Home » Eco-Chic in Europe: Slovenia and Croatia’s Sustainable Splendor

Eco-Chic in Europe: Slovenia and Croatia’s Sustainable Splendor

by Travelive Team

11 Nights/12 Days

Leave a green footprint across the enchanting plains of Europe’s as you discover Slovenia and Croatia in the most sustainable of ways! From eco-conscious hotels to immersive nature experiences, this thoughtfully designed itinerary allows you to explore breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage with minimal environmental impact.

  • 3 Nights in Ljubljana or Lake Bled, Slovenia
  • 4 Nights in Istria, Croatia
  • 2 Nights at Plitvice Lakes
  • 1 Night in Zagreb
  • Private Transfers
  • Triglav National Park Hiking Experience
  • Cycling and Truffle Hunting in Istria
  • Immersive Nature Stay at Plitvice Lakes
  • Cultural Highlights in Zagreb

Day 1 — Arrival in Ljubljana

Settle into your eco-conscious accommodation and spend your afternoon exploring the charming old town. Wander along the Ljubljanica River, cross the iconic Dragon Bridge, and soak in the atmosphere of Prešeren Square. Alternatively, ask us for an engaging tour of Ljubljana with Ljubljana Castle or a relaxing eco boat river cruise. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely dinner at one of Ljubljana’s many local, sustainable restaurants.

Recommended Accommodations

Choose between the eco-friendly Hotel As in Ljubljana or Hotel Bohinj near Lake Bled, both recognized for their sustainable practices

Day 2 — Lake Bled with Guided E-Bike Tour

Discover the magic of Lake Bled with a guided e-bike tour. Ride through scenic countryside trails to reach the renowned crystal-clear lake. Visit the medieval Bled Castle perched on a cliff and take a traditional wooden pletna boat to Bled Island, where you can ring the wishing bell at the Church of the Assumption. You can continue exploring the area with a wonderful local cooking class and master the famous potica (sweet or savory dough-based meal) or even a full 3-course meal, or learn about beekeeping with the help of local experts.

Day 3 — Triglav National Park Hiking Experience

Venture into the heart of Triglav National Park for an eco-friendly hiking experience. Traverse the stunning Vintgar Gorge, cross wooden bridges over turquoise rivers, before reaching the picturesque Savica Waterfall. Alternatively, you can opt for a day of exploring Bohinj Lake and then take the cable car to Vogel Mountain to give your camera a workout along the way. Since the fresh air will awaken up your appetite, we suggest ending the tour of the area with a hearty mountaineer’s lunch.

Day 4 — Transfer to Istria

Travel to the enchanting Istrian Peninsula via private transfer. Check into your sustainable villa and spend the afternoon exploring the hilltop town of Motovun. Wander its medieval streets and soak in panoramic views of the Istrian countryside. Enjoy wine tasting at a family-owned organic winery, sampling local vintages.

Recommended Accommodations

Stay at San Canzian Village & Hotel or the Meneghetti Wine Hotel & Winery, two properties that blend luxury with sustainability through local sourcing and eco-friendly operations.

Day 5 — Truffle Hunt in Istria

Embark on a guided truffle-hunting adventure in the lush forests near Buzet. Learn about the delicate process of foraging for Istria’s famous truffles with trained dogs. Afterwards, take part in a hands-on cooking class where you’ll prepare traditional dishes using your freshly found truffles.

Day 6 — Rovinj

Visit the picturesque coastal town of Rovinj, with its vibrant fishing port and narrow cobblestone streets. Later, experience a guided kayaking tour through the serene Lim Fjord, a protected natural reserve known for its rich biodiversity and stunning limestone cliffs.

Day 7 — Cycling in Istria

Enjoy a cycling tour through Istria’s rolling hills, olive groves, and vineyards. Visit local producers for olive oil and wine tastings while learning about sustainable farming practices in the region. Spend the evening relaxing at your eco-friendly hotel.

Day 8 — Transfer to Plitvice Lakes

Travel to Plitvice Lakes National Park via private transfer and check into your eco-friendly treehouse. Along the way you can opt to stop in Rastoke and Barac Caves to explore the amazing landscape.

Recommended Accommodation

Stay at the unique Plitvice Holiday Resort, featuring cozy treehouse accommodations immersed in nature.

Day 9 — Plitvice Lakes National Park

Enjoy a full day immersed in nature, hiking the diverse trails around Plitvice Lakes and experiencing the park’s pristine beauty. You can also opt to extend your day of exploration with the off-the-beaten path tour of the “forgotten” Zeljava Air Base that has now been reclaimed by nature. Spend the rest of your day relaxing in your treehouse, savoring a peaceful evening just a short drive from the Park.

Day 10 — Transfer to Zagreb

Arrive in Zagreb via private transfer. Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Dolac Market, explore the historic Upper Town, and admire landmarks like St. Mark’s Church and Zagreb Cathedral. Take a stroll through Zrinjevac Park before relaxing at your hotel. Alternatively, ask us to add an engaging cooking class where you can learn how to make some of the authentic recipes from this region.

Recommended Accommodation

Stay at the eco-certified Esplanade Zagreb Hotel, a historic landmark with modern sustainability initiatives.

Day 11 — Departure

Enjoy a leisurely morning in Zagreb before your private transfer to the airport for your departure.

Sustainable Travel Tips:

Choose reusable travel essentials (water bottles, shopping bags, and utensils).

Support local, family-run businesses and eco-certified accommodations.

Minimize waste and follow eco-conscious practices during nature excursions.

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