Get into the holiday spirit

GET in to a different type of holiday spirit and start plotting their summer escape now as British Airways launches new routes from Heathrow to Ljubljana in Slovenia and Montpellier in France.

Seats to Slovenia’s capital are available to book on ba.com from today with flights taking off on Mondays and Fridays from July 15 through to September 2, 2019. Fares start from £63.00 one-way* in Euro Traveller.

Situated on France’s southern coast, Montpellier will be served with a four-per-week schedule, departing on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from July 15 through to September 2 also. Fares start from £38.00 per person one-way.

Go Holiday news : www.govillasandcottages.co.uk
All your holiday needs: IN PRINT - ON-LINE - DiGiMAG - SMARTPHONE -TABLET - BLOG - TWITTER - G+ - FACEBOOK

Stunning Slovenian landscapes

SLOVENIA'S Julian Alps have been announced as one of the world’s top three must visit regions in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2018. The Julian Alps feature alongside world leading regions including Alaska, Italy’s Aeolian Islands and Kii Peninsula in Japan.

Beautiful alpine landscapes with over two-thirds of the region protected by the Triglav National Park and one of the best regions in which to see wild flowers in Europe. The Triglav National Park, one of the oldest national parks in Europe, is renowned for its unique natural heritage with hikes taking visitors past sights including the Peričnik waterfall.

Home to some of the country’s most iconic sights including Lake Bled and its medieval castle, adrenalin seekers can explore the area via kayak or raft with the Soca Valley perfect for white water rafting and water sports. 

A haven for winter sports with impeccably maintained slopes and some of the best-value skiing in Europe. On the edge of the Triglav National Park find the picturesque resort of Vogel providing panoramic views over Lake Bohinj. On the outskirts of the National Park is Kranjska Gora, named the best value ski resort in Europe in the Post Office’s annual price survey, a resort perfect for families with a range of slopes.

Go Holiday news : www.govillasandcottages.co.uk

All your holiday needs: IN PRINT - ON-LINE - DiGiMAG - SMARTPHONE -TABLET - BLOG - TWITTER - G+ - FACEBOOK

Tourism around the world . . .

IN 2018, the Slovenian Tourist Board is to organise or participate in a number of events. From international fairs, workshops and other presentations around the globe, to major international events brought to Slovenia in 2018, including I FEEL SLOVENIA IRONMAN 70.3 Slovenian Istria and the International Golf Travel Market.

Go Holiday news : www.govillasandcottages.co.uk
All your holiday needs: IN PRINT - ON-LINE - DiGiMAG - SMARTPHONE -TABLET - BLOG - TWITTER - G+ - FACEBOOK

From Slovenia with love

Adria Airways is set to connect Ljubljana Airport to seven new destinations this year. In its summer timetable (from March 25th) Adria Airways will continue flights to the Ukrainian capital, Kiev, and at the same time connect Slovenia to six new European cities and popular holiday destinations.

In the 2018 summer season, Adria Airways will fly to Hamburg (4 times a week), Geneva (3 times a week), Bucharest, the lively capital of Romania (4 times a week), Sofia, the dynamic capital of Bulgaria (3 times a week), Dubrovnik in Croatia, the pearl of the Adriatic (twice a week), and the island of Brač, Croatia (twice a week).

Go Holiday news : www.govillasandcottages.co.uk
All your holiday needs: IN PRINT - ON-LINE - DiGiMAG - SMARTPHONE -TABLET - BLOG - TWITTER - G+ - FACEBOOK

Escape and unlock Lasko

STIK Laško (the Sport, Tourism, Information and Cultural Centre of Laško) and Enigmarium have joined forces in a new project and opened a unique Escape room: Brewer’s Gold. It is located in the building where the first mug of beer was brewed in Laško nearly 200 years ago.

The town of Laško is located only an hour’s drive away from the capital, Ljubljana. The brewing tradition in the town dates back to 1825, when the mead producer and gingerbread baker Franz Geyer brewed the first Laško beer. in August a new and unforgettable adventure opened in Laško: the ENIGMARIUM® Laško – the world’s first brewery-themed escape room.

Anyone who would like to experience the town of Laško in a new way can now fulfil that wish in the exciting town adventure game UNLOCK Laško. Representing a completely new and original concept of an outdoor game, using the legend of the parish priest “Divji Farovž”, the game includes elements in the old town centre, transforming the streets into fascinating spots full of secrets, hidden codes and puzzles.

Go Holiday news : www.govillasandcottages.co.uk
All your holiday needs: IN PRINT - ON-LINE - DiGiMAG - SMARTPHONE -TABLET - BLOG - TWITTER - G+ - FACEBOOK

Mobile in Maribor

MARIBOR, the second largest city in #Slovenia, spans from the Pohorje hills on one side of the Drava river to the wine-growing hills on the other. Maribor has developed from a former industrial centre into an important cultural city in the eastern part of Slovenia. On the Drava River embankment, is also the Old Vine House with the oldest vine in the world. The confirmed age of the vine is over 450 years, which won it a place in the Guinness Book of Records as the oldest noble vine in the world still bearing grapes.

Discover the city with the mobile app Visit Maribor. The app informs you which sights are located near your location, and in addition to this, it allows you to discover Maribor through four thematic trails.  The free mobile app is available in Slovene, English and German, works without an internet connection and it is really easy to use. Find it on Google Play or in the App Store.

Go Holiday news : www.govillasandcottages.co.uk
All your holiday needs: IN PRINT - ON-LINE - DiGiMAG - SMARTPHONE -TABLET - BLOG - TWITTER - G+ - FACEBOOK

Romantic waterfronts and promenades in Slovenia

THE heart of social life in Ljubljana, the capital of #Slovenia and the European Green Capital 2016, is the Ljubljanica river embankments, scattered with cafés and restaurants. Take a walk along the riverbanks, designed by the greatest and greenest Slovenian architect, Jože Plečnik. Life in Maribor, Slovenia’s second largest city, also flows together with the river Drava, especially at Lent, the oldest and most magical part of the city.

Explore the Mediterranean coast of Slovenia by bike! Start in Koper, a port city with Venetian charm. A newly opened coastal route leads you through Izola, a romantic fishing village with a picturesque harbour. The journey continues to the most famous town in Mediterranean Slovenia, Piran. The city, with its lovely cobbled streets, has more than 700 years of salt-making tradition. The entire old town is surrounded by medieval walls.

In Slovenia, the Mediterranean is just a short drive away from the Alps. Don’t miss the symbol of Slovenia’s beauty, Lake Bled. The sapphire Alpine lake with the only island in Slovenia offers a breathtaking stroll around its shores. Are you up for a picnic? Discover an Alpine paradise by Lake Bohinj, one of the most beautiful glacial valleys in Europe and Slovenia’s largest natural lake.

Go Holiday news : www.govillasandcottages.co.uk
All your holiday needs: IN PRINT - ON-LINE - DiGiMAG - SMARTPHONE -TABLET - BLOG - TWITTER - G+ - FACEBOOK

Slovenian tourist season on the way to a new record

STATISTICAL data from Slovenia’s tourism industry are implying another record summer season. The figures are more than excellent: the first five months registered around 2.2 million overnight stays by foreign guests, which is 13% higher compared to the same period last year.

More and more different languages can be heard in green, active and healthy #Slovenia and around its cultural and natural attractions. The highest number of tourists come from Italy and Germany, while Slovenia is also recording an increase in tourists from Russia, Spain, the U.S, Serbia and France.

Go Holiday news : www.govillasandcottages.co.uk
All your holiday needs: IN PRINT - ON-LINE - DiGiMAG - SMARTPHONE -TABLET - BLOG - TWITTER - G+ - FACEBOOK

Ljubljana has joined the New Destinations Network

#LJUBLJANA has recently joined the New Destinations Network. A green city, friendly to its residents and visitors alike. Its social and environmental awareness have a long tradition that you can feel with every step, and it is no coincidence that the city was named the European Green Capital of 2016. 

The cityscape, guarded by the prominent Ljubljana Castle, was shaped by the widely-celebrated architect Jože Plečnik. Whether you are a lover of culture and art or seek culinary delights, Ljubljana has something to offer that will not fail to impress. Have a walk along the river Ljubljanica, stop for a coffee, and don’t forget to visit the farmers’ market.

“Ljubljana is the capital of #Slovenia and a very cool and chilled-out destination. Amazing architecture, river, bridges, bars, parks, restaurants, hotels, tours, entertainment and much more!” states the description of the green Slovenian capital on the New Destinations Network. 

Go Holiday news : www.govillasandcottages.co.uk
All your holiday needs: IN PRINT - ON-LINE - DiGiMAG - SMARTPHONE -TABLET - BLOG - TWITTER - G+ - FACEBOOK

Slovenia, one of the safest countries in the world

GREEN, active and healthy #Slovenia is one of the safest countries in the world. 

The World Economic Forum, the popular Australian travel site, Travel Weekly, published a list of the safest countries in the world. Slovenia achieved excellent results and ranked in 14th place on the list of 141 countries. The #safety ranking is based on the levels of the costs of common crime and violence, as well as acts of terrorism and how reliable the police services are in an individual country.

In addition to safety, Slovenia is also recognised as one of the most sustainable countries in the world. In 2016, Slovenia became the first country with an overall green assessment, having achieved a 96% match with the indicators of sustainability in #tourism under the international Green Destinations Standard certification system. 

At ITB Berlin 2017, the Slovenian Tourist Board was declared a winner of the National Geographic’s World Legacy Award, awarded to companies, organisations or destinations encouraging sustainable tourism. Slovenia won in the Destination Leadership segment.

Go Holiday news : www.govillasandcottages.co.uk

All your holiday needs: IN PRINT - ON-LINE - DiGiMAG - SMARTPHONE -TABLET - BLOG - TWITTER - G+ - FACEBOOK

Slovenia: Postojna Cave

POSTOJNA Cave is known for its unique forms of stalactites and stalagmites and is one of the most diverse cave systems in the world. It is the most visited attraction in #Slovenia, wowing visitors with the beauty and magnificence of its underground halls and the extent of its tunnels for two centuries.

In August 2016, Postojna Cave delighted the world with the information that its divers had discovered new underground tunnels, which extended the cave system by 3.5 kilometres. 

The Cave is once again updating the map of the 24,120-metre-long cave system and marking the missing parts on the map of the subterranean course of the River Pivka. After each new discovery, the scientists and the general public can easily understand the magic of the karst underworld and the achievements of the cavers. Due to their efforts the Postojna Cave system is even longer, following the waterways that are otherwise known only to the cave-dwelling olms.

Go Holiday news : www.govillasandcottages.co.uk

All your holiday needs: IN PRINT - ON-LINE - DiGiMAG - SMARTPHONE -TABLET - BLOG - TWITTER - G+ - FACEBOOK

Success for Slovenian tourism

IN 2016 Slovenian tourism again recorded record numbers as the 10 million overnight stays mark was exceeded again. 

According to preliminary data of the Statistical Office of the Republic of #Slovenia (SURS), 12 per cent more foreign tourist arrivals and 10 per cent more overnight stays by foreign tourists were recorded in the first eleven months, placing Slovenian tourism above the European average. 

In addition to record results, 2016 saw numerous successfully implemented projects, such as the global digital campaign, Slovenia – Make New Memories, and the launching of the new central Slovenian tourist portal, slovenia.info.

Go Holiday news : www.govillasandcottages.co.uk

All your holiday needs: IN PRINT - ON-LINE - DiGiMAG - SMARTPHONE -TABLET - BLOG - TWITTER - G+ - FACEBOOK

Picture Credit: fabsit 126875359@N03/30326885796 Lake Bled via photopin.

In the air . . .

easyJet, Europe’s leading airline, has announced a new route from London Gatwick to Ljubljana, Slovenia.

The new year round service commences 5th December 2016 with flights on sale now at www.easyjet.com. Flights will operate four times per week Monday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday with fares starting from £34.99 one way per person.

Go Holiday news : www.govillasandcottages.co.uk

All your holiday needs: IN PRINT - ON-LINE - DiGiMAG - SMARTPHONE -TABLET - BLOG - TWITTER - G+ - FACEBOOK

Picture Credit: CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=458696

Glamp in Slovenia

ONE OFF PLACES has a luxury glamping site – set in a valley and surrounded by pine forests – in #Slovenia. 

It has tented lodges (each sleeping four people) with a private deck and an outdoor hot tub. They have double beds, en-suite bathrooms, and air conditioning, while the site has a swimming pool, a herb and vegetable garden, a wellness centre, shop, and restaurant.

Tabitha Symonds, founder and director of oneoffplaces.co.uk, says: ‘#Glamping takes many forms but few of them are as sumptuous and stylish as this. This brand new offering boasts splendid architecture, chic interiors, and oasis-like surroundings, so if you're looking to get away from it all and relax in peace and privacy, you've come to the right place.’

Price: From £160-£230 per tent per night, including breakfast.

Go Holiday news : www.govillasandcottages.co.uk

All your holiday needs: IN PRINT - ON-LINE - DiGiMAG - SMARTPHONE -TABLET - BLOG - TWITTER - G+ - FACEBOOK

Picture Credit: Trenta Valley</a> via <a href="http://photopin.com">photopin

Fine wine in Slovenia

SLOVENIA'S second-largest city, #Maribor, is gearing up for its 15th Old Vine Festival (October 4-November 11).

The event marks the beginning of the autumn harvest, with feasts and celebrations filling the streets as the town comes alive with music and local wine-growers and chefs showcase their produce.

Maribor is the home to the world's oldest grape vine, as verified by the Guinness Book of World Records. It has been growing fruit for more than 400 years. 

Go Holiday news : www.govillasandcottages.co.uk

All your holiday needs: IN PRINT - ON-LINE - DiGiMAG - SMARTPHONE -TABLET - BLOG - TWITTER - G+ - FACEBOOK

Picture Credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/92893957@N00/3049987539">Slovenia June 2008 - 048</a> via <a href="http://photopin.com">photopin</a> <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/">(license)

UK boost for Slovenia tourism

THE UK is now Slovenia’s fourth largest tourism market, after Italy, Germany, and Austria. So far this year, the number of Brits visiting the country for holidays is up by 24%, with a 43% increase in June, a month which saw a Slovenia v England football match and the start of flight between Southend, Essex and Maribor, the country's second largest city.

Tine Murn at Slovenia Tourism, said: ‘We are extremely satisfied with the latest results and will continue to build our presence in the UK, which we strategically value as one of the core markets for Slovenian tourism. We believe #Slovenia is a perfect destination for British holidaymakers with its stunning nature, incredible range of activities, and rich culture … all only two hours away.’

Go Holiday news : www.govillasandcottages.co.uk

All your holiday needs: IN PRINT - ON-LINE - DiGiMAG - SMARTPHONE -TABLET - BLOG - TWITTER - G+ - FACEBOOK

Picture Credit: Slovenia Tourism

Intent on a good time?

WITH the appetite for camping continuing to grow well beyond the UK, the publishers of Cool Camping have updated their European edition.

The new edition of Cool Camping Europe, to be published on May 28, features 100 of the best camping and glamping sites across 12 countries in Europe, from Portugal to Slovenia.



The guide features traditional tent and campervan camping alongside a mix of glamping options including the best yurts, tipis, safari tents, and domes throughout Europe.

Cool Camping: Europe (2nd edition), Punk Publishing, £18.95.

Go Holiday news : www.govillasandcottages.co.uk
All your holiday needs: IN PRINT - ON-LINE - DiGiMAG - SMARTPHONE -TABLET - BLOG - TWITTER - G+ - FACEBOOK

Picture Credit: Glamping-Kirwee Wagonstay by Samuel ETIENNE - Own work. Licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons 

New flights to Slovenia

SLOVENIA'S national airline will be running three flights a week from Southend, Essex to Maribor – the country’s second city – from June 1 to October.

Seven miles from the Austrian, border, Maribor was European Capital of Culture in 2012, and is renowned for its Lent International Summer Festival, which takes place for two weeks in June.

As a wine growing area, Maribor has one of the biggest and oldest classic wine cellars in Europe, at more than 215,000 square feet.

The city is a 30 minute-drive away from the oldest town in Slovenia, Ptuj, and one-and-a-half hour drive from the capital, Ljubljana.

Go Holiday news : www.govillasandcottages.co.uk
All your holiday needs: IN PRINT - ON-LINE - DiGiMAG - SMARTPHONE -TABLET - BLOG - TWITTER - G+ - FACEBOOK

Accolade for Ljubljana

LONELY PLANET has named Ljubljana, Slovenia, as No. 2 on its Best of Europe 2014 list of the top ten European destinations to visit. 

Ljubljana made it to the list as ‘one of Europe's greenest and most liveable cities, with a vibrant cultural, café, and night-life scene that gives it the feel of a perpetual street party’.

Ljubljana, with its ‘plentiful, inexpensive buses radiating out of the city’, is also praised as an ideal base for exploring Slovenia. 

It is, according to Lonely Planet, “as picture-perfect as Switzerland, but much easier on the wallet’.

No. 1 on the top ten list was Greece.

Go Holiday news : www.govillasandcottages.co.uk
All your holiday needs: IN PRINT - ON-LINE - DiGiMAG - SMARTPHONE -TABLET - BLOG - TWITTER - G+ - FACEBOOK

Picture Credit: From Top: 'Ljubljana, Slovenia' by Francisco Antunes - London, UK via Wikimedia Commons; 'Ljubljana, Slovenia' by Till Schultz - Hamburg, Germany via Wikimedia Commons