It’s very rare that when I return from visiting a new destination, I don’t want to shout it from the mountains. However, when I first visited Slovenia, I did question whether I should tell anyone at all! Maybe I should just keep it as a secret for myself.
I have decided to share this little gem of a trip with you, but be careful who you tell!
What makes Slovenia so special?
Not many people know much about it which adds a little mystery to any trip
The mountains still remain unspoilt with jaw-dropping scenery
The people are welcoming and extremely helpful
Even during peak season, the area is not that busy
There are some amazing activities to experience
How about the activities?
Kayaying
A great introduction although I did seem to be able to paddle backwards much more easily than forwards!
Hydrospeeding – definitely my favourite but you do need to be very comfortable in fast flowing water.
Canyoning
A brilliant activity in fantastic surroundings
White Water Rafting
I always enjoy this one – fun mixed with some tricky rapids.
The great guides give you all the confidence you need whatever your activity choice and they are there to help you if you’re unsure and give lots of encouragement when necessary.
And the food… what about the food?
Yes, yes, I hear you say – there are lots of places like Slovenia that have jaw-dropping scenery and amazing activities. And of course you’re right. However, what makes this trip really special is the combination of fantastic activities in an unspoilt location with the most beautiful place to stay and the gastronomic dream that awaits you.
No, it isn’t 5 star, nor does it have a Michelin star but it doesn’t need either. Hisa Franko just rocks – you feel it when you walk through the door! A genuine Slovenian welcome puts you at ease and when you open the door to your bedroom and see the stylish yet traditional décor, you just know that you have come to the right place.
On walking down the stairs into the dining room, you can feast on the fantastic food and wine which has been lovingly created using local produce and a passion for gastronomy.
It is very rare these days that the owners are so knowledgeable about the food and wine they serve. The 7-course taster menu with accompanying wines was an absolute joy to experience!
Each course was better than the one before! The unique combinations were unusual but not off putting and the quality of the ingredients shone through. The textures and tastes were a pleasure to try and so beautifully served that it was almost a sin to destroy each creation placed before you. Not that it stopped me!
I would say the evening meal was more of a performance than a dinner and I was entertained from curtain up to the finale.
Here is a taste of the menu to wet your appetite:-
- Bouquet of green and white asparagus in a crispy langoustine fragranced tempura with a black truffle foam.
- Slow cooked pigeon breast with a coffee sauce served with bitter chicory, mountain potato and wild cherries.
- Beetroot and blood orange ice cream served with a rosemary cream and white chocolate foam nestled into cripsy merringue perfumed with lemon.
I returned from this exhilarating trip feeling relaxed and rejuvenated proving that you can combine adventure and gastronomy. It really is a magical retreat which I can’t wait to repeat!
Click here for more information about Hisa Franko
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