There’s a special magic in venturing somewhere for the very first time, and this year, we joined dear friends on a long-awaited two-week journey through two remarkable gems of the Balkans—Slovenia and Croatia. These countries, part of the former Yugoslavia, are still being discovered by many, yet they offer some of Europe’s most compelling blends of natural beauty, cultural history, and heartfelt hospitality.
The Backdrop of a Region Reborn
As recently as the early 1990s, Slovenia and Croatia were part of Yugoslavia, a federation torn apart by ethnic, religious, and political divisions. The collapse of communism and the death of Marshal Tito led to years of strife and war—but today, these independent nations have re-emerged, offering travelers an experience rooted in resilience, charm, and identity. Each country carries the complexity of its past with pride and peace.
Slovenia: Emerald Rivers, Alpine Dreams, and Romantic Legends
We began our journey in Slovenia, a country brimming with quaint villages, pristine nature, and fairytale-like experiences. Did you know Slovenia is home to the world’s oldest vine still producing wine, or that it boasts more churches per capita than any other European country? This is a place where tradition and tranquility live in harmony.
Our first full day was spent hiking to a thundering waterfall, followed by a visit to Lake Bled and its storybook castle. This iconic lake—with its island chapel and legendary 99 steps—feels like stepping into a postcard. Our day was capped with a Michelin-recommended dinner at Danilo, where siblings Nina and Gaspar Carman offered a sublime four-course tasting menu using locally sourced ingredients. Slovenia’s wine culture shined as brightly as the food.
The next morning brought a half-day tour of two of Slovenia’s crown jewels: Predjama Castle—dramatically embedded in a cave mouth and famed for its secret tunnels—and Postojna Cave, a sprawling underground wonderland first illuminated in 1884, long before the capital. The cave’s delicate ecology includes the enigmatic olm, a blind salamander known to live over a century.
After an afternoon rest, we wandered the cobbled streets of Ljubljana, the country’s charming capital, where riverside cafes, lively street scenes, and gelato made for a perfect ending.
Croatia: Castles, Coasts, and Cultural Crossroads
Crossing the border into Croatia, we arrived in Zagreb, the country’s energetic capital. With its Austro-Hungarian architecture and vibrant food scene, Zagreb surprised and delighted. A rainy walking tour felt just right, adding texture to a city steeped in history.
We moved on to the Istrian Peninsula, known for its Italian-influenced culture, vineyards, and truffles. Our base in Opatija, a historic seaside town with echoes of the Austrian Riviera, offered breathtaking views and coastal charm. From here, we explored Pula—home to an ancient Roman amphitheater—and Rovinj, a jewel of a town with Venetian flair, pastel buildings, and winding alleys that stole our hearts.
Inland, the medieval town of Motovun offered panoramic views and centuries of history. The day concluded with a memorable truffle feast at Zigante Tartufi in Livade, hosted by the discoverer of the world’s largest white truffle.
Natural Wonders: Plitvice Lakes & Dalmatian Dreams
A three-hour drive brought us to the spectacular Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia’s oldest and largest. This UNESCO site enchanted us with its cascading waterfalls, crystal lakes, and forested trails. Dinner that night at Black River Restaurant, known for its aged steaks and rustic ambiance, was the perfect finish.
Our journey south continued to Zadar, with its Roman ruins and the mesmerizing Sea Organ, an architectural instrument played by the Adriatic’s waves. In Krka National Park, we marveled at yet another series of stunning waterfalls before arriving in Split, the vibrant coastal city built into Diocletian’s Palace, an architectural marvel and living slice of Roman history.
Island Time: Adriatic Cruising on The Antonela
From Split, we boarded The Antonela, a boutique yacht that would be our home along the Dalmatian Coast. With only 36 passengers, it allowed for intimate exploration. Our first port, Makarska, offered Riviera vibes and unforgettable dining at Castellum.
Next came the island of Mljet, home to one of Croatia’s national parks and a Benedictine monastery dating back to the 12th century. We dined on local specialties at Restaurant Melody, surrounded by calm waters and starlit skies.
Dubrovnik: The Pearl of the Adriatic
Our final destination was the crown jewel—Dubrovnik. Surrounded by massive stone walls, its Old Town is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in the world. We took the cable car up for panoramic views before strolling the city’s ancient ramparts, taking in the terracotta rooftops and the shimmering Adriatic below.
Dinner that night included whole grilled Branzino—a fitting finale to a journey that has fed both body and soul.
Reflections on the Former Yugoslavia: Resilience, Beauty, and Connection
Traveling through Slovenia and Croatia is more than sightseeing—it’s witnessing a region that has risen from a turbulent past into a tapestry of culture, nature, and warm hospitality. These countries, once part of a fractured federation, now shine independently. They invite visitors not just to look, but to feel—the spirit of their landscapes, the richness of their traditions, and the pride of people who carry history in their hearts.
If you’re looking for a journey that blends beauty with meaning, and history with heart, put Slovenia and Croatia at the top of your list.Until the next chapter, see you On the Road with Dan.