Slovenia Summer Guide 2008

Free copy

SLOVENIA

SUMMER GUIDE 2008 A comprehensive guide to the country’s most attractive sights, activities and events.

AThe special supplement of Slovenia Times

Slovenianin newspaper in English Slovenian newspaper English Kamnik

CONTENTS MURSKA SOBOTA

MARIBOR

50

44

48

JESENICE

22

28 KRANJ ŠKOFJA LOKA

LJUBLJANA

18

26

NOVA GORICA

CELJE

34 56

40

16 42

NOVO MESTO

KOPER/CAPODISTRIA

14

Small Country with Many Superlatives Slovenia is one of the smallest Central-European countries, but despite its size, Slovenia has incredible diversity. If you desire peace and relaxation and want to admire natural beauty, observe wildlife and other natural phenomena, enjoy diverse landscapes, learn about local culture and discover the history of individual places and the traditional life of local people, then you will definitely wish that you had some more extra time for discovering some more secrets of our beautiful country.

Slovenia offers almost everything that one can imagine - beautiful green forests and grasslands; the mysterious Karst and its phenomenon; the Alps with picturesque waterfalls, rapids and glacial lakes; the Mediterranean along the 47 km of coast line; thermal and mineral springs; mediaeval towns with rich tradition and history; delicious food and excellent wines; lively cultural entertainment and much, much more. Furthermore, the range of activities offered in Slovenia is extraordinarily diverse and wide-ranging.

So, if you are ready for some unforgettable experiences, you are invited to have a look in the Summer Guide 2008 and find the most compelling reasons to visit certain places. The guide provides much useful information about the tourist services and facilities of certain destinations and their surroundings in an easy and uncomplicated way. Instead of going into great detail about a towns’ history or the merits of its local events, we decided to attract you there to find out for yourself. With that in mind, the guide gives you a brief overview of its most interesting sights, events and activities; in this year edition, they are marked beside the description of each destination or tourist site with useful icons.

The Slovenia Times

General Information............... 4 Legend of Symbols................. 5 Slovenia and it Secrets.......... 6 Transportation......................... 8 Gastronomy...........................10 Safety in the Mountains.......12 Koper....................................14 Ajdovščina.........................16 Nova Gorica.......................... 18 Bovec..................................22 Idrija....................................... 26 Bohinj..................................... 28 Vogel...................................30 Škofja Loka............................34 Dol pri Ljubljani......................40 Dolenjske Toplice.................. 42 Slovenj Gradec...................... 44 Kope................................46 Ptuj......................................... 48 Maribor.................................. 50 Mariborsko Pohorje.............. 54 Ljubljana ..............................56 Contents

GENERAL INFORMATION Banking Hours Monday - Friday

9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Saturday

8 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Sunday

Closed

Credit Cards Credit card usage is widespread in Slovenia and most stores and restaurants accept several major credit cards. It is also now possible to pay tolls with a credit card.

Post Office Working Hours Monday-Friday

8 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Saturday

8 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Sunday

Closed

www.posta.si

Koper: Kidričeva 2, +386 (0)5 611 00 00

Embassy of the Republic of Finland Ajdovščina 4/8, +386 (0)1 300 21 20

Kranj: Bleiweisova 8, +386 (0)4 201 61 34

Embassy of the Republic of France Barjanska 1, +386 (0)1 479 04 00

Ljubljana: Prisojna ulica 7, +386 (0)1 230 62 30

Embassy of Germany Prešernova 22, +386 (0)1 479 03 00

Maribor: Ljubljanska ulica 9, +386 (0)2 320 79 10

Embassy of Greece Trnovski pristan 14, +386 (0)1 420 14 00

Murska Sobota: Kocljeva 2, +386 (0)2 512 44 10

Apostolic Nunciature of the Holy See Krekov trg 1, +386 (0)1 433 92 04

Nova Gorica: Rejčeva ulica 2, +386 (0)5 330 34 40

Embassy of the Republic of Hungary Ulica Konrada Babnika 5, +386 (0)1 512 18 82

Novo Mesto: Kandijska cesta 1, +386 (0)7 393 29 18 Ptuj: Trstenjakova 9, +386 (0)2 771 60 01 Potrčeva cesta 23, +386 (0)2 787 84 80 Trbovlje: Ruarska cesta 12, +386 (0)3 563 26 56

Telephone International Country Code for calling Slovenia +386

Wireless Internet (NeoWLAN)

Embassy of Ireland Poljanski nasip 6,+386 (0)1 300 89 70 Embassy of the Republic of Italy Snežniška 8, +386 (0)1 426 21 94 Embassy of Japan Trg Republike 3/XI,+386 (0)1 200 82 81 Embassy of the Kingdom of Norway Ajdovščina 4,+386 (0)1 300 21 40

Saturday

8 a.m. - 1 p.m.

NeoWLAN is Slovenian public access wireless network operated by the mobile phone company Mobitel. Access to NeoWLAN is available at so-called hotspots covered by NeoWLAN signal by purchasing the NeoWLAN prepaid card. Mobitel GSM/UMTS subscribers can access the network via their mobile phone accounts. List of hotspots and more information about the network can be found at www.neowlan.net

Sunday

8 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Foreign Embassies (in Ljubljana)

Embassy of Romania Smrekarjeva 33,+386 (0)1 505 82 94

Embassy of the Republic of Austria Prešernova cesta 23, +386 (0)1 479 07 00

Embassy of the Russian Federation Tomšičeva 9, +386 (0)1 425 68 75

International calls from Slovenia: 00 + country code + area code + telephone number Online Telephone Directory for Slovenia: www.tis.telekom.si

Store Working Hours Monday - Friday

8 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Except special 24-hour shops and shops at 24-hour gas stations. Big shopping malls are open Saturdays until 9 p.m. and Sundays until 3 p.m.

Important Emergency Telephone Numbers Ambulance

112

Police

113

Fire Department

112

Embassy of Belgium Trg republike 3, +386 (0)1 200 60 10 Embassy of Bosnia and Herzegovina Kolarjeva 26, +386 (0)1 234 32 50 Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria Rožna dolina Cesta XV/18, +386 (0)1 425 88 45

Automobile Association of Slovenia

080 1980

Canadian Consulate Trg republike 3, +386 (0)1 252 44 44

Medical Care

Embassy of the People’s Republic of China Koblarjeva 3, +386 (0)1 420 28 55

Doctors and hospitals in Slovenia usually expect immediate payment for services rendered. The patient may then be able to obtain subsequent reimbursement from his/her insurance company.

24-hour Pharmacies Celje: Stanetova 13, +386 (0)3 425 02 64

General Information

Embassy of the Republic of Croatia Gruberjevo nabrežje 6, +386 (0)1 425 72 87 Embassy of the Czech Republic Riharjeva 1, +386 (0)1 420 24 50 Embassy of the Kingdom of Denmark Eurocenter, Tivolska 48, +386 (0)1 438 08 00

Embassy of the Republic of Macedonia Prešernova 2, +386 (0)1 421 00 21 Royal Netherlands Embassy Poljanski nasip 6, +386 (0)1 420 14 60 Embassy of the Republic of Poland Bežigrad 10, +386 (0)1 436 47 12 Embassy of Portugal Trg republike 3/X, +386 (0)1 479 05 40

Embassy of Serbia and Montenegro Slomškova ulica 1,+386 (0)1 438 01 10 Embassy of the Slovak Republic Tivolska cesta 4, +386 (0)1 425 54 25 Embassy of the Kingdom of Spain Trnovski pristan 24, +386 (0)1 420 23 30 Embassy of Sweden Ajdovščina 4, +386 (0)1 300 02 70 Embassy of Switzerland Trg republike 3/VI, +386 (0)1 200 86 40 Embassy of the Republic of Turkey Livarska 4,+386 (0)1 236 41 50; 236 41 60 Embassy of Ukraine Teslova 23, +386 (0)1 421 06 04 Embassy of the United Kingdom Trg republike 3/IV, +386 (0)1 200 39 10 Embassy of the USA Prešernova cesta 31, +386 (0)1 200 55 00

Summer Guide 2008

24h

LEGEND OF SYMBOLS Activities available at the point of interest:

Infrastructure available in the certain town / area:

cycling

swimming pool / public beach

walking tours

golf course 24h

hiking, easy to medium trails: proper equipment is recommended

sport airfield 24h

mountain hiking on designated trails: proper equipment is required

casino

24h

24h 24h

sport climbing 24h

24h

spa / wellness centre 24h

skydiving

water activities (paddling, rafting, canoeing, kayaking) swimming 24h

camping site

24h 24h

non-stop 24-hour gas station

24h

24h

horse riding 24h picnic area

24h

ski lift / cable car operating during summer 24h Photo: STO

wine route / wine tasting 24h

24h

The Slovenia Times Summer Guide 2008 Published by Domus, založba in trgovina d.o.o.

Trg MDB 12, 1000 Ljubljana Editorial: +386 (0)1 520 50 84 Marketing: +386 (0)1 520 50 85 Publisher: Brane Krajnik Project Manager: Aleš Smerdel Concept/Editor: Romana Lap Art Director: Maja Kaplan Design Adviser: Jaka Terpinc

The Slovenia Times

Writers: Jaka Terpinc, Romana Lap Translations: Matija Pavlič Copy Editor: Terry Jackson Marketing: Irena Kržan Marketing Adviser: Marko Stijepić Photos: The Slovenia Times archive Printed by Schwarz, d.o.o.

Cover Photo: Street Festival (M. Fras)

Legend of Symbols

SLOVENIA AND ITS SECRETS Rich in natural and cultural heritage and consistently peaceful, Slovenia offers a wide variety of landscapes tourists on no more than 20,273 km2 (7,827 sq mi): Mediterranean in the southwest, Alpine in the northwest, Dinaric in the southeast and Pannonian in the northeast. No longer undiscovered, Slovenia remains a wonderful antidote to much of Europe’s crowds and high prices.

Mediterranean The Slovene coast, which measures 46.6 kilometres, is covered with abundant vegetation. The most popular coastal resort, Portorož, boasts the longest tourist tradition in Slovenia and offers comfortable hotels and modern swimming pools, restaurants, casinos and various events. It is an internationally known holiday centre and climatic health seaside resort as well a popular conference centre.

Photo: B. Kladnik

Photo: J. Skok

In contrast, the other coastal towns, Piran, Izola and Koper, attract visitors with their medieval looks, which can easily carry you centuries ago.

In Strunjan, there is natural reserve with a rich supply of marl and sandstone and a unique cliff which ascends 80 metres above the sea; it is the highest flysch wall on the Adriatic coast.

The most spectacular are the Sečovlje Salinas, first mentioned in the 13th century. Due to their extremely abundant natural and historical heritage, they were named a regional park and are a rich sanctuary of plant and animal worlds.

Among the most popular are the Postojna Cave, the Škocjan Caves, Pivka and Črna jama Cave, Križna jama Cave, and Vilenica. Beside The Postojna Cave, which is the most visited cave in Europe, the most famous are the Škocjan Caves, situated at the heart of the Rakov Škocjan Regional Park. In 1986, they were included in UNESCO’s list of World Natural and Cultural Heritage sites.

Many people don’t know that the noble Lipizzaner horses originated in Slovenia. Their birthplace is in karst town of Lipica where these noble horses have been bred for more than four centuries. Lipica is today a tourist recreational centre with a Classical Riding School and international sports riding events.

The secluded karst landscape with its remote villages of stone houses offers a true culinary experience.

Excellent wines, especially the red Teran, and pršut (smoked ham), cured in the burja wind are specialities of the Slovene Karst.

Mysterious Karst It is “the fault” of limestone and water that the Karst has two faces – one above and one under its surface. At the surface, they create the diverse karst phenomena such as karst sinkholes, springs, lakes, windows and poljes (Planinsko, Cerkniško polje), while under the surface there are numerous potholes and karst caves rich with stalactites. It is said that the Slovene Karst is the most beautiful part of our planet’s underground world. In Slovenia, there are more than one thousand karst caves and potholes. Twenty limestone masterpieces created by karst waters are opened for tourists.

Slovenia and its Secrets

Photo: BOBO

Summer Guide 2008

Sunny Alps Most of the area is within the Triglav National Park, which covers 83,807 hectares and is one of the largest natural parks in Europe. The park lies near high stony mountains including the highest mountain of Slovenia, Mount Triglav (2864 m), and deep river gorges, highland karst potholes and pleasant highlands. In the park, many endemic plants and animal species live, including mountain goats, mountain sheep, wild roosters, grouse, eagles and marmots.

Photo: B. Kladnik

The renowned Bled with its lake and the island with a church from the 17th century (and the bell of wishes) is situated at the edge of the park; above it stands a medieval castle. Bled, which celebrate its 1000th anniversary in 2004, is considered a true tourist paradise with its thermal springs and other natural attractions, numerous recreational possibilities, its conference hall, casino and golf curse.

tion, Idrija’s mercury mine and the Gewerkenegg Castle. That area also has reminders of many terrible battles from the First World War. They are presented in the award winning Kobarid museum. In the upper part of the valley are the picturesque Trenta and the famous Julijana alpine botanical garden.

Green Pohorje The Pohorje mountain range is a green oasis at the eastern end of the Alps. The Maribor Pohorje range covers an area of about 1,000 square km and is covered with coniferous forests. In the winter, several ski centres operate in Pohorje (Areh, Rogla, and Kope).

Since 1964, Pohorje’s Snow Stadium annually hosts the Golden Fox awards, a competition for the World Cup in Alpine skiing for women. Other areas of Pohorje offer widespread mountain trails for hikers and lovers of cycling and horseback riding. In addition, Pohorje is also a real paradise for parachuting enthusiasts, hanggliders, ballooners and those who enjoy discovering its primeval forest and pure waters.

Maribor, with a little less than 115,000 inhabitants, lies in the foothills of Pohorje. It is considered the second most important centre of Slovenia. It boasts the oldest vine in the world, which has been growing by the Drava River for more than four centuries. Bearing witness to the flourishing town’s history is the rich architecture of previous centuries, which is reflected in the facades of the houses. Contrary to its stormy history, the old town centre is well preserved with visible remains of the defence wall.

Bohinj is the starting point for numerous mountain hikes, Lake Bohinj and Bohinjska Bistrica are a paradise for lovers of water sports and fishermen.

In Bohinjska Bistrica, a new water park was recently built.

Kranjska Gora, a famous tourist destination, attracts visitors with outdoor sports (hiking, mountaineering, cycling, horsemanship, paragliding, fishing etc.) in the summer, and in winter with excellent slopes for winter sports and other joys.

The valley of the emerald Soča River attracts those who search for peace as well as lovers of adrenaline. Around the three most popular towns, Bovec, Kobarid and Tolmin, there are many opportunities for water sports, from kayaking to canoeing and rafting, as well as for fishing, cycling and mountaineering. From the valley, you can reach Kanin, the highest Slovene ski centre, which is only an hour’s drive from the coast and where it is possible to ski almost until summer.

Extensive vineyards, which rise from the edge of the town over the hills of Maribor, are entwined with more than 50 kilometres of wine roads, which begin their way up the hills right from the town’s streets. Visitors can taste selected wines in numerous wine cellars near the wine trail or in the town’s cellar, which is one of the largest and oldest classical wine cellars in Europe.

Along the Idrijca River, you can come to Cerkno and Idrija. This is the home of a famous lace-making tradi-

Source: Slovenian Tourist Board, www.slovenia.info

The Slovenia Times

Photo: J. Skok

Slovenia and its Secrets

TRANSPORTATION How to get around in Slovenia?

Travelling in Slovenia is easy and comfortable. The variety of public transpor makes it possible to discover the country in a relatively short time. There are good connections with European countries and the rest of the world.

Photo: Daniel Mesec

The majority of trips within Slovenia start from the capital, Ljubljana. The railway station is the hub and there are regular train connections with all major towns in Slovenia.

During high season, additional trains are available from Maribor to Koper, via Ljubljana. When travelling to major towns, take the Eurocity, Intercity or ICS (the fastest) trains, as regional trains stop frequently and take more time. Trains are air-conditioned and comfortable. There are several direct trains a day departing for: Munich, Vienna, Graz, Villach, Salzburg, Venice, Budapest, Sofia, Prague, Thessalonika, Zagreb, Rijeka, Opatija, Pula, Skopje, Belgrade, Zurich and Trieste.

The network of bus stations and stops throughout the country makes travelling by bus easy and convenient. The hub is Ljubljana, from where it is possible to reach almost any part of the country within a couple of hours. It is opposite the railway station. In towns, you can use city buses. In Ljubljana, bus maps are displayed on every bus stop.

Taxis do not have a daily or night rate, but prices can differ enormously depending on whether you hail one on the street or call by phone. The most expensive ones are in front of the railway station.

The best way to see the country is by car, especially if you want to visit the more remote mountainous regions.

Cars can be rented from agencies at Ljubljana Airport and from tourist agents in towns. We highly recommend you to tune in to Radio Slovenia International for updates on traffic jams. Motorway construction is ongoing in the country and on some sections there can be major traffic jams; however, traffic is generally light.

Being a small country, Slovenia does not have internal airlines, but it does have good international flight connections. There are three international airports.

Transportation

Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport, is the largest airport, 20 km north of the capital. Ten airlines with more than 30 destinations throughout Europe serve Ljubljana. Two of them are low cost airlines: easyJet flies (LjubljanaLondon Stansted) and Wizz Air (Ljubljana-Brussels).

Major international airlines like Air France, Swiss Air or Austrian Airlines, the Slovenian carrier, Adria Airways, fly on a daily basis or several times a week to most European capitals and major cities. The most convenient access to the airport is by the E61 Motorway. There are two secure parking areas with 2,200 parking spaces right in front of the passenger terminal. A taxi from Brnik to Ljubljana centre costs around EUR 35. There are also frequent bus connections to Ljubljana. The journey takes about 45 minutes and tickets are purchased on the bus.

You can also travel to or from Kranj by train, from where there are good bus connections to the airport. It is advisable to check for any traffic jams before heading for Brnik due to road closures and road work in the direction of Gorenjska.

Maribor Airport is the second international airport, serving the city of Maribor. It is located a few kilometres south of the city, near Slivnica. The airport currently has numerous seasonal charter flights to coastal destinations especially during the summer holidays.

Portorož Airport is the third international airport, mainly used for private flights.

Foreign language radio broadcasts Slovenian Tourist Radio (STR): 24 hours of broadcasting per day in English, German, Italian and Croatian. Frequencies: FM 87.6, 89.2, 91.1, 102.4, 102.8 MHz Radio Slovenija 1: AM 326.8 (918 KHz); FM 88.5, 90.0, 91.8, 92.0, 92.9, 94.1, 96.4 MHz Radio Slovenija 2: FM 87.8, 92.4, 93.5, 94.1, 95.3, 96.9, 97.6, 98.9, 99.9 MHz RDS traffic information in English, German and Italian is broadcast after the Radio Slovenija 2 news programmes from Friday afternoons to Saturday evenings throughout the year and throughout the weekends in July and August.

Holiday weather report in English, German and Italian is broadcast on Radio Slovenija 1 and 2 at 7.15 a.m. daily in July and August.

News from home and abroad in English and German are broadcast on Radio Slovenija 1 daily at 10.30 p.m.

Summer Guide 2008

Information TRAIN: Ljubljana Railway Station, Trg Osvobodilne fronte 6, +386 (0)1 291 33 32, Voicemail 090 939 801, open from 6 am to 10 pm, www.slo-zeleznice.si/en Maribor Railway Station, Partizanska cesta 50, +386 (0)2 292 21 64, +386 (0)2 292 21 60, open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Koper Railway Station, Kolodvorska cesta 11, +386 (0)5 296 41 58

Automobile Speed Limits Highway: 130 km/h Main Roads: 90 km/h Populated areas: 50 km/h Drinking & Driving Better not, however... Allowable alcohol quantity in blood while driving an automobile is 0.5 g/kg.

Brussels Airlines, Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport, +386 (0)4 206 16 56, www.brusselsairlines.com easyJet, Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport, +386 (0)4 206 12 29 (telephone information on flight schedules), www.easyjet.com Finnair, Gosposvetska cesta 6, Ljubljana, 080 1303 (within Slovenia), +386 (0)1 369 11 33 (international callers), www.finnair.com JAT Airways, Slomškova ulica 1, Ljubljana, +386 (0)1 231 43 40, www.jat.com Lufthansa, Gosposvetska cesta 8, Ljubljana, +386 (0)1 434 72 46, www.lufthansa.com Malev Hungarian Airlines, Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport, +386 (0)4 206 16 76, www.malev.hu Solinair, Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport, +386 (0)4 206 17 80 (for flight schedules)

BUS: Ljubljana Bus Station, Trg Osvobodilne fronte 4, 090 934 230 (for calls from stationary phones), open from 5 a.m. to 22.30 p.m., Sundays from 5 a.m. to 22 p.m., www.ap-ljubljana.si/eng Maribor Bus Station, Mlinska ulica 1, +386 (0)2 235 02 12 Koper Bus Station, Kolodvorska cesta 11, +386 (0)5 639 52 69

AIRPORTS: Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport, Zgornji Brnik 130 a, Brnik, +386 (0)4 206 19 81, www.lju-airport.si Maribor Airport, Letališka cesta 10, Orehova Vas, +386 (0)2 629 11 75, www.maribor-airport.si

Turkish Airlines, Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport, +386 (0)4 206 16 80, www.turkishairlines.com

Useful links Official Travel Guide to Slovenia by Slovenian Tourist Board: www.slovenia.info Automobile Association of Slovenia: www.amzs.si Traffic Information Centre: www.promet.si

Portorož Airport, Sečovlje, +386 (0)5 617 51 40, open daily from 8.30 am to 8 pm, www.portoroz-airport.si

Ljubljana City Bus Timetables: http://bus.talktrack.com/default.aspx

AIR CARRIERS:

Radio Slovenia International: www.rtvslo.si/rsi

Adria Airways, Gosposvetska cesta 6, Ljubljana, 080 1303 (toll-free within Slovenia), +386 (0)1 369 11 33 (international callers), 080 13 00 (toll-free ticket booking) or +386 (0)1 369 10 10 (international callers), www.adria-airways.com Aeroflot, Dunajska cesta 21, Ljubljana, +386 (0)1 230 75 60, www.aeroflot.ru Air France, Igriška ulica 5, Ljubljana, +386 (0)1 244 34 47 Alpe Air, Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport, +386 (0)4 206 17 19 ČSA-Czech Airlines, Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport, +386 (0)4 206 17 50 Austrian Airlines, Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport, +386 (0)4 202 01 22, www.aua.com

The Slovenia Times

The Slovenia Times web portal, free access to daily news and newspaper articles: www.sloveniatimes.com International Train Timetables: www.reiseauskunft.bahn.de/bin/query.exe/en National Train Timetables: www.slo-zeleznice.si/en/ Ljubljana Brnik Airport Timetables: www.lju-airport.si/eng National and International Bus Timetables: www.ap-ljubljana.si/eng Transportation

GASTRONOMY The Scent of the Holidays Cuisine in Slovenia is based on the cultural meeting and mixing of the Alpine, Mediterranean and ­Pannonian regions. Centuries of social and historic ­development at this junction have created specific types of culture and lifestyles, not in the sense of assimilation, but in the creation of unique and original varieties. ­ Slovenian cuisine is based on cereals, dairy products, meat (pork in particular), sea and freshwater fish, vegetables, legumes and tubers, olives and wine.

Contributions to the Slovenian culinary heritage have come from the towns and the countryside, as well as the nobility and monastic orders. Numerous innovations were introduced during the AustroHungarian Empire, and, during the French occupation in the late 18th century, the first Slovenian-language cookbook was published by Valentin Vodnik. The development of large tourist resorts in the second half of the 19th century – these include Bled, Rogaška Slatina, Dobrna, Portorož, and some existing before these – also greatly contributed to the development of food culture.

Slovenian gastronomy, with its own range of unique and original features, has been part of Central ­European cuisine for centuries. Between 1918 and 1945, there were culinary innovations with the introduction of some new foods from the Balkan region. In the 1960s, Italian pizza culture began to spread. The 1980s were marked by a process of discovering ­Slovenia’s own culinary and gastronomic heritage, reflected in the increased publication of cookbooks and their use in homes and restaurants.

This has also led to the protection of geographical heri­ tage and the traditional value of some gastronomic specialties. These include prekmurska gibanica (a sumptuous layered cake similar to strudel, with

Photo: D. Mladenovič 10 Gastronomy

Photo: D. Mladenovič poppy seeds, cottage cheese, walnuts and apples), savinjski želodec (filled and smoked pork stomach from the ­ Savinjska region), idrijski žlikrofi (a form of ravioli stuffed with potato, cracklings, and chives, from the ­Idrija region), kranjska medica (mead from the town of Kranj), potica (a traditional rolled cake with walnut, raisin and cottage cheese filling or, in other varieties, with tarragon or poppy seed filling), kranjska klobasa (cooked sausage from the town of Kranj), belokranjska pogača (traditional flat cake which is baked on special occasions with a variety of fillings), povitica (a thin savoury bread made of filo dough), kočevski med (honey from the pristine Kočevje region), prleška tünka (cured meat stored in minced cracklings and lard to preserve the meat’s juiciness).

The establishment of food enthu­siast societies (e.g. the Society for the Reco­gnition of the ­ Sautéed Potato as an Independent Dish) and to various food competitions (such as the contest for the title of best kranjska klobasa, the salami competition etc.) is also a reflection of this trend.

Present-day Slovenia is discovering its gastronomic heritage and gaining recognition in Europe through the adoption of foreign innovations. This is especially evident from the diverse regional menus offered by various inns and restaurants, which are Slovenia’s most identifiable gastronomic landmark and are typically based on family traditions.

A quality gastronomic route through Slovenia can be drawn from the Slovenian Mediterranean ­ (Istria, Kras, ­ Brkini, the Vipavska Valley, Brda, Goriško, the Soča ­ Valley) to northeastern Slovenia (Slovenske Gorice, Prlekija, Prekmurje, Haloze, Kozjansko, Štajerska). In the middle of this route lies central Slovenia with Ljubljana and its surrounding region, where food of the highest quali­ty is offered in Summer Guide 2008

numerous inns and restaurants. However, you are sure to enjoy the best (and also the healthiest) meal in the Slovenian Mediterranean. Dishes from the Kras region, with their delightful vege­table combinations, meat sauces, pasta and the local kraški pršut (prosciutto), complemented by a selection of fine wines including teran, are a great way of experiencing the picturesque landscape and meeting local people.

In the springtime, there are the excellent frtalje ­(omelettes), which are the result of a wonderful combination of creativity and gastronomic resourcefulness. Similar dishes can be found along the edge of Kras, in ­ Istria and the coastal towns, where they are complemented by savoury combinations of fish and other seafood, seasoned with Mediterranean herbs and spices, and washed down with the exquisite refošk and ­malvazija wines which complete the experience.

If you are visiting that part of Slovenia, do not forget to visit the Soča Valley; in Kobarid and the sur­rounding region alone, you will find a bounty of superior cuisine with a combination of traditional and inno­ vative dishes.

Central Slovenia, with Ljubljana and the sur­rounding region, offers excellent original dishes such as pšenični or ajdovi štruklji (wheat or buckwheat strudel with a walnut, tarragon, apple or cottage cheese ­filling) and various types of potica. If you get a taste for poppy-seed potica, you will have to make your way to Prekmurje, a region that is a treasury of bread and baked goods. It is home to different types of pogača, gibanica, kvasenica (a yeast cake), zlevanka (sweet corn flour cake), posolonka (a savoury cottage cheese cake), krapci (doughnuts) and to a myriad of different types of bread, some of which are true masterpieces, as they are braided and beautifully embellished.

In Slovenia, the koline have had a special significance for centuries, gaining the title of being the most important secular celebration for the average Slovenian. It involves the slaughter of a pig and the preparation of a large assortment of fresh, semi-cured, and cured meat products. If you

Photo: D. Mladenovič are visiting Koroška, you must try the mežerle, an excellent warm appetizer made of lungs and other offal. In the Gorenjska region, people still prepare culinary specialties such as ajdovi krapi (buckwheat doughnuts) or masounik. Another excellent dish is buckwheat bean or mushroom porridge. Of course, the most identifiable food is ajdovi žganci (buckwheat porridge), seasoned with cracklings and served with a side dish of sauerkraut or sour turnips. It is only in the Primorska region that various other breads and pasta dishes are more famous, e.g. njoki (gnocchi).

When visi­ting Bled, do not forget to try the sumptuous blejska kremšnita (a large cube of cream cake).

When it comes to freshwater fish, the zlatovšica trout is a special delicacy. It can be prepared in a variety of ways, such as breaded in buckwheat flour. The other ­fresh­water specialty is the Soča trout, which is breaded in corn flour. In Ljubljana, the old Gostilna Žabar, located on the town outskirts, offers the house specialty of fried frogs’ legs.

In the Dolenjska region, they prepare various kinds of štruklji. Another regional delicacy of Dolenjska is matevž, served as a side dish or a stand alone ­puréed dish made with beans and potatoes. The region of Bela Krajina is famous for preparing roast lamb and suckling pigs, and across Slovenia, they prepare diffe­ rent kinds of soups, stews and tasty casseroles, e.g. jota and minestrone soup in the Primorska region or bograč in Prekmurje.

Poultry is relatively well-represented on Slovenian menus. Apart from the popular fried chicken, roast duck and goose should also be mentioned. The latter have become traditional dishes for the greatest modern­-day wine festival of St. Martin’s Day (11th November)­ when people attend St. Martin’s Day festivities to celebrate the new wine harvest.

By Janez Bogataj

The Slovenia Times

Gastronomy 11

SAFETY IN THE MOUNTAINS Prepare Properly Mountains are one of Slovenia’s major tourist attractions between June and September, considering that the country’s average height above sea level is 557 m and that the country is spread with mountains and hills of different altitudes throughout. More than three million visitors, including many foreigners, are testament to that.

reaching the top of the mountain is still customary, especially among older generations.

To ensure safety on longer and harder trips, it’s not a bad idea to hire a mountain guide. They can usually be found through shops specialising in outdoor or adventure sports or via the Slovenian Mountain Guide Association on +386 (0)41 378 137 or by e-mail info@ zgvs.si.

However, in case of accident call the emergency number 112 as soon as possible. Slovenia’s mountain rescue teams are very well organized and you can count on their quick assistance. Their average response time is less than 1.5 hours, which is more than meets European standards.

Photo: Marko Petrej

Mobile phones are playing an increasingly important role in the mountains; however, no one should be under the impression that where they are heading will have GSM coverage, because it probably won’t.

For the average hiker, most trails in the Alps (northwestern part of the country) can be negotiated without too much trouble and getting to the top of Slovenia’s highest mountain, Triglav (2,864 m above sea level), shouldn’t be too much of a test provided that you are properly equipped, well-shod and reasonably healthy (i.e. fit). If you don’t fall into this category, then there are plenty of shorter, less demanding trips in the mountains of central Slovenia where you can find many gentle slopes appropriate even for family tripping.

But despite the fact that one can easy get the feeling that mountaineering in Slovenia is not risky at all, you should be well prepared before going to a trip in mountains.

According to the Alpine Association of Slovenia, most accidents are caused by slips, falls and a lack of fitness and / or local of knowledge. Equipment also plays its part, especially if weather conditions change.

This can happen very quickly during summer so you are not advised to hike late on hot afternoons as the risk of thunderstorms increases dramatically. However, a windbreaker and long trousers are required piece of equipment. Wearing a helmet might seem to be unnecessary but falling rocks cause a number of injuries, some fatal, every year.

Paradoxically, many accidents happen during the descent, as morale is high and people tend to overlook the possible dangers. Unfortunately, mountaineering often goes hand in hand with drinking too much alcohol. A traditional dram of schnapps right after 12 Safety in the Mountains

Photo: STO

All Slovenian mountain trails are marked with a white spot within a red circle.

Summer Guide 2008

Ljubljana

Koper Photo: MOK

Koper

Feel the Mediterranean

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Koper, the oldest town in Slovenia, developed on a rocky island with the Roman name Capris. Out of the three Slovenian coast cities (Koper, Izola, Piran), Koper has experienced the most numerous modifications to its layout. The reason for that is in the change of various reigns and states in the town’s history. Koper was called Capris in Roman times, in the times of the pope Gregory I (599) Insula Capraria (“goat island”), Iustinopolis under

the Byzantine Empire (between mid 6 th and 8 th centuries) and Caput Histriae 24h (“head of Istria”) by the Aquileia Patriarchs. The Venetians rendered that name into the Italian form, Capodistria. The Slovenian equivalent of the name is Koper. Today, Koper is a commercial and tourist town, continuing to develop its offer in terms of seaside resorts, nautical tourism, sports and shopping. It has also become a university town.

Slovenian Istria

Photo: U. Trnkoczy

Tourist Info TIC Koper Titov trg 3, Koper +386 (0)5 664 64 03 +386 (0)5 664 64 06 tic@koper.si

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The inside of the Slovene Istria is, with its Istrian villages, a real paradise for every admirer of pristine nature and the authentic countryside.

On the Karst Edge, there is the Osp wall that is much liked among climbers. The pleasant footpath through Ressel’s Grove, a shorter walk through the paths on the hills of Milje, longer walks through the valley of Dragonja, a trip to Slavnik with its mountain cottage, cycling through Parenzana – the way of health and friendship, makes your body fit and refreshes your soul.

The hinterland also offers a large number of possibilities for gourmets, where you can visit the wine cellars or village pubs and enjoy the typical Istrian food, home made wine and olive oil.

www.koper.si 14 Koper

Summer Guide 2008

Tito Square The old town centre is rich of amazing history. The main Tito Square, one of the most beautiful squares on the former Venetian territory, is surrounded by beautiful historic buildings - the Praetorian palace, the Foresteria and Armeria palaces (today a seat of the University of Primorska), the Loža (Loggia), the Cathedral of Mary’s Assumption. From the Bell Tower, there is an interesting panoramic view of Koper’s surroundings.

Shoemaker’s Street

Photo: D. Mladenovič

By making a quick stroll through Čevljarska ulica (Shoemaker’s Street) and on the other side Kidričeva ulica, you will experience a typical medieval cobbler’s street; once the busiest Koper street, it has been inhabited by merchants and artisans for a number of centuries. The path than takes you to Prešeren Square, where you can admire the Da Ponte Fountain, Muda Gate, town walls and Church of St. Basso: all precious jewels of the town.

Taverna Today the Port’s promenade leads you to the Taverna (once used as a salt warehouse, today multi-purpose space used for various events). Just next to Taverna, stands the legendary home of the eminent Venetian painter Vittore Carpaccio.

The Vicinity of Koper The surrounding area of Koper offers to its visitors many possibilities for short interesting trips. In the fortified Church of the Holy Trinity in Hrastovlje, you can see the world-famous frescoes “The Dance of Death”. The nearby castle Socerb gives you a wonderful view on the Gulf of Trieste, very near to the Holy Cave, the only underground church in Slovenia.

Photo: STO

Events Summer in Koper Open-air festivals, street theatre performances and concerts for all tastes are going on from July to August.

Puf - PUPPET (Marionette) Festival Traditional puppet festival, with Euromarionettes - traditional European puppets - is performed by selected young authors and graduates of EU puppet schools. From July to August, every Thursday and Friday.

Farm Fair Geographically, the fair covers the whole Primorska Region. However, numerous Croatian and Italian companies are also presented. Within the framework of the fair, a variety of other events also take place, such as the honey festival, tasting of Istrian culinary delights, wine tasting, sheep shearing and exhibition of domestic animals.

Photo: U. Trnkoczy

The Slovenia Times

Kamnik 15 Koper 15

Kamnik Ljubljana Ljubljana

Ajdovščina Photo: TIC Ajdovščina

Ajdovščina

Paradise in the Vipava Valley Between the Adriatic Sea and central Slovenia, surrounded by the Trnovo plateau, the Vipava hills and the Nanos plateau, lies the Vipava Valley, a paradise covered with vineyards and villages.

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The centre of the valley is the town of Ajdovščina, 24h offering a variety of interesting experiences for all tastes.

At the Cold River The Hubelj spring is one of the main Karst springs in the Vipava valley and is known mainly for its clean and pure water, some of the best in the valley.

The river has witnessed an eventful history, with the Romans, Langobards and Huns passing through. The river has also experienced a bustle of hammer-mills, mills and saw-mills… The water gathers in the depth of the mountain and gushes out of the numerous holes of the Karst underground. The flow of water is at is most spectacular after heavy rains, and can be admired from a bridge at the Hubelj spring, the most beautiful focal point.

Photo: TIC Ajdovščina

Tourist Info TIC Ajdovščina Lokarjev drevored 8, Ajdovščina +386 (0)5 365 91 40 tic.ajdovscina@siol.net www.tic-ajdovscina.si 16 Ajdovščina

Nature trail in the forest A 3,100 metre-long nature trail reveals a mysterious landscape in the immediate vicinity of the town.

Twenty-four stations, beginning at the Pale sports park and leading to the Hubelj spring, exhibit an array of typical kinds of trees, bushes, rocks, water ecosystem, forest animals and nature’s other distinct features.

Summer Guide 2008

The Wine, Culinary Specialties and Old Villages

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The town of Ajdovščina is surrounded by fertile fields and sunny hills covered with vineyards. The Vipava hills are full of small romantic villages, rich in interesting history and traditional architectural details.

Listen to the medieval story of the Vipavski Križ (The Vipava Cross), stop at the monument dedicated to Matija Vertovec at Šmarje, walk to the gothic church of St. Paul at Planina; these are just a few of the possibilities.

And do not miss the culinary specialties; enter one of the many wine cellars situated by the Vipava wine road, and treat yourself to a glass of wine and a delicious home-made snack.

Photo: TIC Ajdovščina

The Gora Plateau A stunning and unforgettable view is to be enjoyed from the edge of Mount Gora and through Otliško okno, a hole in the Mount Gora ridge. Otlica, a nearby village, was named after this hole. The legend has it that the hole was made by the Devil who, in his effort to snatch away the Čaven mountain ridge, slipped and bumped into Mount Gora.

Photo: TIC Ajdovščina

Castrum Fortress Among all the towns of Slovenia, which date from the times of the Roman Empire, Ajdovščina has managed to preserve an almost intact Roman fortress with fourteen towers.24h Around the year 270, the Romans started building a fortified military camp that was a part of the defence system at the eastern boundaries of the Empire.

For the Daredevils It is also possible to view Ajdovščina from the air. The more daring visitors can pilot a plane or parachute to the valley from the Gora plateau.

Those who are more interested in depths than heights will surely be thrilled by the many fascinating secrets that explorers have discovered in the area’s caves.

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Cycling The easiest way to fully experience the beauties of the Vipava Valley is by bicycle. The colourful countryside with many roads and paths offers numerous possibilities; one can ride down the field paths by the lively Vipava River, through the vineyards and villages on 24h the Vipava hills, ascend Predmeja Hill, or travel deep into the heart of the Trnovo Forest.

The Slovenia Times

Photo: TIC Ajdovščina

Events A traditional festival of the theatre, film, music and dance Štrudlfest takes place annually on the last weekend of September at various locations in Ajvoščina; this year’s theme is communication (www.strudlfest.com).

On first Sunday after St Martin’s Sunday (16th November in 2008), there is a traditional Hike Along Vertovec Trail, through the villages of Ustje, Dolenje, Planina, Šmarje, Vrtovče, Tevče, Uhanje and back to Ustje.

St Martin’s Day festivities are organised gettogethers offering traditional food and new wine, taking place around 11th November in wine cellars when “must” turns to wine.

During spring and autumn farms in the Vipavska Valley open their doors for eight days and serve their home-grown food and wine. So called “osmica” is marked by signposts and green ivy twigs.

Ajdovščina 17

Ljubljana

Nova Gorica Photo: TIC Nova Gorica

Nova Gorica

University Town

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Established shortly after the Second World War, Nova Gorica has soul in spite of its relative youth, and is an interesting town full of surprises. It was built next to Gorizia, which remained on the Italian side after the allies drew the border.

The artificial separation of the populace after WWII ended with Slovenia’s accession to the European Union. This occasion was significant enough to make it one of the most notable celebrations of 1st

May 2004, when Slovenia entered the EU. The town 24hof the Mediterranean, is positioned at the juncture the Alps and continental Europe and features a fascinating blend of the characteristics of each of these regions woven around the emerald green beauty of the Soča River.

Nova Gorica is a university town, providing education to both Slovenian and European students, enhancing the reputation and significance of the university.

Wine Road

Photo: TIC Nova Gorica

Tourist Info

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TIC Nova Gorica Bevkov trg 4, Nova Gorica +386 (0)5 330 46 00 +386 (0)5 330 46 06 tzticgn@siol.net www.novagorica-turizem.com 18 Nova Gorica

The lower part of the Vipavska dolina valley is a littoral wine-growing region and part of the Vipava wine-growing district that provides excellent vine-growing conditions. The region is known for placing emphasis on indigenous and other old varieties of wine that lend this region its special charm – Rebula, Tokaj, Zelen, Pinela and Malvazija.

Sabotin Sabotin is a small mountain overlooking both the “old” and “new” towns of Gorica. It also has a special historical ­significance: its steep slopes were the scene of some of the bloodiest fighting during the First World War, as it was part of the Isonzo Front. Nearly a century later, Sabotin became a memorial park.

Summer Guide 2008

Plateau of Trnovo and Banjšice The world of the Plateau of Trnovo and Banjšice is itself an invitation to the experience of nature at its best; breathe in the unpolluted air, enjoy the scent of blooming meadows or take a rest in the shelter of tree-tops enjoying a few moments of silence. During the summer months, the shadows cast by the huge crowns offer a sanctuary against heat waves. The plateau offers beautiful pristine nature, hidden groves and many interesting karst phenomena. Many tourists will find the Ice cave in Parada, housing eternal snow and ice (which were decades ago even driven to Egypt) particularly interesting.

In spring, the light green arches of trees covering bicycle trails and footpaths offer a rewarding hike to visitors, while the nearby peaks offer an excellent challenge to those 24h who wish to24h make more difficult ascents.

Photo: TIC Nova Gorica

Solkan Bridge North of Gorica, where the river Soča curves around the foothills of Sabotin, you can admire one of the manmade wonders of Slovenia: an old railway bridge, built in 1906, which is now a protected structure.

Measuring 220 m in length, it features the biggest stone arch of any railway bridge in the world. The Solkan Bridge was the last of its generation, a testament to the giant railway bridges built by the Austro-Hungarian Empire.

Photo: TIC Nova Gorica

Kostanjevica Just a stone’s throw from the town’s centre lies ­Kostanjevica, an old religious centre built around a small church and a Franciscan monastery. It is not only important to the numerous pilgrims that come here in search of spiritual enlightenment; it also has important historical value. The last members of the French house of Bourbon, including Charles X, are buried here, which often leads to ­Kostanjevica being referred to as “little St Denis”.

Europe Square In 2004, when Slovenia entered the EU, the border with ­Italy was opened. The historical occasion was marked with the inauguration of a new square on the border in front of the Nova Gorica Railway Station, where the people of the two towns most frequently come into contact. The square symbolically links the two towns with a huge, beautiful circular mosaic, created by the Italian artist Franco ­ Vecchiet. It bears the inscription “Mosaic of the New Europe”, and shows buildings and streets that meet in the square, symbolizing the many years of separation.

The Slovenia Times

Photo: TIC Nova Gorica

Events The traditional Festival of Mowing held on Banjšice will be organized from 26th to 27th July this year.

During the entire summer, numerous cultural and entertainment events will take place on the platform in front of the France Bevk Library and the Slovene National Theatre-Nova Gorica. Additionally, Klub goriških študentov (a local student club) will organize different summer events from July to August. This September, Nova Gorica will celebrate its 60th anniversary, so a big celebration and several events are on their way.

Nova Gorica 19

Bovec

Kamnik

Bovec Photo: Marko Šimenc

Ljubljana Ljubljana

The Centre of Adrenaline Valley Coming from the north, from Italy or the Trenta valley, Bovec is the first major town, and the centre for outdoor activities in the area. The entire region is dominated by the Soča River and the mountains looming above the valley. The river has become synonymous with good fishing, rafting and kayaking while the tributaries’ gorges are now a favourite place for canyoning.

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Bovec has the most accommodation facilities in the valley, offering hotels, apartments, private rooms, boarding-houses, guest houses, camping sites and a camper rest area. Many sports agencies will let you choose your favourite activity, while inns and restaurants will serve you with both delicious local spe­cialities and the food you are used to.

The Kluže Fortress

Tourist Info TIC Bovec Trg Golobarskih žrtev 8, Bovec +386 (0)5 389 64 44 +386 (0)5 389 64 45 info@bovec.si

Kluže is located four kilometres from Bovec in the direction of the Predel Pass. The presentday appearance of the fortress dates back to 1882. The central part of the fortress has the shape of a square with high and narrow peepholes in the walls.

The complex of the fortress also includes the “upper” fortress called Fort Hermann, erected on a rocky ridge.

The path leading to it is hewn from the rock along its initial stretch and then runs through a tunnel. The upper fortification was demolished during an artillery barrage in World War I when the Italian batta‑ lions could do no damage to the fortress by the road.

An entertaining play by the 1313 Association can be seen at the Kluže fortress. The Path of Peace links the fortress to various museums and natural wonders.

www.bovec.si 22 Bovec

Summer Guide 2008

The Soča Trail The Soča Trail is an entry point to a world of the cultural and natural heritage of the Trenta Valley; visitors can marvel at the picturesque vistas over the Soča River, learn about the Trenta Lodge, the Julijana alpine botanical garden and conclude their trip at the source of the Soča River.

Kanin Kanin is the only ski resort in Slovenia with slopes above 2,000 m offering lots of sunshine and magnificent views far into the heart of the Julian Alps and towards the Mediterranean. In summer, the upper station of the Kanin cable car is the departure point for many attractive hikes: to the peaks of Kanin (2,587 m) or Prestreljnik24h (2,499 m) or Peter Skalar’s hut, which is only a 40-minute walk away. Other more demanding trekking routes include Rombon, Mangart, Jerebica and Krn, which are all rather long (between four and five hours).

A trip along the trail from World War I to Lake Krn might prove a good option for average mountaineers.

Soča River The Soča River comes from a spring not far from the village of Trenta in Triglav National Park. From this spring, the river, one of the most beautiful in Europe, winds its way deep into the stone valley floor, creating a narrow ravine along the way.

The exuberant fresh stream with its numerous pools, rapids and waterfalls poses a major challenge to anglers and adventurous sportsmen alike.

The Soča River and neighbouring brooks enable many water sports activities such as kayaking, canoeing, hydrospeeding, rafting and canyoning.

Photo: Erik Cuder

Bovec Airfield Interested in tandem paragliding, tandem parachuting, sail-plane flights and panoramic flights above the peaks of the Julian Alps? The airfield in Bovec is considered one of the most beautiful in the Alps, and flying is possible in nearly 24h all weather conditions.

Flying in the company of paragliders and alpine birds of prey, above green forests and mountain peaks, with the emerald-green Soča River below, is a truly unique experience by any24h standard.

The Slovenia Times

Bovec 23

Cyclist’s Paradise Bovec is great for mountain biking, with wellorganized trails along gently rising paths to more demanding shaded forest trails to hidden valleys and the foothills of the area’s mountains.

If you are a dedicated cyclist, a visit to the mountain bike park at Kanin, which is divided into three sections of varying difficulty, is a must. All cyclists will love the road to Mangart, which will take you over 2,000 m above sea level, ma­king it the highest road in Slovenia. If you are a hardcore outdoor adventurer, you can continue along the trail to Mt. Mangart (2,679 m).

Recommendations Avantura

Photo: LTO Bovec

Events Thursday Night Bovec (featuring Buške Čeče, a folk group called “BC” and a visiting group performing every Thursday at “the Bovec Dance”).

P.P. 45, 5230 Bovec info@avantura.org www.avantura.org tandem paragliding, canyoning, cave exploring, off road tours, ethnic picnic, sledding etc.

The Kobarid Museum Exhibition about the First World War; open every day Gregorčičeva 10, Kobarid +386 (0)5 389 00 00 www.kobariski-muzej.si kobariski.muzej@siol.net

Holiday house Tatjana Bavdež, s.p.

Mala vas 56a, 5230 Bovec +386 (0)31 639 048 apartma.bavdez@email.si www.apartmabavdez.si Photo: LTO Bovec

Sportmix, Traft d.o.o. Bovec Trg golobarskih žrtev 18, 5230 Bovec, M: +386 (0)31 871 991, T: +386 (0)5 389 61 60, F: +386 (0)5 389 61 61, traft@siol.net, www.sportmix.traftbovec.si Let the green beauty of the Soča River tempt you into its secrets. Abandon yourself to it in rafting, hydrospeeding and kayaking. Experience canyoning in the quiet world of emerald pools.

Special offer: Attractive prices for packages of two or more activities.

Sport activities: rafting, canyoning, hydrospeed, kayak, bikes for rental, picnic places

24 Kamnik

15 %

discount for rafting

20 %

discount for canyoning

Summer Guide 2008

Idrija

Idrija Photo: Tadeja Bezeljak

Ljubljana

Where Mercury Meets Lace 24h

Idrija is internationally renowned for two seemingly unrelated things: mercury and lace. The Municipality of Idrija stretches along the Idrijca river, surrounded by the picturesque mountains of the sub-Alpine and Karst regions. The hilly region is crisscrossed by a multitude of ravines and valleys, making it impossible to build more than two towns: Idrija and Spodnja (lower) Idrija.

There, a rich deposit of mercury ore was discovered in 1490; this would define the history of Idrija for the next 500 years. The town is fully committed to preserving its mining tradition and cultural heritage.

Idrija boasts numerous interesting sights and other points of interest.

The Idrija Municipial Museum

Photo: Jani Peternelj

Tourist Info TIC Idrija Vodnikova 3, Idrija +386 (0)5 374 39 16 ticidrija@icra.si The Municipality of Idrija 26 Idrija

The Gewerkenegg Castle houses the Idrija Municipial ­Museum, which was proclaimed the European Museum of Technical and Industrial Heritage of 1997. Extensive collections on the history of the town and the mine are on display, as is the collection of lace and the memorial room. On the picturesque courtyard, various cultural events take place over the summer. Another element in the town’s rich technical legacy is the so-called “kamšt”, a pump device from 1790 with a water wheel, made of oak wood, measuring 13.6 m in diameter. This is the only device of its kind in Slovenia, and one of the few in the world that remains in its original position. It is also repu­tedly the oldest wooden wheel in Europe.

www.idrija-turizem.si Summer Guide 2008

Anthony’s Shaft Anthony’s Shaft, which is open for tou­rists, is the oldest part of the Idrija Mercury mine. Dating back to 1500, it is also one of the world’s oldest mine entrances. It was through this almost 300 m long shaft that mineworkers entered the mine for almost half a millenium.

In the mid 18th century, the Holy Trinity Chapel was erected at the far end of the shaft. A multimedia presentation is available to the visitors, as is the viewing of the Miner’s House, renovated in the style of typical old dwelling, demonstrating the culture and lifestyle of the mining families.

Photo: Tadeja Bezeljak

Divje Jezero Research supports the claim that Divje jezero (Wild Lake) is a karst spring. The most famous spring of this kind is situated near Avignon, in the French region of Vaucluse. The lake and its immediate vicinity boast an ­exceptional wealth of flora and fauna.

Hilly Surroundings The possibilities for sporting activities in the summer are countless as well. There are several cycling routes of ­various levels of difficulty, for example the Smugglers’ route on the Ledina Plateau, the route on the Vojskarska plateau, the route on the Črni Vrh plateau, and the route into the heart of the Idrija forests.

“Klavže” on Idrijca and Belca Rivers Frequently called “Slovenian pyramids”, klavže were built around 1770, during the reign of Maria Theresa of Habsburg. These monumental water barriers, built in the upper stream of the Idrijca and Belca rivers, enabled the drifting of wood for the needs of the mine and the town.

Photo: Jani Peternelj

Events Festivals and festivities in the old town The 27th Festival of the Idrija Lace (20th and 22nd June). Lace will be on the display in different exhibitions during all summer.

International Tango Festival Idrija (25th July) A festival of music, dance, street theatre and photography (August) Alter Art Festival - a festival of alternative music (8th and 9th August) Od zrna do kruha (From Grain to Bread) - an ethnological event (17th August at Ledine). Čipkarija, a student festival (22nd and 24th August) Karbidovka 2008 - a race featuring old motorcycles (30th August) Charcoal Burner’s Sunday - an ethnological event taking place on the last weekend in August at Krnice

Downhill Javornik The village of Lome pri Črnem Vrhu nad Idrijo will host the Slovenian cup in downhill mountain bikeing between 11th and 13th July.

Photo: Tadeja Bezeljak

The Slovenia Times

Idrija 27

Bohinj

Bohinj Photo: LTO Bohinj

Ljubljana

Paradise Under the Mount Triglav

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In the midst of the unspoiled nature of the Triglav National Park, Bohinj offers unforgettable experiences behind every corner. Enjoy hiking tours along marked trails by yourself or accompanied by an experienced guide and delight in the beauty of nature at its best;

Tourist Info LTO Bohinj Trg svobode 3a, Bohinjska Bistrica +386 (0)4 574 75 90 +386 (0)4 574 75 91 lto@bohinj.si www.bohinj.si

Bohinj Tourist Association Ribčev Laz 48, Bohinjsko jezero +386 (0)4 574 60 10 +386 (0)4 572 33 30 info@bohinj-info.com www.bohinj-info.com

28 Bohinj

go on a guided botany tour to discover the diversity of flora at every step. These are active vacations that also offer a variety of activities that get your adrenaline 24h pumping.

The Triglav Lakes Valley The Triglav Lakes Valley, one of the most beautiful in the Julian Alps, is famous for its seven lakes and other natural wonders. The first lake (Pod Vršacem) is hydrologically separated from the others that supply the waters of the Savica Waterfall.

24h 24h Each of the seven lakes was named after its characteristics: the Brown Lake is surrounded by a brown belt in summer, Pod Vršaki pool is covered with snow well into springtime, the Green Lake contains algae, the Great Lake is the largest, the Double Lake changes into a single one when the water level rises, and the Black Lake is dark because of the surrounding pinewood.

The lakes are located between 1,319 m and 2,002 m above sea level.

Bohinj Railway In 1906, the Bohinj Tunnel, one of the most important tunnels in the new railway line that connected Vienna with Trieste, was officially opened by the heir to the Austro-Hungarian throne, Franz Ferdinand. The line was a great acquirement of that time.

Summer Guide 2008

Savica Waterfall This natural monument is the crown of Bohinj Valley. The waterfall has always attracted attention of numerous people, among them also the greatest Slovenian poet, France Prešeren, who even chose the waterfall for his epic poem entitled Krst pri Savici (Christening at Savica).

The magnificent and mighty source invites you to enjoy in the healing beauty, formed through centuries by our greatest artist - Mother Nature.

Photo: LTO Bohinj

Lake Bohinj

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This is the largest natural permanent lake in Slovenia, covering 318 ha. It is 4,100 m long, 1,200 m wide and 45 m deep. Sixty-five algae species, eight mollusc species and five types of fish live in the lake. The main tributary is the Savica that springs from the waterfall under the rock wall of Komarča. The lake water that flows in from numerous other sources is completely refreshed three times per year. In summer, the temperature of the water rises to 22 degrees so the lake is ideal for refreshment in hot summer days.

24h Mostnica Gorge

At the end of the Voje Valley, the Mostnica River emerges from the rocks as a triple waterfall, known as the Mostnica Waterfall. On its lover 24h limestone grounds, the river has cut out more than two km long of channels, which are the deepest at the Devil’s Bridge (20 m) and quite narrow at some places (1 m).

Especially worth mentioning is a rock that the water carved in the shape of an elephant.

Photo: STO

Events The most interesting events are the wedding feast or “Vasovanje” (25th July), rural wedding or “Kmečka ohcet” (26th July), Bohinj Night or “Kresna noč” (8th and 9th August) and Cows’ ball or “Kravji Bal” (14th September).

LD - Turizem, Darja Lazar, s.p.

During the summer, you can listen to quality musical events, organised in different churches in Bohinj, and you are also invited to Bohinj’s museums and many cultural and historical monuments.

Mencingerjeva 10, 4264 Bohinjska Bistrica +386 (0)4 574 76 00 darja.lazar@siol.net www.ld-turizem.si

Every August (30th August this year), athletes from all over the world compete in the traditional Ironman Triathlon. From 27th September to 4th October, Bohinj will host its first Hiking Days.

Recommendations

The Slovenia Times

Kamnik 29

Vogel Ljubljana

Photo: Žičnice Vogel Bohinj

Vogel

Mountain Settlement with a Breathtaking View Vogel is a tourist centre in Triglav National Park. A modern cableway takes you to 1,537 m above sea level, where marvellous vistas can be enjoyed. In winter, Vogel is a renowned ski resort, where ideal

snow conditions amidst unpolluted nature enhance your skiing and snowboarding experience, and also make the panoramic view of the countryside from the cableway anything but dull.

Summer on Vogel Vogel’s all white appearance assumes more lively colours in summer. Numerous walking and marked mountain trails are ideal for recreation, taking pictures, relaxing in a peaceful mountainous environment or simply observing the diversity of flora and fauna.

Photo: STO

Tourist Info Žičnice Vogel Bohinj Ukanc 6, Bohinjsko jezero +386 (0)4 572 97 12, +386 (0)4 572 97 21 +386 (0)4 572 37 80

Paradise for Paragliders At Vogel, which is also known as one of , you will never go hungry or thirsty, because everything is taken care of.

marketing.vogel@siol.net www.vogel.si

The cable car operates every day from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., every hour.

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30 Vogel

Photo: STO

Summer Guide 2008

Hotels in Triglav National Park Alpe Adria Turizem Ribčev Laz 45, 4265 Bohinjsko jezero T: +386 (0)4 577 80 00, F: +386 (0)4 572 34 46 e-mail: info@aaturizem.com, www.hoteli-bohinj.si HOTEL BOHINJ is a friendly hotel situated right next to Lake Bohinj, surrounded by green nature, with a fascinating view of the lake and mountains including the highest peak of the Julian Alps: Triglav. Our hotel is a perfect place for holidays - just 50 m from the tourist centre, yet far from traffic.

HOTEL and VILA ZLATOROG are situated in Ukanc surrounded by the forest, on the shore of the Savica River, just a few steps from Lake Bohinj. Set amidst glorious mountain scenery, the hotel provides an ideal base for numerous sport activities, wining and dining in our excellent restaurant, entertainment or just a comfortable place to rest and relax. Some of our famous guests: Nikos Kazantzakis, Olaf Palme with his wife, Josip Broz Tito, Vivian Leigh, Naser, Hruscev, Breznjev, Willy Brandt, Kardelj, Kidric, Dedier, Sarter, Janez Drnovsek, and Milan Kucan.

HOTEL SKI offers you accommodation on an extraordinary look-out point, 1000 m above Lake Bohinj, in the middle of the mountains. Imagine staying in a hotel where you feel you can touch the mountains with your hand, were the sky seems so close you can almost float on the clouds and where you see the whole Lake Bohinj below you!

HOTEL BELLEVUE is positioned on a hill above the village Ribčev Laz and above Lake Bohinj. The hotel, surrounded by forest, lies in a quiet, peaceful area, where you can enjoy the wonderful views of the lake, mountains and the village Stara Fužina and where you can really let go of all your every day’s worries.

The ZLATOROG CAMP site is situated on the shore of Lake Bohinj and has its own beach.

poletje 2008

ALPSKA VAS VOGEL - BOHINJ - SLOVENIJA

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V Bohinju (Vogel - 1535 m) vam v osr~ju Triglavskega narodnega parka nudimo preno~i{~a,

In the very heart of theson~ne Triglavterase, National park,doma~o in Bohinjhrano (Vogel m) dodatne we offeraktivnosti. accommodaizredne razglede, odli~no in 1535 razli~ne tions, sunny terraces, cooked mealsko~o, and various additional Vse tofantastic in {e ve~views, v NOVI Alpski vasi nadelicious Voglu, kihome obsega planinsko pizzerijo, turisti~neactivisobe ties. This and more awaits you inhostel the new on Vogel.

You(14 willoseb). also find a mountain hut, a (32 le`i{~), (39 Alpine le`i{~) Village in apartmajsko ko~o pizzeria, tourist rooms with 32 beds, a hostel with 39 beds and an apartment hut for 14 people.

namestitve

Opis: Vsi objekti ALPSKE VASI se nahajajo na samem smu~i{~u, na nadmorski vi{ini 1537m, v Accommodation: RuĹĄa, Burja and Murka, Alpine hut Merjasec osr~ju Julijskih Alp, s ~udovitim pogledom na Triglav in na pa{nike pod vrhovi Ĺ ije in Vogla.

NEW - Panorama view from the sauna in Burja

Visit Vogel and enjoy your stay - throughout the year!

Alpska vas Bohinj Ukanc 182, 4265 Bohinjsko jezero T, F: +386 (0)4 576 87 90 M: +386 (0)51 644 315, +386 (0)51 644 316 alpskavas.bohinj@siol.net www.alpska-vas-bohinj.si

Set in the heart of Slovenia’s Julian Alps and the Triglav National Park, we have the highest number of modern suites in Kranjska Gora. Our accommodation has minimalist style, contemporary design and quality décor and facilities.

A holiday in this unique setting is a time to relax. Our wellness centre with saunas, jacuzzis, a fitness centre and massage treatments is due to open in 2008.

We have modern conference and business facilities for you and your clients.

Our air-conditioned congress area with state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment provides everything necessary for your business events.

A hot and cold buffet service will helps ensure your meetings and functions go smoothly and comfortably. Upon request, we can provide additional specialised conference equipment. We offer full support with the organisation of different types of business and personal gatherings from 10 up to 100 people or more.

The Slovenia Times

Suite Hotel Klass, Brezje 14, Kranjska gora T: +386 (0)4 588 58 88 info@hotelklass.si www.hotelklass.si

Kamnik 33

Škofja Loka

Škofja Loka Photo: LTO Blegoš

Ljubljana

The Summer Pulse of Colourful Loka One of the oldest Slovenian towns, the best-preserved town centre, the first electrified town, but Škofja Loka is so much more! It is also a developing town, where the histo­rical meets the modern, surrounded by natural beauty and a healthy environment; all of this only twenty kilometres from Ljubljana.

It’s no surprise that Škofja Loka is a highly recommended getaway destination. Once there, you will quickly discover that there could have been more than just a few reasons for the bishops of Freising’s decision to start a town there over a thousand year ago.

The Castle

Photo: LTO Blegoš

Tourist Info LTO Blegoš Kidričeva c. 1a and Mestni trg 7, Škofja Loka +386 (0)4 517 06 00

The symbol and the heart of mediaeval Škofja Loka is the castle, which proudly overlooks the old town.

Once the court of the Bishops of Freising, today a museum, restaurant, gallery and a venue for many other events, it offers many delights to its visitors.

The castle houses the Loka Museum, where you can acquaint yourself with the general history, ethnography, art and natural heritage of the Škofja Loka area. The castle area also features a lovely promenade towards the auditorium, which hosts cultural events.

Currently (until the end of the year), the castle is hosting an exhibition The Škofja Loka landscape captured in pictures.

+386 (0)4 517 06 05 info@lto-blegos.si www.skofjaloka.info, www.lto-blegos.si 34 Škofja Kamnik Loka

Summer Guide 2008

Lubnik, Križna Gora There is a network of hiking and cycling trails connecting the surrounding hills and villages around Škofja Loka. The largest among them – the 300 km long Loka’s cycling track (Loška kolesarska pot), which runs over the slopes of the Škofja Loka hills, offers a wonderful cycling experience that takes you through small villages, blooming meadows and rustling forests.

Photo: LTO Blegoš

Nace’s House In Puštal, the ancient rural town which is linked to Škofja Loka across the notorious “Devil’s” wooden bridge, a particularly interesting house is on display. It is called Nacetova hiša, a rural house with a typical “black” kitchen built back in 15th century that introduces you to the life of common medieval serfs.

Mestni and Spodnji Trg The old town consists of two squares. In the Mestni trg (meaning, “Town Square”), you can find a number of important buildings and monuments; among them is the famous Homan house, nowadays a restaurant and sweetshop as well as St. Jacob’s church with many valuable items from the 17th Century. Passing through the town square, no one can miss St. Mary’s shrine, a stony fountain built for prevention from plague and fire.

Entering the town through the northern gate, you will ­inevitably encounter the Capuchin Bridge, built from carved stone in a semicircular form, which is one of the oldest monuments of its kind in the Central Europe. In Spodnji Trg (“Lower Square”), the most notable building is the granary, which has existed in its basic form since before the 1511 earthquake. In previous centuries, all the taxes were kept in the granary; nowadays, there is a permanent gallery of the famous painter France Mihelič, accompanied by a restaurant with a pub and a wine-cellar in the basement.

Crngrob Crngrob is a great destination that, unlike the others, doesn’t require uphill efforts. It is loca­ted by a country road 3 km out of Škofja Loka.

Crngrob’s Church of Mary’s Annunciation, originally built before the year 1300, features magnificent 15th Century frescoes of Saint ­Christoph and of Holy Sunday.

The Slovenia Times

Photo: LTO Blegoš

Photo: Marko Pleško

Events A festive June in a millennial town In summer, a wide range of festivals, exhibitions, concerts and other forms of entertainment and special events are presented throughout the district.

Numerous concerts in July and August gathered under the collective name Summer Loka 2008 will bring live music to the towns centre. In August, the musical pulse beats even stronger with Musica Loka – a week of concerts and workshops.

A traditional medieval event The path of Venus is organized annually in June.

The Passion Play will be organized again in 2009. Škofja Kamnik 35 Loka 35

Recommendations Hotel Garni Paleta A lovely family hotel in the heart of the medieval town Kapucinski trg 17, 4220 Škofja Loka +386 (0)4 512 64 00 paleta.art@siol.net www.paleta-skofjaloka.si

Hotel Medno Medno 54, 1210 Ljubljana - Šentvid +386 (0)1 362 61 00 recepcija@hotel-medno.si www.hotel-medno.si

Suha Suha is an old Slovene village and it was mentioned in its deed of donation from the year 973. There are some great houses in the core of old village; the most typical of them is Špan’s home.

The country mansion is a remarkable piece of Škofja Loka’s architectural legacy. Art admirers won’t mind walking to Saint John’s church of Suha where one of the most beautiful presbyteries with the starry arch, so called Carniolan presbytery, can be seen. The decorative paintings were made in the middle of the 15th 24h century and the frescoes, rich and colourful, are excellent examples of mediaeval art.

Visoko

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In the Poljanska valley, 9 km from Škofja Loka, there are two mighty farms, which were mentioned in documents as early as in the 13th century. The large home of Kalan was reorganized by the famous Slovenian writer Ivan Tavčar into his manor.

Two hundred and thirty years before Tavčar, the Kalan family was managing the valley; their great power, tragic destiny and their downfall were described in The Chronicle of Visoko by Tavčar.

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Capucin Church In the immediate 24h vicinity of the Capuchin Bridge, there is the Capuchin church with its library and monastery. The church, built in 1709 in Baroque period is of no special artistic value because the architecture had to follow the strict rules of the order. Precious manuscripts of the friar Romuald from 1721 are kept in the library next to ancient religious books. That manuscript is Škofjeloški Pasijon (The Passion of Škofja Loka) and it is the oldest preserved drama text written in the Slovene language. It was performed as passion procession through the streets of Škofja Loka again in 1999 after more than 200 years.

The history-theatre spectacle was performed by more than 600 performers. The story of humanity from Adam and Eve to the death of Christ was seen by many people.

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Hotel Creina

36 Škofja Loka

Summer Guide 2008

Slovenian newspaper in English

www.sloveniatimes.com

Dol pri Ljubljani Photo: Dol pri Ljubljani

Dol pri Ljubljana Ljubljani

The Land of Jurij Vega The municipality of Dol pri Ljubljani lies at the extreme eastern part of the Ljubljana Basin. Above the Sava River and its fertile terraces, rise the first elevations of the Posavsko Hills. Villages with curious names testify to the region’s intriguing history, which many kind locals can easily confirm.

These parts were soon settled due to the many water streams found here; archaeological finds at Ajdovščina, Gradišče in Podgora and Križevska Vas testify to this. Along the village of Dol, a famous

Roman road once existed that ran from Vrhnika to Celje.

The village of Dol was first mentioned in 1262, together with St Marjeta’s church. Dol was also mentioned by Janez Vajkard Valvasor who talks about Dol’s pleasant environment, which is on flat ground. The valley used to be named “Lusttal”, particularly when Dol Manor was mentioned in the same breath, meaning “the valley of joy and delight”. There is a European footpath, the E6, which runs through the municipality.

Manor Pavilions

Tourist Info The Municipality of Dol pri Lj. Dol pri Ljubljani 1, Dol pri Lj. +386 (0)1 530 32 40 +386 (0)1 530 32 49 obcina@dol.si www.dol.si 40 Dol Kamnik pri Ljubljani

The Gallenbergs were the titleholders of Dol Castle to the 16th century, followed by the Rasps in 1562.

More than one hundred years later, in 1688 to be precise, the Erberg Barons bought the castle and the estate, and stayed there for nearly two hundred years.

Jožef Kalasanc, the Erberg Baron, built two neoclassical pavilions to house his collections – the northern was used as a library, the southern to house an art collection. During his era, Dol was a meeting place of the Ljubljana aristocracy and everyone who meant anything in Carniola. The most renowned guests Kalasanc ever entertained were the successor to the throne Ferdinand and his father Emperor Franc II with his wife Caroline Augusta of Bavaria. Renovated pavilions host temporary exhibitions and other cultural events.

Summer Guide 2008

The Birth Place of Jurij Vega The muddy hill settlement Zagorica at the western part of the Posavsko Hills above the valley of the Sava River at Vehovac is the birth place of Jurij Vega. Vega was a famous mathematician born in 1754, whose memorial room is still preserved in the house in which he was born. He tried doing many things during his life: he was a shepherd, a math teacher, a scientist, a soldier, a lieutenant colonel and a baron. His most significant contribution to mathematics was his work with logarithms.

To ensure a faster and more precise calculation of logarithms, he developed a special equation – the Vega Row – from Mercator’s infinite row. His most renowned work is a large bilingual ten decimal logarithm table in Latin and German, Thesaurus logarithmorum completes, from 1794, which Vega finished at the battlefield of Porenje. The work’s approach to solving24hartillery problems immortalised him as the founder of scientific ballistics.

Photo: Dol pri Ljubljani

Homesteads Along the Navigable Part of the Sava River

Photo: Dol pri Ljubljani

The Sava River, which slowly meanders through the valley, has had quite an impact on these parts. At the end of the 19th century, its current was much closer to the actual villages than it is now. People built piers for boats and rafts that were used for conveying merchandise along the river, yet river traffic slowly declined due to the advent of the southern railway, which also changed people’s lives and made them less closely dependant on the river.

The extant cultural heritage speaks of a rich history.

Large homesteads, former gostilnas, ox barns and warehouses are still part of the Dol Municipality, even though modern structures have largely overshadowed them.

The most renown are the Dolsko 19 homestead and the homestead complex Pr’ Krač, which is the very 24h last example of a working supply centre along the navigable part of the Sava River.

Fishing at Sava There is a rich fishing district at the Sava River at the territory of the Dol Municipality, which extends from the confluence of Ljubljanica, Kamniška Bistrica and Sava Rivers all the way up to the bridge in Litija. The district is best known for the Danube salmon – the king of Slovene waters – and the biggest catches of this kind of fish in Slovenia have happened right here.

The Slovenia Times

Photo: Zavod za ribištvo Slovenije

Events Each year the municipality sees two traditional events, the Spring and Autumn Fairs, taking place in June and September. The fairs see local societies and people presenting and offering goods from the countryside. There is also a rich and entertaining cultural programme accompanying the event itself.

Dol pri Ljubljani 41 Kamnik 41

Ljubljana Dolenjske Toplice

Photo: TIC Dolenjske Toplice

Dolenjske Toplice

A Town of Hot Water Springs When driving from Ljubljana along the picturesque Krka Valley, a completely different world suddenly opens up at Soteska as the Dolenjske Toplice Basin emerges, surrounded by the vineyard cottages of Dolenjska and the mysterious Kočevski Rog. In the midst of the basin, lies the town of Dolenjske Toplice, named after its thermal spring that significantly influ-

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enced the development of the town and its surroundings. The archaeological finds in the area confirm that the town has been known for its hot thermal springs since ancient times. The first written mention of the town dates back to 1228 when Henry IV, the margrave of Istria, gave a part of his property in Toplice to the Cistercian Abbey in Stična.

Path Ways The town of Dolenjske Toplice as well as its vicinity is crisscrossed with walking and cycling paths. One can choose between 18 walking and six cycling paths. The map of all the routes facilitates orientation, while specific information regarding each path in terms of its length, difficulty level and sights situated along the way is printed on special leaflets.

Photo: TIC Dolenjske Toplice

Tourist Info TIC Dolenjske Toplice Sokolski trg 4, Dolenjske Toplice +386 (0)7 384 51 88 +386 (0)7 384 51 89 tic.dtoplice@volja.net www.dolenjske-toplice.si/en/ 42 Dolenjske Kamnik Toplice

The Cvinger Archaeological Trail The marked Archaeological Trail leading to Cvinger is 2.5 km long. The ancient Fort at Cvinger was surrounded by a magnificent city wall that was more than a metre thick and 720 m long. In the south one can still see the entrance door and the road leading to the smelter area. The city walls were partially reconstructed in 1990.

Summer Guide 2008

Terme Krka Terme Dolenjske Toplice is one of the oldest thermal spas in Europe. Thermal springs and pleasant surroundings of the picturesque and vineyard-rich valley of the Krka River have attracted many visitors for centuries.

The thermal water spring is slightly mineralised and has great healing properties, mostly for treating rheumatic and gynaecological illnesses, and also helps people with functional handicaps. The highly qualified staff and contemporary appliances contribute to the early discovery of health problems.

Photo: TIC Dolenjske Toplice

Soteska Manor The magnificent Soteska Manor, famous for its richly painted rooms and one of the most beautiful of its kind in Carniola, is situated on the river terrace on the left bank of the Krka River.

In the autumn of 1943, the Partisans burnt the manor down; it was used as a stone-pit after the war. The manor also houses the Technical Museum’s depot.

Tours are available at any time by prior arrangement.

Base 20 In the heart of Kočevski Rog lies Base 20 where the seat of the Slovenian National Liberation Front and other Partisan Institutions was situated. The 26 barracks are the only preserved monuments of the Resistance Movement of this kind in Europe.

The role and significance of Base 20 is presented on permanent display in Barrack 16 while Barrack 22 houses another permanent display summarising the variety of Partisan activities conducted in Kočevski Rog during World War II. In the vicinity at Jelendol and Zgornji Hrastnik two preserved partisan hospitals are located, while another, the Pugled hospital, is located further away.

Photo: TIC Dolenjske Toplice

The Devil’s Tower At the end of the 17th century, a new Baroque park was created near the manor, which included a clovershaped garden pavilion, later called Hudičev turn (the Devil’s tower). Its interior is luxuriously decorated with 17th century illusionist-style paintings attributed to the Dutch painting master Almanach and his circle.

Several interesting motifs are featured, including the scene from Antique mythology depicting the kidnapping of Ganymede by Zeus. The name of the Devil’s Tower allegedly originates from hedonistic parties that were regularly organised by the Lords of the Castle.

The Slovenia Times

Photo: TIC Dolenjske Toplice

Events This year the Municipality of Dolenjske Toplice organises its sixth annual summer cultural events. From May to September a great variety of performers ranging from classical musicians, jazz performers, folk singers to rock bands will take the stage.

DolenjskeKamnik 43 Toplice 43

Slovenj Gradec

Ljubljana

Photo: TIC Slovenj Gradec

Slovenj Gradec

A Peace Messenger City

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The town of Slovenj Gradec is the administrative, economic and cultural centre of the Mislinjska dolina valley. Lying between Uršlja gora mountain and the western part of the Pohorje, at the confluence of the Mislinja and Suhodolnica rivers, the town was first written of in 1091. Its history is rich, mostly due to the Old Square, where the settlement of Colatio existed in the time of the Roman Empire.

The town was established by the Counts of Andechs, and then went through tumultuous centuries marked

by constantly changing rulers, but also by the development of trade and commerce. Along with the24h erection of city walls, the town gained market privileges, the judiciary, and also had its own mint.

Eventually, art began to prosper as well.

Contemporary Slovenj Gradec carries on the legacy of the past; numerous exhibitions and events put it on the world map and, in 1989, the town was proclaimed a Peace Messenger by the UN Secretary General.

The Old Town Centre

Photo: TIC Slovenj Gradec

Tourist Info TIC Slovenj Gradec Glavni trg 24, Slovenj Gradec +386 (0)2 881 21 16 +386 (0)2 881 21 17 tic@slovenjgradec.si www.slovenjgradec.si 44 Slovenj KamnikGradec

Since it preserved its original design, the old town centre is an important urban monument. In the Middle Ages, the town was surrounded by city walls; some of whose remains are visible to this day. In ­ addition, there are several other significant ­ buildings, such as the Church of St Elisabeth, featuring one of the finest baroque altars in Slovenia, and also the town’s oldest building; the Church of the Holy Ghost featuring frescoes by Andrej ­Otting; the Soklič museum with 1,500 exhibits; the Carinthian art gallery, one of the largest in the country; the Carinthian provincial museum, fea­turing a permanent installation of the ­archaeology of Carinthia; the ­so-called Fountains of Life, a work by the artist Mirko Bratuša; the ­Tisnikar memorial, a work by the sculptor Mirsad Begič; and the statue of the Venetian horse by Oskar Kogoj.

Summer Guide 2008

Thematic Paths In recent years, several tourist paths with different themes were created; for ­ example, the path leading to Dwarfland, the Roman path, the Meško path, the Plešivec expedition path, the Artisan path, the Labyrinth of ­Cycling paths beneath the Uršlja gora mountain, etc. Each of them promotes local features and the natural and cultural heritage of the area.

Photo: TIC Slovenj Gradec

Birthplace of Composer Hugo Wolf Hugo Wolf (1860-1903), who achieved worldwide fame in the musical capital of Europe, Vienna, spent his childhood years in Slovenj Gradec. Little Hugo was reputed to be a child prodigy, mastering the violin at an early age. When he became famous, he was especially respected as an incomparable master of solos.

The Church of St George Standing on the outskirts of the Legen terrace above the town of Šmartno near Slovenj Gradec, the Church of St George is a late Romanesque church from the 13th century, but since it was partially demolished in the 17th century and then rebuilt, it does not reflect its actual age. With the glass floor, the church reveals the remains from the early Middle Age, namely the old Slavonic graves from the 9th century.

Uršlja Gora Uršlja gora or Plešivec is a mountain between Slovenj Gradec and Črna na Koroškem. There is the Saint Ursula church just beneath the top, which makes it the highest church in Slovenia.

Uršlja gora is a very popular because of its extensive view.

Photo: TIC Slovenj Gradec

Events Slovenj Gradec is renowned as a town of peace and culture, where numerous events take place throughout the year, some of them international.

Among the most important ones are the biennial exhibition of the products of artisans and applied arts; Medieval Day; the international festival of Hugo Wolf’s solos, etc.

Each year, at the end of October, the town of Slovenj Gradec marks United Nations Day with the Peace Festival, which features various events throughout the day, ranging from an exhibition of children artworks; a competition in skateboarding; non-governmental organisations’ presentations of their activities, etc.

Photo: TIC Slovenj Gradec

The Slovenia Times

SlovenjKamnik 45 Gradec 45

Kope

Kope Photo: VABO

Ljubljana

Active Holidays in the Heart of Pine Trees The Kope mountain tourism centre is situated on the very west and highest part of the Pohorje range, at an altitude between 1,010 to 1,542 m above the sea level.

An idyllic winter ski resort, during the summer turns into a place where you can enjoy in all kind of activities,

Tourist Info Vabo d.o.o.

Glavni trg 43, Slovenj Gradec +386 (0)2 883 98 50 +386 (0)2 883 98 58 rezervacije@kope.si www.vabo.si

from mountaineering, mountain biking, badminton, table tennis, mushroom gathering and many others.

There is a children’s park and a giant trampoline available for the youngest.

Summer Boom on Kope You decided to spend your holidays a little bit differently than usual? You don’t have much time but you need a short break? You want to escape from the everyday hustle and bustle to fill your lungs with a fresh mountain air? All that is possible on Kope, where hundreds of mountain and cycling trails in the middle of the pine-tree’s forests, a spectacular views and genuine home prepared food are waiting for you to take a fewdays break and forget your troubles.

New Hotel – Lukov dom A new, comfortable equipped hotel offers a special luxury on the altitude of 1345 m. You can even relax and enjoy in a wellness centre with sauna and jacuzzi.

Local Cuisine

Photo: VABO

46 Kope

The restaurants Kope and Lukov dom daily offer traditional Pohorje mushroom soap with buckwheat porridge, different stews, typical Koroška cold meats and bilberry strudel for desert. A diverse offer of pizzas and daily lunches is also available.

Summer Guide 2008

tourism@sloveniatimes.com tel.: +386(0)41 213 810 +386(0)5 9045 001

Hiking Mountiniring Claimbing Canioning

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ES I T I V I ACT R E M M U S R U YO K O O B

www.time4slovenia.com

Ptuj

Ptuj Photo: TIC Ptuj

Ljubljana

A Treasury of the Milennia Placing Ptuj between Slovenske Gorice and Haloze on the one hand and between the Drava and Ptuj Fields on the other is incomparably easier than writing a short history of the town, which abounds in rich historic monuments.

The town’s most rapid development occurred during the Roman era. The Roman town Poetoviona with a population of 40,000 was one of the largest provincial towns of the Empire. Roman legionaries brought the cult of Mithras from the East, which made Ptuj one of the most important centres of Mithraism in Europe.

Between the 9th and 16th centuries, the town received its hallmark features that are seen in Ptuj’s cityscape, which is shaped like a triangle and shows Dominican and Minorite monasteries at both sides with a majestic Ptuj castle at the top.

224h 4h 24h

Ptuj is one of the oldest Slovene towns, whose streets are filled with historic treasures; wherever you go, you get a glimpse of history. The houses of the old town centre each have a remarkable story to tell, you 24honly need to lend an attentive ear. The town’s rich history is also reflected in the many churches, monasteries, the Ptuj Castle, the town tower, the Orpheus’ Monument, Mithras shrines, and others.

Ptuj’s remarkable cultural heritage and a rich ethnographic tradition lend the town its flavour of mysticism and uniqueness, which holds especially true for the kurent. A kurent is a fur carnival costume with bells tucked behind the belt, whose somewhat demonic appearance is said to chase away winter and usher in spring. Today, this historic-cultural heritage of Slovenia is also one of the country’s modern tourist attractions.

A Town of Many Delights Tourist Info TIC Ptuj Slovenski trg 5, Ptuj +386 (0)2 779 60 11 tic@ptuj-tourism.si www.ptuj-tourism.si

48 Ptuj

Ptuj and its vicinity have always been noted for good food and drink, since the town enjoys a seven-centurylong winemaking tradition. The well-known Ptuj Wine Cellar even houses the oldest Slovene wine – the Golden Vine from 1917.

Excellent wine requires excellent food, and the locals certainly know how to offer both. The enjoyment of fine food and drink used to be in the exclusive domain of lords and ladies of the castle, the soldiers and merchants, but today anyone can be treated to all the local specialties the town offers.

Summer Guide 2008

The Ptuj Castle On one of the last slopes of wine-growing Slovenske Gorice hills extending almost to the River Drava, dominates a mighty fort – the Castle of Ptuj, revealing various architectural influences that shaped it throughout the centuries. Today, the Castle is managed by the Regional Museum Ptuj and houses various permanent collections, such as the feudal dwelling culture, arms and musical instruments collections, the castle gallery, the traditional carnival masks, ethnological and »Turkish paintings« collections, as well as temporary ones. This year is dedicated to the exhibition “The Lords of Ptuj”.

Photo: TIC Ptuj

The Town of Well-being The town and its vicinity offer numerous sporting and relaxation options. Lovers of nature can make use of numerous hiking and cycling trails of various difficulty levels.

Water sports and fly-fishing on the Drava River are intended for water enthusiasts, and one can also take a trip around Lake Ptuj with a tourist boat Čigra.

You can experience the benefits of thermal mineral waters at the Terme Ptuj pools or you can relax with a of golf.

Adrenaline rush, freedom and variety are the things that draw the kind of tourists that are daring and who want to try something different, something challenging. In Ptuj you can also go on a panoramic flight in a hot air balloon.

At the beginning of September, more than 6,000 cyclists gather at Moškanjci pri Ptuju in what has become the biggest recreational cycling event in Slovenia – the Poli Marathon.

Photo: TIC Ptuj

Photo: TIC Ptuj

A town of song and events At the beginning of August, many cultural events and concerts take place as part of a municipal holiday, which concludes with “The Night of Ptuj” that sees the town streets and squares fill up with dance and music, and majestic fireworks that light up the sky at midnight.

At the end of August, “The Fisherman’s Night” is held at the coast of the Drava River. The old town centre sees two interesting events (“Ptuj – an Open Town” and “Youth in an Old Town”) fill the picturesque streets and squares with street entertainers, stage performers, musicians, painters, graffiti artists and many others.

The beginning of September is reserved for “The Ptuj Castle Games”, which is an event that has in recent years become a regular occurrence.

Photo: TIC Ptuj

The Slovenia Times

Kamnik 49 Ptuj 49

Maribor

Ljubljana

Maribor

Colour Your Day!

24h

24h

24h

The capital of Styria, and the second most important centre of Slovenia, invites visitors to the heart of vinecovered hills and the magical greenery of Pohorje. The charming old town centre is a testament to the town’s rich history.

The vineyards situated on the hills of Maribor are intertwined with the tourist wine trails, tempting attractions with their delicious culinary specialties and excellent wines. Just a few minutes from the town’s

very centre are the forests of Mariborsko Pohorje 24h and the largest ski centre in Slovenia, boasting an abundance of greenery, a virgin forest, and clear waters. The place offers unforgettable adventures for hikers, lovers of horse riding, cycling, adrenaline activities and wellness. Numerous events make the town alive and active. Enrich your day in Maribor!

You will surely be glad to return to our town at any ­­ time of year.

Discover Maribor

Photo: Jurij Pivka

Tourist Info TIC Maribor Partizanska 6a, Maribor +386 (0)2 234 66 11 +386 (0)2 234 66 13 tic@maribor.si www.maribor-pohorje.si 50 Maribor

Discover the hidden stories and treasures of Maribor with professional guides, who will tell you everything you need to know about the town. You will receive interesting information from various fields such as history, art, culture and society.

If you would like to discover Maribor’s landmarks in as little time as possible, you can opt for a classic twohour tour. However, if you would like to discover the town in a more thematic and organised manner, you can select one of the many interesting routes available to you. It is also possible for visitors to personally customise their tours in accordance with their wishes and interests.

You can discover Maribor by bike, tourist train Jurček 24h or on a traditional lumber raft on the Drava River.

Bikes are available for free rental in the office of the Tourist Information Centre.

Summer Guide 2008

24

The Old Town Centre The oldest part of the town is Lent. Here you can see the Old Vine and the Old Vine House, medieval alleys, towers and town walls, the castle, museum, town hall, the Plague Column, Slomšek’s Cathedral with a look-out tower, a Jewish synagogue, art gallery, theatre, etc. The local pubs are very pleasant, and there is a chapel at the Piramida hill that can lead you straight to one of the most beautiful Slovene town parks.

Photo: BOBO

The World’s Oldest Vine 24h

Maribor has a very rich wine tradition according to any24hstandard, and also harbours one of the largest and oldest classical wine cellars in Europe.

The town’s Old Vine is listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the oldest vine in the world. The vine grows on the frontage of the Old Vine House, which is seen as a temple of culture and wine tradition.

The house is also an exhibition ground where excellent Styrian wines are sold and tasted, and it is also a tourist information centre.

The Wine Trails

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Photo: BOBO

The tourist farms and wine cellars situated along wine trails are the perfect destination for lovers of excellent wines and culinary specialties. The ideal experience of a wine trails is a combination of easy to medium walking tours or cycling with wine and excellent food. You can choose between the ­ Mariborska, Podpohorska, and Gornjeslovenjgoriška wine trails.

Another option is the Wine Trail of Archduke Janez leading from Graz to Maribor, bringing together Slovenian and Austrian culinary specialties.

The Treasures of Pohorje 24h Pohorje boasts many natural distinctions, which impress both nature lovers and experts.

Among those are the Šumik virgin forest, the clean Pohorje waters, swamps with lakes, the only silicate mountains in Slovenia, the largest butterflies in Europe and other species. The natural sur­roundings can be explored either 24h on foot or by bicycle, by horse or from bird perspective from cable car or hot air balloon.

The Pohorje mountain is ideal for cycling, ­mountaineering, and mountain wellness, while adrena­line fana­tics will surely enjoy the Pohorje adre­naline park.

Photo: Marko Petrej

The Slovenia Times

Maribor 51

Meranovo Estate

Recommendations The Aparthotel Pohorje A beautiful spot in the middle of the Pohorje forest, 1 km from the cable lift station. +386 (0)2 603 67 00 info@aparthotel-pohorje.com www.aparthotel-pohorje.com

The charming viticultural Meranovo estate in the surroundings of Limbuš was once owned by the renowned Habsbur Archduke Janez (Johann) who is in a great degree meritorious for the development of viticulture and the cellar trade in Štajerska. As wine produced he was exhibited and appreciated around Europe 24h already in the 1850s. The Meranovo estate is an excellent starting point for trips and hikes in the surroundings.

24h

Events The Lent Festival, 27th June - 12th July Photo: Bogdan Zelnik

Experience Maribor! The town is abuzz with culture; with more than four hundred events for all tastes and ages taking place, the town transforms into the metropolis of culture and fun.

Summer Saturdays with the Castle’s Masters Every Saturday until mid September The Castles Masters occupies Maribor’s centre. Presentations of old handicrafts, castle painters, antiquaries and other special events, concerts take place in the town centre.

Concerts at Bolfenk, summer Sundays The former church presbytery at Pohorje, which offers wonderful acoustics, will see many performances of various vocal and instrumental groups. The presbytery also houses contemporary exhibitions.

Špas Fest, 28th August - 4th September Photo: Vesnaa Male

Medieval atmosphere in the very heart of Maribor featuring stand-up comedy, instrumental and ethnic music, puppet shows, classical music concerts, an exhibition of wax dolls, concerts, serenades, obarjada, Aaron’s medieval marketplace, cartoons for children, majorettes, javelin throwers, fiery spectacles, medieval fencing, pantomimes, jugglers and street comedians.

Maribor Festival, 4th - 14th September A traditional international event of chamber music at the highest European level enriched with selected works of the Baroque and contemporary works of various musical styles.

The Old Vine Festival, 20th - 28th September The Old Vine Festival is the main happening in the cycle of events From Vine to Wine, from pruning to St Martin’s Day, organized in the honour of the Old Vine, the oldest vine in the world. The culmination of diverse happenings and numerous events is represented by the ceremonious grape gathering event.

52 Maribor

Summer Guide 2008

Mariborsko Pohorje Ljubljana

Photo: ŠC Pohorje

Mariborsko Pohorje

Sport Center Pohorje Summer at Mariborsko Pohorje offers adventures for every taste and whim, catering to the needs of both adrenaline junkies and those who would simply like to relax, stimulate their bodies and minds or enjoy a quiet vacation. The former can indulge in a number of highoctane activities: there is an adrenaline park featuring a giant swing, high beam, steel ropes and hanging ropes to walk on, PohorJET, an adrenaline summer toboggan run; MiniJet – a smaller version of PohorJET on air tubes (tubing); adrenaline trampolines; a Bike Park with the longest free ride track in Slovenia; you can also go summer sledding at Bellevue or riding

Tourist Info ŠC Pohorje d.o.o.

Mladinska ul. 29, Maribor +386 (0)2 220 88 43

on monster rollers (giant scooters). Less adrenalinedriven visitors can go on our guided walks, take Nordic walking instructions, go mountain biking and/or horseback riding.

However, if you would like to simply enjoy Pohorje’s natural beauties, relax and recharge your batteries, you can make use of a unique Mountain Wellness Center Bolfenk featuring a pool, Finnish, herbal and Turkish saunas, a Kneipp pool, a warm whirlpool, an ice cave, a massage a Hammam room, two additional rooms for beauty and spa programmes (Ayurveda, Hammam, Tai massage, etc.).

Children offer We have also not forgotten about the children; they can play outdoors in a veritable natural paradise featuring trampolines, adrenaline trampolines, MiniJet, an Indian village and playgrounds next to the Arena hotel.

+386 (0)2 220 88 49 info.scp@sc-pohorje.si www.pohorje.org

The Pohorska Vzpenjača (cable car) operates every day between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m., every hour.

Accommodation High quality accommodation is also available: 4-star Bolfenk and Martin suites, the 3-star Bolfenk hotel and the 3-star Martin boarding house.

Spend your summer at the Mariborsko Pohorje – the biggest outdoor gymnasium!

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54 Mariborsko Pohorje

Summer Guide 2008

Spend your summer in the shades of Pohorje forests at the new 4-star Bellevue Hotel The 4-star Bellevue Hotel lies at the heart of Pohorje, is still near enough to the second largest Slovene town Maribor and is an ideal place for anyone who enjoys silent mornings and afternoon activities that get the adrenaline pumping.

Relaxing The Bellevue Hotel, which covers 1,050 sq m, offers luxuriously decorated rooms and suites with kitchens. You will wake up to the sound of morning birds, the smell of spruce forests and will get that special rush of energy that will keep you going all day long. You are invited to visit the Bellevue Wellness Centre and be treated to a massage and a Pohorje feel-good bath.

Gourmet The Rosika restaurant, apart from offering typical Pohorje dishes made by our excellent chefs, is also a wonderful setting for a pleasant conversation and view of the town.

Active You can complement your stay at our hotel by going on cycling, walking or hiking tours around Pohorje. Longer trails and trips to the nearby hills will lead you to the unique Lovrenško lakes or the Šumik virgin forest.

The project has been partly financed by EU.

Pohorje Fairytale Offer: Price per person

Two-bed room

Weekend offer

EUR 84

Additional benefits: Free for one child under the age of 12.

Weekend offer includes: •two overnight stays with breakfast and dinner •unlimited access to the Bellevue Wellness Centre (Turkish sauna, Finnish sauna, steam bath, ice cave, showers of surprise) and a fitness corner •one entry to the pool complex and the Habakuk WellnessSpa Centre saunas.

4-star Bellevue Hotel Na Slemenu 35, SI-2208 Pohorje T: +386 (0)2 607 51 00 bellevue@termemb.si, www.termemb.si

Ljubljana

Freedom, Hospitality and Fun Ljubljana is the capital of Slovenia, ­ simultaneously nostalgic, modern and cosmopolitan, yet remarkably safe and welcoming to the tourists. Particularly in the last few years, it has attracted tourists from all walks of life and nationalities, and they all seem to enjoy its charming atmosphere.

In the summertime, the town centre bustles with live music and performances on every corner.

Photo: Ljubljana Tourist Board

Ljubljana

24h

24h

Ljubljana has a good bus network, but given the heat, it’s much better to24h walk or cycle, as it is small enough 24h to walk everywhere in the centre.

24h easy walking The train and bus station are within distance of the centre of the town. Most taxis are rather cheap, except for the ones outside the train station.

Get a free map in a Tourist Information Offices.

Tourist Info TIC Ljubljana

TIC Ljubljana at the Railway Station

Adamič-Lundrovo nabrežje 2, Ljubljana

Trg OF 6, Ljubljana

+386 (0)1 306 12 15

+386 (0)1 433 94 75

+386 (0)1 306 12 04

+386 (0)1 430 05 51

tic@ljubljana-tourism.si

ticzp@ljubljana-tourism.si

www.ljubljana-tourism.si

Slovenian TIC Krekov trg 10, Ljubljana +386 (0)1 306 45 75 +386 (0)1 306 45 80 stic@ljubljana-tourism.si www.ljubljana-tourism.si 56 Ljubljana

Summer Guide 2008

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Ljubljana Old Town with the Francesco Robba Fountain The picturesque Old Town centre boasts several churches and prominent houses with colourful Baroque façades, arched courtyards and staircases.

Look out for the dragon motif throughout the town.

The jewel of this architectural style is the Fountain of Three Carniolan Rivers, commonly called “Robov vodnjak”, located in front of the Ljubljana Town House. It was created by the Venetian-born sculptor Francesco Robba in the 18th century, who modelled it after the famous Roman fountains. The sculptures of the three river gods represent the three rivers in the Province of Carniola, namely the Sava, the Ljubljanica and the Krka rivers. The ground plan of the fountain is shaped in the form of the ancient three-leaf town seal of Ljubljana. The square Stari trg and nearby streets are filled with many small shops, trendy cafes and restaurants.

The Ljubljanica River Banks Ljubljana is a town where the synthesis between the North (German) and the South (Roman) is expressed quite originally, and the person we can be most thankful for this is the famous Slovene architect Jože Plečnik. He came up with the idea of a “green architecture” for the reconstruction of the Ljubljanica riverbanks, with weeping willows representing the cupolas, poplars representing the pillars, hedges representing the walls and the fresh greenery enhancing and defining the gently curving deep riverbed of the Ljubljanica River.

Most of Ljubljana’s bars tend to cluster on the streets running parallel to the river, radiating from the Prešernov trg square, which is the main square in Ljubljana. However, the more interesting bars tend to be on the backstreets, rather than directly facing the river. Part of the joy of this town is stumbling across these places.

The Slovenia Times

Photo: M. Tančič

Photo: B. Cvetković

Ljubljana 7 Kamnik 57

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Map of Ljubljana’s centre

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Summer Guide 2008

58 Kamnik

Acommodations

Acommodations

Ljubljana’s best beds

Budget

Grand Hotel Union Executive, Miklošičeva 1, +386 (0)1 308 12 70, 1 hotel.union@gh-union.si, www.gh-union.si

Medno Medno 54, Medno, +386 (0)1 362 61 00, recepcija@hotel-medno.si, www.hotel-medno.si

Lev, Vošnjakova 1, +386 (0)1 433 21 55, info@hotel-lev.si, www.hotel-lev.si 2 Austria Trend, Dunajska 154, +386 (0)1 588 25 00,ljubljana@ austria-trend.at, www.austria-trend.at/lju Best Western Premier Slon, Slovenska 34, 3 +386 (0)1 470 11 00, sales@hotelslon.com, www.hotelslon.com Grand Hotel Union Business, Miklošičeva 3, +386 (0)1 308 11 70, hotel.business@ gh-union.si, www.gh-union.si Grand Hotel Union Garni, Miklošičeva 9, +386 (0)1 308 43 00, hotel.garni@ 1a gh-union.si, www.astralhotel.net M Hotel, Derčeva 4, +386 (0)1 513 70 00, info@mhotel.si, www.m-hotel.si Mons, Pot Za Brdom 55, +386 (0)1 470 27 00, info@hotel.mons.si, www.hotel.mons.si

Mid-Range Ahotel, Cesta Dveh Cesarjev 34d, +386 (0)1 429 18 92, reception@ahotel.si, www.ahotel.si Antiq, Gornji Trg 3, +386 (0)1 421 35 60, info@antiqhotel.si, www.antiqhotel.si 4

Vila Minka, Kogovškova 10, +386 (0)31 665 431, minka@vilaminka.si, www.vilaminka.si Bit Center, Litijska 57, +386 (0)1 548 00 55, hotel@bit-center.net, www.bit-center.net Slamič, Kersnikova 1, +386 (0)1 433 82 33, info@slamic.si, www.slamic.si

Apartment rental Dragon, Vodnika 17a, +386 (0)1 514 26 60, dragon.ljubljana@gmail.com

Youth Hostels Aladin, Tugomerjeva 56, +386 (0)1 041 66 64 77, info@aladin-hostel.com, www.aladin-hostel.com Alibi Hostel, Cankarjevo nabrežje 27, +386 (0)31 363 666, info@alibi.si, www.alibi.si 8 Celica, Metelkova ulica 8, +386 (0)1 230 97 00, info@souhostel.com, www.hostelcelica.com 9 Dijaški dom Bežigrad, Kardeljeva ploščad 28, +386 (0)1 532 88 67, ddlj-bezigrad@ guest.arnes.si, www.hostel-ddb.si Dijaški dom Ivana Cankarja, Poljanska cesta 26, +386 (0)1 474 86 00, dd.lj-ic@guest.arnes.si, www.dic.si Dijaški dom Poljane, Potočnikova ulica 3, +386 (0)1 300 31 37, dd-poljane@guest.arnes.si 10

City, Dalmatinova 15, +386 (0)1 239 00 00, info@cityhotel.si, www.cityhotel.si 5

Dijaški dom Šiška, Aljaževa ulica 32, +386 (0)1 500 78 04, ddsiska@email.si, www.ddsiska.com

Hotel Emonec, Wolfova 12, +386 (0)1 200 15 20, hotelemonec@siol.net, www.hotel-emonec.com 6

Dijaški dom Tabor, Vidovdanska cesta 7, +386 (0)1 234 88 40 11

Kongo Hotel & Casino, Ljubljanska 65, Grosuplje, +386 (0)1 781 02 00, info@kongo-hc.com, www. kongo-hc.com

Fluxus, Tomšičeva ulica 4, +386 (0)1 251 57 60, info@fluxus-hostel.com, www.fluxus-hostel.com 12

Park, Tabor 9, +386 (0)1 300 25 00, info@hotelpark.si, www.hotelpark.si 7

Hostel Ljubljana, Litijska cesta 57, +386 (0)1 548 00 55, info@yh-ljubljana.com, www.yh-ljubljana.com

Pri Mraku, Rimska 4, +386 (0)1 421 96 00 Stil, Litijska 188, +386 (0)1 548 43 43, hotel@hotel-stil.si, www.hotel-stil.si

The Slovenia Times

Hostel Simbol, Petkovškovo nabrežje 47, +386 (0)41 720 825, info@simbol.si, www.simbol.si 13 Park Hostel, Tabor 9, +386 (0)1 300 25 00, info@hotelpark.si, www.hotelpark.si 14

Ljubljana 59 Kamnik 59

The Triple Bridge and the Prešernov trg Square At the centre of Ljubljana lies the Tromostovje – the Triple Bridge that connects the Old Town with the new.

It is interesting that it came into existence, as we now know it, as a result of a lucky historical coincidence. In 1895, there was an earthquake in Ljubljana, and since the town was governed by the Habsburg monarchy, they paid for the rebuilding of the town. The bridge, which was single at the time, suffered no damage, but the Habsburgs were led to believe otherwise.

They provided funds to rebuild the bridge, and Plečnik cunningly used the funds to create his graceful architectural wonder, which has become the unique symbol of Ljubljana.

Next to it is the Prešernov trg square with the pink Franciscan Church that contains excellent examples of Franciscan woodcarving and a library of more than 60,000 volumes and manuscripts. The square is presided over by the statue of the ­ Romantic poet France Prešeren, the greatest Slovenian poet of all time and the author of the national hymn “Zdravljica”.

The National and the Modern Galleries Photo: D. Wedam

Cultural Venues Cankarjev dom, Culture and Congress Centre, Prešernova cesta 10, +386 (0)1 241 71 00, +386 (0)1 241 72 99, +386 (0)1 241 73 00, infocd-cc.si, ticketscd-cc.si, www.cd-cc.si 16

Narodna galerija (the National Gallery of Slovenia) is the main art museum in Slovenia, displaying the largest collection of art from the late medieval period to the early 20th century. Moderna galerija (Museum of Modern Art) is the Slovene national institution for modern and contemporary Slovenian art. It is also a documentary, study, research and education centre.

Moderna galerija regularly stages exhibitions of both Slovene and international contemporary art.

Križanke Summer Theatre, Trg francoske revolucije 1, +386 (0)1 241 60 26, www.festival-lj.si 17 KUD France Prešeren, Karunova ulica 14, +386 (0)1 283 22 88, +386 (0)51 657 852, kud@kudfp.si, www.kud-fp.si Ljubljana Castle, Grajska planota 1, +386 (0)1 232 99 94, www.ljubljanafestival.si 19 Ljubljana Exhibition and Convention Centre, Dunajska Cesta 18, +386 (0)1 300 26 11, info@ gr-sejem.si, www.en.gr-sejem.si National and University Library, Turjaška 1, +386 (01) 2001 188, www.nuk.uni-lj.si/nukeng.asp 18

The Slovenia Times

Kamnik 61

Restaurants Indian Namasté, Breg 8, +386 (0)1 425 01 59, info@ restavracijanamaste.si, www.restavracija-namaste.si

International As, Čopova 5/a, Knafljev prehod, +386 (0)1 425 88 22, gostilna.as@siol.net, www.gostilnaas.si

Photo: Ljubljana Tourist Board

Bachus Center, Kongresni Trg 3, +386 (0)1 241 82 43, info@bachus-center.com, www.bachus-center.com Café Romeo, Stari Trg 6, +386 (0)1 426 90 11, romeo.plus@siol.net, www.caferomeo.si Cubo, Šmartinska 55, +386 (0)1 521 15 15, info@cuboljubljana.com, www.cubo-ljubljana.com Julija, Stari Trg 9, +386 (0)1 425 64 63 Ljubljanski Dvor, Dvorni Trg 1, +386 (0)1 425 15 18 Manna, Eipprova 1a, +386 (0)1 283 52 94, info@kulinarika-manna.com, www.kulinarika-manna.com Maxim, Trg Republike 1, +386 (0)1 476 69 80, info@maxi.si, www.maxi.si Pri Vitezu, Breg 20, +386 (0)1 426 60 58 River House, Gallusovo Nabrežje 31, +386 (0)1 425 40 90, river@siol.net, www.riverhouse.si

Italian Allegria, Nazorjeva 8, +386 (0)1 426 74 02, info@allegria.si, www.allegria.si Kavalino, Trubarjeva 52, +386 (0)1 232 09 90, www.kavalino.si Tartuf, Trubarjeva 5, +386 (0)1 431 01 81

Japanese Sushimama, Wolfova 12, +386 (0)40 702 070, www.sushimama.si

Lunch Fresco, Slovenska 51, +386 (0)1 430 33 30 Luka Gourmet B-3, Stari Trg 9, +386 (0)1 425 01 18, info@lunchcafe.net, www.lunchcafe.net Restaurant 2000, Trg Republike 1, +386 (0)1 476 69 25 Pasta Nona, Gosposvetska 2, +386 (0)1 438 24 24 Stari Tišler, Kolodvorska 8, +386 (0)1 430 33 70 62 Ljubljana

Summer Guide 2008

Stop! Wait a minute Mr Postman!

The Slovenia Times and the Ljubljana Tourist Board present a ‘new’ old-fashioned way of delivering newspapers. We are sending the time machine back 150 years to the dawn of the mail service that was.

Throughout the summer an old fashioned postman will tour Ljubljana’s old town acting as a mobile tourist information point. As well as delivering copies of The Slovenia Times, Summer Guide and the Tourist Board’s information brochures, the postman will also give advice about places to see in Slovenia’s capital. ­Although the postman is modeled on a traditional postman from 1860, he represents one of the latest addition to Ljubljana’s tourist services.

The postman will wear a dark blue and orange uniform. One particular challenge for the costume maker was to make the clothing, inspired by a standard AustroHungarian uniform, light, compact and therefore suitable for the summer heat.

The Slovenia Times

Kamnik 63

Slovenian Ethnographic Museum The national museum of ethnology hosts collections of national and European significance, testifying particularly about the traditional culture in the territories inhabited by Slovenes. It portrays the everyday life of the rural population, presents different cultural identities and links the past to the present.

Restaurants Argentinean Argentino, Šmartinska 152, +386 (0)1 523 36 30, info@ argentino.si, www.argentino.si

Balkan Atrium N°IV, Gornji Trg 4, +386 (0)1 251 10 69 Pod Rožnikom, Cesta Na Rožnik 18, +386 (0)1 251 34 46, www.gp-vic.si/roznik eng.asp

The Ljubljana Castle and the Funicular You can catch the “tourist train” from the triple bridge to the castle, walk up the steep hill on the side of the castle or take the Funicular Railway. Entrance to the Courtyard, Chapel and Gift shop is free, but there is a charge for access to the tower, which offers fine views over the Old Town, the Sava River and the Julian Alps.

You can also visit the Virtual Museum to explore the history of Ljubljana from the pre-historic settlement to the modern times.

Chinese China Fast Food, Kotnikova 5 (Ledina Center), +386 (0)31 56 82 78 Kitajska Zvezda, Hrenova 19, +386 (0)1 425 88 24 nim8min, Kolodvorska 20, +386 (0)1 231 21 68 Zhong Hua, Trubarjeva 50, +386 (0)1 230 16 65

Fish Gostilna Krpan, Ob Ljubljanici 24, +386 (0)1 521 12 20, gostilna.krpan@siol.com, www.gostilna-krpan.si Operna Klet, Zupančičeva 2, +386 (0)1 252 70 03 Taverna Tatjana, Gornji Trg 38, +386 (0)1 421 00 87, laura.b@siol.net

French Chez Eric, Mestni Trg 3, +386 (0)1 251 28 39, chez.eric@siol.net, www.chezeric.si Bon Appetit, Miklošičeva 28, +386 (0)1 430 80 80

Photo: Ljubljana Tourist Board

64 Kamnik

Summer Guide 2008

Swimming in Ljubljana The swimming complex Laguna next to the camp Ježica is a great place if you feel like splashing around in outdoor pools or getting a tan while sipping cocktails.

On some evenings, they have lounge DJ programmes and night swimming. For a more serious swimming session (meaning a bigger swimming pool), head for Kodeljevo or Ilirija.

Tivoli and Rožnik Tivoli Park is the capital’s largest park and, with its beautiful promenades, a pond with a cafe terrace and treelined paths, it offers pleasant shade in the hot summer days. The park, with the exception of the children’s playground and the sports facilities, are open night and day.

Further along is Rožnik hill, which is wonderful for oneto two-hour walks. Next to it, is the Ljubljana Zoo, one of the most beautiful zoos in Europe.

Restaurants Mexican Cantina Mexicana, Wolfova 4, Knafljev prehod, +386 (0)1 426 93 25, ftdoo@siol.net, www.cantina-mexicanarestaurantes.si Joe Pena’s, Cankarjeva 6, +386 (0)1 421 58 00, bienvenido@joepenas.si, www.joepenas.si

Pizza Foculus, Gregorčičeva 3, +386 (0)1 251 56 43, foculus@siol.net, www.foculus.com Parma, Trg Republike 2, +386 (0)1 426 82 22 Piazza, Parmova 51, +386 (0)1 436 31 81 Pizzicato, Gornji Trg 33, +386 (0)1 251 11 18, rezervacije.pizzicato@email.si, www.pizzicato.si Tramvaj Ekspres Pizzeria, Trg Mladinskih Delovnih Brigad 10, +386 (0)41 91 64 07 Trnovski Zvon, Eipprova 17, +386 (0)1 283 94 64 Tunnel, Karlovška 5, +386 (0)1 426 40 00, www.tunnel.si

Russian Ruska Pravljica, Kranjčeva 26, +386 (0)1 534 50 87

Sandwiches Paninoteka, Jurčičev Trg 3, +386 (0)1 425 00 55, www.paninoteka.si Photo: BOBO

66 Kamnik

Tomato, Šubičeva 1, +386 (0)1 252 75 55, fortuna.fortuna@siol.net, www.tomato.si

Summer Guide 2008

Restaurants Slovenian Špajza, Gornji Trg 28, +386 (0)1 425 30 94 Gostilna Šestica, Slovenska 40, +386 (0)1 242 08 55, info@sestica.si, www.sestica.si Gostilna Figovec, Gosposvetska 1, +386 (0)1 426 44 10, gostilna.figovec@siol.net, www.figovec.si

Cycling Around Ljubljana One can rent a bike at several spots in the town centre for a reasonable price, and cycling around Ljubljana is indeed the best option: no problems with parking, no air-conditioning headaches, no annoying waiting.

There are red cycle tracks around most streets of the town, but be careful - the summer heat tends to make some drivers a bit aggressive and the number of cyclists is ever increasing.

Gostilna Kovač, Pot k Savi 9, +386 (0)1 537 12 44, info@kovac-co.si, www.kovac-co.si Gostilna Lovec, Trg Mladinskih Delovnih Brigad 1, +386 (0)1 426 57 08 Gostilna Pod Lipo, Boršnikov Trg 3, +386 (0)1 422 41 10 Gostilna Zlata Ribica, Cankarjevo Nabrežje 5-7, +386 (0)1 241 26 80, zlata.ribica@gpl.si, www.zlataribica.si Mencigar Nobile, Zarnikova 3, +386 (0)1 439 70 40, info@mencigar-nobile.com, www.mencigar-nobile.com Pri Vodniku, Vodnikova 65a, +386 (0)1 505 59 07, info@privodniku.si, www.privodniku.si Sokol, Ciril Metodov Trg 18, +386 (0)1 439 68 55, gostilnasokol@siol.net, www.gostilna-sokol.com Vodnikov Hram, Vodnikov Trg 2, +386 (0)1 234 52 60,vodnikov.hram@gmail.com

Spanish Flamenco, Železna 14, +386 (0)1 434 76 52, vomi@siol.net, www.flamenco.si

Fast food Ajda, Trg Osvobodilne Fronte (OF) 13, +386 (0)1 43 91 440 Nobel Burek, Miklošičeva 30, +386 (0)1 232 33 92 Slast C-3, Poljanska 7, +386 (0)1 114 56 05 Delikatesa Ljubljanski Dvor, Kongresni trg 11, +386 (0)1 426 93 27 Falafel, Trubarjeva 40, +386 (0)41 64 01 66, www.alja-shaar.com/falafel.htm Hot Horse, Tivoli Park kiosk, +386 (0)1 521 14 27, master@hot-horse.si, www.hot-horse.si Jež, Poljanska 3, +386 (0)1 232 52 46 Konkurenca, Trg Osvobodilne Fronte (OF) 14, +386 (0)1 430 52 26 McDonald’s, Čopova 14, +386 (0)1 426 32 26, www.mcdonalds.si

The Slovenia Times

Kamnik 67

Recommendations Patrick’s Irish Pub All mayor football & rugby events on two big screens together with the best selection of beers and English fast food!

Prečna 6, Ljubljana + 386 (0)1 230 17 68, +386 (0)40 475 350 irishpubljubljana@yahoo.com www.irishpub-ljubljana.si Photo: Ljubljana Tourist Board

Wine Dvorni Bar, Dvorni Trg 2, +386 (0)1 251 12 57 Maximal, Breg 2, +386 (0)1 422 00 33, galerijabreg2@siol.net Movia, Mestni Trg 4, +386 (0)1 425 54 48, movia@siol.net, www.movia.si Wine Cellars of Slovenia, Dunajska 18, +386 (0)1 431 50 15, vinskekletislovenije@siol.net, www.vks.si

BTC – Atlantis, Vodafone Live! Arena, Karting Atlantis is a water park with 14 pools, thermal baths, water slides, saunas and children’s section, all located within the BTC City Shopping Centre. Vodafone Live!

Arena is a great place to spend an evening, with features include bowling, pool, laser games and its state-of-the-art 3D XpanD cinema theatre.

The Memorial Path around Ljubljana During WWII, Ljubljana was occupied by the Italian Fascists and encircled with a 35 km long barbed wire fence. Today, the memorial path serves as a great place for jogging.

Property related investments (also in former Yu.) Sales, letting, land and commercial PANTONE 299 C Holiday rental properties available

Tel.UK: +44 (0)1344 62 00 82

Property management

Mobile: +44 (0)7003 999 999

PANTONE 361 C

Offices in the UK and Slovenia PANTONE Cool Gray 8 C

geraint@slovenia-realestate.co.uk

Legal and will writing services

www.slovenia-realestate.co.uk

68 Kamnik

Summer Guide 2008

Events Festivals Events marking Trubar Year, until 31st December, various venues Summer in Ljubljana Old Town 2008 - Summer of European Culture, until 30th August, churches, inner courtyards and squares in the old city centre Ljubljana Festival 2008, until 28th August, various venues Mini Summer - international puppet festival, until 7th September, various venues Ana Desetnica - street theatre festival, 3rd – 6th July, various venues Summer Concerts in the Atrium of the City Museum of Ljubljana, 3rd July – 7th August, City Museum of Ljubljana, at 9 p.m.

Trnfest 2008, 29th July – 3th August, KUD France Prešeren Young Lions - international theatre and dance festival, 17th – 27th August, Elektro Ljubljana - Old Power Plant Emona Promenade 2008, 26th – 31st August, the Trnovo Bridge and the Emonska ulica street

Open air events 49th Ljubljana Jazz Festival, 30th June – 4th July, various venues in combination with easy cycling trip across the country

Frog Alarm - The Year of the Frog 2008, until 31st December, Ljubljana Zoo Close Encounters – sculptures, until 30th September, Ljubljana Castle, at 9 p.m.

Miran Kambič: Architecture in Photography Art Nouveau – photo exhibition, until 30th July, the Tivoli Park Library under Trees, until 31st August, the Tivoli Park Breakfast by the Ljubljanica River - open-air gallery project, every Saturday until the end of August, Stari trg & Gornji trg squares Art Market - sale of fine art items and creative workshops, every Saturday, Cankarjevo nabrežje embankment, Cobblers’ Bridge (Čevljarski most), Hribarjevo nabrežje embankment

call: call: 00 00 386 386 40 40 217 217 000 000

70 Kamnik

Fraudulent Bakers - folklore event, every Saturday until the end of August, Čevljarski most (Cobblers’ Bridge) Argonauts in Ljubljana - theatrical spectacle, 4th and 11th July, 2nd and 9th August,

Summer Guide 2008

Events Old city centre venues on and along the Ljubljanica river, at 9 p.m.

Primoz Trubar Urška and the Water Man street theatre performances on stilts, during July, Ljubljana Old Town Dixie šok band - dixieland, evergreens, jazz, every Wednesday between 2nd and 23th July, 20th August, old city centre Singing Boat,every Friday and Saturday between 4th July and 2nd August, the Ljubljanica river, the section between the Hribarjevo nabrežje embankment and the Triple Bridge (Tromostovje), at 9 p.m.

Vocis Imago Chamber Choir & Stari mački - folk songs, jazz, 20th and 26th July, 6th and 13th September, the Dvorni trg Square Little Dragon Helpers, 4th – 6th July, at 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Capoeira in the Tivoli park - Brazilian martial art sessions, every Thursday and Friday between 3rd July and 15th August, the Tivoli Park Cinema Under the Stars - open-air cinema at the Ljubljana Castle, between 14th July and 4th August, Ljubljana Castle, at 9.30 p.m.

Let’s Meet in Front of the Škuc, 18th – 25th July, in front of the Škuc Gallery France Marolt Academic Folklore Group - traditional dances, every Thursday between 4th and 25th September, the Dvorni trg Square, at 6.30 p.m Medieval Days 2008, 9th – 10th September, old city centre and Ljubljana Castle Children’s Bazaar, 11th – 14th September, Ljubljana Exhibition and Convention Centre Slovenian Pop Song 2008, 14th September 2008, Križanke Summer Theatre, at 8 p.m.

Photo: BOBO

The Slovenia Times

Ana desetnica The international street theatre festival celebrates its 11th anniversary this year with a variety of outdoor performances by street artists, clowns, circus performers, jugglers, tightrope walkers, fire eaters, musicians, provocateurs, dancers and actors from Slovenia and abroad.

Metelkova mesto Metelkova mesto is an internationally renowned autonomous cultural zone situated on the site of former military barracks. This is the place where different types of live music ranging from Free Jazz, Noise to Dub and Techno can be heard in peaceful coexistence. A lively, colourful and happening avantgarde site that is regarded as a royal pain by some and a cultural haven of freedom by others.

Trnfest One of the largest and most frequented summer events in Ljubljana. On the courtyard of KUD France Prešeren, more than 200 events take place, contributing significantly to the town’s summer culture. Trnfest presents performances by less well-known local and international performers, workshops, concerts, theatre and dance performances, films and exhibitions. Entrance is free.

Photo: BOBO

Ljubljana 71

Dear visitors and passengers of Ljubljana Public Transport

Take a ride on www.lpp.si

In order to make your staying in Ljubljana more comfortable, we would like to offer you some of the information about Ljubljana Public Transport:

GENERAL INFORMATION Passengers may only enter through the front door next to the driver and exit through the other doors. Entering and exiting is permitted only at designated stops. The fare must be paid immediately on entry in cash, by token or by ticket. Some buses are fitted with buttons that passengers must press in order to open the door once the bus has come to a halt at the bus stop. After entry, passengers are required to move towards the back of the bus. Every bus has a number of seats reserved for the elderly, passengers with children, pregnant women and the disabled. Smoking, eating and drinking and the use of mobile phones are not allowed on the bus. Children up to the age of six years must be accompanied by their parents or other adults. Highly inflammable, explosive, toxic or other hazardous materials, firearms and other objects forbbiden by law may not be brought onto the buses.

TYPES OF FARES - Pay on the bus - the exact amount must be paid as the driver does not return change.

The fare is paid upon entry and the money is deposited in the box next to the driver. Valid for one ride without transfers.

- Tokens - are a cheaper way than paying in cash. Tokens can be bought at most of the newsstands, at the Central bus station of Ljubljana and a number of shops and department stores as well as at the below mentioned LPP Information centers. The sales points are usually marked with green stickers with the inscription »ŽETONI« (meaning tokens). Each token is valid for one ride without transfer and must be deposited upon entry in the box next to the driver.

- Daily Tickets - are valid from 12 a.m. to 12 p.m. of the day of the purchase - Weekly Tickets - are valid from 12 a.m. of the day of the purchase to 12 p.m. of the seventh day Daily and Weekly Tickets are valid for an unlimited number of rides an all bus city routes until they expire.

- A range of Monthly Tickets is also available.

Please enquire at LPP Information Centers.

You can acquire tokens and all types of tickets for Ljubljana Public Transport at: - LPP stand at Bavarski dvor - LPP Information center, Slovenska cesta 56 - LPP Information center, Celovška cesta 160 - Central bus station of Ljubljana

ANIMALS AND LUGGAGE There is no additional charge for personal luggage (up to 10 kg) and wheelchairs.

No animals may be brought onto the bus except for dogs, which must be on a leash, wear a muzzle and have a valid vaccination certificate. For excess baggage or a dog a passenger must pay an extra half the regular fare, payable in cash.

DISCOUNTS Children up to the age of four years, blind persons with escorts and persons suffering from celebral palsy or mental disorder are exempt from paying fares. Children between the ages of four and ten years have a 50% discount on the fare.

OPERATING HOURS AND BUS SCHEDULE INFORMATION All bus routes start running between 5 a.m. and operate until 10.30 p.m. *Except the bus route 18 which is running only until 8 p.m. * Routes 1, 3, 5 start running between 3.15 a.m. and 4.45 a.m. and stop running between 10.30 p.m. and 12 p.m. For more infromation on bus schedules, please, contact our Information Centers.

LPP BUS INFO - MOBILE INFORMATION ABOUT BUS DEPARTURES This service provides real time information about bus departures from the bus stops.

Please enquire for more information at LPP Information Centers.

E-Mail Information in English: mail@lpp.si

The Slovenia Times

Kamnik 75

76  Kamnik

Summer Guide 2008