Gorgeous mountains and immense heritage in one of Europe’s best kept secrets
Slovenia’s Velika Planina unites immense natural beauty, delicious food, and ancient culture into a rare blend of charm and authenticity. And yet strangely, this place is still somewhat secret and certainly off the well-trod path and filled with unique local experiences. Here are four reasons you should visit Slovenia’s mountains. After your trip, you’ll surely wonder why this extraordinary place isn’t at the top of travelers’ wish lists!
Living the shepherd’s life
In Velika Planina, life moves slowly and traditions last. In fact, it’s one of the only remaining places in Europe where traditional shepherding is still practiced. A visit is not complete without joining a local shepherd to milk his cows in the expansive, grassy pastures before learning how to transform the fresh dairy into trnič, a pear-shaped hard cheese that people have been making here for centuries. These activities give you a front-row seat to Slovenia’s unique alpine culture.
Make your home in a shepherd’s hut
In the Slovenian Alps, accommodations reflect the landscape. In this case, that means authentic shepherd’s huts, made from wood and expertly thatched to protect it against the elements. While many of them have been standing for more than a century, they’ve been upgraded to meet modern needs, all the while keeping their authentic charm. Besides their cozy fireplaces and wooden interiors, what’s most impressive is their one-in-a-million panoramic views of the Kamnik-Savinja Alps. Waking up in the morning on a soft sheepskin bed, then looking out the window at a mountainous expanse covered in peaceful grazing cows is the sort of simple luxury that you don’t forget.
Alpine meals, personalized to you
While staying in the Slovenian mountains, dining can be a truly personal experience, an unforgettable backstage pass to regional culture and heritage. A local chef can prepare a luxurious meal at your hut, blending traditional fare with modern flair. Indulge in dishes like Carniolan sausage served with buckwheat, creamy shepherd’s stew, or štruklji—rolled dumplings filled with cottage cheese—all made using regional ingredients.
Herdsmen’s Village
While shepherds spend much of their time in the peaceful mountains letting their flock graze upon alpine herbs and lush grasses, they often also have a village home. This is especially fascinating because these herdsmen’s villages are bastions of regional heritage, which often goes back centuries. The Velika Planina’s herdsmen’s village is a working settlement that houses over 140 shepherds and welcomes curious visitors. Come to delve deep into local culture: meet shepherds, taste fresh cheeses, hear tales of adventure and migration. For an even deeper look, visit the Preskar Museum, which showcases handmade tools, cheese molds.
