We have never been to Slovenia, so we opted for this trip to see just two of the many fabulous places in this small country.

Unfortunately, the morning was very wet, but we managed a short city tour of Ljubljana, ending with the thickest hot chocolate drink I have ever had. The city has a dragon as its symbol as it was believed to have been founded by Jason of the Argonauts, who fought one when fleeing to the Adriatic after stealing the Golden Fleece!! There was also an outdoor temporary art exhibition of 2m tall bears with raised paws, which spread friendship and optimism among the countries they represent, including Slovenia. The Slovenian bear was painted by the young artist Luka Rep. bears, from different countries, sponsored by the Getmans

Next we set off for Lake Bled and it’s Medieval Castle and, World Rowing contests have been held on the Lake, no motorised craft allowed, just the local pletna (flat bottomed boat) on the Lake, making it peaceful and with less impact on the environment. There is a island in the Lake, where the pilgrimage church dedicated to the Assumption of Mary was built in the 17th Century. There are 99 steps to the entrance and it’s considered good luck for the groom to carry his bride up the steps, ring the bell and make a wish on their wedding day

The area is famous for its cream cake, similar to a vanilla slice, of course we had to try some. Lots of locals and foreigners come to the ski resorts and spas in Slovenia, as they are considerably cheaper than the more famous resorts.