lunch, usually around noon. This is followed by rest until the next training session. In the summer, I read a lot. Of course, I also take an afternoon nap. In the other months, I dedicate this time to studying. Before the afternoon training, I like to do a bit of dry shooting, stretching, and resistance band exercises to “wake up.” In the afternoon, I have a short run or strength training planned. Immediately after training, we have dinner, and sometimes there’s a meeting. In the evening, I enjoy reading again, and occasionally getting a massage.

The competition day is a bit different. After breakfast, I go for a short run, up to 30 minutes, followed by dry shooting. The race is usually between 2:00 PM and 3:00 PM. Lunch is always served three hours before the start, if possible. Sometimes we have lunch as early as 11:00 AM. I spend any free time in the morning reading, crocheting, doing Sudoku, or something similar. Generally, the time before the race passes very quickly. We arrive at the venue about an hour before the start. There, we put on our start numbers, go through weapons control, and then warm

uresničevanju ciljev. Najraje bi delala v kakšni kolesarski ekipi. Na tem področju vidim velik izziv in menim, da bi v tem res uživala.

V kolikšni meri je ob treningih pomembna prehrana v športu?

Kot sem že rekla, je hrana izjemnega pomena. Je namreč naš vir energije, ki nam omogoča, da sploh lahko treniramo oz. da živimo. V biatlonu prehrana še ni tako nadzorovana kot pri kolesarjih. Pri nas je najbolj pomembno predvsem to, da pojemo dovolj, da pokrijemo naše energijske potrebe. Ob tako veliki količini treningov, ki jih opravimo, je to včasih že kar težko. Zato je treba hrano pravilno izbirati. Največji delež v naši prehrani predstavljajo enostavni ogljikovi hidrati. Vsak mora tudi vedeti, kaj sme in česa ne sme jesti pred in med treningom ali tekmo. Velika skleda solate ne bo dobra izbira, pa naj je še tako zdrava. To seveda ne pomeni, da ne jemo zelenjave. Seveda jo, vendar pri tem pazimo, da je to ob pravem času in v primernih količinah. Zlato pravilo pa je, da pred tekmo nikoli ne poskušaš ničesar novega.

Kako izgleda vaš tipičen dan?

To je čisto odvisno od tega, kje se nahajam in v katerem delu sezone smo. Tekmovalni dan se precej razlikuje od običajnega dneva na pripravah in ta od dneva, ko treniram doma.

Skupno vsem dnevom je, da rada zgodaj vstajam in hodim zgodaj spat. Ko se zbudim, vedno najprej 5 minut merim srčni utrip, da vidim, kako se je moje telo odzvalo na trening/tekmo s prejšnjega dne. Nato grem rada ven na kratek sprehod, naredim raztezne vaje, poleti pa najraje zaplavam v jezeru. Temu sledi zajtrk in nato prvi trening.

Če smo na pripravah, imamo dopoldan glavni trening. Recimo, poleti bo to intervalni trening na rolkah in streljanje. Takšen trening traja 2 do 3 ure. Po treningu imamo kosilo, največkrat ob 12.00. Temu sledi počitek do naslednjega treninga. Poleti tudi ogromno berem. Seveda mi ne uide tudi popoldanski spanec. V ostalih mesecih pa ta čas namenim študiju. Pred popoldanskim treningom rada naredim še malo suhega streljanja, razteznih vaj in vaj z elastiko, da se »zbudim«. Popoldan pa je na programu kakšen krajši razteg ali pa trening moči. Takoj po treningu imamo spet večerjo in včasih še kakšen sestanek. Zvečer pa spet rada berem, občasno pa je na sporedu tudi masaža.

Tekmovalni dan pa je malo drugačen. Po zajtrku grem na kratek tek, do 30 minut, nato pa sledi še suho streljanje. Tekma je največkrat med 14. in 15. uro, kosilo je vedno 3 ure pred štartom, če je to le možno, tako da včasih jemo kosilo že ob 11. uri. Če imam dopoldan kaj prostega časa, ga porabim za branje, kvačkanje, reševanje sudokuja ali kaj podobnega. Načeloma čas pred tekmo zelo hitro mine. Na prizorišču smo dobro uro pred štartom. Tam si oblečemo štartne številke, gremo na kontrolo orožja in nato na nastrelitev. Pred tekmo se je potrebno dobro ogreti in vsak

up. It’s essential to warm up well before the race, and everyone calculates how much time they need for that. After the race, we cooldown and then return to our accommodation. By the end of the day, we don’t do much else since we lack energy. The schedule includes massages, socializing, dinner, movies, stretching, a meeting, a walk, and a mandatory call home. Then it’s already time to sleep.

What inspires you and keeps your passion for what you do alive?

I enjoy biathlon so much that I never think about not doing it. What I love the most is that it involves a lot of different forms of training. Besides cross-country skiing and roller skiing, we do a lot of cycling, which is my favorite workout, as well as running, hiking, going to the gym, even rowing... I really never get bored, and every day I’m grateful that my job is so much fun.

Good results, of course, are a big motivation. During the preparation period, I never have motivation issues. However, throughout the competitive season, there are moments when you question whether this is really what you want. In those moments, good results are the best motivator. People surrounding me are also extremely important. My family is constantly by my side and helps me get through tough times. I also work with a sports psychotherapist, who plays an important role in this. Then there are the fans, who maintain my passion with their incredible enthusiasm. Competing in front of 30,000 people is phenomenal! And I can’t forget about the sponsors, which include Hotel Bohinj and Alpinia Group. The fact that such companies and exceptional individuals see potential in me boosts my courage and confidence.

Who is your sports role model?

At the moment, I’d say it’s Tadej Pogačar and Primož Roglič. Pogačar is one of the best cyclists ever, and he had an incredible season this year. Every day, he surprises me with what he’s capable of doing. What I admire most about Roglič is that he never gives up. He’s experienced so many falls and had to withdraw from races too many times, but he always finds a new goal and wins the next three-week race. I can only hope that someday, people will admire me as much as I admire them.

Is there something you would like to achieve in the future, a specific goal?

Besides wanting to win an Olympic medal, a World Championship medal, and the overall World Cup, I hope to inspire more young athletes to pursue biathlon. I’ve noticed that each year fewer children are participating. Many quit after primary or secondary school because balancing sports and studies isn’t easy. But without younger athletes, biathlon won’t exist in the future, and it would be a shame to forget such an interesting sport.

si sam izračuna, koliko časa potrebuje za to. Po tekmi sledi razteg, nato gremo nazaj do nastanitve. Do konca dneva potem ne počnemo več kaj dosti, saj primanjkuje energije. Na sporedu so masaže, druženje, večerja, filmi, streching, sestanek, kakšen sprehod in pa obvezen klic domov. Nato pa je že čas za spanje.

Kaj vas navdihuje in ohranja vašo strast do tega, kar počnete?

V biatlonu tako uživam, da preprosto sploh ne pomislim, da tega ne bi počela. Najbolj mi je všeč to, da vključuje veliko različnih oblik treninga. Poleg teka na smučeh in rolkanja ogromno kolesarimo - to je moj najljubši trening, tečemo, hodimo v hribe, v fitnes, tudi veslamo ... Res se nikoli ne naveličam in vsak dan sem hvaležna, da je moja »služba« tako zabavna.

Velika motivacija pa so potem seveda dobri rezultati. Med pripravljalnim obdobjem sama nikoli nimam težav z motivacijo. V tekmovalnem obdobju pa pridejo trenutki, ko se vprašaš, če je to res tisto, kar si želiš. In dobri rezultati so v takšnih trenutkih res najboljša motivacija. Izjemo pomembni pa so tudi ljudje okoli mene. Družina mi vedno stoji ob strani in mi pomaga v težkih trenutkih. Sodelujem tudi s športnim psihoterapevtom, ki ima pri vsem veliko vlogo. Potem so tukaj še navijači, ki z dobrim vzdušjem ohranjajo mojo strast. Tekmovati pred 30.000 ljudmi je fenomenalno! Ne gre pa pozabiti tudi na sponzorje, na Hotel Bohinj in podjetje Alpinia. To, da takšna podjetja in izjemni posamezniki vidijo v meni potencial, mi vliva več poguma in zaupanja vase.

Kdo je vaš športni vzornik?

Rekla bi, da sta to trenutno Tadej Pogačar in Primož Roglič. Pogačar je eden najboljših kolesarjev, kar jih je kdaj bilo in njegova letošnja sezona je naravnost neverjetna. Vsak dan znova me preseneti, česa vse je sposoben. Pri Rogliču pa najbolj občudujem to, da nikoli ne obupa. Toliko padcev je že doživel in prevečkrat je moral že odstopiti, pa potem vedno najde nek nov cilj in zmaga na naslednji tritedenski dirki. Samo upam lahko, da bodo mene kdaj občudovali tako, kot jaz občudujem njiju.

Ali obstaja kaj, kar bi želeli doseči v prihodnosti, imate kakšen poseben cilj?

Poleg tega, da bi rada osvojila olimpijsko medaljo, medaljo na svetovnem prvenstvu in pa tudi skupni seštevek v svetovnem pokalu, si želim navdihniti več mladih športnikov, da bi se odločili za biatlon. Opažam namreč, da je vsako leto vpisanih manj otrok. Zelo veliko jih tudi preneha po osnovni ali srednji šoli, saj združevanje športa in študija ni najlažje. Vendar pa brez mlajših biatlon nekoč ne bo več obstajal in res bi bilo škoda, da bi tako zanimiv šport šel v pozabo.

Moj velik cilj je tudi, da delujem v smeri ohranjanja zim in snega. Zadnja leta so pogoji vedno slabši in bojim se dneva, ko snega sploh ne bo več.

Another big goal of mine is to work towards preserving winters and snow. In recent years, conditions have become worse, and I fear the day when there will be no snow left. That’s why I strive to live as environmentally friendly as possible. As far as I know, Hotel Bohinj shares this vision, which makes me even more excited about our collaboration. Taking care of our local area is extremely important to me, on all levels. Bohinj, after all, is unique, and we must take care of it.

What advice would you give to a young athlete?

Think long-term. No one becomes the best overnight. Even if you have the best training plan, it can take several seasons to reach your full potential. So don’t give up after your first failure or a lousy season. The results will come in time, so until then, do everything you can to become the best.

Zato stremim k temu, da je moj življenjski slog čim bolj okolju prijazen. Kolikor vem, ima tako vizijo tudi Hotel Bohinj, zato sem še toliko bolj navdušena nad našim sodelovanjem. Izjemno pomembna mi je skrb za domač kraj, na vseh ravneh. Bohinj je konec koncev samo eden in paziti moramo nanj.

Kakšen nasvet bi dali mladi športnici?

Treba je gledati na dolgi rok. Nihče ne postane najboljši kar čez noč. Tudi če imaš najboljši plan treninga, lahko traja par sezon, preden razviješ svoj potencial. Zato ne obupaj ob prvem neuspehu ali po eni slabi sezoni. Rezultati bodo prišli ob svojem času, do takrat pa delaj vse, kar lahko, da postaneš najboljša.

Besides wanting to win an Olympic medal, a World Championship medal, and the overall World Cup, I hope to inspire more young athletes to pursue biathlon

Reflection of the Bohinj mountains

Odsev Bohinjskih gora

Author | avtorica: Katja Jemec

Photos | fotografije: Katja Jemec Photography

Bohinj is not just a place of extraordinary natural beauty, but also a space where tradition and responsible environmental stewardship meet. Every visitor, whether on a wedding or photography tour, learns about the importance of nature preservation and the rules that govern it.

When I returned to this alpine gem, photography was already my greatest passion and job, but I was still searching for the right direction

Ko sem se vrnila v ta alpski biser, je fotografija že bila moja največja strast in služba, vendar sem še vedno iskala pravo smer

My first memories of Bohinj are of my grandmother and I driving an hour from our hometown to Pokljuka, specifically to Zajamniki. Besides the seasonal cleaning of the mountain hut, we would go for long hikes and pick mushrooms. My “mama,” as I called her, always drank a shot of schnapps and had a coffee after we returned from our walks. But what stands out the most in my memory is the smell of the mountains.

That smell still fills me with the same warmth every time. Years later, after traveling across a large part of the world in search for my true “self,” it was precisely that smell and the beauty of the Bohinj Alps that called me back. Although this isn’t my birthplace, it has become the place where I find peace and I truly belong.

When I returned to this alpine gem, photography was already my greatest passion and job, but I was still searching for the right direction. It was here, amidst the mountains, inspiration struck, guiding me to the right path, both in my personal and professional life.

Today, eight years later, these mountains continue to play a key role in my life. As a professional photographer, I seek out projects that keep me creatively engaged, mostly focusing on the Alps and alpine culture. That’s why I decided to combine photography with my love for discovering new people and places. In addition to my established photography services, two new ventures were born – wedding photography and wedding planning in Bohinj, together with organizing photography tours.

Photography tours in Bohinj are something special. They provide visitors with a glimpse into local stories and the most beautiful views, away from the summer crowds. We explore the Bohinj mountains, discover the secret of the process of making Bohinj cheese, visit authentic mountain huts that serve traditional Slovenian food, and in the evening, we relax in boutique hotels like Hotel Bohinj. Bohinj weddings are ideal for couples seeking a intimate yet unforgettable experience in nature.

So, what is most worth experiencing in Bohinj? While Lake Bohinj, with its stunning colors, is an unavoidable destination, I recommend exploring the surrounding areas as well. A hike to the Savica waterfall is a classic, but you shouldn’t miss the more hidden spots, such as Planina Krstenica, Konjščica, and the Triglav Seven Lakes Valley, which offer unforgettable views and peaceful nature away from the crowds of tourists. It’s here that you’ll find the true essence of Bohinj, amidsts its wild beauty.

Bohinj is a rare place, and because of its unique qualities, my goal is to preserve it that way for future generations.

Moji prvi spomini na Bohinj segajo v čas, ko sva se z mojo staro mamo odpeljali uro stran od domačega kraja na Pokljuko – natančneje na Zajamnike. Tam sva poleg sezonskega čiščenja stana hodili na dolge sprehode in nabirali gobe. Moja “mama”, kot sem jo klicala, je vedno po vrnitvi s sprehoda spila en “štamprle” žganja in kavo. A tisto, kar se mi je najbolj vtisnilo v spomin, je vonj planine.

Ta vonj me še danes, ob vsakem obisku bohinjskih planin, napolni z enako toplino. Leta kasneje, ko sem prepotovala velik del sveta in iskala svoj pravi “jaz”, sta me prav ta vonj in lepota bohinjskih Alp ponovno priklicala. Čeprav to ni moj rojstni kraj, je postal kraj, kjer se umirim, kjer občutim, da mu pripadam.

Ko sem se vrnila v ta alpski biser, je fotografija že bila moja največja strast in služba, vendar sem še vedno iskala pravo smer. Prav tu, med gorami, je prišla inspiracija, ki me je usmerila na pravo pot tako v osebnem kot poklicnem življenju.

Danes, osem let kasneje, imajo te gore še vedno ključno vlogo v mojem življenju. Kot profesionalna fotografinja iščem projekte, ki me ohranjajo kreativno in večinoma povezane z Alpami in alpsko kulturo. Odločila sem se, da združim fotografijo z ljubeznijo do spoznavanja novih ljudi in krajev. Tako sta poleg mojih vpeljanih fotografskih storitev nastala dva nova projekta – poročna fotografija in organizacija porok v Bohinju ter vodenje fotografskih tur.

Fototure v Bohinju so nekaj posebnega. Obiskovalcem ponujajo vpogled v lokalne zgodbe in najlepše razglede, stran od poletne gneče. Raziskujemo bohinjske planine, spoznavamo skrivnosti pridelave bohinjskega sira, obiščemo prave gorske koče, kjer strežejo pristno slovensko hrano, in se zvečer sprostimo v butičnih hotelih, kot je Hotel Bohinj. Bohinjske poroke pa so idealne za pare, ki iščejo preprosto, a nepozabno doživetje v naravi.

Bohinj ni le kraj izjemne naravne lepote, temveč tudi prostor, kjer se združujeta tradicija in odgovorno ravnanje z okoljem. Vsak obiskovalec, naj bo to na poroki ali fotografskem izletu, se seznani s pomenom ohranjanja narave. Z majhnimi, a pomembnimi koraki se trudimo, da ta dragoceni košček sveta ostane takšen, kot je.

In kaj je v Bohinju vredno ogleda? Čeprav je Bohinjsko jezero s svojimi čudovitimi barvami neizogiben cilj, priporočam, da raziščete tudi okolico. Pohod do slapa Savica je klasika, a ne smete izpustiti tudi bolj skritih kotičkov, kot sta planini Krstenica in Konjščica ter Triglavska sedmera jezera, ki ponujajo nepozabne razglede in mirno naravo, daleč stran od turističnega vrveža. Prav tukaj boste našli tisti pravi duh Bohinja v vsej njegovi divji lepoti.

Bohinj je kraj, ki v sebi nosi nekaj posebnega – in prav zaradi tega, ker ostaja to, kar je, je naš cilj, da ga ohranimo takšnega tudi za prihodnje generacije.

So, what is most worth experiencing in Bohinj? While Lake Bohinj, with its stunning colors, is an unavoidable destination, I recommend exploring the surrounding areas as well.

In kaj je v Bohinju vredno ogleda? Čeprav je Bohinjsko jezero s svojimi čudovitimi barvami neizogiben cilj, priporočam, da raziščete tudi okolico.

The world within an hour: The benefits of living in a small country

Svet na dosegu ene ure:

Prednosti življenja v majhni državi

Author | avtor: Matej Kandare

Photos | fotografije: www.skijulianalps.com

Photo | Fotografija: Nicola Brollo

Ski road trip? Why not? All roads, or rather the main road from Bohinj, lead through Soteska and past Bled. Locals say that driving through Bled in the summer takes several times longer than in the winter.

Ski road trip. Zakaj pa ne? Vse poti oz. glavna pot iz Bohinja vodi skozi Sotesko in mimo Bleda. Domačini pravijo, da se poleti voziš skozi Bled nekajkrat dlje kot pozimi.

Photo

| Fotografija : Nicola Brollo

Did you know that winter is the low season in the famous Bled? That‘s good because I can whiz through it in just a few minutes. On the way back, I‘ll definitely stop for a Kremšnita (cream cake, a well-known dessert from Bled). Or maybe the next day.

Today, I‘m in a hurry for a cappuccino and a brioche because I‘m heading to Tarvisio and Monte Lussari in nearby Italy. As I speed past Kranjska Gora, I make a promise to myself that one day I’ll have to stop just to experience Kranjska Gora. The view of Prisojnik and Razor is magical. I almost crashed while trying to spot the second Prisojnik window, which I later discovered is not visible from the road. But I found the first one. Truly beautiful. With the right timing, you can even catch the sun shining through the mountain window. Wow!

Just shortly before the last roundabout leading to the gondola to Monte Lussari, there is a must-spot for a cappuccino, brioche, panini… I‘ve done a little bit of research on why coffee in Italy is so good and so cheap. Incredible. Especially given that the next day, when I travel to Austria, I will not be ordering coffee where it is at least double the price and not even close as good – instead I will be ordering a Skiwasser –one of the most famous Austrian inventions. And yet I will be only 10 kilometers away from here. Coffee is probably so good because they know how to prepare it; they make a lot of it and have roasteries in almost every village. So, the coffee never sits long in storage and is always freshly roasted. Just divine!

Veste kaj je zima za Bled? Nizka sezona. Še dobro. In švignem mimo v le par minutah. Nazaj grede se bom zagotovo ustavil na kremšniti. Ali pa kakšen drug dan.

Danes se mi mudi na kapučino in brioš, ker grem v Trbiž in na Svete Višarje. Ko brzim mimo Kranjske Gore, si obljubim, da bom en dan posvetil samo Kranjski Gori. Pogled proti Prisojniku in Razorju je čaroben. Skoraj se zaletim, ko iščem drugo Prisojnikovo okno, za katerega sem kasneje izvedel, da se s ceste pač ne vidi. Prvega sem pa našel. Res čudovito.

Pred zadnjim krožnim prometom za gondolo na Svete Višarje je "the place" za kapučino, brioš, panin ... Sem že raziskoval, zakaj je v Italiji kava tako dobra in tako poceni. Neverjetno. Sploh ob zavedanju, da ko bom naslednji dan v Avstriji, kave zagotovo ne bom naročil (bom pa »Ski Wasser«). Pa bom samo 10 km od tod. Kava je verjetno dobra zato, ker jo seveda znajo pripraviti, ker jo pripravijo ogromno in ker so pražarne skoraj v vsaki vasi. Tako kava ni dolgo skladiščena in je vedno sveže pražena. Božansko.

Photo | Fotografija: Nicola Brollo

Photo | Fotografija: Elio e Stefano Ciol

Photo | Fotografija: Luciano Gaudenzio

Just shortly before the last roundabout leading to the gondola to Monte Lussari, there is a must-spot for a cappuccino, brioche, panini…

Pred zadnjim krožnim prometom za gondolo na Svete Višarje je "the place" za kapučino, brioš, panin ...

The long gondola ride to Monte Lussari reveals that I’m in for some serious skiing today. A black run with 1,000 meters of vertical drop. Wow! How many runs will I make? If I go three or four times, it will be more than enough because I still want to explore the entire mountain ... but wait! There’s a whole village up here! With a little church. Well, I guess I should’ve expected it, after all this is Monte Lussari a famous pilgrimage place that attracts Pilgrims from all over the world. When I Googled Monte Lussari, the results showed Primož Roglič and the Giro d’Italia. I need to ask about this. Best over lunch. If there’s a whole village, there must surely be at least one restaurant.

I shoot down the run from top to bottom. My legs are burning a little. It’s no coincidence that teams from all over come to train here. Since this run faces north, I head South towards Florjanca, into the sun! What a view! While skiing, I can see three countries. The Julian Alps are truly breathtaking. Thank goodness we’re now in the EU, where borders are invisible but can still be tasted, heard, and smelled. What diversity in such a small area! I don’t know if I should consider myself rich because I have the opportunity to experience this or just because I recognize it. Regardless, I’m already hungry.

Dolga gondola na Svete Višarje mi da vedeti, da se bom danes nasmučal do onemoglosti. Črna proga in 1000 m višinske razlike. Wow! Koliko fur bom naredil! Če grem 3-krat, mogoče 4-krat, je že vrh glave, pa še cel hrib bi rad raziskal... Opa! Tu zgoraj je cela vas! S cerkvico. No ja, saj to bi lahko pričakoval, če so Svete Višarje. Hitro pogooglam in med zadetki za Višarje dobim Primož Roglič in Giro d‘Italia?!? Moram povprašati. Najbolje med kosilom. Verjetno ima vas vsaj eno gostilno!

Pičim eno od vrha do podna. Noge malo pečejo. Ni naključje, da tukaj trenirajo ekipe od blizu in daleč. Ker je ta proga na severni strani, se odpravim proti Florjanci, na sonce! Kakšni razgledi! Med smučanjem gledam v tri države. Julijci so res prekrasni. Še dobro, da smo sedaj v EU, kjer se meje sicer ne vidi, se jo pa okusi, sliši in zavoha. Kakšna raznolikost na tako majhnem območju! Saj ne vem, a bi se počutil bogat, ker imam možnost, da to izkusim ali pa sem bogat, ker to opazim. Kakorkoli, lačen sem že.

Photo | Fotografija: Luciano Gaudenzio

Photo | Fotografija: Nicola Brollo

Photo | Fotografija: Luciano Gaudenzio

Photo | Fotografija: Nicola Brollo

I descend into the valley. My legs feel different than this morning. There’s a little apres ski bar at the bottom, and I can already smell a Bombardino from here. How could I possibly ignore it?

Spustim se v dolino. Čutim, da noge niso več iste kot dopoldan. V izteku je jurček in do sem diši po bombardinu. Kako naj grem mimo?

Not just one, but several restaurants! I pick the one that catches my eye the most. I chose the dish called Piatto del Cacciatore – something hunting-related. I figure it must be something gamey because the mountain above the village is called Lovec/Cacciatore. What a divine choice! Mamma mia! Why not pair it with a glass of white wine? I look around. Nobody seems to be in a rush. Italians really know how to take their time during lunch. It’s sacred! Skiing can wait. They really say that in Italy you are happy at least three times a day. Lunch is one of them, and you can guess the other two. I simply love it. With some luck and broken Italian, I ask why Roglič, and first, I get an answer in Italian, which I don’t fully understand. Then the woman switches to German, a language I don’t know at all. Finally, she tries in English, noticing that I’m using skis from a Slovenian brand. Ah, now we’re getting somewhere. In 2023, Primož Roglič won the penultimate stage of the Giro d’Italia, and the road up here has been paved for this particular event. She enthusiastically informed me that there were thousands of people on the mountain during that crazy stage. I notice a queue of people waiting to place their orders, and she notices me observing. „They’ll wait,“ she laughs.

V vasi ni samo ene gostilne, ampak jih je več! Odločim se za eno, ki mi je najbolj padla v oči. PIATTO DEL CACCIATORE. Sklepam, da bo nekaj lovskega, saj se tudi hrib nad vasjo imenuje Lovec/Cacciatore. Božanska izbira! Mamma mia! In še kozarček belega za zraven. Pogledam okoli sebe. Nikomur se nikamor ne mudi. Italijani si res znajo vzeti čas za kosilo. To je sveto! Smučarija gor ali dol. Odločim se poskusiti srečo in lomim italijanščino, ko sprašujem, zakaj Roglič, pa dobim najprej odgovor v Italijanščini. Ker nisem najbolj razumel, gospa pove po nemško, kar sploh ne znam, nato se gospa trudi po angleško, ko opazi, da imam smuči slovenskega proizvajalca. No, sedaj se pa razumeva  . Leta 2023 je bil tukaj cilj predzadnje etape Gira d’Italia, kjer je zmagal Primož Roglič, od takrat naprej imajo tudi asfaltirano cesto in tedaj je bilo na hribu več tisoč ljudi in noro vzdušje, mi vzneseno pripoveduje. Opazim, da jo kar nekaj ljudi že čaka za naročilo. Ko vidi, da sem to opazil, se zasmeje: “Ma, bojo že počakali.”

I have finally caught up to the rhythm of this place. What’s the rush? I’m in no hurry at all. Piano, piano… slowly, slowly…

I descend into the valley. My legs feel different than this morning. There’s a little apres ski bar at the bottom, and I can already smell a Bombardino from here. How could I possibly ignore it?

Just a quick drive back to the hotel. The drive went by so fast that I didn’t even realize how quickly the drive had passed. I’ll pop into the wellness area for a quick recharge, and then plan tomorrow over dinner and a glass of wine. I’m going to run out of days! Where did I say I still had to go? Goldeck, Kranjska Gora, Sella Nevea, and nearby Sorica and Cerkno! Maybe I will extend my stay for a few more days...

Nalezel sem se tega tempa. Kam se mi mudi? Ma, prav nikamor. Lento, lento …, počasi, počasi …

Spustim se v dolino. Čutim, da noge niso več iste kot dopoldan. V izteku je jurček in do sem diši po bombardinu. Kako naj grem mimo?

Samo še parkiram pred hotelom. Vožnja je tako hitro minila, da niti ne vem, kako dolgo sem se vozil. Grem še na hitro v wellness podoživet današnji dan, potem pa ob kozarčku na večerji že načrtujem jutrišnji. Zmanjkalo mi bo dni! Kam sem že rekel, da še moram? Na Goldeck, pa v Kranjsko Goro, na Sello Neveo, pa na bližnjo Sorico in Cerkno! Mogoče pa podaljšam bivanje še za kak dan ...

Photo | Fotografija: Carlo Spaliviero

Nejc Jakopič

The sommelier who is changing the rules of the game

Sommelier, ki spreminja

pravila igre

In a world where hospitality is often shackled by outdated textbooks and established rules, Nejc Jakopič stands out—a sommelier who pushes boundaries and creates stories beyond merely serving wine

V svetu, kjer je gostinstvo pogosto ujeto v okove starih učbenikov in ustaljenih pravil, izstopa Nejc Jakopič – sommelier, ki premika meje in ustvarja zgodbe, ki presegajo zgolj postrežbo vina

Photos | fotografije: Matic Lipar Photography

So, what sets Nejc apart from others? According to him, it’s a combination of knowledge, experience, and a genuine relationship with guests.

Kaj torej loči Nejca od drugih? Po njegovih besedah gre za kombinacijo znanja, izkušenj in pristnega odnosa do gostov.

With his persistence, passion for wine, and unwavering spirit of a lion’s temperament, Nejc demonstrates that anyone can succeed in a field they love. However, this requires a commitment to knowledge, hard work, and a clear vision.

Overcoming prejudices

Nejc has always known what he wants—he is one of those fortunate individuals who has a clear vision for his future. “I have always known that my path leads to the world of tourism and hospitality,” he says. Even though the profession of a waiter is often undervalued in Slovenia, he held this role dear to his heart. Thus, he began attending the Radovljica Secondary School of Hospitality and Tourism and later continued his studies at the College of Hospitality and Tourism. “Since this profession is underrated, it made sense to have a backup plan,” he adds.

He lives in a region where tourism will always thrive—this was a sort of guarantee for him. Nonetheless, he knew he would have to put in significant effort to achieve his goals. At 25, he opened his own establishment, determined to learn everything he could. The work was not always easy—he held up to four jobs simultaneously at times, but that did not deter him. The first serious turning point came when Uroš Štefelin, the then-head chef and manager of the restaurant at Vila Podvin, invited him to join his team. There, he quickly took on the role of head waiter, where he first began to develop his passion for wine.

Sommelier: Profession or obsession?

“Wine can touch anyone—but only if you’re willing to delve deeper,” says Nejc, whose passion is evident. After successfully completing sommelier courses for level 1 and level 2, wine became more than just a profession for him; it became a way of life. “Once you start, wine completely captivates you. You can work just for a job, but it becomes an obsession if it truly draws you in. That’s when you become a true sommelier,” he smiles.

Nejc does not settle for the basics. For him, whether the wine is simple or prestigious, finding the right balance between quality and price is essential. His dedication has not gone unnoticed—he won a sommelier duel organized by Časnik Finance, further confirming his exceptional knowledge and original approach.

The secrets of a successful sommelier

So, what sets Nejc apart from others? According to him, it’s a combination of knowledge, experience, and a genuine relationship with guests. “I don’t like inauthentic stories used just to sell wine.” he explains. “The key question is whether the wine is good—does it match the price? If the price is higher, the wine must justify that price.” His approach is straightforward and honest. Nejc believes that sommeliers must continually educate themselves, visit wineries to understand the winemaking process, and, of course, taste as much as possible.

Ssvojo vztrajnostjo, strastjo do vina in neomajnim duhom levjega temperamenta, Nejc dokazuje, da lahko vsak postane uspešen v delu, ki ga obožuje. Za to pa je potrebno vlagati v znanje, trdo delo in imeti pravo vizijo.

Preseganje predsodkov

Nejc je vedno vedel, kaj si želi – je eden tistih srečnežev, ki ima jasno vizijo svoje prihodnosti. »Res sem vedno vedel, da me pot vodi v svet turizma in gostinstva,« pravi. Kljub temu, da je bil poklic natakarja v Sloveniji pogosto podcenjen, mu je bila ta vloga zelo pri srcu. Tako je pričel obiskovati Srednjo gostinsko in turistično šolo Radovljica in se nato tudi odločil za nadaljevanje študija na Visoki šoli za gostinstvo in turizem. »Ker je ta poklic podcenjen, je bilo smiselno imeti tudi rezervni načrt,« dodaja.

Živi v regiji, kjer bo turizma vedno dovolj – to je bila zanj neka vrsta garancije. Ne glede na to pa se je zavedal, da bo moral vložiti veliko truda, da bi dosegel svoje cilje. Tako je pri 25 letih odprl svoj lokal z odločnostjo, da se nauči vsega, kar lahko. Delo ni bilo vedno lahko – včasih je opravljal kar štiri službe hkrati, a ga to ni odvrnilo. Prva resna prelomnica se je zgodila, ko ga je Uroš Štefelin, takratni glavni chef in vodja restavracije v Vili Podvin, povabil, da se pridruži njegovi ekipi. Tam je kmalu prevzel vlogo vodje strežbe, kjer je prvič začel razvijati strast do vina.

Sommelier: poklic ali obsesija?

»Vino se lahko dotakne vsakega – a le, če si pripravljen iti globlje,« pravi Nejc, pri katerem je ta strast očitna. Po uspešno opravljenih tečajih za sommelierja 1 in 2 je vino zanj postalo več kot le poklic; postalo je način življenja. »Ko enkrat začneš, te vino povsem prevzame. Lahko delaš samo zaradi službe, a če te zares potegne, postane obsesija. Takrat postaneš pravi sommelier,« se nasmehne.

Nejc se ne zadovolji z osnovami. Zanj je ključno najti pravo razmerje med kakovostjo in ceno, ne glede na to, ali je vino preprosto ali prestižno. Njegova predanost pa ni ostala neopažena – zmagal je na tekmovanju, ki ga je organiziral Časnik Finance, kar je le še potrdilo njegovo izjemno znanje in izviren pristop.

Skrivnosti uspešnega sommelierja

Kaj torej loči Nejca od drugih? Po njegovih besedah gre za kombinacijo znanja, izkušenj in pristnega odnosa do gostov. »Ne maram lažnih zgodbic, ki prodajajo (slaba, op. a.) vina,« pojasnjuje. »Ključno je, ali je vino dobro – ali ustreza ceni. Če je cena višja, mora vino to ceno opravičiti.« Njegov pristop je jasen in pošten. Nejc verjame, da se morajo sommelierji nenehno izobraževati, obiskovati vinarje, da bi razumeli proces pridelave vina, in seveda – čim več okušati.

Nejc Jakopič’s five commandments for an excellent sommelier

1. Continuous education.

2. Visits to wineries and winemakers.

3. Tasting— as much as possible!

4. Honest relationship with guests.

5. Stay true to yourself and share your knowledge.

Pet zapovedi Nejca Jakopiča za odličnega sommelierja

1. Nenehno izobraževanje.

2. Obiski vinskih kleti in vinarjev.

3. Okušanje – čim več!

4. Pošten odnos do gostov.

5. Ostani zvest sebi in deli svoje znanje.

How to find the perfect wine?

Nejc believes that the perfect wine does not exist as a single taste but is the result of numerous trials and experiences. “We are trained alcoholics,” he jokes. “You have to taste a lot of wine to know what is good and what is not.”

When it comes to pairing food and wine, Nejc emphasizes the importance of collaboration with chefs. “The key is not just in the type of meat but in the entire dish—from sauces to spices,” he says. Often, it’s the sauces and spices that dictate the choice of wine, with orange wines frequently proving to solve many culinary dilemmas.

Kako najti popolno vino?

Nejc verjame, da popolno vino ne obstaja samo kot en sam okus, temveč je rezultat številnih poskusov in izkušenj. »Smo šolani alkoholiki,« se pošali. »Moraš preizkusiti ogromno vina, da veš, kaj je dobro in kaj ni.«

Pri kombiniranju hrane in vina pa Nejc izpostavlja pomembnost sodelovanja s chefi. »Ključ ni samo v vrsti mesa, ampak v celotnem krožniku – od omak do začimb,« pravi. Največkrat prav omake in začimbe narekujejo izbiro vina, in pri tem se pogosto izkažejo oranžna vina, ki lahko rešijo marsikatero zagato v kuhinji.

Nejc’s path forward

Despite his success, Nejc remains humble. When asked if he would change anything on his journey, he answers firmly: “No. Every experience, even the difficult ones, has shaped me. It wasn’t easy, but I always had the vision that my work would be more than just waiting tables.” Now, he serves not only as a sommelier but also as the F&B Manager at Hotel Bohinj and Vila Muhr / Alpinia, where he proudly co-creates stories that transcend ordinary hospitality.

“At Alpinia, I finally found the right freedom—the trust to create according to my principles. There are no limits here, only open doors for new ideas. This space allows me to truly live my work and leave my personal mark in the way I have always wanted.”

Nejčeva pot naprej

Kljub uspehu Nejc ostaja skromen. Na vprašanje, ali bi na svoji poti kaj spremenil, odločno odgovarja: »Ne. Vsaka izkušnja, pa čeprav težka, me je oblikovala. Ni bilo lahko, vendar sem vedno imel vizijo, da bo moje delo več kot samo natakarstvo.« Zdaj je v vlogi ne samo sommelierja temveč tudi vodje gostinstva v Hotelu Bohinj in Vili Muhr/podjetju Alpinia, kjer s ponosom soustvarja zgodbe, ki presegajo meje običajnega gostinstva.

»V podjetju Alpinia sem končno našel tisto pravo svobodo – zaupanje, da lahko ustvarjam po svojih načelih. Tukaj ni meja, le odprta vrata za nove ideje. Ta prostor mi omogoča, da svoje delo resnično živim in v njem pustim svoj osebni pečat, na način, kot sem si ga vedno želel.«

UGC kind of life

UGC način življenja

Author | avtor: Sara Dakić

Photos | fotografije: private archive/zasebni arhiv

Behind carefully crafted scenes and polished photos lies the ‘authenticity’ of content creators to connect with their audience and showcase their daily lives as they truly are

Za skrbno zasnovanimi prizori in dodelanimi fotografijami se skriva iskren trud ustvarjalcev vsebin, da se povežejo s svojo publiko in prikažejo svoje vsakdanje življenje takšno, kot v resnici je

With the development of social networks like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, individuals have gained platforms to share their content with millions of people. Unlike traditional media, these platforms allow anyone with an internet connection to showcase their life stories, interests, and talents. More and more people are actively participating in content creation, and this rise has dramatically transformed how individuals experience digital media. Through authentic stories, experiences, and creativity, users not only shape their identity but also influence the market. This lifestyle has been named the “UGC kind of life.”

The term “UGC kind of life,” explained most simply, refers to a lifestyle focused on content creation on social networks (User-Generated Content), whether it’s documenting daily activities or personal experiences with a particular brand. Living the “UGC kind of life” means being part of a trend where people enjoy creating and sharing content about their lives, with brands often supporting this through collaborations that generate authentic and accessible content.

Zrazvojem družbenih omrežij, kot so Instagram, TikTok in YouTube, so posamezniki pridobili platforme, na katerih lahko svoje vsebine delijo z milijoni ljudi. V nasprotju s tradicionalnimi mediji te platforme vsakomur z internetno povezavo omogočajo, da predstavi svoje življenjske zgodbe, zanimanja in talente. Čedalje več ljudi aktivno sodeluje pri ustvarjanju vsebin, ta porast pa je drastično spremenil način, kako posamezniki doživljajo digitalne medije. Skozi avtentične zgodbe, izkušnje in kreativnost uporabniki ne oblikujejo le svoje identitete, temveč tudi vplivajo na trg. Ta način življenja so poimenovali »UGC način življenja«.

Fraza »UGC način življenja« se nanaša na življenjski slog, osredotočen na ustvarjanje vsebin na družbenih omrežjih (vsebine, ki jih ustvarjajo uporabniki), ne glede na to, ali gre za dokumentiranje vsakodnevnih dejavnosti ali osebnih izkušenj z določenimi blagovnimi znamkami. Živeti »UGC način življenja« pomeni biti del trenda, kjer ljudje uživajo v ustvarjanju in deljenju vsebin o svojih življenjih, pri čemer blagovne znamke to pogosto podpirajo s sodelovanjem, ki ustvarja avtentične in dostopne vsebine.

In other words, it’s a lifestyle in which people are not passive but active creators, contributing to the vast pool of online content through photos, videos, reviews, and social media posts. Such content is effective in marketing because of its authenticity, making it a contrast to traditional advertising, which often feels impersonal or staged. This helps brands build stronger connections with consumers.

Companies have recognized this shift and are increasingly integrating UGC into their marketing strategies, leveraging its organic appeal. For example, a positive user review or an Instagram post tagging a product often carries more credibility than a brand’s official advertisement. People trust their peers’ recommendations and experiences, leading to a more authentic form of digital interaction.

The average cost of hiring an influencer to promote a specific product can be staggering, while UGC creators typically have lower collaboration costs. UGC creators often come from specific niches and have an audience that trusts them. Consumers prefer real and authentic content rather than just paid promotions.

Synonyms for the “UGC kind of life” are Kylie Jenner and Chiara Ferragni, who have built their empires by integrating personal stories with brands. For example, Kylie Jenner’s presence on social networks is not just about promoting her cosmetic line; it’s about sharing her life and personal journey, which makes her audience feel connected and invested. Similarly, Chiara Ferragni, known for her fashion blog, uses her platform to merge personal style with brand collaborations, showing how everyday moments can connect with high fashion.

Z drugimi besedami, gre za življenjski slog, v katerem ljudje niso pasivni, temveč aktivni ustvarjalci, ki prispevajo k obsežnemu bazenu spletnih vsebin skozi fotografije, videoposnetke, ocene in objave na družbenih omrežjih. Takšne vsebine so učinkovite v trženju zaradi svoje avtentičnosti, kar jih postavlja v kontrast do tradicionalnega oglaševanja, ki pogosto deluje brezosebno ali postavljeno. To pomaga blagovnim znamkam zgraditi močnejše povezave s potrošniki.

Podjetja so prepoznala to spremembo in vse bolj vključujejo UGC v svoje trženjske strategije, saj izkoriščajo njegovo organsko privlačnost. Na primer, pozitivna ocena uporabnika ali objava na Instagramu, ki označuje izdelek, pogosto nosi večjo verodostojnost kot uradno oglaševanje blagovne znamke. Ljudje zaupajo priporočilom in izkušnjam, ki jih delijo njihovi vrstniki, kar vodi do bolj avtentične oblike digitalne interakcije.

Povprečni stroški najema vplivneža za promocijo določenega izdelka lahko dosežejo osupljive zneske, medtem ko so stroški sodelovanja z ustvarjalci UGC običajno nižji. Ustvarjalci UGC pogosto prihajajo iz specifičnih niš in imajo občinstvo, ki jim zaupa. Potrošniki raje vidijo vsebine, ki izgledajo resnično in avtentično, namesto zgolj plačanih promocij.

Sinonimi za »UGC način življenja« so Kylie Jenner in Chiara Ferragni, ki sta zgradili svoja imperija z integracijo osebnih zgodb z blagovnimi znamkami. Na primer, Kylie Jenner na svojih družbenih omrežjih ne promovira le svoje kozmetične linije; gre za deljenje njenega življenja in osebne poti, kar njeno občinstvo povezuje in zanima. Podobno Chiara Ferragni, znana po svojem modnem blogu, uporablja svojo platformo za združevanje osebnega stila z blagovnimi sodelovanji, kar kaže, kako lahko vsakdanje trenutke povežemo z visoko modo.

This way of creating content has opened up opportunities for individuals to build personal brands, even without celebrity status. In our region, the standouts are Lara Kamnik and Andrea Andrassy.

Lara Kamnik is a Slovenian content creator known for her Instagram account @your_passport, where she shares stunning travel photography and experiences from around the world. She initially worked as a journalist before shifting her focus to travel and lifestyle content full-time. Together with her partner Uroš Polajžer, who is also involved in photography, she collaborates on creating captivating travel visuals and stories. The couple travels extensively, capturing breathtaking moments from around the world through Passage & Passport, a travel and lifestyle brand that includes both a blog and an online shop.

Andrea Andrassy is best known for her humorous personality. She gained significant recognition for being the first Croatian woman to appear on Comedy Central, marking a notable achievement in her

Ta način ustvarjanja vsebin je odprl priložnosti za posameznike, da zgradijo osebne blagovne znamke, tudi brez statusa zvezdnika. V naši regiji izstopata Lara Kamnik in Andrea Andrassy.

Lara je slovenska ustvarjalka vsebin, znana po svojem Instagram profilu @your_passport, kjer deli osupljive potovalne fotografije in izkušnje z vsega sveta. Sprva je delala kot novinarka, preden se je popolnoma osredotočila na potovalne in življenjske vsebine. Skupaj s svojim partnerjem Urošem Polajžerjem, ki se prav tako ukvarja s fotografijo, sodelujeta pri ustvarjanju privlačnih potovalnih vizualov in zgodb. Par obsežno potuje in zajema osupljive trenutke iz celega sveta preko Passage & Passport, blagovne znamke za potovanja in življenjski slog, ki vključuje tako blog kot spletno trgovino.

Andrea Andrassy je najbolje poznana po svoji humorni osebnosti. Pomembno prepoznavnost je pridobila kot prva hrvaška ženska, ki se je pojavila na Comedy Central, kar je pomemben dosežek v njeni karieri. Po -

career. Beyond her comedy career, Andrassy is also an accomplished lifestyle blogger and content creator. She emphasizes the importance of authenticity in her work, stating that she connects deeply with her audience by sharing genuine moments. She makes content in which many will recognize themselves. She has also written a few books in her recognizable style – witty, emotional, and without a hair on her tongue.

Behind carefully crafted scenes and polished photos lies the genuine effort of these two content creators to connect with their audience and showcase their daily lives as they truly are. Despite the diversity of content they create, they both share the same approach: sharing authentic, everyday moments to bring themselves closer to their audience through honesty and openness. “I’m inspired to share everyday moments because I love connecting with people and showing that daily life can be beautiful, whether at home or on the road,” says Kamnik, adding, “while authenticity comes naturally by sharing experiences I genuinely love and believe in.”

“In the content I post, I make sure it’s honest and authentic, meaning it reflects real life,” says Andrassy. She doesn’t rely on a team of videographers or photographers. “I know that wouldn’t be an authentic depiction of my daily life,” she explains. With her followers, she loves to share moments that bring her joy, such as being at a great concert. “Sometimes I go overboard with the number of stories, but I just can’t help myself,” she admits.

This lifestyle brings its own set of challenges, whether it’s finding a balance between private and public life, maintaining authenticity in sponsored posts, or managing follower expectations and criticism.

For Kamnik, balancing her personal life with consistent content creation is the biggest challenge. “I overcame this by planning ahead and recording multiple pieces of content in one session,” she explains. She adds that feedback from her followers helps her understand what resonates most with her audience, which influences how she creates content.

Andrassy’s most significant challenge lies in meeting tight deadlines or when a client has content ideas that conflict with her own. Still, she is firm in her values and admits she chooses to decline collaborations in such situations. Sometimes, self-criticism is a struggle for her, as she questions, “Why would anyone be interested in this?” But she’s working on being less critical of her ideas. “The most valuable feedback is for my column – it’s not always positive, but even when it’s negative, it makes me reflect and strive to turn it into something positive,” Andrassy says.

They believe that UGC will continue growing as brands and audiences seek relatable, real-life content. The focus will likely shift toward more engaging, interactive formats such as short videos and live content.

Their advice: Kamnik says, “Start by sharing what interests you, be authentic, and stay consistent.” Andrassy agrees: “The most important thing is to be authentic and true to yourself; don’t prioritize trends that don’t fit your life just because they bring views. Your unique perspective is what will attract an audience. If your content is good and interesting to people, the audience will recognize it eventually. It doesn’t make sense to take shortcuts that only hinder your hard work, and buying followers, among other things, guarantees that no potential client will hire you,” she says.

leg svoje komedijske kariere je Andrassy tudi uspešna lifestyle blogerka in ustvarjalka vsebin. Poudarja pomen avtentičnosti v svojem delu, saj trdi, da se globoko povezuje s svojo publiko, ko deli iskrene trenutke. Ustvarja vsebine, v katerih se mnogi prepoznajo. Napisala je tudi nekaj knjig v svojem prepoznavnem slogu – duhovito, čustveno in brez dlake na jeziku.

Izza skrbno zasnovanih prizorov in dodelanih fotografij se skriva iskren trud teh dveh ustvarjalcev vsebin, da se povežeta s svojo publiko in prikažeta svoje vsakdanje življenje takšno, kot v resnici je. Kljub raznolikosti vsebin, ki jih ustvarjata, oba delita enak pristop: deljenje avtentičnih, vsakodnevnih trenutkov, da se preko poštenosti in odprtosti približata svoji publiki. »Navdihuje me deliti vsakdanje trenutke, ker rada povezujem z ljudmi in kažem, da je vsakdanje življenje lahko lepo, bodisi doma bodisi na poti,« pravi Kamnik in dodaja: »medtem ko avtentičnost naravno pride z deljenjem izkušenj, ki jih resnično imam rada in verjamem vanje«.

»V objavljenih vsebinah vedno poskrbim, da so iskrene in avtentične, kar pomeni, da odražajo resnično življenje,« pravi Andrassy. Ne zanaša se na ekipo videografov ali fotografov. »Vem, da to ne bi bila avtentična predstavitev mojega vsakdana,« pojasnjuje. S svojimi sledilci rada deli trenutke, ki ji prinašajo veselje, na primer, ko je na odličnem koncertu. »Včasih pretiravam s številom zgodb, ampak preprosto se ne morem upreti,« priznava.

Ta življenjski slog prinaša tudi svoje izzive, ne glede na to, ali gre za iskanje ravnotežja med zasebnim in javnim življenjem, ohranjanje avtentičnosti v sponzoriranih objavah ali upravljanje pričakovanj in kritike sledilcev.

Za Kamnik je največji izziv usklajevanje njenega osebnega življenja s stalnim ustvarjanjem vsebin. »To sem premagala z načrtovanjem vnaprej in snemanjem več kosov vsebin v eni seji,« pojasnjuje. Dodaja, da ji povratne informacije njenih sledilcev pomagajo razumeti, kaj najbolj odmeva pri njenem občinstvu, kar vpliva na način, kako ustvarja vsebine.

Za Andrassy je največji izziv, da izpolni tesne roke ali ko ima stranka ideje za vsebine, ki se ne ujemajo z njenimi. Kljub temu upošteva svoje vrednote in priznava, da v takšnih situacijah raje zavrne sodelovanje. Včasih se bori s samokritiko, saj se sprašuje: »Zakaj bi koga to zanimalo?« Toda deluje na tem, da bi bila manj kritična do svojih idej. »Najbolj dragocene so povratne informacije, ki pa niso vedno pozitivne - ko so negativne, me prisilijo, da razmislim in poskušam to spremeniti v nekaj pozitivnega,« pravi Andrassy.

Verjamejo, da bo UGC še naprej rasel, saj tako blagovne znamke kot občinstvo iščejo povezane vsebine iz resničnega življenja. Poudarek se bo verjetno preusmeril na bolj privlačne, interaktivne formate, kot so kratki videoposnetki in vsebine v živo.

Njihov nasvet: Kamnik pravi, „Začnite z deljenjem tega, kar vas zanima, bodite pristni in ostanite dosledni.« Andrassy se strinja: »Najpomembnejše je, da ste pristni in zvesti sebi; ne dajte prednosti trendom, ki ne ustrezajo vašemu življenju samo zato, ker prinašajo poglede. Vaša edinstvena perspektiva je tisto, kar bo pritegnilo občinstvo. Če je vaša vsebina dobra in zanimiva za ljudi, jo bo občinstvo sčasoma prepoznalo. Ni smiselno uporabljati bližnjic, ki le ovirajo vaše trdo delo, nakup sledilcev pa med drugim zagotavlja, da vas nobena potencialna stranka ne bo zaposlila,« pravi.

Combine your passion for sports with your love of fashion

Združite strast do športa z ljubeznijo do mode

Shoes

The Elixir MID GORE-TEX is a top-tier mid-cut hiking shoe from Salomon, made for long journeys. Designed for lovers of grand mountain adventures, it features soft, balanced cushioning for comfort and tactility, along with a waterproof membrane for demanding conditions.

Čevlji

Čevlji Elixir MID GORE-TEX so vrhunski pohodniški čevlji srednje višine blagovne znamke Salomon, ustvarjeni za dolge poti. Namenjeni so ljubiteljem gorskih avantur, saj ponujajo mehko in uravnoteženo oblazinjenje ter nepremočljivo membrano za zahtevne razmere.

Bike

The e-expl 520 electric mountain bike with 29” wheels is an excellent choice for riders who enjoy the outdoors and the wonders of nature. Designed for all-terrain rides on challenging trails with moderate climbs (hilly and mountainous paths).

Kolo

Električno gorsko kolo e-expl 520 z 29-palčnimi kolesi je odlična izbira za kolesarje, ki radi uživajo na prostem in se prepustijo čarom narave. Zasnovano je za vožnjo po vseh terenih na zahtevnih poteh z zmernimi vzponi (hribovite in gorske poti). www.decathlon.si

Perfume

Bleu de Chanel in a mysterious blue bottle encapsulates a man who independently and decisively chooses his destiny—a man who defies conventions. Fresh, clean, and deeply sensual, this woody and aromatic fragrance is for the bold.

Parfum

Bleu de Chanel v skrivnostni modri steklenički ujame bistvo moškega, ki samostojno in odločno izbira svojo usodo – moškega, ki kljubuje konvencijam. Svež, čist in globoko čuten, lesen in aromatičen vonj za drzne. www.chanel.com

Skiing, cycling, and hiking are not just hobbies – they are a way of life. Discover how to merge practicality and style with clothing, footwear, and accessories that will accompany you on all your outdoor adventures.

Smučanje, kolesarjenje in pohodništvo niso samo hobiji – so način življenja. Odkrijte, kako združiti praktičnost in slog z oblačili, obutvijo in dodatki, ki vas bodo spremljali na vseh vaših pustolovščinah na prostem.

asymmetrical upper edge, offers an intriguing fashion choice with guaranteed comfort. Additionally, the lightweight and flexible EVA sole and UGGpure™ insole provide extra comfort.

Čevlji

Model Tasman z UGG® pletenico na asimetričnem zgornjem robu nudi udobje in modno noto. Poleg tega lahka in prilagodljiva EVA podplata ter vložek UGGpure™ zagotavljata dodatno udobje. www.ugg.com

Jacket

A lightweight jacket from the Porsche Design collection featuring laser-cut ventilation under the arms and high-quality detailing in classic black is perfect for completing your urban outfit.

Jakna

Lahka jakna iz kolekcije Porsche Design z lasersko izrezano ventilacijo pod pazduho in visokokakovostnimi detajli v klasični črni barvi je popolna za urbani videz. www.porsche-design.com

TUDOR Pelagos FXD Chrono “Cycling wristwatch features a carbon composite case and is equipped with the high-performance MT3813 Manufacture Caliber. Extremely lightweight and functional, it’s perfect for professional and amateur cyclists alike.

Ura

Nova ročna ura TUDOR Pelagos FXD Chrono Cycling Edition ima ohišje iz karbonskega kompozita in visokozmogljiv kaliber MT3813. Izjemno lahka in funkcionalna ura je idealna tako za profesionalne kot za ljubiteljske kolesarje. www.malalan.eu

Ski suit

The Antuco Jacket and Pants by Moncler Grenoble are designed with alpine skiing in mind, combining sophisticated design with performanceoriented features. This ski suit is crafted from water- and wind-resistant fabric, offering ideal protection for extreme conditions atop the mountain.

Smučarska obleka

Jakna in hlače Antuco Moncler Grenoble sta zasnovana z mislijo na alpsko smučanje in združujeta prefinjen dizajn ter lastnosti, usmerjene v zmogljivost. Obleka je izdelana iz materiala, odpornega proti vodi in vetru, ter zagotavlja idealno zaščito za ekstremne razmere na vrhu gore. www.moncler.com

Gloves

Gloves made from high-quality napa leather combine Porsche’s signature sporty spirit with elegance. Their comfortable fit means you won’t want to take them off, and thanks to Touch Tec on the index finger and thumb, you don’t have to, even when operating your smartphone.

Rokavice

Rokavice iz visokokakovostnega napa usnja združujejo tipičen Porschejev športni duh z eleganco. Zahvaljujoč Touch Tec na kazalcu in palcu jih lahko uporabljate tudi pri upravljanju pametnega telefona. www.porsche-design.com

This suit is the perfect choice for alpine skiing. The material is designed to keep you dry in all weather conditions while also helping to regulate body temperature with breathable properties.

Smučarska obleka

Ta obleka je odlična izbira za alpsko smučanje. Material je zasnovan tako, da vas ohranja suhe v vseh vremenskih razmerah, hkrati pa pomaga uravnavati telesno temperaturo z zračnimi lastnostmi. www.moncler.com

In the 1960s, diving was in vogue. For divers, timing was everything, and Breitling gave them the perfect watch. Besides its flawless underwater mechanics, people fell in love with its design.

V šestdesetih letih prejšnjega stoletja je bilo potapljanje zelo priljubljeno. Breitling je takrat ustvaril popolno uro za potapljače – z brezhibnim mehanizmom za uporabo pod vodo in čudovitim dizajnom. www.malalan.eu

Perfume

Chanel Coco Mademoiselle Eau de Parfum elegantly captures the essence of a bold lady. This iconic French perfume allows you to rediscover your lost temperament, sensuality, and charming provocativeness every day.

Parfum

Parfumska voda Chanel Coco Mademoiselle elegantno zajema bistvo samozavestne dame. S tem kultnim francoskim parfumom vsak dan znova odkrivajte svojo strast, čutnost in šarmantno provokativnost. www.chanel.com

Salomon Crosstrak Waterproof Boots are ideal for all outdoor activities requiring a combination of comfort, durability, and performance. Waterproof and reliable, these boots are perfect for outdoor adventurers.

Salomon Crosstrak Waterproof so idealni za vse aktivnosti na prostem, kjer je potrebna kombinacija udobja, vzdržljivosti in zmogljivosti. Vodoodporni in zanesljivi čevlji so popolna izbira za ljubitelje narave.

Vest

The front of the women’s cycling vest is made of windstop material, a dense knit without a membrane, while the back is made of elastic knit for better body fit. The material is durable and suitable for frequent washing.

Telovnik

Sprednji del ženskega kolesarskega telovnika je izdelan iz materiala, odpornega za veter, zadnji del pa iz elastičnega pletiva za boljše prileganje telesu. Material je trpežen in primeren za pogosto pranje. www.andraz.si

Bike

The 920 e Connect LF e-bike comes with integrated electronics, allowing you to connect it to your smartphone and transform it into a “superbike,” meaning you can track its location anytime.

Kolo

Električno kolo 920 e Connect LF ima integrirano elektroniko, ki omogoča povezavo s pametnim telefonom, kar ga spremeni v

The Funkarra Cabin Cuff model by UGG is made from sheepskin velour. Characterized by the UGG label on the heel, it features a specially designed EVA outsole and sugarcane-derived EVA midsole for added comfort.

Čevlji

Model Funkarra Cabin Cuff proizvajalca UGG je izde lan iz ovčjega velurja. Odlikujeta ga etiketa UGG na peti in posebej oblikovana podplata EVA za dodatno udobje. www.ugg.com

As the colder months set in, Slovenia transforms into a wonderland of breathtaking landscapes and countless opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and simply enjoying nature. Amidst these seasonal delights, it’s important to remember to care for our skin, as the cold, wind, and dry air can take a toll on our health.

Z nastopom hladnejših mesecev se Slovenija spremeni v čudovito pokrajino, ki ponuja nešteto priložnosti za zunanje aktivnosti, kot so pohodništvo, smučanje ali preprosto uživanje v naravi. Ob vseh teh sezonskih radostih pa ne smemo pozabiti na skrb za kožo, saj lahko mraz, veter in suh zrak močno vplivajo na naše zdravje.

Exposure to low temperatures, wind, and dry air can cause dryness, redness, and irritation. Also, don’t be deceived by gloomy weather; UV radiation is strongest in the summer, but even when it’s cloudy, up to 80% of UV rays can pass through the clouds. Skin needs sun protection year-round, as daily exposure can have long-term effects. With proper care, protective measures, and awareness of your skin’s needs, you can enjoy all the charms of winter without worrying about its health.

Protect your skin from the cold with layered and warm clothing, and don’t forget a hat, scarf, and gloves; these areas are most exposed during the colder months. It’s also crucial to prepare your skin for the change in temperature and give it special attention after prolonged exposure to the cold.

Lips and hands are susceptible to cold, so increasing your skincare in winter is essential. Lip balms and protective hand creams are very popular. They often contain honey, calendula oil, or vitamin E, which help regenerate skin and prevent cracking.

Facial and body care in colder weather often involves richer creams with ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, and beeswax. These natural ingredients help retain moisture and create a protective barrier on the skin, which is essential in combating dryness and irritation caused by cold weather.

One of the greatest advantages of natural cosmetics is its ability to adapt to different skin types and their specific needs, offering nourishment and soothing without added chemicals. Parabens, sulfates, and synthetic fragrances are often associated with allergic reactions and skin irritation. In addition to being effective, natural products often come with less packaging and use eco-friendly materials, reducing waste. This practice not only helps preserve nature but also encourages consumers to think about their impact on the environment.

Izpostavljenost nizkim temperaturam, vetru in suhemu zraku lahko povzroči izsuševanje, rdečico in draženje. Prav tako se ne pustite zavesti oblačnemu vremenu; UV-sevanje je najmočnejše poleti, vendar lahko celo ob oblačnih dneh do 80 % UV-žarkov prodre skozi oblake. Kožo je treba zaščititi pred soncem skozi vse leto, saj ima vsakodnevna izpostavljenost lahko dolgoročne posledice. S pravilno nego, zaščitnimi ukrepi in zavedanjem o potrebah svoje kože lahko uživate v vseh čarih zime, ne da bi vas skrbelo za njeno zdravje.

Z večplastnimi in toplimi oblačili zaščitite svojo kožo pred mrazom, ne pozabite na kapo, šal in rokavice, saj so ti deli telesa pozimi najbolj izpostavljeni. Prav tako je izjemno pomembno pripraviti kožo na spremembo vremena in ji nameniti posebno pozornost po daljši izpostavljenosti mrazu.

Ustnice in roke so pozimi še posebej občutljive na mraz, zato je v tem času treba dodatno okrepiti nego kože. Balzami za ustnice in zaščitne kreme za roke so zelo priljubljeni. Pogosto vsebujejo med, ognjičevo olje ali vitamin E, ki pomagajo pri regeneraciji kože in preprečujejo občutljivost.

Nega obraza in telesa v hladnejšem vremenu pogosto vključuje nekoliko bolj mastne kreme, s sestavinami, kot so karitejevo maslo, kokosovo olje in čebelji vosek. Te naravne sestavine pomagajo ohranjati vlago in ustvarjajo zaščitni sloj na koži, kar je ključno v boju proti suhosti in draženju, ki ju povzroča hladno vreme.

Ena največjih prednosti naravne kozmetike je njena sposobnost prilagajanja različnim tipom kože in njihovim specifičnim potrebam, saj neguje in pomirja kožo brez dodanih kemikalij. Parabeni, sulfati in sintetične dišave so pogosto povezani z alergijskimi reakcijami in draženjem kože. Poleg tega so naravni izdelki učinkoviti, pogosto pa imajo tudi manj embalaže in uporabljajo okolju prijazne materiale, kar zmanjšuje odpadke. Ta praksa ne le prispeva k ohranjanju narave, ampak spodbuja tudi potrošnike, da razmišljajo o svojem vplivu na okolje.

In Slovenia, we are aware of cosmetic products’ impact on the environment, which is why more and more people are choosing natural and eco-friendly cosmetics. Slovenia is a small country rich in natural resources and one of the greenest in Europe, with almost 60% of its territory covered by forests. The connection with nature is reflected in people’s daily lives, who actively support sustainable practices in various spheres, from the economy to personal habits.

V Sloveniji se zavedamo vpliva, ki ga imajo kozmetični izdelki lahko na okolje, zato vse pogosteje izbiramo naravno in okolju prijazno kozmetiko. Slovenija je majhna država, bogata z naravnimi viri, in ena najbolj zelenih v Evropi, saj je skoraj 60 % njenega ozemlja pokritega z gozdovi. Povezanost z naravo se odraža tudi v vsakdanjem življenju ljudi, ki aktivno podpirajo trajnostne prakse v različnih sferah, od gospodarstva do osebnih navad.

Many brands today emphasize sustainability and ecological responsibility, so you can find ecological certificates and labels on products, such as cruelty-free or zero waste, which further attract consumers who want to contribute to preserving nature, biodiversity, and protecting the planet.

As the world increasingly turns toward sustainability and health, natural cosmetics are becoming a key component of daily skincare. Sustainability, ethics, and natural ingredients are becoming essential factors in choosing cosmetics in Slovenia, contributing to preserving nature and reducing harmful impacts on the environment and our skin’s health.

Številne blagovne znamke danes poudarjajo trajnost in ekološko odgovornost, zato lahko na izdelkih najdemo ekološke certifikate in oznake, kot sta »cruelty free« ali »zero waste«, kar dodatno privablja potrošnike, ki želijo prispevati k ohranjanju narave, biotske raznovrstnosti in zaščiti planeta na splošno.

Ker se svet vse bolj usmerja k trajnosti in zdravju, postaja naravna kozmetika ključna sestavina vsakodnevne nege. Trajnost, etičnost in naravne sestavine postajajo pomembni dejavniki pri izbiri kozmetike v Sloveniji, kar prispeva k ohranjanju narave in zmanjšanju škodljivih vplivov na okolje ter zdravje naše kože.

Discover the secrets of relaxation in saunas

Odkrijte skrivnosti sproščanja v savnah

Photos | fotografije: Žiga Intihar

As temperatures drop, it’s time to focus more on health and well-being. Sauna sessions during colder days are not just a luxury; they are a natural therapy that positively impacts both body and soul.

Ko se temperature spustijo, je čas, da se še bolj osredotočimo na zdravje in dobro počutje. Savnanje v hladnejših dneh ni zgolj razkošje; gre za naravno terapijo, ki blagodejno vpliva na naše telo in dušo.

WHY IS THE SAUNA IMPORTANT IN COLDER DAYS?

When entering the Turkish sauna, which typically has a temperature range of 45º to 65º C and humidity between 40% and 65%, our bodies begin to heat up. This leads to the opening of pores and encourages deep cleansing. This moment is ideal for exfoliation, which further cleanses the skin and restores its freshness. After refreshing in the Turkish sauna, the Finnish sauna, with temperatures reaching up to 100°C, is the next step that allows for rapid body heating. Spending up to 15 minutes in the Finnish sauna or until the temperature is comfortable to avoid overheating is recommended.

While enjoying this relaxation, don’t forget one of the most effective techniques for improving circulation and overall well-being: the Kneipp method. This method involves alternating between the heat of the Finnish sauna and cooling with ice or changing water temperatures when soaking feet. This approach activates the immune system and strengthens our bodies, which is especially important during periods when we are exposed to various viral illnesses.

SAUNA RITUALS FOR ADDITIONAL RELAXATION

At the wellness centre of Hotel Bohinj, we host sauna rituals on special occasions, allowing guests to have an even more immersive relaxation experience. In the Finnish sauna, we perform air-swirling techniques such as Aufguss and Loyly, using natural aromas that enhance our well-being. The salt room also helps calm the mind and body, alleviating breathing issues, improving the immune system, and reducing stress.

ZAKAJ JE SAVNANJE POMEMBNO V HLADNEJŠIH DNEH?

Ko vstopimo v turško savno, katere temperatura se običajno giblje od 45 do 65 °C, ob vlažnosti med 40 in 65 %, se naše telo začne ogrevati. To vodi do odpiranja por in spodbuja globinsko čiščenje. Ta trenutek je idealen za piling, ki dodatno očisti kožo in ji povrne svežino. Po osvežitvi v turški savni je finska savna s temperaturo do 100 °C naslednji korak, ki omogoča hitro segrevanje telesa. Priporočamo, da v finski savni preživite do 15 minut oziroma dokler vam temperatura ustreza, da se telo ne pregreje.

Medtem ko uživate v tem sproščanju, ne pozabite na eno izmed najučinkovitejših tehnik za izboljšanje cirkulacije in splošnega počutja: knajpanje. Ta metoda vključuje prehod med toploto finske savne in hlajenjem z ledom ali spremembo temperature vode pri namakanju nog. Tak pristop aktivira imunski sistem in krepi naše telo, kar je še posebej pomembno v obdobjih, ko smo izpostavljeni različnim virusnim obolenjem.

SAVNA RITUALI ZA DODATNO SPROSTITEV

V wellnessu Hotela Bohinj ob posebnih priložnostih prirejamo savna rituale, ki gostom omogočajo še bolj poglobljeno izkušnjo sproščanja. V finski savni izvajamo vrtinčenja zraka po tehnikah Aufguss in Loyly, pri čemer uporabljamo naravne arome, kar dodatno vpliva na naše dobro počutje. Umiritev uma in telesa pa zagotavlja tudi naša solna soba, kjer lajšamo težave z dihanjem, izboljšujemo imunski sistem in zmanjšujemo stres.

MASSAGES FOR COMPLETE RELAXATION

For even greater relaxation and indulgence, our VIP area and zero-gravity beds provide regenerative rest along with various massages. Our professionally trained massage therapists offer a wide range of massages, from classic massages to those with natural cosmetics like cocoa butter, herbal bundles, and massage candles scented with rose or peppermint. In addition to relaxation massages, we offer facial massages, pain relief massages, maderotherapy, and sports massages. We have recently included a magnesium massage, which is especially suitable for active visitors to Bohinj, such as hikers, cyclists, and skiers.

MASAŽE ZA POPOLNO SPROSTITEV

Za popolno sprostitev in razvajanje poskrbijo naš VIP prostor, breztežnostne postelje za regeneracijski počitek in pester izbor masaž. Naši strokovno usposobljeni maserji ponujajo širok spekter masaž, od klasične masaže do masaž z naravno kozmetiko, kot so kakavovo maslo, zeliščni snopki in masažne sveče z vonjem vrtnice ali poprove mete. Poleg sprostitvenih masaž ponujamo tudi masaže obraza, protibolečinske masaže, maderoterapijo in športne masaže. V ponudbo smo vključili tudi magnezijevo masažo, ki je še posebej primerna za aktivne obiskovalce Bohinja, kot so pohodniki, kolesarji in smučarji.

Finally, here are some valuable tips from the wellness master at Hotel Bohinj, Monika Tratar, to help you make the most of the benefits of sauna and massage:

• Stay hydrated and cool down: Remember to drink enough water before and after the sauna and cool down properly after your session.

• Enjoy aromatherapy: Choose natural essential oils that calm and relax you.

• Listen to your body: Pay attention to the signals from your body and adjust when you feel the need for a break.

Indulge in the magic of sauna and massages, and take care of your body and spirit during the colder days!

Na koncu vam predstavljamo nekaj dragocenih nasvetov mojstrice wellnessa v Hotelu Bohinj, Monike Tratar, ki vam bodo pomagali kar najbolje izkoristiti koristi savnanja in masaž:

• Poskrbite za hidracijo in ohlajanje: ne pozabite piti dovolj vode pred in po savnanju ter se po savnanju dobro ohladiti.

• Uživajte v aromaterapiji: izberite naravna eterična olja, ki vas pomirjajo in sproščajo.

• Spremljajte svoje telo: poslušajte signale svojega telesa in se prilagodite, ko čutite, da potrebujete premor.

Prepustite se čarobnosti savnanja in masaž ter poskrbite za svoje telo in duha v hladnejših dneh!

FLYING in slippers

Na copatih letimo

Slovenians are quite familiar with the habit and symbolic meaning of taking off shoes. We leave behind the weight of everyday life, step into a comfortable pair of slippers, and take flight.

Slovencem nam je dobro poznana navada in simbolni pomen sezuvanja čevljev. Za seboj pustimo težo vsakdana, vstopimo v udoben par copat in poletimo.

Author | avtorica: Alenka Repič, Founder and Creative Director, Kaaita | ustanoviteljica in kreativna direktorica, Kaaita Photos | fotografije: Žan Gašperič

At Kaaita, we have transferred this magical formula for flight into our range of hotel slippers. From a purely utilitarian hotel product – the cheap disposable white slipper – we’ve created an item that pampers and understands the guest’s needs. And not just the guest’s. The hotelier and their team are key, as they shape the guest’s experience with details and stories from the moment the guest enters the hotel. We are here to support that experience on all levels: Comfort and design, Emotional connection with the product, Responsible practices through local manufacturing and sustainability.

Our commitment to innovation has also led us to develop special water-repellent slippers. But the journey was tricky. Creating the perfect water-repellent slipper that met our strict sustainability, comfort, and durability standards was a real challenge. We wanted to craft a slipper that would allow guests to use it worry-free in wellness areas and outdoor spaces – for example, when walking along a path from their room to the pool or sauna. Sustainable materials, washability, and reusability were non-negotiable.

We developed 17 different versions in five years, but we discarded them all. Slippers made from pineapple leather weren’t washable, those made from organic cotton weren’t durable enough, and the ones with latex soles didn’t dry fast enough. Latex coating allowed water through too quickly, and cork, though eco-friendly, wasn’t washable… But we persisted.

VKaaiti smo to čarobno formulo za vzlet prenesli v našo ponudbo hotelskih copat. Iz zgolj utilitarnega hotelskega produkta – belega poceni copata za enkratno uporabo – smo ustvarili izdelek, ki pocrklja in razume potrebo gosta. Pa ne samo gosta. Hotelir in člani njegove ekipe so ključni, saj s svojimi detajli in zgodbami oblikujejo gostovo izkušnjo že od trenutka, ko ta vstopi v hotel. In mi smo tukaj, da to izkušnjo podpiramo na vseh ravneh: udobje in dizajn, čustvena povezava s produktom ter odgovorna praksa skozi lokalno manufakturo in trajnost.

Naša zavezanost inovacijam nas je pripeljala tudi do razvoja posebnih vodoodbojnih copat. A na tej poti se je zapletlo. Izdelava popolnega vodoodbojnega copata, ki bi ustrezal našim strogim standardom trajnosti, udobja in trpežnosti, je bila poseben izziv. Želeli smo ustvariti copat, ki bi gostu omogočil brezskrbno uporabo v velnesu in na zunanjih površinah –na primer, ko gre po zunanji potki iz sobe do bazena ali savne. Trajnostni materiali, možnost pranja in ponovne uporabe so bile zahteve, pri katerih nismo želeli sklepati kompromisov.

V petih letih smo razvili 17 različic, a vse smo zavrgli. Copati iz ananasovega usnja niso bili pralni, iz organskega bombaža niso bili dovolj trpežni, tisti z lateks podplatom pa se niso dovolj hitro sušili. Premaz iz lateksa je prehitro prepuščal vodo, pluta, čeprav okolju prijazna, pa ni bila pralna … A vztrajali smo.

Kaaita Aqua

This summer, we made a breakthrough! Our supplier coated our GRS-certified felt with a water-repellent layer made from discarded apples from the South Tyrol food industry. While still in liquid form, we imprinted a unique texture into this layer, allowing the slippers to be non-slip, even on smooth surfaces like spa tiles.

And then, a happy accident happened – the slippers accidentally turned purple. But it turned out to be the perfect choice! Purple relaxes and evokes a sense of luxury, spirituality, and creativity.

Kaaita Aqua

Letos poleti pa se je zgodil preboj. Naš GRS-certificiran filc je dobavitelj premazal z vodoodbojno plastjo iz odpadnih jabolk prehrambne industrije iz Južne Tirolske. V to plast smo, ko je bila še v tekočem stanju, vtisnili posebno strukturo, ki omogoča, da copati ne drsijo niti na gladkih tleh, kot so ploščice v wellnessu.

Zgodila pa se je tudi simpatična napaka –pomotoma so copati dobili vijolično barvo. A izkazalo se je, da je bila to prava izbira! Vijolična barva namreč sprošča, vzbuja občutek prestiža, duhovnosti in kreativnosti.

Experiences in Bohinj and surroundings

Doživetja v Bohinju in okolici

Welcome to Bohinj, where natural beauty intertwines with tradition, culture, and memorable moments. On the following pages, we share a selection of events that will enrich your visit and create unforgettable memories.

Dobrodošli v Bohinju, kjer se naravna lepota prepleta s tradicijo, kulturo in posebnimi trenutki. Na naslednjih straneh z vami delimo pregled dogodkov, ki bodo obogatili vaš obisk in ustvarili nepozabne spomine.

Winter wonderland | Zimska idila

15.2. - 2.3.2025

Winter holidays

Zimske počitnice

Bohinj is the perfect choice for your winter getaway! Here, you’ll find the ideal balance between outdoor activities and moments of relaxation:

• Sports Activities: Sledding, ice skating, skiing at nearby ski resorts, or exploring the snowy landscapes with snowshoes.

• Culture and Entertainment: Children’s cinema, live music evenings, and fun activities for the little ones.

• Relaxation: Unwind in a cosy wellness centre or savour authentic local delicacies after an active day.

Tip for Accommodation:

Apartments Triglav are an ideal family-friendly choice, offering a welcoming atmosphere and convenient proximity to the lake, ski slopes, and hiking trails, making it easy to enjoy all the winter joys Bohinj has to offer.

Bohinj je popolna izbira za zimske počitnice! Tukaj boste našli pravo ravnovesje med aktivnostmi na prostem in trenutki sprostitve:

• Športne aktivnosti: sankanje, drsanje, smučanje na bližnjih smučiščih ali raziskovanje zasnežene pokrajine s krpljami.

• Kultura in zabava: otroški kino, večeri z glasbo v živo in animacije za najmlajše bodo popestrili dneve.

• Sprostitev: po aktivnem dnevu si privoščite sprostitev v izbranem wellnessu ali uživajte v pristnih lokalnih dobrotah.

Namig za bivanje:

Apartmaji Triglav so idealna izbira za družine. Nudijo prijetno okolje, odlično bližino jezera, smučišč in pohodnih poti, kjer boste lahko uživali v vseh zimskih radostih, ki jih Bohinj ponuja.

LOCATIONS | LOKACIJI: Hotel Bohinj, Apartmaji Triglav

MORE INFORMATION | VEČ INFORMACIJ:

www.alpinia-group.si

Photo | fotografija: Ana Bacinger

14. 2. 2025

Valentine’s Day

Valentinovo

LOCATION | LOKACIJA: Hotel Bohinj

MORE INFORMATION | VEČ INFORMACIJ:

www.hotelbohinj.si

Bohinj is a wonderful destination for a romantic escape. Celebrate Valentine’s Day with special moments for couples:

• Romantic Dinners: Indulge in culinary delights at restaurants with stunning natural views.

• Hiking for Two: Stroll along Lake Bohinj or embark on gentle winter hikes.

• Couples’ Wellness: Pamper yourselves with massages, saunas, and quality time together.

Let the enchanting scenery set the stage for unforgettable love stories.

Bohinj je čudovita destinacija za romantični pobeg. Valentinovo praznujemo s posebnimi trenutki, namenjenimi parom:

• Romantične večerje: uživajte v kulinaričnih razvajanjih v restavracijah z izjemnim pogledom na naravo.

• Pohodniški izleti za dva: sprehodite se ob Bohinjskem jezeru ali se podajte na nežne zimske pohode.

• Wellness za pare: razvajajte se z masažami in sprostitvijo v savnah ter si privoščite čas zase.

Dovolite si, da vas očara narava, ki je idealno ozadje za nepozabne ljubezenske zgodbe.

Photo | fotografija: Katja Jemec

Bohinj is home to brave hearts, both men and women. Among them was Rozalija Škantar, the first Bohinj woman to conquer Mount Triglav. This day honours the strength and courage of women who inspire us every day

Surprise your loved ones with small gesturesa bouquet of flowers, a sweet treat, or relaxing pampering. At Hotel Bohinj, we’ll ensure this Women’s Day is extraordinary.

Bohinj je popolna izbira za zimske počitnice! Tukaj boste našli pravo ravnovesje med aktivnostmi na prostem in trenutki sprostitve:

Bohinj je dom pogumnih srčnih mož in žena, med njimi tudi Rozalije Škantar, prve Bohinjke, ki je osvojila Triglav. Na ta dan častimo moč in srčnost žensk, ki nas navdihujejo vsak dan.

Pocrkljajmo svoje drage z majhno pozornostjo – šopkom rož, sladkim presenečenjem ali sproščujočim razvajanjem. V Hotelu Bohinj bomo poskrbeli, da bo praznovanje dneva žena prav posebno.

LOCATION | LOKACIJA: Hotel Bohinj

MORE INFORMATION | VEČ INFORMACIJ: www.hotelbohinj.si

12. 3. 2025

Gregorjevo –

Gregorjevo – praznik luči in ljubezni

Gregorjevo, or “when birds get married,” is a festival marking the arrival of spring and longer days. According to tradition, this day is linked to love, as it’s believed that birds choose their partners on this day. In Bohinj, the celebration is especially magical. Handcrafted lantern boats, known as gregorčki, are floated on Lake Bohinj, symbolizing light and new beginnings. This tradition brings people of all ages together, warming hearts with the sight of twinkling lights on the water.

Gregorjevo ali »ko se ptički ženijo« je praznik, ki napoveduje prihod pomladi in daljše dneve. Po ljudskem izročilu je ta dan povezan z ljubeznijo in ptički, ki si na ta dan iščejo svoje partnerje. V Bohinju je praznovanje še posebej čarobno – gregorčki, ročno izdelane ladjice s svečkami, se spuščajo na Bohinjskem jezeru, kar simbolizira svetlobo in nove začetke. Ta tradicija združuje ljudi vseh generacij in prinaša toplino v srca ob pogledu na lesketajoče luči na vodi.

| LOKACIJA: Bohinj

Available year-round | Ne voljo vse leto

Traditional workshops

Tradicionalne delavnice

Join crocheting and knitting sessions with local women and learn about traditional crafts.

Hiking and cycling Pohodništvo

in kolesarjenje

Experience Bohinj in every season and admire its timeless beauty.

Pridružite se kvačkanju in pletenju s kmečkimi ženami ter spoznajte domače obrti.

Doživite Bohinj skozi vse letne čase in občudujte njegovo brezčasno lepoto.

Photo | fotografija: Žiga Koren

Photo | fotografija: Mojca Odar

Culinary adventures

Kulinarične izkušnje

Taste local dishes that tell a story of nature and tradition.

Let Bohinj be your next destination, where history, culture, and the magic of nature come together. Join us and create memories that will last forever.

Naj bo Bohinj vaša naslednja destinacija, kjer se prepletajo zgodovina, kultura in čar narave. Pridružite se nam in ustvarite spomine, ki bodo ostali za vedno.

Poskusite domače jedi, ki pripovedujejo zgodbo o naravi in tradiciji.

Photo | fotografija: Lipar Design Photography

Springtime in Bohinj blossoms with more than just scenic views:

• Exhibitions and Concerts: Artistic interpretations of nature.

• Botanical Tours: Discover hidden corners of rich flora.

• Special Events: The Four Brave Men Run, Zlatorog’s Fairytale Land for children, and an international meeting on sustainable tourism. Bohinj v pomladnem cvetu ponuja več kot le razglednice:

• Razstave in koncerti: umetniške interpretacije narave.

• Botanične ture: odkrijte skrite kotičke bogate flore.

• Posebni dogodki: Tek štirih srčnih mož, Zlatorogova pravljična dežela za otroke in mednarodno srečanje o trajnostnem turizmu.

Photo | fotografija: Mitja Sodja