falls and cascades. Water seemed to pore
out of every crevice in the rocks. Ferns,
water lilies, greenery were everywhere.
This UNESCO World Heritage site is a
must see!
The Croatian coastline was
picturesque, dropping dramatically
into the blue Adriatic Sea, as were the
small coastal villages with their red tile
roofs and white or beige houses. Our
destination that day was the seaside
resort town of Opatija, which has been
a popular spot for wealthy European
aristocrats, dignitaries, and artists
since 1844.
The hill towns of Istria proved to be
an additional scenic joy. From walking
the walled medieval hill town of
Motovun, to enjoying rakija (brandy) at a
local distillery and learning about “truffle-
hunting” from a local guide accompanied
by his dog, the day was full of enjoyable
new experiences.
We left Croatia the next day and
headed to our final destination, Slovenia.
Our trip through Slovenia was high-
lighted by a train ride through the 12 mile
Postojna Cave with its magnificent display
of stalactites and stalagmites, and a stop
to see Predjama Castle perched on the cliff
above Lokva Stream.
Slovenia’s large capital city, Ljubljana,
was very tourist friendly. It was easy to
walk around in the historic town center,
hike up to the hilltop castle, cross the
quaint bridges of the Ljubljana River, shop
at the many small boutique stores selling
lace, crystal, souvenirs, clothing, and take
in the ambiance of the many excellent
restaurants. Our stay in this charming
and thriving university town was only
surpassed by our trip through the
countryside the next day to the popular
resort area of Lake Bled.
Lake Bled is another must see. In the
middle of the lake is an islet featuring a
17th century church and an 800-year-old
castle clinging to a majestic cliff over-
looking the calm, deep blue waters.
As word spreads about the beautiful
scenery, the many UNESCO Heritage sites,
the depth of history, the friendliness of the
people, the great food, and the low cost
compared to similar tourist areas, I am
positive these less traveled countries will
find their rightful place on many more
travelers’ bucket lists.
GILROY • MORGAN HILL • SAN MARTIN
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2016
Photos Clockwise:
17th Century Church on Lake Bled
Plitvice UNESCO World Heritage Site
Predijama Castle, Slovenia
Tunnel of Hope, Sarajevo
Spring Sourcing, Buna River
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