Top 5 Road Trips in Slovenia

Slovenia is a paradise for road trip enthusiasts. Within a distance that would take just a few hours in most countries, you will find incredible diversity of landscapes -- from alpine peaks to the Adriatic Sea, from Pannonian plains to karst caves. With a rental car, you can discover the most hidden corners of this wonderful land.

1. Vrsic Pass -- Slovenia's highest mountain pass
The road over Vrsic Pass (1,611 m) is one of the most beautiful alpine roads in Europe. With 50 hairpin turns on each side, it offers breathtaking views of the Julian Alps. Start your journey in Kranjska Gora, climb over the pass and descend toward the Soca Valley. At the top, visit the Russian Chapel, and below, the emerald-green Soca River awaits you.

2. Coastal panoramic road
Slovenia's mere 47 km of coastline hides a surprising number of treasures. Drive from Koper toward Piran, continue to Portoroz and Secovlje, where you can visit the ancient salt pans. Stop in Izola for fresh fish and in Piran for coffee on the square at sunset. This is a perfect day trip.

3. Soca Valley -- the emerald route
Follow the Soca River from its source near Trenta to Tolmin. Stop at Veliki Kozjak, visit the Tolmin Gorges and refresh yourself in the ice-cold pools. The Soca Valley is a haven for adrenaline enthusiasts -- rafting, kayaking and zip-lining are available throughout the valley.

4. A loop through Dolenjska and Bela Krajina
For a lesser-known but equally magical experience, drive from Ljubljana toward Novo Mesto, then through Bela Krajina to the Kolpa River. Visit Otocec -- the only water castle in Slovenia -- and stop at one of the many Dolenjska wine cellars. Return via Kocevski Rog, where you will drive through pristine primeval forests.

5. Logar Valley and Solcava panoramic road
Logar Valley is one of the most beautiful alpine valleys in Europe. The Solcava Panoramic Road, connecting three glacial valleys, offers views that will take your breath away. At the end of the valley, the Rinka Waterfall awaits -- one of the highest in Slovenia. The trip is suitable for all seasons, and in winter the landscape is a fairytale white.